Great question, Triliegh.
I suppose it’s possible that another pair might use that space with a nest rebuild.
But it’s considered good practice to empty and clean the nest box. The main reason being the removal of any resident parasites.
And new wallpaper is always nice.
Dan McDougall-Treacy
On Jan 25, 2024, at 8:47 PM, Trileigh Tucker wrote:
Hi Tweets,
A few days ago I was startled to see two Bewick’s Wrens inspecting their last-year’s nest box—I thought they’d start that investigation much later. The box still contains
last year’s nest. Should I clean it out, or let them remodel?
My guess is that it’s better to clean it out and replace the existing nest with fresh wood shavings (their substrate last year, which worked well). But I thought I’d check
in just in case.
Good birding to you,
Trileigh
_______________________________________________Tweeters mailing listTweeters at u.washington.eduhttp://mailman11.u.washington.edu/mailman/listinfo/tweeters