Expert: Roger Lederer - 6/24/2008

Question
Roger,

I just found what appears to be a White Breasted Nuthatch nesting in my daughter's soccer backpack that hangs in our garage!  The bag was unzipped and she has built her nest right in between a pair of soccer cleats! As of the morning she has 4 eggs.  Any other time of year this wouldn't be a problem for us, but I am going on vacation at the end of the week and I have 3 dogs that stay in the garage in between pet sitter visits!  Is it possible for me to relocate the bag to a tree or on a plant hook on my front porch? If so, should I cover it with a towel and move it while mama is in there, or will she find it on her own?  Thanks so much for your help!
Carrie

Answer
I find it hard to believe that a White Breasted Nuthatch nested in your garage. They just don't do that. But I guess it could be. In any case, you can try relocating the nest a few feet a day until you leave and see what happens. If you move it too far too fast the birds might abandon it.