[cobirds] Re: Cliff Swallows

Cliff Swallows are a common problem species for people throughout the country, as suggested by Dave Leatherman. Colorado has a healthy population of Cliff Swallows - in the millions.  Without a doubt, they have responded well to human development, especially compared to other species (bridges and buildings provide great nesting habitat).  As a result of being common and doing well around people, they create many different headaches for specific individuals. This may not be perceived as a big deal to you, but a big deal to the person with the problem.  Many people have no idea that laws protect birds and that to remove eggs and nestlings on "your property" is actually against the law.  It should be noted that- new regulations on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service permitting are being developed as we speak and specifically include Cliff Swallows among other common problem species that will have lax permitting regulations. Shaming people, either through social media including Facebook and newspapers, or in person, is not appropriate because you tend to alienate them towards wildlife, which I do not believe is the intention.  It is more of a job for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or other agency with legal authority to slap hands.  A great idea would be a newspaper article in the spring just prior to nesting on the things property owners can do to prevent or discourage nesting by Cliff Swallows (probably include Starlings, Rock Pigeons, and other common problem species) in the first place such as netting, eye-balloons hanging on swivels under eaves, vigilant power-washing nests as they are being built (they eventually go elsewhere and still have a productive season), and so on. If the nests are over a front porch, at a hotel where you have guests (not all people appreciate the mess), where construction is being initiated, at an airport, and so forth, it is considered damage.  I always have tried to talk people into enjoying them while they are present and how many insects they consume if in an area where damage is minor, but that does not always work.  I would rather educate them on laws and regs, and the benefits of wildlife and biodiversity, but not alienate them towards wildlife.  I support Dave's and Larry's position with it being an opportunity to educate and possibly having a few people talk to them. Once they know the laws, I assume they would abide by them. 

BTW - I did enjoy the CDOT pamphlet - South African species - ha.  Obvious they must have grabbed pics from wherever. 

Tom Hall

Fort Collins

Thanks to all who have  responded to my Cliff Swallow Disaster

Wyndham is not the one responsible Best Western Is the culprit 

I do have photos of the CLSW nests before they were power washed  & destroyed

Tried calling the BW in Pagosa Springs which is located next  to Wyndham Resort This is the second BW in Pagosa Springs

 There is another BW in downtown  Pagosa Springs

Tried calling BW but phone # no good

Do you think that calling in the newspaper at this time would be  a good idea

Diane Holsinger

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