We live in Country Estates, and there are thousands of Swallows
nesting in the eaves of homes. Most homeowners aren’t doing
anything about it.
“Hey Red Phone. We live in Country Estates, and there are thousands of Swallows nesting in the eaves of homes. Most homeowners aren’t doing anything about it. They build muddy nests on the sides of the house just below the eves. I’ve heard it’s illegal to kill them. So what is the alternative? Why it’s illegal to kill a pest is beyond me.”
Red Phone: Dear Swallowed by Swallows, Swallows can indeed be pests. Their mud nests can be quite problematic for home owners. In addition to defacing buildings, they can create quite a mess on the ground as well.
The problem got so bad last year at Gavilan College, they hired a contractor to come in and take out the nests and build netting so the swallows didn’t return.
Because swallows live in colonies, they will increase each year if you don’t act first.
But don’t even think about removing them from your house while they have nests with eggs. The swallow police will be on you quicker than a cat in a canary cage … or a swallow cage.
Since swallows are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, nests can’t be touched between Feb. 15 to Sept. 1 without a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. But after that, they can be removed without a permit. There may be special cases if they become an extreme health hazard that they can be removed. If you want to get a permit, contact USDA – APHIS Wildlife Services at (916) 979-2675 or 3419A Arden Way, Sacramento, CA 95825.
To keep birds away, you have to find ways to keep them from nesting before they even consider starting their happy families. One way Fish and Game recommends to discourage them is to cover the eaves with 1/2 to 3/4 inch netting. Another is by taking away their nesting ledges with sharp projectors that blend in with the painting of the building.
Praise for Saint Louise Hospital
“This is in response to a Red Phone call regarding Dr. G’s bedside manners. I personally know Dr. G. He is known at Saint Louise Hospital for his concern, kindness and approach with his patients.
Dr. G has spent countless hours without sleep when there are critical points to save lives. He truly cares regardless of what the uninsured patient said.
This is the type of character Dr. G is with so much compassion. Many times people look at the negative rather than at the positive that one person is weighed on.
Please do not judge Dr. G if you personally don’t know his story of his busy hectic days caring for people.”
Red Phone: Dear Care and Share, Thanks for letting everyone know about the sacrifices Dr. G makes to care for his patients. Sounds like he really has a passion for seeing his patients get better, which we’re sure he shares with a majority of staff at the hospital. Everyone who has ever held a job knows that the stress of a job can sometimes weigh you down. Red Phone can’t even imagine some of the things doctors go through. Their efforts are definitely appreciated.
What to do with pens, pencils
“I got a lot of pens and pencils. I’m overstocked. Do you know of a school or organization that needs pens or pencils for their kids? I need to decide where to get rid of them. Thanks.”
Red Phone: Dear Overstocked, Red Phone hasn’t seen any classified ads for pens and pencils. But with tight budgets all the way around, there are plenty of schools that may be interested depending on what you have. You may want to start with one of the private schools like Anchorpoint Christian (846-6642) or St. Mary (842-2827). Readers, if you know of someone who is interested, please let us know.
