Having roof re-done but we have nests????

[Pinkypie]

Hi there, I hope you can help. I am having my roof re-done due to a leak and damage to the tiles and rotting felt. It's an absolute must and we need to sort it out asap.

My question is that we have two families of sparrows living in the roof on both sides and are always there every year. They are there now and I can hear the chicks. We are having it done as soon as the roofer is available in the next 6 weeks.

What do I do?? I have to get my roof done but I don't want to harm them at all.

Thank you Pinky x

[woofgang]

By six weeks they should be fledged but you are a bit stuffed I am afraid

[crisgal]

i have seagulls nesting every year - they are a nightmare - attacking us and my children afraid to play in the garden, but i'm not allowed to touch them!

[LoftyLottie]

A qualified builder will not start on the roof if their are chicks or eggs in the nest. It is against the law. Get in touch with the builder asap.

[Pinkypie]

Thank you, I really hope they leave soon, the chicks are very loud and I hope this is a sign they are not that young and will be flying soon.

Poor things x

[Robinia]

I agree with woofy, they should be out by then. You just have to hope they don't start over again!

[ladybirder]

Well they can have three broods a year so ...

[Pinkypie]

I just contacted RSPB who said that I should ideally wait until the bird’s cycle is complete, but if the roof work is necessary then I can remove nest and place in a bird box as near to the original location. They said they will usually continue to nest there withno problem.

Such a shame as I quite liked having my sparrows back every year, but the hole will be fixed when we get the new roof!

Hopefully they will continue to use the bird box.