I was very surprised to see a pair of Eastern Bluebirds in my garden this morning, December 18, at about 9.30 a.m. The male was sitting on top of the clothesline pole and the female was on the line itself. I live near Warsaw and often have bluebirds nesting in the spring and summer. However, this is the first time that I have seen them so late in the season and I worry that they won’t survive. Is this unusual?
Rachel Burrows, Warsaw
Note: Some bluebirds overwinter in the Kawarthas most years. Thanks to the huge wild fruit crop this year – especially Wild Grape – they should be able to find all they food they need. The cold is not an issue for birds, as long as they get enough to eat. D.M.
A pair of Eastern Bluebirds – male at upper right – Wikimedia
An Eastern Bluebird visiting a heated birdbath in winter – Kevin Williams
