While it is not fun to watch, nest predation in songbirds is often very high. Many species can suffer up to 50% nest predation or even higher in some cases. Avian species such as corvids can contribute to this amount greatly, but another huge factor that many may not realize is small mammals predate many nests as well. A good piece of news is that many of these species that suffer high predation rates can and do renest again. Some species, especially residents can try 3-4 attempts during a breeding cycle until they are successful. So yes, while it isn't fun to see, especially if you become attached to pairs in your own backyard, this isn't all bad news for those species.

Scott Downes
downess at cwu.edu
Ellensburg WA

>>> <LDavey at AOL.com> 05/14/02 11:20AM >>>
Hi all,

I too am seeing a great deal of activity with the crows robbing nests, etc.
It breaks my heart sometimes, especially after watching Mother Robin sit on
her eggs and faithfully defend them for days on end, only to lose them after
all.