Nesting Sparrow
Posted by Jerry Rubino on June 21, 2007
Q: A sparrow has made a nest in an outdoor lantern in our condominium complex. The lanterns are on timers and are lit all night. The young have hatched and I'm concerned that this environment might be too hot for them. If it is, I can remove the bulb. Should I? Thanks
Habitat: suburban/yard
State: Maryland
Habitat: suburban/yard
A: Interesting! Of course, the adults were able to incubate the eggs for a few weeks so it couldn't have been too hot or they wouldn't have made it this long. Guess I'd want to go to the light and feel it to see just how warm/hot it is first. If you really think it's too hot (too warm for you to keep your hand on it) then unscrewing the bulb until it goes off shouldn't be a problem. Since the babies have hatched, the parents will be upset with your "tinkering" but will return once you leave. Thanks for being an advocate for wildlife. Hope this helps.
John Wiessinger ( June 21, 2007)