Habitat:

The Eastern Bluebird is found east of the Rockies, southern Canada to the Gulf States; also southeastern Arizona to Nicaraugua. They favor open country with scattered trees, farms and roadsides.

Their habit of nesting in cavities put them in jeopardy when Starlings and House Sparrows were introduced to the U.S. earlier in this century and vigorously competed with them for nesting sites. Fortunately, they accept artificial boxes as well. A high percentage of Eastern Bluebirds today nest in birdhouses put up especially for them along "bluebird trails." They often roam in small flockes when not nesting.

Diet:

The staple diet is mostly insects and berries, feeding on a wide variety of insects, and many types of berries, especially in winter.

Nesting:

The nest is usually placed in a cavity, typically a small hallow in a tree, in old woodpecker holes, or in a birdhouse. They usually nest fairly low to the ground, 2-20' above ground. The nest (in a cavity) is mostly built by the female, and is a loosely constructed cup of weeds, twigs and ground grass lined with finer grasses.

Eggs:

4-5, sometimes 3-7. Pale blue, unmarked, sometimes white. Incubation is mostly by the female, about 12-16 days.

Young:

Both parents feed the nestlings. Young leave the nest in about 18-19 days on average. 2 broods per year, sometimes 3.

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