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Seven bluebird boxes were put up at Harmon field last spring by Cheryl Day and Evangeline and Terry LaMore, creating the Bluebird. The breeding season was successful, with several of the boxes used for multiple clutches. Forty-eight birds were counted who had completed the nesting cycle from egg laying to fledging the nest box—36 bluebirds, 10 Tree Swallows, and 2 chickadees. 

 

Evangeline LaMore, Polk County representative for the North Carolina Bluebird Society, monitored the boxes weekly. She kept track of the number of eggs and fledglings, removed old nests after each nesting, and cleared the box of wasps, ants, and even earwigs!

 

When the nesting season is over, bluebirds abandon their territories. Typically, North Carolina Bluebirds do not migrate. They may be joined by migrating bluebirds from further north and roam the area looking for berries and food. In winter, bluebirds roost in pine trees and even vacant nest boxes to help tolerate the cold.

 

During the cold weather when insects are not readily available, bluebirds feed almost entirely on berries. The fruits eaten in the fall provide bluebirds with insulating winter fat. Planting berry-producing native trees and shrubs provides bluebirds with food needed for survival in winter.

 

LaMore and Day wish everyone who made the Bluebird Trail possible, and they appreciate the generosity of Harmon Field. For more information on the NC Bluebird Society, go to https://www.ncbluebird.org. For speaking engagements, contact Evangeline LaMore at (828) 863-4248

 

Submitted by

Cheryl Day