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It is their loud cries even when no adult seems to be around that caught my attention. And that no one sees a female. I just have never seen this happen when both adult bluebirds were still alive. The usual behavior when I put out a bunch of yummy mealworms is they take turns feeding the young. In and out, back & forth. But not this time. We’ll keep observing. And hoping.
Cari
Willamette Valley, OregonMy bluebird addiction began in 2012 when a pair found our box that sits within easy watching distance from inside our house. In these 7 years we have experienced both the joys and heartbreak of hosting beautiful blues. So many stories and photographs later, the bluebirds need only share their little song to brighten my day.
Not one of these 7 years has been just like another; bluebirds continue to surprise me. And they have taught me so much. This year I am watching two boxes besides the one at our home: one at our next door neighbor’s and one at my daughter’s home a couple miles away. I have also connected with volunteers from Prescott Bluebird Recovery Project.
prescottbluebird.comCari
Willamette Valley, OregonI have not watched for very long at one time; probably less than a half hour. However, when I stop by with mealworms I have watched until they are gone. She never helps. Often as I approach I can hear them demanding loudly. Since it appears he may be attending 5 by himself, I am more generous with mealworms than would be otherwise.
Cari
Willamette Valley, OregonIt is so hard to watch sometimes. With our very first bluebird pair in 2012, the male died just a day or so before the nestlings fledged. A new male took over and after fledging, I found little mounds of feathers around the property. I don’t think any of the fledglings survived. I don’t know if the new male killed them and/or if they were just not properly protected and fed.
Since that time we have had both tragedies and times to rejoice. But over all the rejoicing far outweighs the sadness. I came across the following quote that sums it up: “If you mess around with bluebirds, chances are heartbreak will interrupt the joy sooner or later. Be still and listen, for the Joy shall return to sing another day.”
– Wendell Long, 2005Cari
Willamette Valley, Oregon
