Abandoned Nest?

I really think that the cardinals have abandoned their nest with 4 eggs. Do they do this often and why? Would it have something to do with me taking a picture or tying a ribbon on the hedge? Or perhaps the neighborhood cats carousing got to them?

I have not seen them at the nest, nor sounding the alarm when anyone/thing is near. I just checked it an not a cardinal in sight. Plus the nest seems a bit deeper now.

Edited to say that I still see the cardinal pair at the feeders, just not at the nest. So I'm pretty sure they are still alive.

Sad in Illinois!



This message was edited Jun 3, 2008 9:06 AM

Sad for you in Mo. Mrs Ed... :0(

Resin??

Thoughts???

We think another or the same pair is building another nest further down the hedge.

Have you thought to incubate the eggs?

I thought it would be a daunting task, but it was a breeze, and the experience is worth it.

I hatched Cacatua Alba eggs that way.

I hate to put a damper on anyone's goals to incubate songbird eggs, but it is illegal. I am a NC licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator and it requires a Federal Rehab license to work with any birds that cross state lines. It is also (rediculous as it may sound) illegal to have in posession without permit any feather, egg, nest, etc. Even rehabbers are required to turn in to the state wildlife authorities any songbirds that have been turned over but died. One most likely would not be successful at incubating anyway, and the last thing (hopefully) that any of us want to do is to instill a trust of humans in any wildlife (mammal or bird). I have been severely "stomped" for trying to assist and hand raise a few songbird orphans last summer without a Federal license....so...take these words to heart and use caution...............I know that we all want the very best for our little feathered friends.

oh wow...I meant to add that the parents may just be avoiding the nest....they are VERY good at doing that and giving the "appearance " of abandonment...sooo don't give up!

Thanks for the info. BirdieBlue. I'm certain no one here would want to cause harm to our flighted friends.

wow birdie, I did not know that. Well I did not do anything with this nest. It was clear that they abandoned it and although I was sad, I'm sure they know what they are doing!

Oh my, I hope I havn't come across as to cautionary or a know it all...that is not at all what I meant...and I am new to the site...please be patient with me

hah. noooooo. It's good info to know. Glad to have a rehabber on board! Helps us to learn more. you'll see tons of posts out there about babies fell from nests, what should I do, etc.!! Good to know the lowdown!

Editing to add that my original post really just wanted to know if they were abandoned because I had been there looking at them or because of cats meandering by! I hoped it was not me. The pair is still around so I know it was not a parent death.


This message was edited Jul 9, 2008 9:08 PM

I've had silly birds continue building nest at all available sites while "nesting" at another. I've had them abandon them for no apparent reason too...