06/24/2026
🔨Jobsite Journal
Entry #1: When Nature Calls
🐦 Sometimes doing the right thing means delaying part of a project.
We had an interesting situation on a roofing project today.
Our scope of work included replacing the roof and installing new soffit to prevent birds and other animals from accessing the roof cavity in the future.
As we wrapped up the roofing portion of the project, we noticed several different birds repeatedly flying in and out near the roof edge. We took a closer look and discovered multiple active nests with baby birds inside.
At that point, we made the decision to stop before installing the new soffit.
While closing everything up would have completed the project, it also would have trapped the birds inside. Instead, we contacted the homeowner, explained the situation, and agreed to postpone the soffit installation until the young birds have safely left the nests. The homeowner was incredibly understanding and supported the decision to wait.
Sometimes the right choice isn't the fastest one. As contractors, we're responsible not only for building quality projects but also for making responsible decisions when unexpected situations arise.
Doing the job right sometimes means waiting a little longer, and we're okay with that.
Many people don't realize that the vast majority of native bird species in Canada are protected under federal and/or provincial legislation. As a result, disturbing or destroying an active nest isn't permitted in most situations, which is why it's important to plan responsibly and allow the birds to leave before completing work.
💡If you find a nest on your home during a renovation, don't panic! For most common nesting birds, the cycle from laying eggs to the chicks leaving the nest only lasts about 3 to 5 weeks.
If you ever find a nest that is in danger, or an injured bird on your property, do not attempt to move it yourself. You can contact a licensed local wildlife rehabilitator for expert advice:
Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (403-214-1312) or Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation (403-946-2361).
Have you ever had nature unexpectedly change your plans?
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