New Neighbors

I have new neighbors, sort of. They are attempting to move into one of the trees behind my house. They are a pair of Chestnut-Backed Chickadees.

A few days ago, I noticed one knocking softly (for me) on the tree, then taking a short rest on a nearby branch. That continued for a long while, then a snack on my feeder, then back to it. Eventually the mate flew in and relieved the hard work for a bit.

Males and females take turns digging out the nest cavity, after (of course) the female selects the location. Then, the female will select the nest materials and build the nest. The male will hang closely to defend if needed. Once the nest is built, the male will feed the female while she incubates.

I have witnessed this dance before, in a few different parks. It is magic. I am elated that they have chosen our tree, near our feeder, and that they do not seem to be bothered by the activity on our balcony.

The cavity is not facing the balcony, but that’s ok, it’s not as if we would be able to see inside anyway. I am happy enough to just simply observe the process.

The nest cavity digging can take up to 7-10 days. Today I witnessed a pair of black-capped chickadees try to take over the nest, while the chestnut-backs were out. It thankfully did not last. although I proclaimed aloud that any way that it goes is the way it is supposed to and I will be glad. Or at least, I will try to be.

My husband said it was like a tele-novela, and he’s not wrong.

I have also heard an Anna’s hummingbird close by, as well as observed a pair of bushtits gather their own nesting material. I am hopeful that I will be lucky enough to have other nests nearby our balcony for viewing.

Happy spring!