Expert: Julia Booth - 4/29/2009

Question
Hi,

I was struck by the question I just read because we noticed a beautiful Robin's bird nest in a bush right as you walk down our front steps.  My concern is that we don't see birds tending the nest.  We do have a cat but have not seen any "remains" so we're hoping our cat has behaved.  But do Robins leave their nests unattended?  Are we just not there when they are?  could they have abandoned the nest - there are 3 eggs in it.  And, will you respond to my email so I am sure to get it.

I await your response.  and thanks.

Esther

Answer
No, traditionally Robins do not leave their nests unattended. They are usually very attached to their young and very protective of their eggs and nesting site. Both parents participate in the building of the nest and the incubation. The male will often feed the female, as she's sitting on the eggs. If neither parent has been back to the nest, they have fallen prey to some sort of freak accident. They would both have to be dead for the nest to be officially abandoned. Robins are not usually victims of cats, because of their size and temperment.

Could be that you're just not there when they are. But if incubation has begun, then the mom should be sitting on the eggs. She won't do it 24 hours a day. But she won't leave it for long periods either.

The bottom line is, birds do not abandon their nests. Something odd has happened here and I wish I could tell you what.

Keep an eye out and see what happens. That's what I'd do.

Hope this helps,

Julia