FreeLists / tn-bird / [TN-Bird] Wrens wintering in Phoebe Nest

["William T. Thornton" <wtthornton@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

For the past week, I have been trying to determine what bird has taken over the 
old Phoebe nest built high on a ledge in my carport.  I could only see the tip 
of a few feathers at night whenever the security light would come on -- not 
enough bird was showing to make an identification.  Last evening, when I 
stepped out to the carport and the lights clicked on, one Wren flew from the 
nest and one Wren sat up high in the nest.  I am happy that these two little 
birds have a warm place to roost thanks to the Phoebe.

This year was not a good one for the Phoebes that have nested here for the past 
three years.  In previous years, the pair of birds have successfully fledged 
two or three clutches of eggs per season.  This year the Phoebes arrived 
earlier than usual, built a fine new nest, and then before laying any eggs 
disappeared for several weeks during a cold snap.  When they returned, they 
busied themselves moving the nest to another corner on the carport ledge, 
wasting one egg by letting it fall to the floor.  They fledged three young and 
left in the early summer not to return.

I have seen Wrens roosting at night at other locations (they generally tuck 
their head under their wing and appear to be just a small fluff of soft downy 
feathers).  This is the first time I've ever seen Wrens roosting in another 
species nest.  Maybe they will stay the winter!

Terry Thornton
Rinnie, TN (North of Crossville on the Cumberland Plateau)


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