I have a new bluebird nestbox this summer, and we've had some interesting behaviors. First thing, the tree swallows took it over, chased the bluebirds away, and raised a brood of 4. No problems. They left (migrated, I think) and the bluebirds moved in. Just fledged 4 today, I think, it may have been 5. I thought they were all out, even though the juveniles kept fllying around, and even went into the box a couple of times. I decided even if one was still there, they were ready to fly, so I checked the box. There was one straggler, hunkering down, pretending to be invisible. I left. Later in the day, I checked again and he was gone. I cleaned the box, and I was attacked by bluebirds! The male adult flew directly on a straight line at my head, veering off at the last minute. I was surprised, since the nest was obviously empty, and all the babies had fledged. But I guess they don't process things like humans. My nest. Get. out. I saw them flying around in the trees behind our yard for a while, but now they're gone. Moved out into the world I guess. So, does any of this sound strange to you veteran bluebird handlers? In particular, do you think the fledglings were trying to get their brother to come out, by going back into the box?

Lots o' fun, I must say. Hoping for one last brood.



Eastern Bluebird nesting