Creating Good Perches for the Bluebird Trail

Nest Box # 6 Dr Don
Perch and Feeder

Creating Perches-Open perches are essential for a good and successful bluebird spring and summer habitat. Bluebirds generally feed in about a 20-foot radius from a perch. If perches are scattered about an area or along a trail, the bluebirds will be more able to utilize all the existing food.

If you have any dead limbs or dead trees that are no danger to people, leave them as perches for the birds. We have had success with cutting down small dead trees 10-12 feet tall and drilling a hole in the trunk and driving rebar in the ground and putting the tree over the rebar to create a perch.

Morning meeting over water.

Provide Water-Bluebirds are often very attracted to water. Even just a small birdbath placed where the birds can easily see it and get to it safely can attract many bluebirds. The water should be about 1-1 1/2 inches deep. Keep the bath in an open area so the birds can watch for predators, and provide a perch or tree nearby where they can go before of after using the bath.



The main winter foods of bluebirds are not insects as in summer, but  from shrubs, vines and trees. If you can provide these natural sources of food for the birds, they may stay on your property longer in the fall and possibly even through winter. These plants can also provide some shelter for the bluebirds during the day.

Additional Winter Measures-In addition to having berry plants, you can offer water, food in various kinds at feeders along the trail. For food, try small pieces of sunflower hearts, mealworms (dried or live). One of the best things about bluebird feeders is that they can help the birds get through temporary shortages of food caused by unfavorable weather early in the breeding season.

Looking for a house to rent!

Spring Arrival-When do they Return??? Coming in our next blog session!