There are three bluebird species in the US, Eastern, Western and Mountain bluebirds. Mountain bluebirds are found at higher elevations in the West, Western Bluebirds are found west of the Great Plains and Eastern Bluebirds are found on the Great Plains. Bluebirds have vivid colours and a cheery song and are huge favorites with bird enthusiasts. Populations of bluebirds declined throughout the preceding century, being ousted from their favorite nesting sites by starlings and sparrows.

Helping the Bluebirds

Several clubs of lovers of wild birds have begun a variety of means to support the nesting and reproduction of bluebirds. In Missouri in the 1950’s the inhabitants made a National Bluebird Trail with over 6000 bluebird boxes. Founded in 1978 The North American Bluebird Society furthers the recovery of bluebirds. To help bluebirds you can establish up a Bluebird Trail by making a series of bluebird boxes The ideal bluebird house has been suggested by the Bluebird Society and you could construct your own or purchase a commercially made bluebird box.

Setting up a Bluebird Trail

The best place for a Bluebird Trail is a country location with thin ground cover and scattered bushes and trees. There must be roost sites such as wires, tree branches or fences to allow the bluebirds to rest on while searching for food. Sightings of bluebirds in southern states have shown that they have returned to this area. This has been attributed to the establishment of Bluebird Trails. Locations suitable for a Bluebird Trail are out-of-the-way areas of cemeteries, golf courses or parks as long as pesticides have not been used. You should steer clear of thickly forested areas with a lot of undergrowth. Bluebird houses should be placed 200 yards away from each other and be between four and six feet high.

Attracting Bluebirds to Your Yard

You can attract bluebirds to your backyard by placing darkling beetle grubs (which can be bought online) or raisins soaked in water on platform garden bird feeders.  Heated birdbaths will also attract them during the winter months.