Eastern Bluebirds

The eastern bluebird (Sialia sialis) is a small thrush found in open woodlands, farmlands, and orchards. It is the state bird of Missouri and New York.

This species measures 16–21 cm (6.3–8.3 in) long, spans 25–32 cm (9.8–12.6 in) across the wings and weighs 27–34 g (0.95–1.20 oz).Eastern bluebirds are found east of the Rockies, southern Canada to the Gulf states, and southeastern Arizona to Nicaragua. The increase in trees throughout the Great Plains during the past century due to fire suppression and tree planting facilitated the western range expansion of the eastern bluebird as well as range expansions of many other species of birds. From 1966-2015 the eastern bluebird experienced a greater than 1.5% annual population increase throughout most of its breeding and year-round ranges, with exceptions including southern Florida and the Ohio River valley.

The bright-blue breeding plumage of the male, easily observed on a wire or open perch, makes this species a favorite of birders.

The male Eastern Bluebird displays at his nest cavity to attract a female. He brings nest material to the hole, goes in and out, and waves his wings while perched above it. That is pretty much his contribution to nest building; only the female Eastern Bluebird builds the nest and incubates the eggs.

Above is my first sighting of a male at the nest cavity. I am fortunate indeed to have located a natural cavity on my property near Pulaski, NY.

A short time later the female made her appearance. It was Thursday, April 2nd.

Blue tinges in the wings and tail give the grayer females an elegant look.

A few days later i captured the female at the next. The combination of the lighting with her display made for my best shot yet. Soon a chickadee entered the picture and landed near the nest cavity.

In seconds the male bluebird drove it away, perched nearby and displayed his displeasure.

Weather permitting I have spent many hours since the first sighting at the nest in an attempt to record the behavior of this pair as the male courted the female. All photos taken with an Olympus OM-D EM-1 Mark II camera and the Olympus 300mm ƒ/4 Pro lens.

Below are a few more photos I' think you all will find interesting. Taking to wing and making little bluebirds.

That will do it for now.