Robins Nesting on Our Ladder

by Amy LaViolette
(Worcester, Massachusetts)

Living in Massachusetts, we see robins all year long, their cheerful presence a constant reminder of nature's rhythm.

Over the years, we've had our share of nests in the trees around my yard, each one a small marvel of engineering and persistence.

Last spring, a robin chose a spot just two feet from my door to build her nest.


Every time I walked outside or came back in, she would chirp loudly, letting me know I was trespassing in her space.

I'd laugh and tell her to hush, and over time, we came to an understanding. She stayed on her eggs, watching me carefully while I sat on the porch reading.

She turned out to be a blessing in disguise - an avid spider eater.

My porch, usually a magnet for spiders, stayed blissfully clear thanks to her appetite.

She had plenty to eat and, in turn, raised her brood right there beside me.

This year, a new pair of robins decided our property was the perfect nesting spot.

They picked the ladder hanging on the side of the house under the porch - a precarious choice, but one they seemed content with.

Whenever I walked up the driveway to get to my car, both Mom and Dad would swoop down, letting me know I was too close for comfort.

I'd just wave them off with a laugh, saying, "I'm not here to hurt your babies."

Robin Nest on Ladder with Eggs

My sister Jeanne and I managed to capture some wonderful photos while the parents were out hunting for food.

The chicks were quiet and still, their tiny beaks wide open, waiting patiently for the next meal.


Robins are such vigilant parents, always keeping an eye on anything that comes near their nest. This particular brood was no different.

As the days passed, we noticed the young robins testing their wings, flapping in preparation for their first flight.

One day, the nest was empty—they had all flown away, leaving behind only memories.

Mom Robin Checking In

We have feral cats in the field behind our house, so I worry about the young ones.

But I've seen groups of robins gathering in the same area, and I like to think they're the fledglings, thriving and exploring their new world.

Watching these robins up close has been such a joy. They've taught me about resilience, determination, and the simple beauty of life unfolding right in my backyard.