A couple of mornings ago, I had the chance to watch something special unfold at my birdbath here in Arkansas. Two of the three Eastern Bluebird fledglings I’ve been following came down to the water. One of them, in particular, looked like it might have been taking its first drink.
This young bluebird perched on the edge, looked around cautiously, then leaned forward with that unmistakable mix of curiosity and instinct. It took a few tries, but soon it was dipping its beak and raising its head to swallow. Watching this tiny bird figure out something so vital was a reminder of just how much growth happens in those early days out of the nest.
Healthy Progress for Eastern Bluebird Fledglings
It was great to see both fledglings looking healthy and alert. Their feathers are starting to smooth out more, and their blue coloring is becoming brighter by the day. Just a short while ago, they were clinging to branches in the pines, fresh from the nest. You can read more about that moment in my previous post: Bluebird Fledging Update: Chicks Spotted in the Pines.
Eastern Bluebird Behavior at the Birdbath
Each photo I captured shows a different part of this little bird’s moment at the water. I tried to stay back and let it explore freely, using my long lens to keep my distance while still capturing the action.
Why Eastern Bluebird Fledgling Moments Matter
For me, scenes like this are what make wildlife photography meaningful. It’s not always the dramatic or rare sightings that stick with me, but these quiet steps in an animal’s life. They offer a glimpse into behavior, development, and survival.
FAQ
What kind of bird is in these photos?
This is a juvenile Eastern Bluebird. You can tell by the speckled breast and developing blue wing feathers.
Is the bird drinking or bathing?
This fledgling is drinking. It leaned in carefully and brought its head back up to swallow. No splashing or wing flapping was seen.
How old are Eastern Bluebird fledglings when they begin to drink on their own?
Most begin exploring water sources within a few days of fledging, often around 18 to 20 days old.
How can I encourage fledglings to visit my yard?
Provide a shallow birdbath, place it in a safe spot with nearby cover, and avoid sudden movements when they visit.
Do both parents continue feeding fledglings at this stage?
Yes, both parents typically feed the young for a couple of weeks after they leave the nest while they learn to forage and drink on their own.