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Birding/Cardinal nest
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Question
A cardinal built a nest on my porch, in my garden shed. My son and I decided it was not a good area as it is by my dogs food bowl and a highly trafficked area. My son put on gloves and removed the nest only to discover 4 eggs in it. We quickly replaced the nest and left. Will the bird return to the nest? Will it attack after the babies are hatched? I'm so worried the momma won't come back now that we messed with the nest. Please advise. Thank you so much. Michelle
The whole concept that a bird will abandon its own young, if they've been touched by human hands is a bit of a myth. I think the eggs will be okay. Keep an eye on the nest and watch for Mom or Dad coming and going. With cardinals, both parents participate in the feeding and fledging of their offspring.
Good luck,
Julia
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Answers by Expert:
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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