Bird Watching: Starting Bluebird thread #6, 1 by 2dCousinDave

2dCousinDave wrote:
Yes, Marylyn, there are three. However, I haven't seen them since they fledged but both parents have been back to the feeder at least five or six times today, and judging by the worms they hauled back with them, I assume all three are still alive and well.

Genna, I cleaned the nestbox this afternoon. I clean it after each clutch has fledged. Although it is not necessary, when I do that I take it completely apart, scrub all the inside surfaces with a toothbrush and a diluted bleach solution, let it dry and put it back together. For the first time in four years I discovered a lot of moisture inside the box under the nest. I am not surprised since the box faces south and the rain we have had the past several days has been from the south and the wind obviously blew rain into the opening. This afternoon Mama checked it out, went inside for a few minutes and then flew up to the gum tree behind the house where she likes to perch. I guess she was taking a break, and making sure no house sparrows get any ideas about moving in to "her house."

I would think twice about raising mealworms. I have heard a lot of people who tried it and all of them gave it up. Just too much work, most say. But, if you do, in the interim, to get by, I would look for some mealworms at a local pet store. Some place like Petsmart or Wild Bird Center, if you have one. You can buy 500 or so just to see if you have any luck with them.

I started with a small bowl placed near the nestbox and the BBs went right to it. I kept it there for several days, then moved it closer to the house and ultimately up on the deck. This was my preference so I could get closer with my camera. It also permits me to monitor the bowl and make sure the birds I want to feed are the ones that are eating the worms.

Here are some funny shots I took of Papa yesterday. It was raining on and off and I guess he felt wet.

Dave