This spring has been an unforgettable journey following the lives of an Eastern bluebird family in my Arkansas backyard. From the initial excitement of nest construction [Eastern Bluebirds Building a Nest in My Yard] to the thrill of witnessing the eggs laid and incubation underway [Eastern Bluebirds Nest Update: Eggs Laid and Incubating Underway], it’s been a rollercoaster of emotions and fascinating discoveries.
The arrival of the hatchlings was a magical moment [Eastern Bluebird Nest Update: It’s Hatch Day!], and watching the dedicated parents tirelessly feed their chicks, even on a rainy Arkansas day, filled us with admiration [Eastern Bluebirds Feed Chicks on a Soggy Arkansas Day]. We learned about the importance of “nature’s diaper duty” with the blog post on fecal sac removal [Eastern Bluebird Fecal Sac Removal: Nature’s Diaper Duty]
However, the story took a heartbreaking turn when the female bluebird vanished [Eastern Bluebird Mom Missing! Male Cares for Chicks Alone]. We believe a Cooper’s Hawk might have been the culprit, highlighting the harsh realities of the natural world [Fledglings Take Flight, But a Shadow Looms Over the Bluebird Nest]. Despite this loss, the male bluebird persevered, becoming a single father and raising his chicks with remarkable dedication [Perseverance of the Eastern Bluebird Fledglings].
The most heartwarming twist came with the arrival of a new female [A New Chapter for the Bluebird Family: A Second Chance at Love?]. Their courtship behavior unfolded quickly, and to my delight, the female began bringing nesting materials to the birdhouse, indicating a potential second brood!
A Farewell and a Reflection
Today’s update confirms my suspicions! The female continues to add nesting materials, and the first bluebird family seems to be well on their way to independence, with the female even chasing them away from the male for food – a clear sign they are ready to fend for themselves.
While I may not be able to dedicate as much time to observing this second brood, the experience with the first family has been truly extraordinary. It’s been a privilege to witness their struggles, resilience, and ultimately, their success.
A Thank You to My Audience
A heartfelt thank you to all of you who followed along on this incredible journey. Your comments and well wishes for the bluebird family have been much appreciated.
This blog series has been a testament to the wonders and challenges of the natural world unfolding right in our own backyards. It’s a reminder to appreciate the beauty of nature, the importance of providing safe havens for wildlife, and the remarkable resilience of these feathered friends.
Stay tuned for future adventures! I’ll keep my eyes peeled for new wildlife encounters and captivating stories to share.
Love the story coming full circle with the arrival of a new mate. He is one handsome fellow and those genes deserve to be passed on! Hopefully, the Buteos will be able to find food elsewhere. Thank you so much for sharing the story of this family.
Thanks! I’m glad you enjoyed the story! I’m still seeing each of the three fledglings, and the new mom is on eggs now.
The photos are lovely Steve of the Eastern Blue birds. I am reading this blog from a post via Mia. Guess I will sign for your blog. I live in Wyoming and love to see different types of birds and animals in your area. Thank you. Trudy
Thank you and thanks for the follow!
This is a beautiful story Steve. What a brilliant father the male bird was to those chicks. Maybe the new mother will cherish these chicks. Best wishes and have a great weekend.
Thank you, Rita!