I am writing this article with the thought of what it would be like to have been an Ornithologist. That was a passion at one time, however very few Ornithologists are needed, so I decided it would be my hobby.
I have always wanted to have Bluebirds come to my garden. The first action to start this process was to build a place for water, food, and shelter that would attract bluebirds. My husband told me to not be disappointed if Bluebirds didn’t come the first year.
Bluebirds are divided into several groups depending on their territory. In our area we primarily have Eastern Bluebirds.
I purchased a birdhouse and mounted it on a post so that the birds could come and go without human interference. The location of the wooden nest was based on information provided from my research indicating that they like semi-open areas such as forest clearings, farm country and even suburbs where there are extensive lawns and good nest sites. I did not place any type of material inside, so that the parents could arrange the nest themselves. I placed a water source that could be cleaned daily near by.
Food is important: Meal worms, suet, sunflower hearts, softened fruits, and cornmeal muffins can all be fed to bluebirds. Most of these will be accepted during the cold weather months if bluebirds have wintered over. But meal worms are their preferred food and they will readily eat them year-round.
Bluebirds often move away to other habitats in winter and return in the summer. You should clean and sanitize the nest after the birds leave. It is advised that you wear a mask, to prevent any parasites or debris from contaminating you. My birdhouse allows you to raise the front part and clean the nest. This is a great asset for both viewing, and cleaning.
As mentioned, my husband said don’t be disappointed if they don’t come the first year, so, I was ready to wait….
HOWEVER, in less than an hour a mom came, made a nest, and days later had laid 3 eggs. Both parents took care of the babies. They were well cared for. The babies grew up and one day the birds took to the sky.
This was one of the greatest events that summer.
by Jane Slone, ECMG
For more information:
https://txtbba.tamu.edu/species-accounts/eastern-bluebird/
https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/eastern-bluebird