Eastern Bluebirds

Eastern bluebirds (Sialia Sialisis) are members of the thrush family of birds. They are cavity nesters, meaning they will nest in woodpecker holes and any naturally made cavity in trees. The Eastern Bluebird will also readily accept man made nesting boxes if placed properly. Eastern Bluebirds were once as common as many other birds including the American Robin, however their numbers dwindled over the years due to loss of natural nesting lands and the introduction of the House Sparrow and The European Starling. 

The natural nesting areas (habitat) of the Eastern Bluebirds have been developed into the many cities and towns we know today. The only areas left for these birds to inhabit are farmlands, open fields, and some suburban areas, providing there is enough open yard for these birds to forage.

It is said that the sparrow and the starling were brought here from Europe to help control the insect population. As the numbers of these birds increased the numbers of Eastern Bluebirds decreased. This shift in numbers was found to be caused by the aggressiveness of the sparrow and the starling. The House Sparrow and the Starling will readily nest in any cavity suitable to the Eastern Bluebird. The bluebird being more gentle and reserved would lose most battles for nesting sites. This made it difficult to raise broods, therefore the numbers diminished. If a pair of Eastern Bluebirds were fortunate enough to find a nesting cavity, the House Sparrow had the tendency to either peck open unhatched eggs, kill hatchlings, or run the parents away from the nest.

Eastern Bluebird numbers have been on the rise in the past few years since people have taken notice that these gorgeous birds are becoming harder to spot. Many individuals have turned to groups and organizations to help build the numbers of Eastern Bluebirds in their areas. Some individuals have put up bluebird nesting boxes in their yards and fields, others have set up Bluebird Trails. These simple steps are essential in the survival of the Eastern Bluebird.

Along with nesting areas the Eastern Bluebird also needs an abundance of food to flourish. These birds are for the most part omnivorous. They feast mainly on insects such as the mealworm, however they do enjoy berries and fruits from certain trees and bushes.

State bird of New York and Missouri