Michigan Bluebird Society

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.

Male Eastern Bluebird

Female Eastern Bluebird

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.

Michigan Bluebird News......

Bluebirds Nesting In Summer -

They're Not Done Yet!

Bluebirds can often nest well into summer - even right now.  So, if you have a number of bluebird boxes, it's important to keep checking them for activity.  Several members have reported active nests late in July.

Why do bluebirds nest this late?  First, all birds try to perpetuate their genes by having as many young as they can.  Because bluebirds start nesting early in Michigan, they have adequate time to create a 2nd nest (rarely a 3rd).

Second, this time of year there is often much less competition from sparrows and still lots of food available.  And this summer has been particularly warm and wet, creating more insects than normal.

And third, nesting boxes are often easier to find since most Tree Swallows are finished nesting for the season.

One thing you will usually notice is that bluebird broods are often smaller in the summer - 2-3 eggs is common vs. the usual 4-5 eggs in the spring.  The reason for this is not known for sure, but biologists believe it is due to lower hormone levels in the female bluebird at this time of year.

If you DO have any active bluebird nests, make sure to check regularly for blowfly infestations.  Simply look under the nest and brush out any papae you see, while carefully shaking any stragglers out from inside the nest.  Also, it's possible that bluebirds will fledge as late as the 3rd week of August. 

So, enjoy the summer weather and Happy Bluebirding!

Your friends at the Michigan Bluebird Society