May 30th, 2011

At the Blair OEEC we are participating in a “citizen science” program called Project Nest Box.  We were provided with 6 nest boxes suitable for cavity nesting birds like tree swallows, the eastern bluebird, house wrens and the black-capped chickadee.  Students assembled the boxes which were then erected on posts in suitable habitat for these species.  Our job now is to monitor the use of the boxes and enter our observations through an online reporting system to Bird Studies Canada.

Just days after the first boxes went up, a pair of tree swallows showed interest by perching atop the box, checking out the  accommodations , and flying around the field getting a feel for the neighbourhood.

The first “official” inspection found nesting material typical of tree swallows in one of the boxes.  They begin with a cup of grasses, and complete the structure with a lining of feathers.

During the second inspection almost a week later, there were 4 small, white eggs placed off to one side of the cup.  Today, May 30th, there were 6.  Swallows may lay up to 12 eggs, so  there could well be more at the next check.

We will continue to monitor through the nestling and fledging phases – we feel like proud parents.

This is a great example of “citizen science” in action.  Others that students can participate in both at school and at home include Journey North and Project Feederwatch.

Be a citizen scientist – write to us if you have birds nesting in the schoolyard or at home.  What kind of bird is it?  Where do they build their nest, and with what materials?  What do you think it’s been like sitting on or in the nest through all this wet weather?