One of the endearing aspects of bluebirds is that the same birds often return to the same area or box each spring, according to Mary Holleback of West Bend. Any area with short grass interspersed with trees is potential bluebird territory, including homes, business parks, cemeteries, golf courses, parkland, bike trails and even railroad tracks. While the state’s Northwoods are too densely treed for most bluebirds, the lower, more-open two-thirds of Wisconsin, historically dotted with dairy farms, provides ideal habitat. “They were very anxious to see the bluebirds come back,” he explained. Alarm bells went off for many of the older members of BRAW who remembered bluebirds while growing up on dairy farms. But he quickly added, “We are still doing well.”īluebird nostalgia, originating from Wisconsin’s rural roots, somewhat explains the passion of state residents for helping bluebirds, Ready said. Since then, cold, rainy springs have reduced the number to around 20,000 a year. Many females had three broods that year instead of the usual two, according to Ready. Optimal weather patterns enabled BRAW members to account for over 32,000 bluebirds fledged. “The number one nemesis probably is the English sparrow,” Ready said.įast forward through 50 years of human help to 2012, a recent “phenomenal” year for bluebirds, explained Ready. An increase in predators such as non-native English sparrows (also called house sparrows) and European starlings also proved detrimental to bluebirds. “Everybody knew they were in trouble,” he said.Ĭauses for the dramatic decline include loss of habitat and natural cavity nesting sites such as small hollows in dead trees. Ready estimated there were only about 600 Eastern bluebirds left in Wisconsin. As recently as the 1960s, the eastern bluebird population had declined by 90% in its historic range east of the Rocky Mountains during the preceding 50 years. Not long ago, however, the bluebird was in serious jeopardy. Who wouldn’t want more bluebirds in their life? Sound the bluebird alarm Traditionally, bluebirds have been associated with happiness, blessings, spiritual joy and tranquility. Still, the allure of the bluebird goes deeper. “I think it’s just the beauty of the birds, their cheerful song, and they’re fairly easy to attract,” Ready explained.
They are among only a few native birds in Wisconsin that are blue in color. The beloved bird is universally endearing with its brilliant blue and orange plumage and melodious chortle. It’s easy to understand why the bluebird has prompted such gung-ho restoration efforts. “We really have an excellent statewide organization.” Wisconsin is doing very well,” Ready said. Throughout the state, dedicated bluebirders have been instrumental in the great bluebird comeback taking place over the past several decades. So much so, the Badger State now leads the nation in the number of annual bluebird fledglings, according to Patrick Ready, president of the Bluebird Restoration Association of Wisconsin, known as BRAW. While the robin may be its official state bird, Wisconsin is decidedly bluebird country, too.
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