From my most recent report:
So this past Sunday was a little rough. We have evidence of predation, probably by Raccoon, at 6 boxes, as well as evidence of visits to at least 2 other boxes. Of the 6 predated clutches, 2 were started since our last visit, in April. It’s hard to keep the species bookkeeping straight when you have only broken shells to work with. The predated boxes are in the southern half of those we monitor, from #13 to #61. The door to #67 was partly pulled off; we did a spot repair and M.K. plans to return to make a more permanent fix.
We happened upon Dave Lawlor on the trail, who said that he had recently ordered predator guard cones from Ducks Unlimited. If we can be of assistance installing the cones, please let us know.
On the upside: Kat and Chris found Box #2 in the process of hatching out. We have 4 clutches still in progress. And Paul and I got a look at the Virginia Rail that has been hanging out within the boardwalk loop.