The "Bird Hotel" Has No Vacancies!

  The arbor around the french doors has a canvas awning cover.  I hang a few potted ferns on either side of the front steps and then always have large plants on stands under the ferns.  Last year, a tiny wren loved the fern so much that she made her nest there twice.  She survived a tropical storm without ever leaving her nest.  I had tied the fern from all sides to keep it from swinging too much so she was safe and sound.  Since then, she has returned to the nest and her broods come to roost on the beams and some nestle down in the fern with her.  The sweet little family is welcome to stay as long as they like, however, this spring, they may have company.

  On the opposite side (about six feet from the fern nest), a pair of doves have taken a liking to the other fern.  Another nest is in the process of being made.  Doves, like wrens, seek out places that are near humans that they trust.  It makes me feel good to know that my critter friends feel safe around me.  I am in hopes that both birds will nest near the door and be at ease with each other.  Both wrens and doves are not overly territorial so it should all work out fine.

  The pair of doves come to the plant stand that now serves as a feeder.  I had taken down the other feeders when the hawk was visiting (but not for sunflower seeds).  Several birds were snatched before I realized what was happening.  The plant stand was beneath the broad leaves of an avocado tree which provided a blind for the songbirds.  Since our hard freeze, the leaves are slowly dropping.  The feeder protection is almost naught now and I noticed the hawk has returned.  Son and I were pondering how to devise another shelter for the birds.  Hopefully, tomorrow will find us with some suitable deterrent.  While I love the hawk, it needs to leave my sweet songbirds and search for a nice fat rat!