Something happened to the nestlings over the weekend. We didn’t see it, so it’s not clear what it was. There doesn’t appear to be any damage to the nest. It’s intact, but empty. I know this happens, but it’s sad. I did see the parents running off grackles on Friday. This morning I saw some starlings getting chased by a cooper’s hawk, and an owl flew low through the yard. Anything could have happened. It looks like the parents are still around, hanging out in the usual places. They may even be trying again nearby. I saw one (that I think might be one of the couple that built here) trying to drag a big piece of plastic into a bush at our neighbor’s house. I hope they have more success the second time around. For any other neighborhood birds who do not build your own nests, there is a vacancy. Inquire within.
© Chris Taylor
© Chris Taylor