First, let’s talk about why.
Many people consider spring to be the start of bird nesting season. With this comes a lot of preparation. These birds may be constructing nests, returning from a protracted flight from their wintering grounds, or searching for a partner. Many species invest significant time and energy in ensuring a successful nesting season. To ensure that their preparations don’t go to waste, they must maintain a high state of alert and employ dramatic defense strategies to protect their territory, offspring, or both.
When is it safe to remove bird nests without interfering with nature?
The majority of birds only use their nests once, and they build new ones every spring. But before you rush to remove that empty nest from your porch light, keep in mind that there is a small exception to the “one-and-done” rule. Certain species, like the American Robin, can have two or three broods in a single season. If so, Mama Bird might return in a few days to incubate a new batch of eggs in the same location. But they would also construct a new nest for the upcoming season and beyond.
Once you’re positive the birds have finished building their nest, you can dispose of it guilt-free.
Defense tactics: Dive bombing and broken wing displays
You may be recalling the earlier described mockingbird scenario and are all too familiar with that feeling. It has been observed that backyard birds and predatory birds will dive bomb to ward off potential threats.
It’s not just the backyard birds that use that tactic. Certain birds that nest on beaches, such as least terns and black skimmers, do so in colonies, or big gatherings. There can be hundreds or even thousands of people living in one colony. Even though they may be numerous, they are totally exposed to outside threats because they nest on the beach. If they approach you too closely, their team will attempt to dive bomb you.
Another well-known strategy employed by killdeer and other plovers is the display of broken wings. These species also build their nests on the ground, but they are left to fend for themselves rather than in large colonies. Their defense usually starts with warning calls, directed at you as well as to their chicks, telling them to hide. That’s the cue to turn around and give them some room. In the event that an individual or possible predator approaches the chicks or nest too closely, a display of broken wings will be showcased. This serves as a decoy to draw the danger away from the nest, making the adult seem like a simple mark.