General Bluebird Information

Bluebirds prefer the quiet of suburb fringes, country pastures, golf courses, cemeteries and parks. Bluebirds are insectivorous during their nesting cycle, dining almost exclusively on ground-dwelling insects. Bluebirds will readily accept human handouts of mealworms and bird grubs, often becoming so tame that they can be hand-fed. In addition to residing where there are plenty of insects, bluebirds also like to be provided with a perching spot-a sentinel from which they can survey their kingdom.

During the summer, bluebirds feed mainly on insects. In the winter, bluebirds depend on many kinds of wild berries for their food supply. However, the supply of wild berries has also decreased over the years. The few berries that remain are often stripped quickly by large flocks of starlings.

Even though the bluebird population has greatly decreased, the future can still be promising for them. The most important step we can take to help bring back the bluebird is to provide nesting sites by setting out a bluebird box or starting a bluebird trail. A bluebird trail is a series of bluebird boxes placed along a prescribed route. In areas where nesting boxes have been put up in suitable habitat, bluebird populations are increasing. Bluebirding is a great environmental, hands-on project that people of all ages can enjoy. By following the instructions below, chances are good that you will be able to attract and enjoy bluebirds.