Species Specifics: Eastern Bluebirds

The Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis) is one of the most beloved species in our area; this 6½" member of the thrush family is a beautiful and cheerful little bird. The male Bluebird has a bright blue head, wings, back and tail with a brick-red throat and breast. The color of the female’s head, wings, back and tail can vary from as blue as the male to a grayish brown; she has a buff-brown colored throat and breast.

For much of the last century, Bluebirds were at risk due to the introduction of European House Sparrows and Starlings-both aggressive competitors for natural nest holes-and the loss of suitable habitat due to urbanization. However, in 1978, the North American Bluebird Society was formed encouraging backyard bird enthusiasts to put up millions of bluebird nesting boxes. Since then, the population has been steadily increasing and this wonderful bird has made quite a comeback.

The Bluebird’s nest, in a natural cavity or manmade nesting box, is constructed of grasses, pine needles, weeds, and twigs; the nest is lined with fine grasses. The female selects the final location for the nest and does most of the building; this takes her about 4-5 days, sometimes up to 12 days! The female incubates about 4-5 blue eggs for about 12-18 days. The baby Bluebirds leave the nest after 2 weeks; both the male and female feed the fledglings for another 3-4 weeks. If, however, the female starts another brood-up to 3 broods per season-the male will feed the fledglings on his own. Sometimes fledglings from early broods will help feed nestlings from subsequent broods!

Successful Bluebird pairs usually remain paired for future nestings and will sometimes winter near their breeding territory if there is enough food. They may even roost together in nest boxes. During the winter months Bluebirds remain in small flocks of 5-10 birds feeding on fruits and berries. They’ll visit your feeding station for suet, raisins, and mealworms.