I have a situation in my backyard. It has happened before but this time the opponent is being more persistent. We have an awning on the back of our home that can be manually cranked out to extend and cover the back patio. It has been there a few years and we as a family have enjoyed it. Part of the mechanism has a built in cover that acts like a roof to protect it while not in use. When the awning is rolled up and under the cover a cozy little space is made for birds to fly into and start creating nests.

A fist full of finch nest

Number 8 and counting

This Spring I am at odds with Mr. and Mrs. Finch. This feathered couple has been trying to build a home in that cozy area for a few weeks. I have taken down at least 8 nests and as I’m typing I see them through the sliding glass door flying to the awning and continuing the building process.

So it is the Finches vs. Chris Irwin, birds vs. man, finch vs. Goliath, mono a mono. I say this in jest because I do love these birds. Our backyard has bird houses and a feeder and I enjoy watching the different kinds of birds come and go. Especially when they go to my vegetable gardens to get bugs and ‘help’ me raise something good to eat. Nature is a beautiful and inspiring thing to see. There is something to watching life move and grow around you.

My defense against the finches

dangit, they found another way in
(notice the painters tape I used)

So what have I learned? Mr. and Mrs. Finch are persistent, consistent, a team, driven, hard working, and I could come up with a few more if I thought more about it. Many life lessons coming from these feathery foes in my backyard. Who will prevail? I hope it is me because I like using the awning.

In the end may I be persistent, consistent, a team player with my wife, driven, and hard working with my art and the journey it will take me.

How about you?

Blessings to you all.

By My Own Hands

My Backyard Bird Battle