Archery practice has been postponed

Since the pandemic I have spent alot of time in the yard. Archery is one of my hobbies and I share it with my son so we have been shooting alot.. My old deer target was getting a little worn out so we set it to the side and have been using other targets in the yard. I also spend a good deal of time photographing birds in the yard. Black capped Chickadees are always here, friendly little birds that I enjoy taking pics of. They are common here, but have a personality thats endearing.

So I saw this fellow in a tree and started taking some pics..

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...6ae18cd1_b.jpgChickadee


It was acting a bit off, not as friendly as usual. I stepped back and watched it a bit wondering if it had a nest nearby. All the years I have watched birds I have never seen a chickadee nest. I knew they were hole nesters though they never use any of the many boxes I have in the yard.


I soon understood why the Chickadee was not acting as normal. There was a pair making a nest.... and it was literally the most unlikely place I could imagine. The Rump of my Foam Deer Archery target!!!!!!!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...7dea0099_b.jpgChickadee nest

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...8ab1ab0d_b.jpgChickadee nest

They must have found a crack and then excavated a bowl shaped nest in it.. I peaked when they were not there and its really amazing.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...120be5b5_b.jpgChickadee nest


Though I knew they were hole nesters I did not see them as excavating their own hole. Their bill is so small. I thought they would just find an unused one.. however now I wonder if they use rotted trees and make their own. The foam must have been the same consistency.

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...35fd2080_b.jpgChickadee nest

Anyhow, no Archery practice for a while and I think after the birds are gone I'm going to have cut that deers back end off and mount to a tree. Should make for good conversation with guests.:)
al

What a great use for a butt lol. Great photos Al and get some baby pics later if possible.
Pat

Pretty sure that area comes naturally with a crack :).

That chickadee digs big butts and I cannot lie...

I always say THERES A A*S FOR EVERY SEAT, right Pat.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by gunnerschh2

I always say THERES A A*S FOR EVERY SEAT, right Pat.

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Sure Harry :D lol
Pat