Bluebirds are native to the North-Eastern states of the U.S. They are territorial thrush birds that are easily recognizable with bright blue feathers and a pale orange chest. These birds can live in cold and hot climates, and mate during spring and summer.
Habitat
- Meadows, open woods, agricultural fields
- Naturally stay in crevices and small holes in trees
- Mealworms, caterpillars, crickets, beetles and grasshoppers (during warmer months)
- Berries of native plants, such as American Holly, Bayberry, Staghorn Sumac, Chokeberry, Inkberry, Dogwood and Mistletoe
Nesting boxes
Overdevelopment and removal of dead trees has decreased the availability of nesting spots for Eastern Bluebirds. One ongoing conservation effort that Eastern Bluebirds have responded well to are man-made bird houses. These nesting boxes provide a place for Bluebirds to reproduce.
Deer-resistant native plants for bluebirds
- American Holly
- Bayberry
- Black Cherry
- Blackhaw Viburnum
- Inkberry
- Lowbush Blueberry
- Maleberry
- Maple leaf Viburnum
- Silky Dogwood
- Staghorn Sumac
- Winterberry
- Install nesting boxes in your backyard
- Provide dried mealworms during spring and summer
- Plant winter and fall fruit bearing shrubs
- Keep a bird bath open for birds to come
Wildlife Certification
Did you know that you can make your backyard a wildlife sanctuary?
Steps
Step 1: Provide cover for your animals
Step 2: Keep water nearby for animals to drink and possibly bathe ina
Step 3: Make sure there are several food sources that are available
Step 4: Make sure there are places for animals to breed and raise their young
Step 5: Maintain with sustainable practices
Link to National Wildlife Federation for wildlife certification
https://www.nwf.org/Garden-for-Wildlife/Certify