Spotted Flycatcher on Nest (nestbox camera)

tigger · #1 (**permalink**) 30-06-2008, 07:01 AM

I have a spotted flycatcher nesting in my nestbox.

It's the first time I've had a camera on this box, so it's fascinating to watch.

I've never really watched a bird nesting this closely before. Can you tell me how long the female can safely leave the eggs for?

My little flycatcher left them for over 10 mins this morning.... that seems a long time. The male is feeding her on the nest as well, but she does pop out herself for food. The eggs should be hatching after the 5th July.

If you would like to watch her you can by going to my blog (see link below) and clicking on the webcam, or you can read and see them (video) on the most recent posts in my blog.

Thank you.

Jane

tigger · #2 (**permalink**) 02-07-2008, 05:44 PM

I posted this question a couple of days ago, just wondered if anyone had any views on the length of time the female is spending away from the nest.

Thanks. Jane

djackso · #3 (**permalink**) 02-07-2008, 07:04 PM

Sorry, I don't know; females may leave their eggs every hour or so to feed, and allow you time to count eggs, monior chicks etc.

My feeling is that 10 min or so wouldn't do any harm.

DuncanE · #4 (**permalink**) 03-07-2008, 11:55 AM

From what I can remember for watching a nesting flycatcher in a grape vine several years back they can leave the nest for quite some time. This wasn't from me scaring her away, as she didnt seem too bothered with me looking over the edge of the balcony occasionally (she would only be a metre below me.) ... And she did raise 3 healthy chicks that fledged.