Not every challenge on a job site comes from the ground, the weather, or the plans.
Sometimes, it comes from something much smaller.
I heard this story while catching up with one of our project engineers, who mentioned something unexpected they ran into on site.
During a recent project, one of our crews flagged something unusual. Right in the middle of an active work zone was a small nest tucked directly on the ground. At first glance, it would have been easy to miss. But instead of moving forward as planned, the team paused and took a closer look.
After doing some research and reviewing state guidelines, they discovered the nest belonged to a federally protected bird called a killdeer.
If you’ve never heard of a killdeer, you’re not alone. They’re known for building their nests directly on the ground, often in open areas like fields, gravel, or construction sites. It’s part of what makes them so easy to overlook and why it’s so important to spot them early. They also get their name from their call people says it sounds like they are saying “killdeer”.
They also have a pretty unique way of protecting their nests. If you get too close, a killdeer will often pretend to have a broken wing, limping and drawing attention away from its eggs to lead you in the opposite direction. Such a mama bear instinct!
Once they understood what they were dealing with, the plan shifted.
Rather than disturb the nest, our team adjusted the workflow. The area was roped off at the required distance, and crews carefully worked around it while keeping the rest of the project moving forward.
For a few weeks, the site had an unexpected new “resident.”
Then, just as quietly as it appeared, the nest completed its cycle. The eggs hatched, and within just a couple of days, the chicks were ready to move on.
Only then did work resume in that portion of the site.
Moments like this are a reminder of something we don’t always talk about in construction. Yes, we’re here to build. Yes, we solve complex challenges and keep projects moving. But we’re also working in real environments that existed long before we arrived.
At Gordian Energy Systems, progress doesn’t come at the expense of the land. It happens alongside it.
Because doing the job right means respecting everything on site, even the smallest details.
Want to see more behind-the-scenes moments from our projects? Follow along as our teams continue to solve challenges in the field.