The Perils of Nesting Killdeer Part II

The perils of nesting Killdeer have returned to the Tales of the Nishiki posts.

In 2011, I provided updates for two nesting pairs of Killdeer. So far this spring, one pair is nesting on the property where I work. Though this pair selected a site that is a safe distance from the warehouse entrance and courier traffic, it's not without danger. Last week while working in the warehouse part of the building, I could hear the rumble of the lawn cutting crew outside. Hmmm. Sounds like they have started cutti...Killdeer! Though it was not confirmed, it was apparent the pair were incubating eggs. Right along the edge where the ornamental rocks end and the grass begins.

When I emerged outside, I could see a freshly mowed path along the edge and no Killdeer. I approached the nesting site expecting to see broken eggs. Somehow, the wheels and cutting blades of the lawnmower missed the four eggs sitting in a shallow depression between rocks 2 to 3 times larger in size. All was fine and I alerted the lawn maintenance worker of the existing nest.

Today, I placed pieces of cinder block on both sides of the nest to mark its location. Crisis averted and updates to continue.

The Perils of Nesting Killdeer

Killdeer will nest in a variety of open areas especially in gravel or on gravelled rooftops. During the breeding season I usually observe Killdeer peering down at me from the roof of my company's building but this year a pair selected a site at ground level. Arriving at work earlier this week, I noticed a Killdeer standing on the grass near the rear of the building and as I continued walking towards the door, the bird became alarmed and started its dee-dee-dee call. I am accustom to this species of shorebird frequenting the parking area and loading bay at this time of year and continued on my way to start another work week.

Later that day, a coworker informed me that the Killdeer laid two eggs in the gravel at the back of the building. Killdeer are known to nest in areas near human activity and this site is no exception. It's right near the warehouse entrance to the building. Not only do I and a few of my coworkers enter and exit the building here, couriers making daily deliveries also drive up the ramp that is adjacent to the narrow strip of gravel beside the building.




As of today, there are three eggs on the nest and until the eggs hatch and the young are ready to fly, I'll be greeted by the Killdeer's alarm call and injury-feigning display every morning during the work week. And so begins, the perils of nesting Killdeer.