A few weeks ago, a mom-to-be robin made a nest in a Redbud tree only a few feet from our back deck. Watching her care for her eggs, we saw a great learning opportunity for the kids. But alas, the lessons we learn are not always pleasant.
Trouble began Thursday, June 24th, when a really bad storm blew through our area. With hurricane force winds and hail, there were
reports of major damage all about the area. So, when I got home from work, after confirming our home to be OK, I looked out our back door to check on the nest. And I couldn't see it.
Once outside, my fears were confirmed: I found the nest dislodged and on the ground. But more over, I found 2 newly hatched babies along with it. On the bright side, they were both still alive and Momma Robin was still in the area. Quite upset, understandably, but still present.
Mom and I worked quickly to carefully scoop the hatchlings up and place them back in the nest. Once in the nest, I ascended a ladder and placed the nest back in the same crook of the same branch from whence it came. Momma Robin soon returned with food in beak and began the ceaseless job of feeding her rescued brood.
And all seemed right with the world. Briefly.
A week later, Abby found a lifeless robin out near the garage, the victim of a cat attack. Fearing the worst, we watched the nest hoping it wasn't Momma Robin. But as the day wore on, it became clear; she wasn't coming back.
Unsure of what to do, and having a personal investment in these 2 little birds, we called the local Bird Rescue, wondering if we should bring them in. The Rescue workers informed us that the father robin, whom we hadn't seen to this point, should take over caring for the babies. So we watched and waited. Eventually, another robin did appear in the area. He seemed protective of the nest when we approached, but wasn't going to it himself. So we waited some more.
The next morning, I spied him standing atop the nest, food in beak, feeding the little ones, just as the Bird Rescue said he would. He was no mother; he never sat on the nest to keep the babies warm at night, but he worked as hard as he could through the day, flying to and fro, bring food and cleaning the nest.
Then, just as quickly as it started, it was over. After only 2 weeks, the hatchlings became fledglings and moved on.
So, I guess Mom and I are now empty-nesters...
Aidan:
