Capturing the Bluebird Life Cycle Through Photography
Introduction: In the late 70s, the bluebird faced the threat of extinction, prompting the creation of The North American Bluebird Society and a renewed focus on effective conservation efforts. Upon my retirement in 2017, my wife and I joined multiple photography and bird clubs, as well as the Blue Bird Society, to contribute to the preservation of these magnificent birds. Little did I know that this endeavor would not only be a labor of love but also bring immense joy to my photography pursuits.
Creating a Bluebird Haven: Investing a portion of my retirement savings, we ventured to Wild Birds Unlimited, where we acquired a range of essentials. From a bluebird house with convenient opening sides to a predator-guarded metal post, a feeder, watering system, bird bath, dried mealworms, and live mealworms, it seemed that the store's name truly embodied its offerings. By late March, a male bluebird had already begun inspecting the new home for his family. That year, we were fortunate to witness the growth of four bluebird families, each consisting of five or four adorable babies.
The Nesting Ritual: The male bluebird takes charge of selecting the birdhouse or cavity and then woos the female by bringing nesting material inside, making several trips in and out before perching atop the house, eagerly awaiting her entry. Once the female enters, the deal is sealed, and the family process commences. While the male assists by providing materials, it is the female's responsibility to construct the nest using grasses and pine needles. She meticulously lines the nest with feathers or fine grasses, adding her final touch.
The Miracle of Life: Shortly after completing the nest, the female bluebird lays one egg per day until she has a clutch of four or five eggs. Afterward, she begins the incubation process, which lasts approximately 14 days. Remarkably, all the eggs hatch within a 24-hour timeframe, marking the beginning of an awe-inspiring journey.
Parental Duties and Fledging: Both the male and female bluebird diligently work together to feed and care for their offspring until they are ready to fledge, which typically occurs between 17 to 21 days after hatching. Unlike humans, the baby bluebirds possess a natural instinct for flying and do not require lessons. After leaving the nest, they seek nearby cover where they remain for 2 to 4 weeks, honing their hunting skills. Once independent, they depart from their parents' territory, allowing the parents to repeat the process and raise another brood. This cycle repeats itself up to three or four times a year.
Photographing the Bluebird Life Cycle: Throughout the various stages of the bluebird life cycle, I eagerly captured moments of wonder with my camera lens. The included composite showcases the entire progression, each phase depicted through captivating images. These avian subjects often display human-like characteristics, as seen in the photo of a frustrated father trying to cope with his chirpy offspring, while the mother does her best to calm them down. Undoubtedly, this scenario resonates with many mothers.
My Photography Techniques: Among the many feeding devices and setups I've explored, one of my favorites involves a simple, inexpensive blue plastic cup from the Dollar Store. Drilling a hole in the center for mounting and adding small holes for rainwater drainage, I attach the cup to a stick driven into the ground. The allure of live mealworms in the cup entices bluebirds, allowing me to capture remarkable photos as they feed amidst flowers or blooming trees.
For my optimal bird photography setup, I employ a Christmas tree stand to mount a small tree trunk or limb, approximately four feet tall, with a hollow at the top. Placing a bird seed feeder in front of the stand attracts a wide range of birds, but filling the hollow with live mealworms entices bluebirds in particular. To enhance the composition, I incorporate flowering shrubbery or greenery around the limb, securing it with tie wraps. With my tripod set up and my trusty Olympus OM1 camera equipped with a 400mm lens, I patiently await the avian visitors.
Conclusion: Photographing the bluebird life cycle has been an incredibly rewarding endeavor, allowing me to witness the beauty and tenderness of these birds as they navigate the stages of their lives. From nest building and egg-laying to fledging and raising multiple broods, every moment captured has unveiled a glimpse into the resilience and nurturing nature of bluebirds. Through photography, I have found not only a means of documentation but also a source of connection and awe-inspiring joy.