bird nesting season

Many birds nest during the spring and summer. Unfortunately, this is also the time of year that people tend to trim trees, prune shrubs, and clear brush. Severely cutting, trimming, and topping trees, bushes, reeds, and other greenery in the spring and summer can destroy nests and eliminate valuable nest sites.

There are laws that protect birds, their nests, eggs, and young from being removed, destroyed or harassed. Violating any of these laws may result in fines and imprisonment.

Many species nest between March 1 and August 31. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife often requires surveys for raptor (bird of prey) nests from January 15 to September 15.

Several species court and nest outside this time frame, such as some herons and egrets, many raptors, and most hummingbirds. Depending on the species, nesting birds may be found at any time of year.

Consult an independent qualified biologist for safe trimming times upon discovering any large nest.