One of the joys of having a birdhouse in your yard is watching Eastern Bluebirds build their nest and raise their young. I’ve been fortunate enough to witness this incredible process and share it through my blog posts. And now, the moment we’ve been waiting for – the chicks have hatched, and both parents are busy feeding them.
While observing the feeding process, I’ve noticed some interesting patterns in the food choices of the male and female bluebirds. The female seems to start with Pillbugs, while the male brings caterpillars and spiders. This behavior is not uncommon in bluebirds, as research shows that they use different strategies to ensure their young receive a varied and nutritious diet.
But what exactly are Pillbugs, and why are they a preferred choice for female bluebirds? Pillbugs, also known as roly-polies, are small crustaceans that live in moist environments. They are a great source of protein and calcium, which is crucial for the growing chicks’ development.
On the other hand, caterpillars and spiders are high in fat and provide essential nutrients such as iron and zinc. These nutrients are vital for the chicks’ growth and immune system.
It’s fascinating to witness the intricacies of nature as these bluebirds use their instincts to raise their young. And it’s even more rewarding to capture these moments through photography and share them with others. I hope you enjoy these photos of the female with a Pillbug and the male with a caterpillar.
So u still have Rosie?
I sure do! I wrote about her a couple of weeks ago: Adventures with Rosie
Interesting post. Thanks for sharing these lovely photo’s and the birds feeding habits.
Thank you!