Robins Halt Removal of 150-Year-Old Belmont Tree

A historic copper beech tree, standing for over 150 years in Belmont, Massachusetts, will remain standing longer than anticipated due to a recent discovery. This landmark tree, located near Belmont Center, has been a symbol of the town for generations but was battling Beech Leaf Disease, which threatened its existence and posed a safety risk.

Just as crews prepared to remove the tree, arborists found a nest containing two American robin nestlings. As robins are a federally protected species, all removal work was immediately halted. This means the beloved tree will continue to stand until the nestlings have safely left, potentially extending its presence by at least another week.

Belmont officials plan to repurpose the wood from the eventual removal for local art projects. They also intend to plant a new tree nearby, hoping it will grow to become a future community landmark. The discovery highlights the tree's role as a shared natural space.