Expert: Julia Booth - 7/3/2010

Question
Hi!
I have a cardinal nesting in a hibiscus tree on my small deck. The eggs are about 10 days old and Mama bird is very dedicated. If I'm outside too long and she has flown off, she will fuss at me to the point that I surrender and go inside.
However, I'm having a 4th of July party and don't know what to do to keep Mama happy. I can move the plant and nest, but how far away can she find it? Or should I even do it? Most of the guests are elderly or late middle aged adults, but there are 4 children under 6.
Please just tell me what to do to make every happy.
Thanks,
Becky

Answer
You don't have to do anything. Cardinals have grown accustomed to urban living. If the mama bird had any trepidation about the activity around your home, she wouldn't have nested there to begin with.

I recommend that you don't move it. But if you must, try to keep it as nearby as possible and at about the same number of feet off the ground.

If this were me, I would assign the oldest kid the task of "guarding" the nest for the duration of the party, making sure they understand that they are not to touch it either. It will keep the bird safe AND make them feel like they are doing something important.

You can also hang up a sign during the party.

Let me know if you need more info,


Julia