WOO-HOO. It worked quite well and no pummeling involved. When my husband and I put the boat in the water, they both were out of the nest yet stayed close by. I was a bit worried, but I think they know we're only there to help. We put in just a bit around the edges and will see what happens. Mama was back on the nest this morning, so she must be pleased. Thanks so much. I didn't want them to become disturbed to the point of not returning to the nest.