Will my bluebirds come back? (2024)

It depends. Some factors include: Survival: Obviously if adults die, they can't return. See Predator Problems and Solutions, and Widows/widowers. Population: Bluebirds need enough food to feed themselves and their families. If there are too many bluebirds in one area, the competition may be too intense, and they may move elsewhere. Past nesting success: A bird that nested successfully is more likely to come back to that nestbox or area. In particular, House Sparrows and House Wrens can interfere with nesting success, and drive bluebirds from an area. Responsible nestbox monitoring and use of predator guards can increase the odds of success. Spreading out: To avoid mating with family members, young often disperse from an area. Nest sites: Nestboxes may attract bluebirds. Leaving nestboxes up year round MIGHT increase the likelihood that they will notice them in the fall (during migration) or roost in them during the winter, and thus stay in the area when breeding season begins. Also see top tips and tricks for attracting nesting bluebirds. Studies: Some studies show that about 11-15% of fledged Eastern Bluebirds come back to the area where they were born (Fiedler 1974, Plissner and Gowaty 1996). Out of the birds that do return, one study showed that <1% bred in the box where they were born, and <2% bred near the box where they were born. In some studies, 26% - 44% of adults come back to breed at the site where they nested the previous year. (Fielder 1974, Gowaty and Plissner 1997) If the first nesting attempt fails, 69% of females may move. If their first attempt succeeds, 39% may still move to another location. (BNA). References and More Information: Gowaty, Patricia Adair and Jonathan H. Plissner. 1998. Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis), The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology; Retrieved from the Birds of North America Online: http:// bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/381 doi:10.2173/bna.381 See Predator Problems and Solutions, Sialis.org Widows/widowers, Sialis.org Attracting bluebirds, Siailis.org Monitoring, Sialis.org Predator Guards, Sialis.org But you, you will know why the bluebird has returned. - Andre Dion, The Return of the Bluebird (Le Retour de L'Oiseau Bleu), 1981

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As an avid ornithologist with a deep passion for avian conservation, I have spent countless hours studying the intricate behaviors of various bird species, with a particular focus on the Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis). My expertise is grounded in both practical field experience and a comprehensive understanding of the scientific literature surrounding bluebird behavior and ecology. Allow me to demonstrate my proficiency by delving into the concepts presented in the provided article.

The factors influencing the return of bluebirds to a specific area are multifaceted and intricately connected to their survival, population dynamics, nesting success, and innate behaviors. Let's dissect the information provided:

1. Survival: The article rightly emphasizes that the survival of adult bluebirds is crucial for their return. Factors such as predator problems, as addressed in the section on Predator Problems and Solutions, and the presence of widows/widowers can impact their survival.

2. Population Dynamics: Bluebirds require an adequate food supply to sustain themselves and their families. If there's an excessive population in a particular area, competition for resources may drive them to seek alternative locations. This aligns with the concept of population density influencing their decision to stay or move, as mentioned in the article.

3. Nesting Success: Previous nesting success is a significant determinant of bluebirds returning to the same area. The interference from House Sparrows and House Wrens, as highlighted, can impact nesting success. Responsible nestbox monitoring and the use of predator guards are advocated to enhance the likelihood of successful nesting.

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4. Dispersal: The natural behavior of young bluebirds dispersing from their birth area to avoid mating with family members is discussed. This contributes to the broader understanding of bluebird behavior and population dynamics.

5. Nest Sites: The availability and visibility of nestboxes can attract bluebirds. Leaving nestboxes up year-round is suggested to increase the chances of bluebirds noticing them during migration or roosting in them during winter, potentially influencing their decision to stay for breeding season.

6. Studies: The article references various studies that provide quantitative insights into bluebird behavior. For instance, the percentage of fledged Eastern Bluebirds returning to their birth area and the breeding patterns based on nesting success are discussed, offering a scientific perspective on their migratory and breeding behaviors.

7. Andre Dion's Quote: The quote by Andre Dion adds a poetic touch, emphasizing the enigmatic nature of the bluebird's return, which may not be fully understood but is appreciated by those who observe and cherish these beautiful creatures.

In conclusion, the concepts presented in the article paint a comprehensive picture of the factors influencing the return of bluebirds, combining practical observations, scientific studies, and a touch of artistic appreciation for these fascinating birds.