In my last blog post on April 25th (“Fledglings Take Flight, But a Shadow Looms Over the Bluebird Nest“), I shared the bittersweet story of the Eastern Bluebird fledglings taking their first flights from the nest box, while their devoted mother had tragically gone missing. The three young bluebirds faced an uncertain future, with only their father left to provide for them.
I’m delighted to report that over the past week, this bluebird family has demonstrated remarkable resilience and perseverance. The father bluebird has risen to the immense challenge of single-handedly caring for his three offspring. His tireless efforts to keep them fed have been nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Supplementing his labors, I have continued putting out a supply of nutritious mealworms near my deck. The father bird has become a frequent visitor, collecting these protein-rich morsels to bolster his brood’s diet. On numerous occasions, I’ve witnessed him tenderly delivering these treats to the awaiting, gaping mouths of his fledglings.
However, the path has not been without its perils. The very next day after fledging, one of the young bluebirds endured a vicious attack from an American Robin, likely defending its own nearby nest territory. The fledgling sustained injuries and bleeding that led me to fear for its survival through the night. Against all odds, this resilient little bird pulled through.
Yesterday, all three fledglings made their way to the feeder, healthy and voracious. The father’s unwavering dedication was evident as he seemed to be in perpetual motion, tirelessly hunting for every morsel to satisfy his family’s needs. Only pausing briefly for a drink, he’s the embodiment of selfless parenting.
One of the most rewarding moments came when I witnessed one of the fledglings deftly drop to the ground and catch what appeared to be a moth – a promising sign of their developing self-sufficiency.
As I continue to observe and photograph this bluebird family from my deck, I’m filled with admiration for their tenacity and the father’s heroic efforts to raise his brood alone. With his commendable hard work, I’m confident these fledglings will thrive, and the future looks bright for this remarkable family of Eastern Bluebirds.
Here is a video I made of the Bluebird being fed: https://youtu.be/VpgF8_3bfcU
Thank you for supporting this bluebird family and for sharing their story. The video is wonderful — especially when dad faces the camera with an exasperated, “Oh for Pete’s sake, stop dropping all of them!” look.
You sure are devoted to your craft, a trait to be admired!
It is great that the father Bluebird has been able to feed the young on his own and that they are growing stronger every day, a wonderful story.
Observing the plight and tenacity of this bluebird family has been a glimpse into the will to survive that is part of the make up of these small creatures. Every day is a life or death situation with challenges coming from all sides. And yet the male bluebird did not miss a beat. I feel such deep respect for these birds (and all creatures) we share this planet with. Thank you for sharing their story with us. It is an education we all need and something I’ll never forget.