Bad choice of site for nest

A  Blackbird who I recognise by sight has built her nest on the house wall between two outside doors. I have a  camera watching the nest and I keep the monitor on all day.  She has laid one egg each day for three days now.  On Sunday I went into the garden not knowing that she was on the nest, and I spooked her. She flew into one of the doors, fell to the ground and then flew off. I thought I would never see her again, but she came back.

The problem now is that I am scared to go out there when she's on the nest.  Will she get used to me going in and out or will I scare her off?  Or will I become a prisoner in my own home?

Not only has this Blackbird chosen an awkward site, she is in Wren territory. The nest is right next to one of the roosting pockets that the Wrens have been using all winter. The Wrens have always used this area and can  always be found amongst the creeper and climbing plants on the wall. On several occasions when the Blackbird has left the nest a Wren appears, he gets into the nest, looks at the eggs then pinches some nesting material and  flies off. Last evening I heard the Blackbird's alarm call, I looked on the monitor and saw the Wren who was either trying to get into the nest with her or trying to get her out.  He's been back again today.

Will this end in tears??

 

  • Oh dear, I'm sorry but I am laughing out loud at your story! Does your monitor allow you to take snap shots? I would love to see one of the wren and blackbird together in the nest, and it sounds like the wren is winning!!!

    I can't help with your question as to whether your comings and goings will upset Mrs. Blackbird but others on the forum have blackbird nests very close to parts of the garden in daily use and I'm sure they can give you some help. At the end of the day, there isn't much you can do really!

    I'm still laughing.

    Cheers, Linda.

    See my photos on Flickr

  • I am sure the blackbird will get used to your comings and goings through the doors. She would have been aware of your movements when she built the nest, just try not to make sudden movements or alarming noises. As for the battle with the wren, I cannot help. I have never even heard of such a situation before, but please keep us informed.

  • Hi Cottagegardener

    We have got a blackbird nesting in our garden as well, and  I also spooked it a few times when I went out into the garden. 

    But I remember reading somewhere to just go about your business as usual and not to creep about as that will spook them even more.  So when I go to that part of the garden now I always give a little whistle just to let it know I am about and that seems to work.  Maybe you could try that.

    Have'nt come across a Wren trying to get in the nest though

    Linda

    What a wonderful world :))

  • Lol!! What a saga! Can't add any more to what these good people have said but do keep us updated with the wren vs blackbird situation!

    "All weeds are flowers, once you get to know them" (Eeyore)

    My photos on Flickr