The Bluebirds

 

 

This is one of the silver linings to the Labor Day Bastrop Complex fire.  So much was destroyed.  Yet, the fire opened the landscape in such a way as to allow more Eastern Bluebirds to visit and colonize this area.  Bluebirds do not like densely forested areas.  They prefer open woodlands, or more specifically, they are edge birds.  Where one might find grassland abutting a woodlot or grove of old growth pecans, you will find bluebirds.

Bluebirds are insectivores.  Their unusual method of foraging for food is notable; they engage in ground-sallying.  They will perch on a fence line or small tree or shrub, stare at the ground.  They sally to the ground, capture their targeted insect, and return to their perch before eating. Bluebirds will supplement their diet with fruit and small berries particularly in colder months.

Bluebirds are cavity nesters.  Old growth pecans with cavities provide a great number of nesting opportunities.  You can provide additional nesting opportunities by placing nest boxes in your area.  Make sure you place your box about six feet high and face it away from the harsh afternoon sun.