A Kansas Ford dealer can’t hand over a new F-250 Super Duty because a red‑breasted nuthatch built a nest on its tire. Read the quirky story now!
A new Ford F-250 Super Duty sitting on a showroom floor in Kansas has hit an unexpected roadblock – a family of birds chose its massive tire as a perfect spot to build a nest.
What Happened?
Olathe Ford, a dealership in Olathe, Kansas, announced on Facebook that a red‑breasted nuthatch (Sitta canadensis) settled on the wheel well of a brand‑new F-250 Super Duty and laid four eggs right there. The large tire cavity offered the ideal shelter for the tiny birds, turning a routine vehicle delivery into a wildlife episode.
Legal Protection for the Birds
Under the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, the red‑breasted nuthatch and any active nest are federally protected. That means the dealership cannot legally move the nest or disturb the eggs without a special permit. The law is clear: any interference could result in hefty fines.
Dealer’s Response and the Named Chicks
Even if a permit were obtainable, Olathe Ford staff said they didn’t want to rush the birds out. They’ve grown attached to the little occupants, naming the four hatchlings after automotive parts: Lugnut, Axle, Diesel, and Turbo. The dealership praised the patient future owner of the truck for being willing to wait while the chicks develop feathers and learn to fly.
Timeline for Delivery
According to a video posted on May 19, the chicks are growing quickly. If they follow a typical development schedule, they should fledge by the end of May, opening the way for the dealership to hand over the F-250 in early June.
Why This Story Resonates
The incident has captured the imagination of car enthusiasts and bird lovers alike. It highlights the surprising ways wildlife can intersect with everyday life, and it underscores the respect many businesses show for environmental regulations.
For more heart‑warming automotive stories and updates on the F-250’s eventual delivery, stay tuned to Olathe Ford’s social channels.