New Neighbors
Provincially, our C-19 emergency measures have just been extended until the end of the month - giving us plenty of time to look around our own backyard. As it turns out, my wife, who is the gardener in the family, noticed we have new neighbors. She noticed that a pair of Robins decided to start a family and we can just spot the nest through the branches of a nearby cedar tree. It's interesting to watch Mom and Dad in action as they take turns to look after the young. Before approaching the nest, they'll stop in two or three spots - the same every time - and look around to see if a predator might be watching. When the young hear them approach, they stretch high up to be fed. What I haven't figured out is how Mom and Dad keep track of who is getting fed. All three little ones seem to be doing well so they must have a system. The parents are good housekeepers too - picking up the droppings, which seem to be encapsulated, and removing them from the nest. With all this activity, it's a busy time for them to rotate 15 minute feedings and noisily chase the Grackles and Chipmunks away.
June 3rd Addendum: Sadly, when my wife checked this morning, something found the nest last night - likely a raccoon - and consumed the nestlings. Parts of them were found at the base of the tree and one remaining baby, although still intact, was on it's last breath. Nature has no mercy when it comes to survival of the fittest.
New Neighbors
Provincially, our C-19 emergency measures have just been extended until the end of the month - giving us plenty of time to look around our own backyard. As it turns out, my wife, who is the gardener in the family, noticed we have new neighbors. She noticed that a pair of Robins decided to start a family and we can just spot the nest through the branches of a nearby cedar tree. It's interesting to watch Mom and Dad in action as they take turns to look after the young. Before approaching the nest, they'll stop in two or three spots - the same every time - and look around to see if a predator might be watching. When the young hear them approach, they stretch high up to be fed. What I haven't figured out is how Mom and Dad keep track of who is getting fed. All three little ones seem to be doing well so they must have a system. The parents are good housekeepers too - picking up the droppings, which seem to be encapsulated, and removing them from the nest. With all this activity, it's a busy time for them to rotate 15 minute feedings and noisily chase the Grackles and Chipmunks away.
June 3rd Addendum: Sadly, when my wife checked this morning, something found the nest last night - likely a raccoon - and consumed the nestlings. Parts of them were found at the base of the tree and one remaining baby, although still intact, was on it's last breath. Nature has no mercy when it comes to survival of the fittest.