This past fall and winter, we have been blessed with 7 bluebirds – one pair and one small flock of five. Each day, they visit my feeder with the sunflower hearts, and from the looks of things, we will again have a nesting pair of bluebirds in the birdhouse on the fence, overlooking my small garden.
Last week, I saw a squirrel scampering along on the top of the fence when, suddenly, he was bombarded by both the male and the hen bird. I could see them pecking at patches of fur on the freaked-out squirrel. He had come too close to what I assume will be the future nest of that pair of bluebirds.
Usually, such a territorial defense doesn’t begin until March or April, but it looks like these bluebirds are eager to start a family. I am reasonably sure these are the same bluebirds that raised two batches in that same house last year.
If you want bluebirds in your yard, get those birdhouses up right now. Don’t wait and make sure they are clean and spiffy. Birds of all types are already checking out likely nesting spots. I saw a pair of geese on a golf course pond last week looking for likely real estate.
To attract bluebirds, keep a source of fresh water – heated so it won’t freeze – and put sunflower hearts in one of your feeders, and you’ll have some of these beautiful, friendly creatures as well.