Photographing an Eastern Bluebird Bringing Food to the Nest Box

I captured this image of a male Eastern Bluebird delivering food to its nest box in my yard in Arkansas. This nesting box is one of three I maintain on my two-acre property, which has provided a habitat for these beautiful birds for several years. I’ve witnessed countless Eastern Bluebirds being raised in these boxes, making for many memorable photography opportunities.

Male Eastern Bluebird Feeding at the Nest Box
A male Eastern Bluebird brings food to its nestlings at a weathered nest box in an Arkansas yard.

My Bluebird Nesting Box Setup

Over the years, one nest box has seen more use than the others, though it’s starting to show its age. I clean the inside of each box regularly, removing the old nest shortly after the young birds fledge. The boxes are positioned around the trees near the center of the yard, facing towards the open lawn for easy access. The current setup includes two boxes facing west and one facing east.

Considering the Box Orientation

Bluebirds are known to prefer nest boxes that face certain directions, with east being the most favorable, followed by north, south, and west. Despite this, the two boxes facing west are used more frequently than the one facing east. The prevailing wisdom is to orient the box away from strong winds and direct sunlight, which can help prevent rain from blowing in and reduce overheating during the summer months.

Given that my bluebirds do not use these boxes during the hottest part of the year, I suspect that adjusting the direction could improve comfort. I’m considering angling one box to face northwest and the other to face southwest to see if it makes a difference in nesting activity.

Camera Setup and Shooting Technique

For this shot, I used my Canon EOS 7D Mark II with a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II lens. Here were the specific camera settings:

  • Shooting Mode: Aperture Priority (AV)
  • Shutter Speed: 1/200 sec
  • Aperture: f/5.6
  • ISO: 1000

The camera rested on a bean bag draped over the open window of my vehicle, providing a stable shooting platform. Using my vehicle as a blind works well because the birds are accustomed to it and remain comfortable with my presence nearby. The aperture of f/5.6 allowed for a narrow depth of field, making the bluebird stand out against the background, while the shutter speed of 1/200 sec was sufficient to capture the bird’s stillness as it perched at the nest box entrance.

The Importance of Nest Box Maintenance

To keep the nest boxes safe and attractive for Eastern Bluebirds, it’s crucial to maintain them properly:

  • Clean Regularly: Clear out old nesting material after each brood has fledged.
  • Inspect for Damage: Ensure the box is in good condition, with no cracks or large gaps that could expose the interior to the elements.
  • Position Carefully: Orient the box in a direction that minimizes exposure to rain and direct sunlight while still providing clear access for the birds.
  • Mount Securely: Make sure the box is firmly mounted at a height of 5-7 feet above the ground to deter predators.

Observations on Eastern Bluebird Behavior

Eastern Bluebirds are dedicated parents, with the male often assisting the female in feeding the young. They primarily feed their chicks insects, which provide the protein needed for growth. In this photograph, the male bluebird can be seen carrying food, ready to deliver to the nestlings inside. Observing these behaviors provides insights into the challenges and dedication involved in raising young birds.

Trying Different Directions for Nest Boxes

To improve the comfort and safety of the nesting bluebirds, I am considering rotating the two west-facing boxes to face either northwest or southwest. This change would reduce exposure to the hot afternoon sun, potentially increasing the chances of successful summer nesting.

This photograph not only captures a beautiful moment in the life of an Eastern Bluebird but also serves as a reminder of the importance of creating and maintaining suitable habitats for wildlife in our backyards.

Tips for Photographing Eastern Bluebirds

  • Use a Vehicle as a Blind: Birds are often less wary of vehicles than people on foot, making this an effective way to get close without disturbing them.
  • Focus on the Nesting Box Entrance: Anticipate the moment the bird arrives by focusing on the entrance where the bluebird is likely to perch.
  • Adjust Shutter Speed as Needed: If the birds are active, consider increasing the shutter speed to 1/500 sec or higher to capture motion more sharply.
  • Keep the Nest Boxes Clean and Well-Maintained: This encourages repeated use by bluebirds, providing more photography opportunities throughout the nesting season.

Photographing Eastern Bluebirds at my yard’s nest boxes has been a rewarding experience, offering a glimpse into the intricate lives of these beautiful birds. With careful maintenance and thoughtful adjustments to the nest box positioning, I hope to continue witnessing and capturing their nesting activities for years to come.