Gibby, mine really never leave. I mean, when they fledge they do hide in the tall trees about 500 feet from the house, but the adults still come for meal worms and carry them to the trees. I watch to see where they go and usually catch a glimpse of one or more of the fledglings as they feed them.

Mine fledged on August 14 and just yesterday two of them for the first time followed the parents to the deck where I have the meal worm feeder. Tonight three of them were there and one of the fledges managed to get into the feeder cage. Very cute.

Mine are so used to my routine that when they see me come out on the deck they come flying in, looking for a handout. Here in Virginia they stay the year round but as cold weather approaches and insects become scarce, they will look for me even more.

I would put a few worms out and watch to see who gets them. If you have been feeding them in the past, they will probably drop by from time to time to check. If there's nothing there, you may not see them.

Good luck.

Dave

Thanks, i should have been putting them out, but they were usually waiting for me too, and I haven't seen anyone, but I will put some out. I just bought some, so may as well use them up! thanks Dave!

This is only my 2nd year in bluebirds and I only have had 2 mid-late summer nestings, but both times they completely vanished after fledging for 4-6 weeks, then returned with a healthy appetite! Last year they came every day all winter. No idea what they do in the fall---I'm calling it their "pilgrimage" and I hold my breath til they come back!

Ann in Maryland, 7A