The Carolina Wrens, having been evicted from Phoebe Place, hopped right on to a new nest site. As many of you have no doubt discovered, Wrens are creative nesters. Jack-in-the-Box ... meet ... Wren-in-the-Box!
Learning From Past Mistakes
The bamboo box was previously located on the ground level of my house ... sitting a couple feet off the ground on a small table. One afternoon, I noticed a Wren emerge from the box. Further investigation revealed a nest full of eggs. I just can't help who I am!! There is no way that nest was safe from snake predation, so .... the box got moved a few feet and mounted high up on a pole with a predator guard. Momma Wren was back in the nest in no time and I happily watched the nestlings become fledglings. THEN -- I relocated the box to the terrace on the second floor of this house. Let me just be clear. If snake predation is a threat on this terrace, then I am packing up the bamboo box AND everything else I own. Relocation will swiftly follow.
I Don't Hate Snakes
Since I've made several unpleasant remarks about snakes, I think it merits pointing out that I welcome their presence on this property -- just as I welcome raccoons, flying squirrels and other wild creatures known to prey on nesting birds. I simply wish they would not eat MY nesting birds ... and I have ZERO desire to hang out with them on my terrace. Red wine makes such a mess when it gets spilled.
Let's Go Back to Thinking About Wrens!
As with all construction, there are challenges. One particular piece of pine straw (apparently the perfect piece for the nest) was giving Mr. Wren a tough time. Enjoy the video footage -- shown at double-speed.