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Hi - New Bluebird Babies!

16 years ago

Hello everyone.

I'm new to the forums. Been a bluebirder a while. My bluebirds started a nest at the end of march...the eggs just hatched yesterday!There are 5 of them now.

I am using my neighbor's property because my own has those dirty HOWRS on it!

The other neighbor over has sprayed for dandelions twice. (last time was last friday) I'm thinking of moving my boxes next season. a little worried but hopeful!

Tim Auguston, Central PA

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Comments (5)

griffin_MD
16 years ago
Welcome, Tim, and congrats on the hatching. House wrens can certainly cause harm to bluebird eggs and young hatchlings so you are wise to be cautious when they are around. You might consider reading about wren guards at www.sialis.org . They are simple to make and are worth trying. You are also wise to be concerned when neighbors use chemicals on their lawns, etc. Tainted insects are often fed to young, sadly, and this causes many failed nestings. Good luck with your babies--I wish you a trouble free nesting season.
Welcome!
Kathy
ohsoblue77
Original Author
16 years ago
Actually, the boxes are so far into the open that a HOWR going out there would be out of its mind!

Oh, forgot to mention...I have Tree swallows too. They now have 2 eggs. Them and the blues both have sparrow spookers on their boxes.

Like others, hearing of the tradgedy is just scary! After this nesting the spraying threat should be gone. Actually, the dandelions already hit their peak...I may talk to him about holding off on any spraying...he's nice but cares too much about his lawn.
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ohsoblue77
Original Author
16 years ago
Okay, I have one other thing I'm concerned of.

Temps will be very warm in the next few days. (Upper 60's - upper 70's through friday)

Friday Night low is 51...with it being 54 and rainy with wind on saturday...then warming to 60 by moday;sunny but still cold on sunday.

I think I've seen bluebirds get insects in the mid 40's, but should I be concerned?
kendra2003
16 years ago
I think temperatures in the 50's are more of a concern for the aerial insectivores, like swallows. The ground insects should still be there for them to feed on. If you're worried, you could always put out mealworms or suet for them. But I think they'll be just fine without it.
ohsoblue77
Original Author
16 years ago
Yeah I was just thinking the same. I am going to plug the vents up friday evening.

Speaking of swallows, mine have layed 3 eggs. Good thing they don't have any young ones yet! And they only have 1 brood, so I'm very patient with them.

Infact, one day it was only in the mid to upper 40's and I think I still saw them get something! Our precious bluebirds must have AMAZING eyesight!

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