Protect Nesting Sites
Tending to trees and shrubs in the warmer months when birds are nesting can have horrible effects on wildlife. People commonly find eggs and destroy nests while tending to their yards, which overloads rehabilitation facilities.
Plan Large-Scale Landscaping Projects in October through December
In order to protect wildlife and create safe habitats, we recommend planning any large-scale landscaping projects such as removing large trees and pruning palms in October through December. This is when all wildlife can fly or scurry away without being injured from saws, falling branches, and so on.
Birds nest in spring and summer. Please plan large-scale pruning and removals only in the fall and winter when wildlife is not nesting.
Avoid Pruning During Nesting Seasons
Nesting season starts as early as January for great horned owls and hummingbirds and continues through October for other species. All nests are designed to be hidden in order to protect young from predators, which makes it easy for humans to miss them and inadvertently destroy them.
Please Don't Prune around a Nest
We also don't recommend pruning around a nest. Branches and leaves provide shade, camouflage, and protection for wildlife. Pruning around a known nest increases risk of heat exhaustion and predator attacks, and parents may choose to abandon the nest.
If you need help keeping a nest safe, please call for help
Native Arizona wildlife and migratory birds are legally protected, and some situations should be reported to the authorities. If you need help keeping a nest safe, please contact AZ Game & Fish and USFWS.