As I noted in my 2018 Kickoff post, the Phoebes claimed the platform I call “Phoebe Place”.  The Carolina Wrens are generally the first to begin nest-building — and have taken over Phoebe Place in the past.  Again this year, Mr. Wren arrived early to throw down pine straw to mark the platform.  The Phoebes made a feeble attempt to clean up the mess and claim it for themselves, but they are no match for the wren’s construction speed.   When a Nesting Site Battle ensued, the Wren was undaunted.  I decided to assist the Phoebes in their claim by removing the material the Wrens scattered on the platform.

The Neatness Factor

My reason for assisting the Phoebes was entirely selfish — the Phoebes are MESSY.  In addition to slinging mud everywhere, the Phoebes are not particular about pooping in the area of their nest.  Phoebe Place overhangs a part of the property I don’t frequent — so I don’t care about their mess.  Besides, their Plan B is often above my front door and I’m committed to stopping future construction in that location!  The Wrens, by contrast, are very neat — just grasses and leaves and NO poop left behind.  They have my permission to nest anywhere (except Phoebe Place) on this property — which is good, because they do!  In fact, in my next post, I’ll share the story of the home the Wrens moved on to.

Nesting Site Battle Unfolds

I am captivated by the battles between the various bird species.  As we’ve seen with the White-breasted Nuthatch (aka Napoleon) and the Ruby-crowned Kinglet (aka Chihuahua), the little guys are tenacious.  The Carolina Wrens are no exception and you’ll see Mr. Wren stand his ground in the video.  Well, okay, he crouches — but he doesn’t run away.