"California" or Western Scrub Jay (question)

[Auggie]

I think these have nested high in a hedge I need to prune. Does anyone know when a safe time would be to do this? Are there signs I should look for? I don't want to disturb eggs or chicks. Thanks.

[antiquie]

1. They are mean, vicious, egg and baby stealers.

I had to say it.

[Auggie]

2. I know -- they chase my cat. But I don't want to hurt them.

[antiquie]

3. "Western scrub-jay pairs make basket-shaped nests

... of twigs lined with fibers and hair. Nests are built low and concealed behind foliage generally in an oak or pinyon-pine. They have one brood of one to five eggs. The young remain with the parents for about five months. Pairs stay together through the year. They are very territorial during the breeding season."

[Curmudgeoness]

4. As with any birds, you should be able to tell the babies have left the nest.

There will be no further activity around the nesting area as the fledglings disperse. With jays, if the nest is still occupied, you will probably be harassed if you get near the nest, so watch for them to bother you or not be around.

I always do all my pruning in the fall, after nesting season for all birds. The only things that I don't prune at that time are spring flowering bushes that have to be pruned after the bloom....and you will see anxious birds around if there is a nest there.

[Auggie]

5. Thanks to everyone. I'm postponing until autumn.