Bird Nesting Season is Here: Please Avoid Trimming or Removing Vegetation

This is a press release from the City of Arcata:

The City of Arcata would like to remind the community that Humboldt Bay and its surrounding areas are home to a wide variety of bird species, so it is especially important to check for active nests before trimming or removing vegetation during this nesting season. 

The federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the CA Migratory Bird Protection Act make it illegal to pursue, hunt, capture, kill or transport any migratory bird or the parts, nests or eggs of such a bird, except under the terms of a valid federal permit. Contractors are advised to have a qualified biologist conduct nesting bird surveys prior to beginning any project that requires vegetation removal. Here are some helpful guidelines that all members of the community can follow when maintaining vegetation: 

• Early bird nesting season starts in February and continues into mid-April. During this time, hummingbirds and birds of prey including hawks, owls, kites, eagles, vultures and falcons begin to nest. Primary nesting season for most birds starts in April and continues through August. Disturbances to vegetation, especially trees, should be avoided unless there is a thorough check for these nesting birds prior to beginning work. Weeding and mowing lawns are acceptable activities during this time. 
• The best time to plan for tree removal and other vegetation projects is between September and January. Please note that a tree removal permit is required for trees of 16 inches or more in diameter at chest height. 
• To detect bird nests, watch bird behavior. If a bird is carrying nest material or food to the same place in a patch of vegetation more than once, there is likely a nest in the area. Also, look for concentrations of white droppings on the ground, then check the trees or vegetation above the droppings for a nest. Actual nest structures are typically well-concealed and may not be seen if they are located in dense vegetation. 
• If a bird is observed repeatedly visiting a nest or suspected nest site, building or sitting on a nest, it is considered “active” with eggs or nestlings. If an active nest is found prior to work, avoid work in the area until the young have fledged. A 50-foot no-work buffer should be applied for song birds and a 500-foot no-work buffer should be applied for raptors. 

For more information on vegetation management and construction guidelines visit cityofarcata.org/307/Construction-Demolition or call the Environmental Services Department at (707) 822-8184.