The Bluebird Trail roofs. One box was not repairable and had to be retired. The fa i rly re c ent p opu lat ion increase of the Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis) on the Eastern Shore has been exceptional. These lovely songbirds, with a voracious appetite for insect pests, have become quite prevalent in local fields. Many over-winter in cavity nests or wooden boxes, ready to start breeding in early spring. Males are easily identified by their electric blue backs, brilliant orange f lanks and white breasts. Females are a bit more drab but f lash neon blue in the sunlight, making recognition easy. The comeback of the bluebird has, in part, been due to the planned distribution of specially designed nesting boxes around public and private pastures or fields. Such “bluebird
t r a i l s� h ave now b e c ome c ommonplace on Delmarva. Bluebirds love open spaces such as pastures, meadows and fields, where f lying insects gather. Wooden nest boxes, well spaced around the perimeter of such openings, facing into fields and carefully tended, have established numerous breeding colonies in these parts. Unusual to see 25 years ago, myriad bluebirds now vie for positions along fences and power lines all across the Mid-Shore. A go o d s t a nd a r d b ox de sig n has been established by the North American Bluebird Society. Important features include the correct entrance hole size (1½ inches), good drainage and adequate ventilation. A specifically designed entrance will reduce nest takeover by larger birds. These interlopers include sparrows and starlings, both introduced species that have become nuisances.
Male and female bluebirds. 158