My concern for the Cambie nest in my previous post was justified after all. As I approached my vantage point for this nest I saw several workers cleaning the rooftop, and instantly noticed that the nest platform was swept clean…
Cambie nest removed
… with no sign of the chick anywhere.
Worker on Cambie nest roof
One of the three of four workers cleaning the rooftop. I know these folks are simply trying to make a living but I can’t understand why companies are free to clean rooftops at this time of year when it is still nesting season for gulls.
Cambie nest adult
I think one of the adult gulls was keeping watch at the far south-west of the rooftop – I wasn’t able to see any chicks, but I am hopeful they are hiding somewhere on the rooftop. They were some of the older chicks I’m monitoring and so quicker and more dexterous than the younger nestlings.
My first impulse was to report this to the B.C. Fish and Wildlife Branch, but after I checked the details of the law (B.C. Wildlife Act, Section 34) I realized there was little I could do. A gull nest can be removed if there are no eggs or chicks present.
Yes, I saw a chick on the platform on July 18th, but I have no proof it was still there whenever the workers cleaned it.
I will return tomorrow or Sunday morning to search for the chicks.
Clipper nest #1
The chicks at Clipper nest #1 are doing well and resting in their usual area by the cinder blocks. I saw one adult resting at Clipper nest #2 but didn’t spot any chicks; they were most likely resting out of view in the shade.
Pyramid nest
Only one chick was visible at the newly discovered Pyramid nest. We stared at one another for a short time then it proceeded to duck down behind the ledge.
Engineer nest
Another game of hide-and-seek with these chicks – but I eventually spotted them wandering around the gravel rooftop, watched by one of their parents on a nearby HVAC unit.
Chimney nest
A chick and parent at Chimney nest. I did spot a second chick sleeping in the nest which can’t be seen from this vantage point.
Grassy nest
These three lucky chicks have a large area to explore, and they seem to be taking advantage of it, often running and flapping their still barely feathered wings.
Culinary nest
The Culinary nest chicks are growing up quickly. Their juvenile feathers are coming in and all that remains of their natal down is on their head. Notice the stubby tail.
Penthouse nest
Another close-encounter with what seems to be the only chick in this nest. A parent was resting nearby and let me know a few pictures was enough.
Restaurant nest
I was concerned when I visited Restaurant nest… I couldn’t spot the chicks or any adults nearby. The rooftop looked undisturbed, so I don’t think anyone was up there. I suspect the chicks were simply resting somewhere I couldn’t see, but perhaps you understand my nervousness given Cambie nest.
Until next time.