Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Test

What advice should be given to someone concerned about a roadrunner nesting in their yew bush during winter?

1. Remove the nest immediately

2. Try not to disturb it

3. Provide supplemental food

4. Report it to wildlife authorities

The correct answer is: Try not to disturb it

The appropriate advice in this situation is to try not to disturb the roadrunner nesting in the yew bush. Disturbance during the nesting period can lead to abandonment of the eggs or fledglings, which would have significant negative impacts on the birds' survival. Roadrunners, like many other bird species, typically require a quiet and safe environment to successfully raise their young. Any unnecessary interference can create stress for the birds, potentially leading them to leave the nest prematurely. By allowing the roadrunner to nest undisturbed, you encourage a natural breeding process that supports the local wildlife population. Providing supplemental food may not be advisable as it could lead to dependency or entice other species that might prey on the eggs or chicks. Reporting the nest to wildlife authorities should only be done if there is a specific concern regarding the species' protection or related legalities, but in general, normal nesting behaviors should be allowed to occur without human intervention. Removing the nest is not an option as it would directly disrupt the breeding process and is not ethical, especially when wildlife conservation is considered.