We have a robin currently building a nest right outside of a busy in and out entryway into our backyard. They've been here before but this is the first time they put their nest directly in the walking path. It doesn't look like they have laid eggs yet, they're just building a nest and it's kind of small/thin right now.
Can I move it without disturbing their reproduction cycle? If I can move it should I discard it or just move it to a similar location away from our door?
Hopefully the regular disturbance of house entry/exit might convince the pair to move before they lay their clutch. However, destroying or moving the nest, especially once the first egg is present, is prohibited (Migratory Bird Treaty Act).
You could consult with your District Biologist (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Main Phone (503) 947-6000 or (800) 720-ODFW [6339]) and see if they or a local registered wildlife rehabilitator can obtain permits to relocate the nest if the birds and eggs are present, but most likely it will be best to simply wait out the process.
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