Part of the Nestbox News update from June 15:
"On Friday, June 12, we banded the three nestlings at 101 Hudson. Two are females and one is male. Their size difference is often evident on the camera, as the male is about 1/3 smaller than his sisters.
. . . .We also left a small ramp at the nest box, because experience has shown that as the nestlings approach 4 weeks of age, they get restless and jump out of the box; without the ramp they cannot reenter the box easily. They’re in no danger, though, because they could find cover under the box, but the comfort of the box seems to be an important factor.
. . . .During banding, examination showed all three young to be very healthy. We attached the numbered federal band on their right leg, and a bicolor (black over green) band on their left leg. Their color band numbers are A/11 and A/12 for the females, and 72/W for the male. The adults remain extremely protective of their young, and we were lucky to depart unscathed and unscratched. As the nestlings approach 4-5 weeks of age no one will approach the nest area, to make sure the young birds take their time as they become ready to take their first flight."
The chicks are getting big now, and are very well fed:
