We are not aware of any birds that would be nesting (raising young) this late in the year, so you should be fine to remove it. Birds might be roosting in a sheltered spot during chilly nights or inclement weather, but that is not the same as nesting, and birds also do not use nests when young are not present. (That is, they do not take shelter in them or visit them except to raise babies.) Both House Sparrows and European Starlings, being non-native and invasive species, are probably not protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, but you can double-check with an agency like the DNR. If you want to inquire with wildlife biologists at the MD Department of Natural Resources, an email can be sent to <personal data hidden> (especially if you want to share photos to confirm bird ID) or, if you would like to speak to someone, they have a Wildlife and Heritage Service phone number at<personal data hidden>. The phone line is staffed during regular business hours, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, except state holidays and weekends.

Miri

Thank you! 

You're welcome!