As fledging of the three chicks was quickly approaching, I was delighted when two juvenile bluebirds from the season’s first brood returned for the big event.
I’ve read that sometimes juvenile bluebirds will return to “help” their parents with a subsequent brood. From my observations of this day, “help” apparently translates to “get in the way.” Regardless, the excitement they added to fledging day was almost uncontainable; I was smiling so broadly as the action unfolded that I could barely take photos.
The juveniles seemed fascinated and excited about the imminent fledging of their younger relatives. They almost appeared to be encouraging the nestlings to take the leap. “Join us, it’s fun outside!“
The juveniles swarmed all over the nest box, poking their heads inside to see the nestlings and appearing to offer them encouragement. It was quite a joyous experience that went on for maybe a half hour, and then the three nestlings successfully fledged.
As in the past, once the fledgings had taken flight all the bluebirds disappeared. They were off to the next phases of their lives. I’d like to say that bluebird empty-nest syndrome gets easier with each fledging but, honestly, it doesn’t.
I took down the nest box, cleaned it and put it away, knowing that I wouldn’t be seeing my bluebirds again for another five months. In my mind’s eye I could already imagine the coming chilly January day when I would glimpse the new season’s first bluebird in the bright morning sun.
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This is the ninth column in a series.
Next in the series: “The First Brood of 2021: A Late Start to a Wonderfully Promising Season”
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