can i move a bird’s nest

When to Remove the Nest

After completing some of this preparatory homework, determine if a mother and her unhatched eggs are currently residing in the nest. In this case, MacMurchy recommends leaving the nest be. However, MacMurchy advises securely moving the nest if there is a significant likelihood that it and its occupant will be in immediate danger (that is, in danger from household pets and other obstructions like outdoor equipment). Additionally, MacMurchy advises verifying that an abandoned nest is truly abandoned before taking any further action if you happen to come across one during your spring cleaning. Sometimes, young birds will come back to the nest for a few days in order to get food from their parents, but after a few days, they will leave and stop coming to the nest. If so, you can safely discard the nest.

can i move a birds nest

What to Know About Conservation Laws

There are laws in place to protect the nest and eggs of specific bird species, so be aware of them before attempting to remove the unwanted nest. Animal Charity of Ohio’s adoption coordinator, Jessica Jane MacMurchy, advises first consulting your local or state Department of Natural Resources. For instance, it is forbidden to tamper with any active nest from a native bird species in the United States, but if the nest has been abandoned or no eggs have yet been laid, it may be removed as needed. In fact, it is illegal to remove or relocate an active birds nest in many states, even in your own backyard.” However, this law does not protect the nests of invasive birds, such as European starlings or house sparrows.

Avoid the Area if Possible

can i move a birds nest

FAQ

What happens if you move a bird’s nest?

We don’t recommend that you move the nest; Birds will often abandon their nest if it is moved. Only in extreme circumstances should you consider relocating a nest, and if you do, it must be replaced very close, within a few feet of the original location. Once relocated, watch and make sure the parents are returning.

What happens if you disturb a birds nest?

The adults will not abandon a nest simply because it has been touched; however, they are unlikely to relocate. If you move the nest, the adult bird may move on. This is especially likely if the bird can’t find the nest again. In the wild, nests get attacked by predators and disturbed all the time.

What to do if a bird makes a nest on your porch?

Spray the nest with an antibacterial spray. Once dry, remove the nest and dispose of it in a securely sealed container or exterior trash bag. Dispose of it in the trash away from the home. Clean the area where the nest was with a strong disinfectant.

Is it OK to remove bird nest?

It is actually illegal to remove or relocate an active bird’s nest in many states, even in your own backyard!” In the United States, for example, it is illegal to tamper with any active nest from a native bird species, but if the nest has been abandoned or no eggs have yet been laid, it can be removed as needed.