Swallows are more agressive, and will often “win” the competition. Tree swallows and bluebirds are both cavity-nesters, and compete for the same nestboxes. I assume they are at different times but are there issues during these times? I see the Tree Swallows and the Eastern Bluebirds sharing nesting boxes. Bluebirds are more timid, and swallows will generally “win” the competition for a box, but they’ll tolerate bluebirds to use a nearby box. Pairs of nestboxes allow swallows to nest in one, and bluebirds will nest in the second one. Great question! Bluebirds are migratory species, but many local populations aren’t flying very far, if they can find food during the winter. Serviceberry, winterberry holly, viburnum, virginia creeper are good choices.īluebirds are one of my favorites – do they live here all year ’round or are they migratory? In the fall and winter, they survive on berries and fruits. Native plants are great for bluebirds, and all wildlife! Bluebirds are insectivores, so it’s good to plant perennials and shrubs that support insects. No need to feed them in warm months, but you could put out live mealworms for your wintering friends.Ĭan you suggest some native plants I can add to my garden that will support bluebirds? What should we be putting out to feed our bluebirds?īluebirds eat insects, so if you avoid using chemicals, and plant a diversity of native perennials and grasses, they’ll be interested in your habitat. They are considered harbingers of Spring. Thanks for tuning in for bluebirds! They are one of our most beloved songbirds, flashing beautiful colors and singing from visible perches. Here are highlights from our conversation with Debbie, originally presented on our Facebook page. An avid birder, Debbie has traveled to a dozen countries for birding and wildlife safaris. Our Bluebird expert is Debbie Beer, the director of volunteer engagement here at Natural Lands. Learn what they eat, their nesting strategies, and how you can support these delightful native songbirds. Eastern Bluebirds are busy breeding now, utilizing nestboxes and tree cavities all around our region.
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