Spring 2004

Table of Contents

Shelve it for robins, phoebes

Robins and phoebes will not nest in enclosed nest boxes, but they readily use platforms or shelves in sheltered areas around buildings. If that means you’ve got birds nesting where you don’t necessarily want them, you might try providing a nesting shelf for them in a space that works for you, too.

A nest shelf is very easy to make. All you need are the following pieces of wood:

• 1 1 x 2 x 9-inch end
• 2 1 x 6 x 4-1/2-inch nest cradle halves
• 1 1 x 2 x 9-inch end

Using 1-3/4 to 2-1/4-inch galvanized nails, attach the two nest cradle pieces to the middle of the backboard as shown in the illustration, tilting them inward toward each other to form the nest cradle. Then attach the end piece as shown to secure the cradle.

A favorite spot for placing such a nest shelf is under the eaves of a building where birds are protected by the overhang. You can also use the trunk of a tree under protective branches. Either way, mount the shelf at least 10 feet above the ground. Allow at least six inches of clearance from the shelf to the overhang to accommodate either robins or phoebes.