Can You Move a Robin’s Nest With Eggs In It? Understanding the Risks and Legality
Moving a robin’s nest with eggs in it is a delicate and often ill-advised undertaking. Generally, it’s best to avoid moving a nest at all. However, if absolutely necessary, careful and legal considerations are paramount to maximize the chances of success and avoid harming the birds.
The Allure and Risks of Nest Relocation
Robins, with their bright red breasts and cheerful songs, are beloved backyard visitors. Discovering a robin’s nest in close proximity to our homes can evoke a sense of wonder. However, sometimes a nest is built in an inconvenient or even dangerous location, prompting the question: Can it be moved? Before acting, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved. Robins are sensitive creatures, and disturbing their nests can lead to abandonment.
Legal Protections: The Migratory Bird Treaty Act
In the United States, robins and their nests are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). This federal law makes it illegal to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, or sell migratory birds, including their nests, eggs, and feathers. Moving a nest without proper authorization can violate this law, resulting in fines or other penalties. It’s vital to contact your local wildlife authorities before attempting any relocation to determine if special permits or exemptions apply.
Timing is Everything: When (and When Not) to Move a Nest
If relocation is unavoidable, timing is critical. The best window for moving a nest is before the eggs are laid or after the fledglings have left the nest.
- Before Eggs: If you discover a nest under construction, you can sometimes deter the robin from completing it by gently removing nesting materials daily.
- With Eggs: This is the most sensitive time. Moving the nest at this stage greatly increases the risk of abandonment.
- With Hatchlings: Even more sensitive than eggs. Moving the nest is highly likely to result in abandonment or death of the young.
- After Fledging: Once the young birds have left the nest (fledged), it’s safe to remove the nest, as it will likely not be reused in the same season.
The Relocation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
If, after careful consideration and consultation with wildlife authorities, you determine that moving the nest is the only option, follow these steps meticulously:
- Prepare the New Location: Choose a spot as close as possible to the original location (ideally within a few feet), offering similar shelter and sun exposure.
- Build a Substitute Nest (Optional): If the original nest is damaged or difficult to move intact, create a new nest using similar materials (grass, mud, twigs). You can purchase pre-made nests designed for robins.
- Carefully Transfer the Nest: Gently lift the entire nest (with eggs or hatchlings) and place it in the new location or substitute nest. Wear gloves to minimize your scent on the nest.
- Monitor the Nest: Observe the nest from a distance to see if the parent robin returns. It may take some time for her to accept the new location.
- Minimize Disturbance: Keep children and pets away from the nest to avoid further stressing the birds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many well-intentioned efforts to move nests fail due to common errors:
- Moving the nest too far: Robins have a strong attachment to their nesting territory.
- Leaving a strong human scent: Robins have a good sense of smell.
- Disturbing the nest too frequently: Constant disturbance will stress the birds.
- Moving the nest during bad weather: Rain or extreme temperatures can harm eggs or hatchlings.
- Failing to provide adequate shelter: The new location should offer similar protection from the elements.
Signs of Nest Abandonment
Recognizing the signs of nest abandonment is crucial to determine if intervention is needed:
- Absence of the parent robin: If the parent does not return to the nest within a few hours.
- Cold eggs: Eggs should feel warm to the touch.
- Distressed hatchlings: Hatchlings may chirp incessantly if they are hungry or cold.
- Eggs or hatchlings thrown from the nest: This is a clear sign of abandonment.
Alternatives to Moving the Nest
Before resorting to relocation, consider alternative solutions:
- Protecting the nest: Shield the nest from predators or the elements using netting or a temporary barrier.
- Providing supplemental food: Offer mealworms or berries nearby to help the parent robin feed her young.
- Waiting it out: If possible, allow the robins to complete their nesting cycle undisturbed. They will likely move on after a few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will the Robin Abandon Its Nest if I Touch the Eggs?
The common belief that birds will abandon their nests if humans touch the eggs is largely a myth. While robins do have a sense of smell, they are more likely to be deterred by prolonged disturbance than by the mere scent of a human. However, to be safe, avoid handling the eggs directly. If you must touch the nest, wear gloves to minimize your scent.
How Long Do Robin Eggs Take to Hatch?
Robin eggs typically hatch in 12-14 days after the last egg is laid. The female robin incubates the eggs almost constantly during this period, leaving the nest only briefly to feed. Consistent incubation is vital for successful hatching.
What Do Baby Robins Eat?
Baby robins primarily eat insects, worms, and berries, which are brought to them by their parents. The parents feed the young birds frequently, often multiple times per hour, during the first few weeks of their lives.
How Long Do Baby Robins Stay in the Nest?
Baby robins, also known as fledglings, typically stay in the nest for 13-15 days after hatching. After this period, they leave the nest, although they may still be fed by their parents for a short time. The fledglings are vulnerable at this stage as they learn to fly and forage for food.
Is It Illegal to Kill Robins or Destroy Their Nests?
Yes, as mentioned earlier, robins and their nests are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). It is illegal to intentionally kill robins or destroy their nests without proper authorization.
What Should I Do if I Find a Baby Robin on the Ground?
If you find a baby robin on the ground that is fully feathered and hopping, it is likely a fledgling learning to fly. Leave it alone unless it is in immediate danger (e.g., in the road or being threatened by a predator). If the bird is injured or clearly unable to fly, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator.
How Can I Attract Robins to My Yard?
To attract robins to your yard, provide:
- A source of water: A birdbath or shallow dish of water.
- Berry-producing shrubs and trees: Serviceberries, dogwoods, and hawthorns are popular choices.
- Open grassy areas: Robins forage for worms in lawns.
- Avoid using pesticides: These can harm robins and their food sources.
What Happens to Robins in the Winter?
Some robins migrate south for the winter, while others remain in their breeding territories. Robins that stay in colder climates often form large flocks and feed on berries and fruits.
How Many Broods Do Robins Have in a Year?
Robins typically have two to three broods per year, depending on the climate and availability of food. They may reuse the same nest for multiple broods, or build a new nest each time.
Are Robins Territorial?
Yes, robins are territorial birds, especially during the breeding season. Male robins will defend their territories aggressively, singing and displaying to deter intruders.
Can I Feed Robins in My Yard?
You can offer robins supplemental food such as mealworms, berries, or fruit. Place the food in a shallow dish or on a platform feeder. However, avoid feeding them bread or processed foods.
Where Do Robins Build Their Nests?
Robins typically build their nests in trees, shrubs, or on ledges, often close to human dwellings. They prefer locations that offer shelter from the elements and protection from predators. Nest locations can vary greatly depending on the availability of suitable sites.