While it might seem voyeuristic to peek into another’s home, Riverines’ work monitoring Eastern Bluebird nesting boxes provides important citizen science data on these little lovelies. During spring and summer, our bluebird monitors check on nest boxes in a variety of RVA sites, noting mating and nesting activity, eggs, chicks and fledglings.

“It is so exciting to check on one of our boxes and see a nestful of chirping babies,” monitor Jane Taft enthused. “A few weeks later, they’re fledglings and the parents are ready to start again, so we make sure their home is ready for them.”

Bluebird boxes have given this species, which was dwindling due to loss of nesting sites, the opportunity to thrive again. The Riverine volunteers give the nestlings an even bigger boost, ensuring that the boxes are clean, safe, and equipped with predator guards to control predation from snakes, raccoons and chick-eating bird species. “While I’m involved in a number of Riverine projects,” Jane added, “I’ve got to say these Bluebirds have a special place in my heart.”