Male bluebird feeding a female bluebird - photo courtesy of Dave Kinneer

The Michigan Bluebird Society is a group of individuals dedicated to helping bluebirds and other cavity nesting bird species in the state of Michigan. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and an affiliate of the North American Bluebird Society. 

Why There is a Need to Help Bluebirds and What You Can Do

Because of habitat loss, environmental pollution, and competition of non-native bird species (House Sparrows and European Starlings), bluebirds have suffered large declines compared to their original numbers. However, bluebirds have been shown to thrive in areas where there is human-provided housing that is actively monitored. As a result, through the efforts of many people, bluebirds have increased in numbers in the last 10 years.  Putting up a nest box is the easiest and most important thing you can do.  Not only are you helping bluebirds to populate, but watching a pair of adults build a nest, lay eggs, and feed their young is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding things you will ever experience.  Just ask any bluebird landlord - you'll be hooked and changed forever!

The Michigan Bluebird Society is an affiliate of the North American Bluebird Society.

 Video:  Learn How To Become A Bluebird Landlord in 8 Minutes  

Michigan Bluebird News......

Help Your Winter Bluebirds

It's not uncommon to see bluebirds in Michigan during winter.  You may see them in your yard from time to time.  In fact, bluebirds can be seen in most counties in the lower 2/3 of the lower peninsula even in January and February. 

Unlike the spring and summer when bluebirds are very territorial, in winter they range over a wide localized area of at least several square miles.  This aids them in finding enough natural food to eat.  Sumac, holly, winterberry and other berries are common winter foods for bluebirds.   But you can also help them by putting out some feeder foods and water.

Bluebirds love mealworms - any time of year.  You CAN feed mealworms in winter too.  Once bluebirds know they're out there every day, they will eat them readily before the mealworms can freeze.  The key is to put the worms out in the same place at the same time each day.  Bluebirds QUICKLY learn when and where to go for an easy meal!  Put mealworms in an open tray made of glass, metal, or plastic to keep them from crawling out.  See our Feeding Bluebirds page for more tips. 

Bluebirds will eat other feeder food too sometimes.  Cornmeal muffins, suet dough, and sunflower chips (without the shell) are foods bluebirds are known to eat.  Usually though, they will only eat these foods in harsh weather or when natural foods are in very short supply. 

Don't forget water in winter for bluebirds too.  Bluebirds love to drink and bathe in water year round.  Heated birdbaths are the best choice this time of year.  You can purchase them online or at most birdfeeding specialty stores. 

Let us know if you see a bluebird in your yard this winter! 

Please don't hesitate to contact MBS with any questions or problems you might have.  We are available to assist you in your birding efforts.  To find a County Coordinator near you or for a general contact at the MBS, please go to Contact Us.

Your friends at the Michigan Bluebird Society