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Birding/bird nesting in my home

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Question
I heard birds chirping that sounded like it was coming from my loft.  But when I went up there I didn't see any.  Then I went outside and noticed a small hole in my house near the top.  I was telling my neighbor about it and we then saw a bird go in the hole and then come right back out again.  Do you think this is something I should cover up?  I don't want the birds to be hurt in any way. My neighbor said the bird droppings will start to smell.  What should I do?

Answer
It's likely a Wren or a Nuthatch, a smaller bird that is a "cavity nester." There's little harm in them nesting there. The entire process will be over in about a month and you can clean it out then. I don't think you should discourage them in any way, but of course it's up to you.

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Julia Booth

Expertise

I can answer questions about bird identification (by sight or sound), behavior, distribution, population, conservation, mating, nesting, fledging and feeding. I do have some practical knowledge about foreign species, but identification skills are limited in that arena. Bear in mind that as much as I know, it's possible that at least some of you will ask a question that I am unable to answer. At which point I would direct you to wherever or whomever I thought could provide you with that information.

Experience

I have 15 years birding experience in Southern California.

Organizations
Audubon Society

Education/Credentials
My education is in art and photography -but I have a substantial portfolio of nature related work.

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