Most people expect “car troubles” to involve a mysterious rattle or a glowing check engine light—not a literal bird nursery tucked into the wheel well of a heavy-duty truck.
Back in early May, the team at Olathe Ford Lincoln in Kansas discovered something unexpected on an F-250 that had already been marked “SOLD.” A mama robin had decided the truck’s tire was the premier location for her new home. She spent several days crafting a masterpiece, eventually laying four stunning, robin’s-egg-blue eggs. Then, just a couple of weeks later, the nest became officially full of activity: the eggs hatched in mid-May.
The Federal Situation
There is a catch to this automotive Airbnb. Because robins and their active nests are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the dealership is legally prohibited from relocating the nest.
However, the team at Olathe Ford Lincoln has moved past the legal requirements and become fully invested in the welfare of these new arrivals. They have essentially become the unofficial security detail for their tiny, chirping tenants.
The Real Heroes
The true MVPs of this saga are the customers who purchased the truck. Despite expecting to drive off in a beast of a machine, they were met with news that their vehicle was currently serving as a temporary nesting site.
Rather than showing frustration, the buyers have remained incredibly patient and compassionate. Their kindness during this wait for the birds to “fledge” has served as a powerful reminder of why the Olathe Ford Lincoln staff appreciates their community so much.
With expert guidance from Operation Wildlife, the team is keeping a close watch on the nest until the family is ready to clear the runway and take flight.
Maybe the team should leave a tiny, bird-sized set of keys in the nest as a parting gift. Okay, okay…too much.
Feature photo via Olathe Ford Lincoln