Robins Nest On Top of Light.

by Carmen and Kim
(West Seneca, NY)

A pair of robins built a nest on top of our outside light to the left of our garage back door.

There were 4 eggs in the nest and after about 14 days they hatched. There are at least 3 babies in the nest now.

My wife and I did not think they would make it because every time we went out the door to enter our back yard or let our dog out they would fly off the nest.

We are worried that when the fledglings fly down they may be harmed if we don't see them and let the dog out into the yard.

She is an 8 year old German Shepherd and although very friendly, she does like to chase things. Is there anything we can do to help keep the young birds safe?

We have to let the dog use the fenced back yard. How long does it take before they are able to fly out of harms way?

From: www.Wild-Bird-Watching.com

It can take 14 - 16 days after hatching before the young leave the nest.

Depending on what is around will determine if the fledglings will be safe or not. If trees and shrubs are close by they should be able to hide there.

Often young Robins end up in the middle of the yard. This is where people make the mistake of thinking the bird is abandoned and bring them inside separating them from their parents.

My suggestion would be to carefully check before letting the dog out. First to see if the birds are still in the nest. If so, no problem.

If you notice they are gone from the nest, either take the time to walk out before the dog or use a leash.

For the most part, once the young fledge they'll be out of your yard within a day.

Gene
wild-bird-watching.com