Starting a New Bluebird Trail (Part 1)

Subj: Re: Q about starting trail
Date: 10/25/99 1:08:17 PM Central Daylight Time
From: m-r-sumner"at"juno.com (Maynard R Sumner)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: m-r-sumner"at"juno.com
To: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu

Hi Haleya,

I had bluebirds in some of my Gilbertson's boxes. The HOSP killed them and I trapped a number of HOSP in the PVC boxes. I would like to know who to talk to about highway boxes too.  If the ground is not too hard you can flatten the end and put it in ground.

Maynard R Sumner
Flint, Michigan

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Subj: RE: Q about starting trail
Date: 10/25/99 4:51:41 PM Central Daylight Time
From: mcwrigh"at"nppd.com (Wright, Merlin C.)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: mcwrigh"at"nppd.com
To: hpandtl"at"crocker.com ('hpandtl"at"crocker.com'), BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD"at")

1. I don't need to flatten the end of the rebar because 'my' birds don't care if the house turns and the ridges on the rebar prevent the turning.

2. Rather than using a hammer and pounding the top of the rebar to push it down a foot, I pour a cup of water on the ground and then push the rebar down, pull it up, add water, push down, pull up, repeat, repeat. The only problem is that the mud splatters and I cover that area with my shoe or some grass. A nice pounding device is a 5 pound piece of pipe about 3 feet long and 1" ID with one end welded shut. The pipe slips over the rebar and prevents injury (most injuries that is).

3. This summer a sparrow hatched a clutch in a Gilbertson (but the chicks did not fledge since I was monitoring). I had a slot box across the road from the Gilbertson which does not PROVE anything.

4. I believe birds have a tendency to use a house similar to the one they were raised in BUT, don't worry, some of yours will use the new kind.

5. If you can find the owner of the land it is wise and nice to ask permission but sometimes I am neither wise not nice.

Contact the FSA (farm services administration) office in your county seat for the name of the land owner OR go to the county courthouse (clerks office) for a county map.

Merlin Wright Nemaha county NE 40*30'N, 95*45'W

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Subj: Re: Q about starting trail
Date: 10/29/99 6:02:00 PM Central Daylight Time
From: leck"at"gwi.net (Esther Leck)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: "at"gwi.net
To: bags"at"erols.com
CC: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (Bluebirds)

Dave,
We just drive a crow bar into the ground in spring or fall, when it is soft, put the conduit pole in, then tramp around it. It is very secure, can't pull 'em out in summer after the ground hardens. Use 8' pole, bury about 18"-24", and place box at whatever height works for monitoring with U bolts. Been doing this for years with no predator (climbing type) problems. Also have some 1-1/2" conduit with PVC pipe (like a sleeve) over it in some areas which might be prone to predators. Use larger clamp type U hangers to attach box to the PVC, or just cut it shorter than the conduit and attach as above. Hope this helps. Let's keep it simple is my motto!
Esther Leck, Woolwich, ME Sunny, 60's GREAT Indian Summer weather!

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Subj: My first trail is going up!
Date: 11/6/99 5:43:46 PM Central Standard Time
From: hpandtl"at"crocker.com (Haleya Priest/Thom Levy)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: hpandtl"at"crocker.com
To: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD)

Haleya Priest, Amherst MA

I just wanted to share my thrill in starting my first trail. There is nothing like seeing a box I made myself up and running. Sheer joy. And even better, one of the boxes I put up last week already has signs of bluebirds "playing house". Berry poop on the roof, and inside a few strands of grass and a little blue-grey feather. And today while
putting up boxes at one site, I heard a bluebird flying overhead chirping. Good sign.

At another site, I ran into the farmer who owns the land. Wow, did he moan and groan for a good 10 minutes about the HOSP and EUST in his barns. He was sooooo happy to have me putting up boxes. Anyway, my friend and I had a very up close and personal audience of 7 or so of his happy cows while putting a box up. I didn't know cows liked to be pet. Maybe when the EABL fledge, they'll land on the cows? Hey, Wendell, get out your camera!

Last but not least I also had the thrill today of watching 8 bluebirds all sitting together on our telephone line. Bluebird heaven here in Amherst, MA. H

 

Subj: Questions about new trail
Date: 11/22/99 3:55:31 PM Central Standard Time
From: hpandtl"at"crocker.com (Haleya Priest/Thom Levy)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: hpandtl"at"crocker.com
To: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD)

Haleya Priest Amherst MA

Dear bluebirders, I have a few questions as I am putting up my trail:

1) Found a bison farm that is perfect bb territory. They have electric fences all around the bision. Will only hang a couple boxes there - so would like to put them on the electric fence - on the tall wooden posts. Would the bbs get electrified on the wires as the perch?

2) Have the ok to put up boxes at a retirement community. Would like the boxes near the facility so the retired folk can watch the bbs from their windows. Got a very enthusiastic green light, but then realized they probably use chems on the lawns. I have no details as yet as to how often, etc. -they are checking - but wondered is there anyway around this? The lawns are small where they probably use chemicals then all sorts of open land. Which leads me to my next question:

3) How about a box where it isn't mowed or pasture - like tall grasses, etc. is that out of the question because they can't forage for bugs as easily?

As always always, thanks a million for any input. H
 

Subj: Re: Questions about new trail
Date: 11/22/99 8:59:53 PM Central Standard Time
From: lviolett"at"earthlink.net (Linda Violett)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: lviolett"at"earthlink.net
To: Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu (Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu)

Linda Violett - Yorba Linda, Calif.

Haleya, I'll take a stab at your questions on the retirement home chemicals and long grasses.

My trail here in congested Orange County (home of Disneyland) includes a retirement home. Like your proposed retirement location, the staff was delighted to add bluebirds to their list of permanent residents. Does the retirement home use chemicals? Probably. Does the commercial strawberry field next to the retirement home use chemicals, most probably. Does the city use chemicals? Yes. In spite of the broad use of chemicals, Orange County leads the state in
fledged bluebirds (thanks to the tremendous efforts of Dick Purvis). By all means, discuss the use of chemicals with the retirement home and encourage them
to ease up, if possible, during nesting season. But don't let it discourage you from offering nestboxes. The retirement home nestbox next to the commercial
strawberry field fledged 11 WEBL from 2 clutches last season.

My limited experience shows bluebirds don't like tall grasses. When I hung a box at a new church location a couple of years ago near a large wild lot (a single
acre is large to us in these parts), several weeks passed without a nest so I relocated it near the church playground; bluebirds started their nest that same week.

By the way, this particular nestbox is hanging in trees planted so closely together that the nestbox is under a wide canopy of trees. The bluebirds at this site readily accepted the experimental 2-holed box last year (2 clutches fledged). This year I offered them a box with a 1/2 plexiglas roof and the box already has several claim straws in it.

Linda
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Subj: RE: Questions about new trail
Date: 11/23/99 10:43:03 AM Central Standard Time
From: mcwrigh"at"nppd.com (Wright, Merlin C.)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: mcwrigh"at"nppd.com
To: hpandtl"at"crocker.com ('hpandtl"at"crocker.com'), BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD"at")

1. The birds won't be electrified. To be shocked you have to touch the electric wire with part of your body and touch the earth or (an electrical ground) at the same time.

2. I believe the retired people should have the enjoyment even if there is a risk to the birds.

3. The short grass is better BUT, the birds can go to some short grass for food even if their house is in high grass.

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Subj: Re: Questions about new trail
Date: 11/24/99 12:57:25 PM Central Standard Time
From: dmccue"at"usit.net (Dan McCue)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: dmccue"at"usit.net
To: mcwrigh"at"nppd.com
CC: hpandtl"at"crocker.com ('hpandtl"at"crocker.com'), BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD"at")

Dear H - To answer a couple of questions. BB do like grass that is clipped or cut short or pasture land. They can see the bugs better versus long uncut grasses. That is one reason the golf courses, cemeteries and parks are real good places to place boxes. Be careful of bison they can be dangerous to humans. But don't worry about electric fences electricuteing the bb. It would be very difficult to set on the wire and be grounded at the same time, but I guess anything is possible but not probable. Dan The TN bluebird man

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Subj: Re: Electric Fence
Date: 11/24/99 1:35:20 PM Central Standard Time
From: dmccue"at"usit.net (Dan McCue)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: dmccue"at"usit.net
To: dean"at"ligtel.com
CC: Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu

Dear Perry - As far as your bird houses, it has been my experience that they should face the east or southeast and at least 50 feet from large trees. They like to have the grass cut two or three times a year so they can spot bugs. Under powerlines are great as they will sit on them and fly to the ground to pick up their dinner and fly back to the wire, or to a nest for feeding babies. Also, they should be at least 100 feet apart. Thanks for the opportunity to reply. Dan from Camden, TN west of Nashville

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Subj: Re: Questions about new trail
Date: 11/26/99 4:37:33 PM Central Standard Time
From: KCBSP"at"aol.com
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: KCBSP"at"aol.com
To: hpandtl"at"crocker.com
CC: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu

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Hi Hayela,

I agree that they don't like the high grasses too. At the state park where I monitor though these are some of the more open spots we have unfortunately.
What helps us is that we weed whack a nice wide path into and a large circle around the box as well. We then get bluebirds there. This is a grassy area though where we don't have alot of brush either. Hope it helps.

Kathy Clark
New Cumberland.

 

Subj: New Bluebird Trail
Date: 12/8/99 12:09:12 PM Central Standard Time
From: randyj"at"enter.net (Randy Jones)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: randyj"at"enter.net
To: bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu (Bluebird Listserve)
CC: emilyjg"at"juno.com (Emily Jean Gilbert)

Well, a contact I opened some months ago seems to have paid off. The owner of an auto repair shop which is just across the street from us has agreed to walk his land with me this afternoon at 4:00, to decide where he is willing to have bluebird houses put up. He has indicated that he has no objections, but wants to decide himself where to put them. This is an area which he mows regularly. It backs up to the PA Turnpike, and has a number of evergreen trees about 15' high scattered throughout the 4-5 acres he owns. He also owns some more land on my side of the street, also mowed, about 1-2 acres, so I am delighted, and eager for the "walk-around" to see what's possible. None of it is more than 1/4 mile from my back door, and there is a clump of trees on his property which has snags preferred by my bluebirds last summer. So they know the area.

Now I've got to line up materials to make the nestboxes and pipe to put them up with. Plenty of time between now and spring. When I have them ready, I'll put them up.

Randy Jones
Allentown PA

 

Subj: Hidden Valley Bluebird Trail
Date: 1/7/00 8:03:14 PM Central Standard Time
From: randyj"at"enter.net (Randy Jones)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Reply-to: randyj"at"enter.net
To: bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu (Bluebird Listserve)
CC: emilyjg"at"juno.com (Emily Jean Gilbert)

Jim Lenker, of BSP, arrived on Tuesday morning of this week with 19 nestboxes and 25 iron poles. I had two up from last year, and one received as a gift. Our new trail is now 20 nestboxes, all up, and all with a coat of linseed oil on them. And another neighbor is asking for boxes. We're ready for Spring any time now.

Questions from neighbors who joined the trail so far:

1) Why does that big blue bird need any help? Looks like to me he takes care of himself pretty well. (Confusing the bluejay with the bluebird, of course.)

2) Don't other birds use the nestboxes? How can you be sure the bluebirds get them?

Lots of opportunities for education! My wife and I have decided we will have all the participants over between now and the middle of March for dessert, coffee, and a bluebird evening! Maybe someone from the BSP or NABS (if close by) could be persuaded to come.

Randy Jones
Allentown PA

 

Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2000 19:29:13 -0600
From: ylbordelon"at"juno.com
To: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Re: Not at home.

Yvonne Bordelon
Covington, LA on the N. Shore of Lake Ponchatrain, across from New Orleans low's in the 50's, highs in the mid 70's, no rain for a month

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So Bruce, after you've scoped out those prime bluebird nesting habitats on other people's property, what is the best way to go about approaching the owners. Some key phrases, techniques, what not to say, etc. would be appreciated. I've had my eye on several places and could use some pointers from an experienced bluebird trail caretaker.

Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2000 22:31:26 -0800
From: "dputman" dputman"at"syix.com
To: "bluebird" Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Can I put a box on your property?

Kevin Putman, Yuba City, CA

I've got about 100 nestboxes at private residences; I've found that it is good to be as concise as possible when approaching homeowners about putting a box on their property.

I try to remember how I feel when someone comes to my door trying to sell something. First of all, you want to put them at ease quickly by making clear that you aren't trying to sell anything--because that is what they suspect when they see a stranger at their door. You can do this in one of two ways: you can say it, straight away, or you can just get right to the point of why you are there.

Introduce yourself, and then tell them something like, " As a hobby, I put out nestboxes in an effort to boost the population of a beneficial bird that is rather rare here--the ______ bluebird (not to be confused with Jay). These birds are rare due to a shortage of nesting sites, and that's why I'm putting out the nestboxes. Your property looks like the kind of place where bluebirds might nest if there were a nestbox. Would you mind if I put a box over there on the ______, where I would be able to stop by and monitor it from time to time without bothering you" (close to the road / mailbox, etc.).

Now, before I ask anything, I usually know about where I'm going to try to put the box(es), and this helps move things along also (be careful when looking over people's property, though; you have to do it with a few quick glances, without looking suspicious).

Don't bother with too many other details in your initial introduction of your project. People are usually doing something else (even if it is nothing) and don't want to stand around listening to a stranger for more than a minute or so. Be clear, concise, but don't rush your speech. If they want to know more, they will ask; if you want them to know more, have some literature handy that you can leave them. I've had about a 95% success rate with this approach. I've had a few people take an interest--and fewer still that have become interested enough to check their own boxes. KP

Date: Wed, 23 Feb 2000 06:31:28 -0600
From: "Keith & Sandy Kridler" kridler"at"1starnet.com
To: "BLUEBIRD-L" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: RE: Can I place a nest box

Keith Kridler stormy late night in Northeast Texas but little rain. I watched a flock of 15 Purple Martins flying around their houses yesterday while at work.

Kevin, Stated it beautifully just about a carbon copy of what I use here. I do like to ask if the owners or their neighbors let the cats roam free. Makes them aware of this predator and sometimes leads to other predator talk and will determine the pole mounting system & height needed.   Many people will ask if there is ANY way to get rid of starlings or sparrows in their Martin houses or other nestboxes. This leads to the Huber trap or bait traps. Be sure to carry some sort of printed information to leave regarding cavity nesting information. If they feed sunflowers then stress that the chickadees and tufted titmice may nest and that they also need cavities.

I like to carry the box I am going to donate with me to the door. I do mention that I "normally remove" house sparrows and if this is a problem with them I will still give them the nestbox but add a hole restrictor of 1&3/16" making it unlikely that House sparrows will ever nest & since we do not have the House Wren only other native cavity nesters will benefit.   Ask what size equipment will mow the yards as some here use tractors with finish mowers and the box needs to be high enough to clear tires and such. Show them how to open and inspect and clean if they seem interested. Don't be bashful! Bluebirders are really good people! What other group will pay good money for a product, beg someone to take this product and then come & check & clean it for free for five or more months of the year? And to top off this ridiculous business practice the monitor is usually ecstatic about being able to do this all for free at another location!!!!

Just do it! You will meet life long friends with this act of giving and often will meet people just as caring as you. KK

Date: Wed, 8 Mar 2000 10:34:54 -0800
From: "Julie Clark" jaclark"at"lewiston.com
To: "Bluebird Discussion Group" bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: New bluebird trail & questions

Julie Clark
17 mi. south of Lewiston, Idaho (rural farmland)
Lat. 46 Long. 116

Another new bluebird trail to celebrate! I spoke with a nearby neighbor (2 miles away) yesterday, and she gave me permission to mount bluebird boxes on her property! I was nervous to ask her, because I really don't know her, and she's a busy farmer (cows mainly). However, she was very excited by this, which adds to my excitement! She said she had bird boxes mounted years ago, but the woodpeckers kept enlarging the holes, so she gave up. My husband has made wooden predator guards to mount on the boxes, but they are an inch thick, instead of 3/4" like I've read about.

Question 1: Is one inch too thick for a predator guard for bluebirds? Would a woodpecker still be able to enlarge this?

Another problem: Black-billed Magpies have discovered my bluebird meal, and are quickly cleaning it up. So far, they are the only birds that have taken to this meal (Chickadees ate it the first day, haven't touched it since). Actually, the Magpies have attracted the attention of the Juncos to this feeder. Could they attract the attention of bluebirds, or would they scare bluebirds away? The bluebirds aren't here yet, but I'm watching! I have the containers holding the meal in a roofed feeder that has the plexiglass sides taken out. The Magpies can't land in/on the feeder, but can successfully hover long enough to get a bill full.

My questions: 1) Should I remove the meal? Also, I would have to do a lot of altering to make the plexiglass sides work, so I'm looking for other options (had hoped to keep the sides off). 2) Also, should Magpies be considered predators to cavity nesters? They nest here each spring in the thorn brush behind our backyard, and leave the area as soon as their babies fledge. I've never noticed them paying any attention to the bird boxes. Could or would they reach in to get a baby?

Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thank you very much, Julie

Date: Tue, 16 May 2000 11:40:20 -0400
From: Ed Escalet eme3"at"psu.edu
To: Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Advice on two potential trail scenarios

I have been looking for an area to set up an extensive trail and have been offered two options. The first is from the state game commission which has
a large track of land that was a large farm. The other is land from our local township park and rec group. The state land has many large sections
on it. The university rotates some crops on it-corn-rye-wheat etc.. They have said that they do some limited spraying but that it should not affect
the birds should they establish themselves. The township has about 30 acres of parkland which will eventually house some ball fields. My question is
which should I pursue. On the one hand, the game lands are large, very little people traffic and some old boxes have been up in the past (although
they will have to be repaired) but any pesticide use is a concern. On the other hand, the park land concerns me regarding potential vandalism and
curiosity about the trail in the future ( although we would be very careful about trail placement to minimize contact). Any advice and experience on
both scenarios. Is any spraying acceptable? Has vandalism been a significant problem? Since the perfect situation is difficult your experience and advise would be helpful.
Ed Escalet
Director
Minority Admissions & Community Affairs
Penn State University
Undergraduate Admissions Office
210 Shields Bldg.
University Park, PA 16802
phone: 814-865-1764
fax: 814-863-7590
e-mail: eme3"at"psu.edu

Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2000 00:31:33 -0600
From: Haleya Priest hpandtl"at"crocker.com
To: BLUEBIRD-L Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: taking over trails/starting new ones

Haleya Priest Amherst MA

For those taking over trails or starting trails on golf courses: I can't tell you how much easier it is to START a new trail, rather than RECONDITIONING an old trail. I want to commend those of you trying to revamp old trails - including Lin and Jane - and I am sure many others!

Having taken over trails, I know the HUGE responsibility and difficulty it is in resiting, repairing, dealing with HOSP ghettos from non-monitored boxes, etc. Personally, I love the challenge of taking over an old trail - and is in SHARP contrast to starting a new trail. I just recently hooked up with the conservation commission in my town to help them start a new trail on a golf course (next to my house). What a treat. I felt like a queen being driven around in a golf cart saying, "I'll put a box there", "no, this site won't do", "I'll try one here, but if I don't like it, it comes down", "nope - hear those HOSP in that Spruce? No matter HOW much you'd like a box there, I won't do it", "Yes, $200.00 will MORE than cover expenses".

At one point I saw some god-awful boxes hanging on the trees. I told him those boxes come down or I wouldn't monitor ANY boxes at all! I was very kind about it, but DEAD serious. I don't have time to waste on potentially draining situations.

They were very kind and complied to all my suggestions. I told them that if they DID comply, I would put their trail on the Transcontinental Bluebird Trail. Oh, that was music to their ears.

Anyway, when you can take the upper hand, DO! It feels so rewarding and will make life so much easier for you! - in either case, know the bluebirds are singing sweet tunes in your direction. :-)

Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2000 09:07:18 EDT
From: RWil2654"at"aol.com
To: hpandtl"at"crocker.com, BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Re: taking over trails/starting new ones

I too took over a golf course trail that had some very ugly boxes the would not open and the holes were too small. After a season I decided to replace
them all with my Wilson PVC boxes. I have moved several HOSP occupied boxes talked to homeowner even helped them sparrow proof their house. It is a lot of work but we are getting some results. These trail are hard to monitor as you have to get there before the golfer do or you are in jeopardy of getting hit.

I have extended the trial to surrounding areas as we are getting pressure from new home being built around the golf course. (why would any one want to live there) With all this work we have had only four of the thirty boxes use. NO Eastern Bluebird have nested here this year. We see them often but not nesting on the golf course.

Someone else is taking this trail over next year and I wish them good luck. I think I will stick with trail along highways as they are easier to monitor,
less subject to vandalism and are more productive.

Bob Wilson
(970) 242-5190 39* 06.21N 108*33.61 W
4,635 elevation Grand Junction Colorado
THE HOME OF ALL THREE BLUEBIRD SPECIES
A HREF="http://www.crosswinds.net/~bluebirdbob/"Bob Wilson Home Page/A
A HREF="http://www.crosswinds.net/~bluebirdguide/"BLUEBIRD-L REFERENCE GUIDE/A

Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2000 21:33:08 EDT
From: JaneHopeC"at"aol.com
To: Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Re: taking over trails/starting new ones

Hi Haleya and all,

Yes, I have found taking over an existing trail has been very difficult. It is my first year and perhaps has been too much of a challenge for me. My problems have been compounded by two things. A fairly unco-operative manager at the golf course ( who had put the boxes up himself but never monitored them) and the fact that even the golf courses around here are pretty well wooded and prime House Wren territory. I am pleased that at least I have been able to reduce the House Sparrow population and thus provided some measure of safety for the bluebirds on this trail.

If I had known what I know now I would have made it quite clear at the outset that unless things like moving boxes to where I said they should be would be complied with that I would not monitor and therefore the boxes should be taken down. However I did not do this and I think an unclear state of who's in charge has evolved. Now we are in the middle of the season and I will not abandon the bluebirds who are using some of those boxes. I have to just do the best I can for them. BUT at the end of the season ( when the manager is less busy and will have more time and inclination to listen I hope ) I plan to write up a report for the manager and tell him that he should either take the boxes down or agree to let me do what is necessary. No ifs ands or buts. I will make it VERY clear. I also plan to start a new trail elsewhere next season which according to what Haleya says sounds like heaven compared to taking over an old one.

So.... what I have learned and what I would advise anyone, especially a novice like me who is taking over an old trail is make it VERY clear at the
start to all concerned that you will have to have the final say over what is to be done. Even if you don't know yet what will need to be done. Things will
occur during the season and it is important to be in a position to do what you need to do.

Jane
Pound Ridge
NY

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Date: Wed, 28 Jun 2000 22:40:25 -0500
From: "R_C Walshaw" walshaw"at"gte.net
To: "Bluebird Listserve" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Bob Wilson -Trail success

Bob - regarding your comment about highway trails, I also find that I have the best Bluebird success along highways, even busy high speed ones. My
theory has been that automobiles stir up and also knock down a lot of insects. Do you have any other reason for this success? Regards, Bluebird
Bob, Northeast Oklahoma.

Date: Thu, 29 Jun 2000 08:34:14 -0500
From: "Teri I Casper" ticpen"at"maqs.net
To: walshaw"at"gte.net, "Bluebird Listserve" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Re: Bob Wilson -Trail success

I have thought about placing a trail along a roadway, but do you need to have permission from the county or town-whoever owns the road-to do this, or just do it?

Teri In Wisconsin
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Date: Thu, 29 Jun 2000 14:01:19 -0400
From: Lin Towler aabr"at"wwd.net
To: "Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu" Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Re: taking over trails/starting new ones

To ALL, and especially Haleya!

I had so much knowledge and information from this list, that when I did volunteer to take over the old semi-existing unmonitored trail, the VERY first thing (after volunteering) was to tell them I would only invest my time and labor IF I was allowed to run the trail MY way. Of course I assured them that I would not do anything that was against the club rules, and work WITH them in any instance that needed special attention. I felt apprehensive taking this strong stance, but after all the smoke had cleared (and I could breath again!) I found that, my strong stance actually made them respect me more.

I also moved slowly because of the elderly gentlemen who built and put up boxes (who are still members, too). I moved slowly on the trail area that was within easy and daily sight, and worked on the out of sight trail for the first few weeks, and asked questions of the elderly gentlemen pertaining to the area, snakes, birds, people to watch out for.....another words, I made them my allies by pulling them into MY clubhouse and making them feel important. What good would it have done to say "You should have, could have, or didn't do such and such"??? They are now my Number One Fans and watch out for the trail when I am not around. *GRIN* They ask lots of questions, and I hear them proudly repeating the answers to anyone who wants to know (or that they can corner *giggle*).

I have never worked so hard, without it feeling like it was work! Everyone on this list has contributed to my learning and educational experience, if not
directly, then just by being there as the Greatest Support group there is!

BTW....I am giving my very first Bluebird Workshop/Talk/Speech??? this Saturday and boy am I nervous! I tried roping several more experienced people into coming down and doing or helping, but they are all unavailable...so it's me or nothing. Say a little prayer for me (I think I'm gonna NEED it!).

Lin Towler
Bluebird Recovery Project
Boyd County, KY

Date: Thu, 29 Jun 2000 23:40:25 -0500
From: "R_C Walshaw" walshaw"at"gte.net
To: "Bluebird Listserve" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Teri - boxes along roads

Teri asked whether you have to get permission to put boxes along roads. In this area all you need is the permission of the landowner who owns land
along the road. (I am talking about two lane roads, not super highways). Bluebird Bob, Northeast Oklahoma.

Date: Wed, 06 Dec 2000 19:45:21 -0400
From: Haleya Priest mablue"at"gis.net
To: BLUEBIRD-L BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Bluebird- victory, etc

Haleya Priest Amherst, MA
FREEZING COLD - mid teens

First, I am pleased to announce that a trail I helped assess recently - where they wondered why they had no bluebirds - 1st problem the hole sizes too small (several other problems) - - - well, they built ALL NEW NABS boxes. It is very exciting to know they'll now be able to bring the bluebirds back to this particular area, and that it IS possible to change the minds of bluebirder wanna-be folks - since many don't want to do anything different than what they are already doing.

Even if they don't have bluebirds!

The man who built them came over to see how I mounted my boxes, which also means they will follow recommendations and take the boxes OFF wooden poles and use re-rod and electric conduit instead. Made my day....

The other thing is that I just received the Purple Martin Conservation Association's newest catalogue and they carry a "cute" outdoor sign ( shaped like CHILDREN PLAYING, etc) that says, "Purple Martin Sanctuary" with a pix of several PUMA perched on a telephone wire. I wonder if anyone knows of a sign that says, "Bluebird Sanctuary" with bluebirds sitting on a line, and if NOT wouldn't it be great to have one???

Ma Blue :-) (H)

Date: Wed, 6 Dec 2000 19:22:10 EST
From: KCBSP"at"aol.com
To: mablue"at"gis.net
Cc: Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu, MrSimple"at"aol.com
Subject: Re: Bluebird- victory, etc

In a Message dated 12/6/00 6:35:40 PM Eastern Standard Time, mablue"at"gis.net writes:

Subj: Bluebird- victory, etc
Date: 12/6/00 6:35:40 PM Eastern Standard Time
From: mablue"at"gis.net (Haleya Priest)
Sender: owner-BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Kathy Clark New Cumberland, PA
Hayela wrote:
First, I am pleased to announce that a trail I helped assess
recently - where they wondered why they had no bluebirds - 1st problem
the hole sizes too small (several other problems) - - - well, they built
ALL NEW NABS boxes. It is very exciting to know they'll now be able to
bring the bluebirds back to this particular area, and that it IS
possible to change the minds of bluebirder wanna-be folks - since many
don't want to do anything different than what they are already doing.
Even if they don't have bluebirds!
The man who built them came over to see how I mounted my boxes,
which also means they will follow recommendations and take the boxes OFF
wooden poles and use re-rod and electric conduit instead. Made my
day....

Kathy wrote:

Hayela That's wonderful news!! See what a difference you can make..just one person teaching others :) It's also called the personal touch as I'm sure you told them alot of things and some of your adventures...am I right ??  :)

The other thing is that I just received the Purple Martin
Conservation Association's newest catalogue and they carry a "cute"
outdoor sign ( shaped like CHILDREN PLAYING, etc) that says, "Purple
Martin Sanctuary" with a pix of several PUMA perched on a telephone
wire. I wonder if anyone knows of a sign that says, "Bluebird
Sanctuary" with bluebirds sitting on a line, and if NOT wouldn't it be
great to have one???

Go girl!! Hayela Get a committee right on it !!! LOL This would be something for a group to develop for the Affiliate Catalog maybe? Our group has a picture of three fledglings in a tree..but not a flock.. Wendell?? Another project???? LOL ... Happy Holidays!!!

Ma Blue :-) H

Date: Wed, 9 May 2001 10:35:48 -0500
From: "Monty Perkins" monty.perkins"at"townofsmyrna.org
To: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Starting a Bluebird Trail

I am interested in starting a Bluebird Trail within our Parks and Recreation Department, so that we may offer a program to the citizens within our community and to the children of our local schools. We want to be a part of the National System, however, some questions are...is it a requirement from each person/agency that adopts a box, also pay the $35.00 for publications, etc./membership. We would set up a program to number the boxes and ensure they are built correctly and also place them in the appropriate places. I have been on the web site to get some information, but request some information to get started and ensure it gets started soon and in the right way. I would appreciate any information you could provide. I will also try to contact the Briarwood Middle School in Camden, Tennessee and see how they did it. Sincerely, Monty Perkins, Program Coordinator, Smyrna Parks and Recreation, Smyrna, Tennessee. Phone: 615-459-9773/fax: 615-459-9727.

From: "Darcy & Jacque Turner" turner"at"texasisp.com
To: "BLUEBIRD" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Bottom Line On Bluebird Houses
Date: Wed, 9 Jan 2002 14:07:00 -0600

Okay, expert bluebirders. I'm setting up my new houses on a new bluebird trail within the next couple of weeks. My Father-In-Law is currently working on a telescoping pole design that I can operate so that my houses will set 10 ft. up, and lower to my eye level for monitoring. I have been so worried about the predator situation, mostly cats, that this has been my priority.

BUT NOW, you have me so concerned about the heat. I live in an area of Texas where we have been known to reach over 100 degree temperatures on a daily basis for 30 days in a row!

This is what I have and would appreciate your experienced advice:

I have 18 new bluebird houses total. Nine of them were ordered from Duncraft and are the Cornell Bluebird Houses, 1/8 in. wall thickness, made out of chemical-free natural cedar. These houses have a predator guard attached that has had to be removed so you could open the front swinging door to a 90 degree angle, but that has nothing to do about my questions. You can see this box, if needed, at http://www.duncraft.com/merchant.ihtml?pid=3D589&lastcatid=3D36&step=3D4 = The product code is 0952000BLUE. 

The other nine houses are Peterson style houses made with new Western Red Cedar. These houses can be seen at http://www.geocities.com/cynfred/Bluebird-House.html 

So after reading your emails from the list, WHAT IS THE BOTTOM LINE?

Do I need to make and attach extended roofs on these two designs of birdhouses? Both styles of my houses have the same degree of slant. Is that extra covering going to help the back side of the house exposed to the west? 

AND

Should I just go ahead and paint the houses WHITE, even though they will not have a fall/winter airing out time before the bluebirds start checking them out. And if I do paint the houses white, what type of paint is best. And just paint the outside of the house, right?

I can see ventilation is an issue and plan to look at my houses and try to make modifications if needed.

Also, had planned to face all of my houses East, but now am now thinking Northeast might be a better alternative. That morning sun in Texas is hot! I'd appreciate your thoughts on this.

The areas I was planning to put these houses do not allow any shade. I was trying to keep away from being too close oak grove thickets, to try to lessen wren activity in the bluebird boxes. The wrens will have their own boxes going up in these trees.

We have lots of barbed wire fence line and overhead power lines running across a pasture. I was planning on setting many of these boxes along here - where there is certainly NO SHADE.

The Bluebird Monitor's Guide has been a wealth of information, as has the BLUEBIRD list, but I feel like I'm having to cram for a test with little time before these houses need to be up. Really I feel like they already need to be up.

So - if you happen to be a reader that has gone this far into this lengthy email, I would deeply appreciate your "BOTTOM LINE" answer. I would like to hit any potential failure problems head on before the birds discover these new houses.

Thanks in advance for the advice.

Jacque T.
Breckenridge, Texas
100 miles west of Ft. Worth
60 miles northeast of Abilene

From: "Fawzi P. Emad femad <at> fpemad <dot> com
To: turner"at"texasisp.com, "BLUEBIRD" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Re: Bottom Line On Bluebird Houses
Date: Wed, 9 Jan 2002 16:28:58 -0500

I read your letter and looked at the houses. You are right, the first thing to do in TX is to increase the vents. The Peterson has only one hole on the side! too little. As Keith (from TX) indicated, you need about 4 to 5 sq. in. of vents (not counting the entrance hole) to properly keep a box cool in hot weather. If you are skilled with tools, you can add vents accordingly. The price of these houses is so high, you could make them for a fraction of the price, but that requires tools, time, etc.

The other house has a very tiny roof, and the sides cannot be 1/8" as claimed. The sides are either 7/8" or 3/4" judging by the picture. To this one I would add a second much larger roof overhanging 4" in the front, and as much as possible on the sides.

Both houses will be difficult to increase the vents. Both are front opening, meaning the sides are attached firmly to the roof making side vents hard to add. You can drill 3/4" holes all along the tops of both sides of each box, as many holes as will fit (you need about 4 or 5 holes on each
side.) You cal also cut a small piece off the "door" top making an opening up to 1/2" as a gap under the roof above the front. This and the side holes will provide good venting. If possible, make several (3 or 4) holes in the bottom using a 3/8" bit.

It is a good idea to face the front away from the sun, NE or NW is fine, so is S and N, just not straight E or W. A second roof and second west side will make things much cooler also. Take a look at: http://www.audubon-omaha.org/bbbox/nestbox/double.htm for a shade roof and west side, really easy to make and install. In TX you may need a shade side for the morning side as well, here in MD the morning sun is not so hot.

Let us know if you have other concerns or questions. If you cannot do all I recommended above, don't let it stop you! Do the best you can, and plan more changes for next year...

Fawzi

P.S. Make sure that the telescoping pole will not allow the house to rotate in the wind! I hope you father in law planned it this way from the start.

Fawzi Emad in Laytonsville, Maryland
femad"at"comcast.net

----- Original Message -----
From: "Darcy & Jacque Turner" turner"at"texasisp.com
To: "BLUEBIRD" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2002 3:07 PM
Subject: Bottom Line On Bluebird Houses

...

From: "Fawzi P. Emad femad <at> fpemad <dot> com
To: turner"at"texasisp.com
Cc: "bbllll" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)
Subject: Re: Bottom Line On Bluebird Houses
Date: Wed, 9 Jan 2002 16:35:16 -0500

Forgot to mention that painting them white is a very effective thing to do. Make sure to paint only the outside, roof, sides and back (leave the front
alone.) If you use a water based paint, it will be dry in a couple of days and safe to put out. Reflecting the sun with white paint is a very effective first step to reduce heat.

Another thing, instead of the telescoping pole you could use a stove pipe predator guard which works well against ground predators (including cats.) Plans for this can be found in the book Bluebird Monitor's Guide... as well as other readily available books (one by Scriven and one by Zickefoose come to mind.)

Fawzi

Fawzi Emad in Laytonsville, Maryland
femad"at"comcast.net

Date: Wed, 09 Jan 2002 16:34:48 -0500
To: bluebird-l"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)
From: Tina Phillips cbp6"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Re: Bottom Line On Bluebird Houses

Hi Jacque,

My first advice to you would be don't panic! Nesting season hasn't begun yet, even in Texas, and you've still got time to modify your boxes, if you feel it is necessary.

I have heard of people attaching some type of umbrella shade onto their nest boxes but can't recall who or where they were used.Given that the a boxes are 11/8" thick (not 1/8") it should provide enough insulation against the cold or hot weather. However, if it's 105 degrees outside in the shade, it will be at least that much inside, no matter what you do. Maybe Keith K. has other suggestions for dealing with excessive heat.

Also, TBN data found that boxes in the North had greater nesting success in east-northeast directions where the early morning sun heats the cool interior of the boxes. The same effect was not found in the south, where cool early morning temperatures were usually not a problem. In your case, however, I think orienting the boxes to the NE is a good idea, as western orientations may give too much sun exposure to the box.

Additionally, I would not suggest painting your boxes white because it is too close to nesting season and it may also attract predators.

Also, as an aside, most front-opening boxes with a sloped roof overhang won't allow you to reach a 90 degree angle. It's just not physically possible.

I hope that helps, although I doubt if it is the bottom line. I'm sure hearing from some Texans will be even more helpful.

Good luck!

Tina Phillips
The Birdhouse Network
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
159 Sapsucker Woods Rd.
Ithaca, NY 14850

(607)254-2482
cbp6"at"cornell.edu
http://birds.cornell.edu/birdhouse

From: "Pauline, Mountain City TX" bluebirds"at"austin.rr.com
To: "BLUEBIRD-L" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Bluebird Nestboxes in Texas / Heat, Shade, House Wrens
Date: Wed, 9 Jan 2002 22:49:33 -0600

Jacque - How wonderful that you're taking all these steps to make your bluebird conservation project as effective as possible! I wish I'd known to ask those questions when I started. You've asked good questions and have received good answers.

With the answers that came to all on the list, you've received what appear to be "conflicting" answers. Even those who have been bluebirding for years and had great success have different sets of experiences and have completed different experiments. And, just because a "way" has worked for someone does not mean there is not an even more productive option - even where they live.

A key you've hit on for Texas is the extreme heat. Just because a box is stamped "approved" does not mean it's safe for Texas.

Adding a larger roof and as much ventilation as possible are suggestions that will increase your chances for success not only in Spring but into Summer. Keith Kridler (and others) have bluebirds nesting from February into September.

Texas Bluebird Society website (www.texasbluebirdsociety.org) has a set of plans for a simple nestbox that has a very large roof and lots of ventilation. You might consider this box when you add some more.

By the way, House Wren normal breeding range hits only a tiny tip of the Panhandle. House Wrens are not an "issue" in Texas as they are in many other states.

So, if you have some spots that are in the open AND under the canopy or shade of a large tree, try placing some of your boxes in those locations. The "most prolific" bluebirding Texans I know place all of their bluebird nestboxes in shaded areas.

If a "bluebird" nestbox happens to become occupied by a (sweet, gentle) Bewick's Wren, just add another box close by. Each of these species is competive among its own but not with others.

Texas Bluebird Society is a new organization. I hope you'll join (email to me your address and I'll mail some information to you; membership form is on
website) and be a part of exchanging information about what is working and not working in Texas.

"Bluebirds Across Texas...one nestbox at a time",
Pauline Tom (President, TBS)
Mountain City - South Central Texas

Message -----
From: Darcy & Jacque Turner
To: BLUEBIRD
Sent: Wednesday, January 09, 2002 2:07 PM
Subject: Bottom Line On Bluebird Houses

...

Date: Mon, 14 Jan 2002 14:07:21 -0800 (PST)
From: Rob Yaksich grobyak"at"yahoo.com
Subject: involving Parks agencies, etc
To: BLUEBIRD-L BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu

Rob Yaksich
ABQ, NM

Hi all - is winter as absent from your corners of America as it is here? YIKES!

I haven't posted in ages, but here is what's up. I was promoted to Regional Interpretive Ranger last spring, which means I now cover all of northwestern NM (8 parks total). I'd like to develop a bluebird trail as an interpretive tool for visitors at one of the parks I've had a trail at for 2 years now, but would also like to branch out to include others. Have any of you delved into this particular arena before - as in using a State or National Park as a locus for your trail? I guess I'm not quite sure what I'm asking here, but have any of you had any experiences working with Parks of any jurisdiction, for better or worse? Keith K., it seems that you a have mentioned before, but I can't find what you sent me.

THANKS!

Ranger Rob

Date: Mon, 14 Jan 2002 20:24:36 -0500
To: grobyak"at"yahoo.com, BLUEBIRD-L BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
From: Wendell Long mrsimple"at"go-concepts.com
Subject: Re: involving Parks agencies, etc

Ranger Rob....congratulations on your promotion.
Our Park(the one across the road from me) is both Federal and State  and includes a creek, lake, dam, boating, hiking, fishing, etc. It is total 10,550 acres. It has had a bluebird trail for many years. The Dam was built in 1975, but I don't remember off the top of my head when the bb trail was started. The boxes are built by a joint effort of different groups and several volunteers. One such group is a nonprofit organization and also scouts and others have been involved at different times. My old lady(the bride) got her start as a bb trail monitor there before we bought our own land and she established her own trail. The volunteers also have a book cart as a fund raiser to help with various educational programs. The Big Boss of several parks(a big shot like you are now) is thinking of requiring all the bb monitors to read the new book "The Bluebird Monitor's Guide". Don't tell her I told you but the bride is President of the
"Friends" the volunteer group that keeps it all going plus the great advantage of having a top manager who manages for diversity and has a real interest in wildlife. The Friends are all volunteers and are a source of free labor for the park.

It is perhaps one of the best kept secrets in the world of volunteerism. The problem is my wife likes wildlife(feeding the birds etc) better than people and just does not have any interest in becoming famous. This is her bowling league night with her old nursing group and she is not home now--that is the only way I can get away with writing this without her knowing about it--and please don't tell. My experience in volunteer work includes the United Way a big group of volunteers including paid staff and a fine organization. Also some Red Cross work in the past. I personally have no experience with the Friends and the President insist I stay off her turf, which I am happy to do, except for sharing the secret now and then when I feel it might be helpful to someone. The local
regional management and rangers report to the Louisville District Corps of Engineers in Louisville, Kentucky. That is the official chain of command. The volunteer group and members are local citizens with an interest in outdoor life and education programs etc. I am impressed by their success. I can say this since I am not an active member other than donating a photograph now and then.

The key here seems to be having a team both with real zest for what they do and including both top management and local volunteers working and cooperating in a common activity. The fools even think they may have a chance to help the Prothonotary Warbler. They even put up a box I think over the water thinking one might drop by! I am not sure it may have but I don't think so.

Anyway Ranger Rob, feel free to write me if you have specific questions. But don't contact the bride, she may tell you to bug off-she is an environmental nut--even likes bats, makes me put up a bat box on the house too. (just kidding with the mean spirited things I say--it is just that I am sticking my nose in others business here--a nasty habit at times). It was not clear to me or I did not read carefully enough---what authority is over your parks did you say?

Well,I am still stuck in this darn Spirit of Christmas Day and can't get out. So must go wash my gum boots again.

Good idea you have. It will be worth your time. Others on the list will have lots to share with you and they have broad experience in working with volunteers. I think there is a plan for a State as well as National Bluebird Trail isn't there? Does that run through your parks?

Wendell Long
Waynesville, Ohio

From: EHDerry"at"aol.com
Date: Mon, 14 Jan 2002 20:28:53 EST
Subject: Re: involving Parks agencies, etc
To: grobyak"at"yahoo.com, Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)

Ranger Rob and Bluebird-L Members: I have been thinking of asking our Town for permission to erect some bb nestboxes in a new Town park that is being
developed, and I, too, wonder if anyone has any advice on how to approach the subject to the authorities and what to ask for. Is there a best way to do
this?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Judy
Lockport, NY (Western)
43.179 N. -78.652 W.
Hardiness Zone 5b

From: "Bobby Wilson" bluebirdbob1"at"bresnan.net
To: EHDerry"at"aol.com, grobyak"at"yahoo.com, Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)
Subject: Re: involving Parks agencies, etc
Date: Tue, 15 Jan 2002 05:43:21 +0000
 
 I have a few in the Colorado River State parks and they as me to put them up. The have a lot of Mountain Bluebirds in the winter and spring. They only nest once and then disappear and come back in the fall. I would just ask them if they have objection. My moto is YOU DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TO SAY NO FOR ANYONE.  

Bob Wilson  (970) 242-5190
39* 06.21N -108*33.61 W
4,635 elevation Grand Junction Colorado
THE HOME OF ALL THREE BLUEBIRD SPECIES

From: EHDerry"at"aol.com 
 Reply-To: EHDerry"at"aol.com
 To: grobyak"at"yahoo.com, Bluebird-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)
 Subject: Re: involving Parks agencies, etc
 Date: Mon, 14 Jan 2002 20:28:53 EST
 
 Ranger Rob and Bluebird-L Members: I have been thinking of asking our Town for permission to erect some bb nestboxes in a new Town park that is being developed, and I, too, wonder if anyone has any advice on how to approach the subject to the authorities and what to ask for. Is there a best way to do this?
 
 Any thoughts would be appreciated.
   
 Judy
 Lockport, NY (Western)
 43.179 N. -78.652 W.
 Hardiness Zone 5b

From: "Kromel, Terri" tkromel"at"state.pa.us
To: BLUEBIRD-L BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: RE: involving Parks agencies, etc
Date: Tue, 15 Jan 2002 08:20:07 -0500

Hi Rob and all members of Bluebird-L!

Yes, winter is incredibly mild here too. Temps in the 40's during the day, 20's-30's at night, and only one significant snowfall which occurred last week and most of it is melted already! I took the day off to go out on snowshoes and boy am I glad I did. It started melting the next day!

The PA Bureau of State Parks has a network of bluebird trails throughout our state parks. We have been monitoring these boxes since the late 70's in a few of the parks. We have officially been collecting data statewide since 1981. Today we have 55-60 state parks that have a trail anywhere from 4-175 boxes in size. The trails were erected for the purpose of providing nesting opportunities for the Eastern Bluebird and to be used as an interpretive and environmental education tool. The trails are maintained by a dedicated crew of volunteers. The volunteers also help facilitate educational programs for the public and schools. The program is coordinated by myself out of our central office. Each volunteer works with the park manager or educator throughout the season while monitoring the trail. At the end of each season we have a one day meeting where we provide a program, food and opportunities for sharing and asking questions as a way of saying thank you to the volunteers for their time and dedication. The meeting is free for the volunteers to attend and we offer them free camping at the park campground for that entire weekend of the meeting. This has proven to be our most successful volunteer program within our department. We have over 200 volunteers actively monitoring throughout the state, and 30 of them have volunteered for 25 years or more!

I'd be glad to discuss the program in more detail if anyone wants to contact me. Feel free to call or e-mail!

Terri Kromel
PA Bureau of State Parks
Harrisburg, PA
Southcentral PA
717-783-4361
tkromel"at"state.pa.us

-----Original Message-----
From: Rob Yaksich [mailto:grobyak"at"yahoo.com]
Sent: Monday, January 14, 2002 5:07 PM
To: BLUEBIRD-L
Subject: involving Parks agencies, etc

...

From: "Bobby Wilson" bluebirdbob1"at"bresnan.net
To: grobyak"at"yahoo.com, BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)
Subject: Re: involving Parks agencies, etc
Date: Tue, 15 Jan 2002 14:48:48 +0000

 Hi Rob; 
 I have gotten the most volunteers by giving slideshow about bluebirds. I have about a twenty minute show and it always take about an hour as there are lot of question. I take boxes and use the NAB getting started handouts. At any given time we have about&nbsp; eight to twelve volunteer helping with the trails. The secret seem to be keeping the involved and busy. By the way I just had a report of Eastern Bluebirds in The four corners area. Cal me if you want to discuss this further. Bob

Bob Wilson  (970) 242-5190
39* 06.21N -108*33.61 W
4,635 elevation Grand Junction Colorado
THE HOME OF ALL THREE BLUEBIRD SPECIES
 
  From: Rob Yaksich GROBYAK"at"YAHOO.COM  
  Reply-To: grobyak"at"yahoo.com
  To: BLUEBIRD-L BLUEBIRD-L"at"CORNELL.EDU  
  Subject: involving Parks agencies, etc
  Date: Mon, 14 Jan 2002 14:07:21 -0800 (PST)

...

Date: Mon, 18 Feb 2002 06:36:16 -0800 (PST)
From: The Doctor sytyf"at"yahoo.com
Subject: supply & demand
To: BLUEBIRD BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
 

Hi all,

My modest nestbox trail (4 nestboxes and one mealworm feeder) in Illinois is in utter chaos. Seems that I now have more Blues than nestboxes. Fights between Blues for the "territory" have ocurred every morning for the past 6 days. I have never witnessed so many sustained battles between Bluebirds on my Indiana trail (24 nestboxes and 3 mealworm feeders). I am planning on taking one nestbox down and seperating the other three boxes by as much distance as I can. I may add another mealworm feeder.

Between a very large HOSP population and a less than ideal EABL environment in Illinois, I am struggling with my new nestbox trail. By less than an ideal EABL environment I mean that there are only 5 trees within 1/2 mile or more. Although there is open grassland, there are few perches from which the EABL can hunt. As you move away from the road (telephone/power line), house or 5 trees the landscape is null and void of anywhere to perch. The majority of ground around my rental property will probably be planted with corn since it was soy bean last year.

So what seemed like a perfect opportunity for a nestbox trail, now seems to show how much work I have to do. I will ask the landlord if I can add perching posts and wires to the property away from the house.

Have a good day

Bob Sitarski a.k.a. The Doctor

Jackson County Indiana & Clay County Illinois

Date: Mon, 18 Feb 2002 22:42:32 EST
Subject: Re: supply & demand
To: sytyf"at"yahoo.com, BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)

Susan Bulger, Fullerton, CA

It is so frustrating trying to find enough box sites on my trail in suburban Fullerton, CA. I spent about an hour today balancing all the pros and cons of the possible trees in one area where I had a box last year but sparrows are nearby. Then two pairs of birds came to check it out. I left before any fighting.
 

I wanted to write to you about the perches I made for my back yard. I took bean poles and tied straight pencil sized tree branch pieces to the top.  They wobbled no matter how tightly I tied so I glued it with a hot glue gun. Most are sturdy, a few have a little give in them but perhaps that helps the birds feet as was mentioned in that most interesting book, Beakless Bluebirds and Featherless Penguins. These perches can be placed anywhere and everywhere. My birds use them every day. Hope this gives you some ideas.

From: "Fawzi P. Emad femad <at> fpemad <dot> com
To: Snwwitelady"at"aol.com, sytyf"at"yahoo.com,
"BLUEBIRD-L" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Re: supply & demand
Date: Tue, 19 Feb 2002 10:15:45 -0500

Perches are indeed very good to have on and near nestboxes. Susan, check with Linda Violett, she has WEBL (Western Bluebirds) in CA in an urban/suburban setting full of HOSP (House Sparrows) and she does it by hanging large two holed nestboxes she calls "mansions." I am testing these mansions this season in the East on EABL (Eastern Bluebirds.) However, I am not hanging mine from trees, and I am putting them on poles like ordinary nestboxes with stove pipe predator guards. Linda's web pages can be found
on:

http://home.earthlink.net/~lviolett/

Fawzi

Fawzi Emad in Laytonsville, Maryland
femad"at"comcast.net

----- Original Message -----
From: Snwwitelady"at"aol.com
To: sytyf"at"yahoo.com; "BLUEBIRD-L" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Sent: Monday, February 18, 2002 10:42 PM
Subject: Re: supply & demand

 

Susan Bulger, Fullerton, CA

It is so frustrating trying to find enough box sites on my trail in suburban

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From: "Carol Williams" cdenson"at"multipro.com
To: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)
Subject: Experience needed
Date: Thu, 21 Feb 2002 15:29:18 -0600

This is my first posting. I am establishing a Bluebird trail in my community. It will be along a rural highway. Which direction do I place the front of the box? I have heard that Bluebirds produce more eggs if the hole is faced northeast. Have those of you with experience found this to be true.

Any help on how to go about this trail would be greatly appreciated. I have about thirty boxes to put up in the next few days.

Thank you,
Carol
Smithville, TN

From: "Mary Beth Roen" mbroen"at"hotmail.com
To: cdenson"at"multipro.com, BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)
Subject: Re: Experience needed
Date: Thu, 21 Feb 2002 17:17:31 -0600

Carol,

I think there are a couple of things to consider when placing boxes along a road. I would not face the front of the box to the road, because then when the baby birds fledge,(and when parent birds approach the box), they will fly across the road and may be hit by a car. I try to face the front of the box toward a tree or shrub that they can land on when they first fledge, for their safety. There is some controversy in not facing the boxes to the west or south because of increased heat in the summer, so if the box cannot face east or northeast without also facing the road, I try to find another place to mount the box.

Mary Roen, River Falls, WI

This is my first posting. I am establishing a Bluebird trail in my

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From: "Randy Jones" randyj"at"enter.net
To: cdenson"at"multipro.com, "BLUEBIRD-L" BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu
Subject: Re: Experience needed
Date: Thu, 21 Feb 2002 18:14:41 -0500

Carol, I'm sure you're going to get responses from folks in TN, with whom you can stay in contact. But for what it's worth, there are two factors to consider: 1) prevailing wind, and 2) sun.

1) Prevailing wind: early in the season, a driving rain in the direction of the entry hole, can wet the interior of the box, including nest and nestlings, and if it's chilly, it could cause death. So aim it away from the prevailing wind, if possible. Where I am, that means NOT facing North or Northwest.

2) When the weather gets warmer, sun shining directly into the box opening can drive the internal temperature of the box so high your nestlings can die of the heat. Many of us are now putting "Echo roofs" on to dissipate direct heat of the sun, and keep the temperature down. But aim your opening so that late afternoon sun will not shine directly into the box. Folks in Texas and California report that it is necessary to put boxes in the shade of a tree to avoid that direct afternoon sun.

Good luck!

Randy Jones
Allentown PA
Lehigh Co. Coordinator, BSP
Lat. 40.559N, Lon. -75.541W

----- Original Message -----
From: Carol Williams
To: BLUEBIRD-L
Sent: Thursday, February 21, 2002 4:29 PM
Subject: Experience needed

...

From: "Robt Rager" rerager"at"bright.net
To: "Bluebird Cornell" Bluebird-L"at"Cornell.edu
Subject: Carol Tenn
Date: Fri, 22 Feb 2002 10:11:48 -0500

Had a trail of 150 down to 84 last year account old age and it was along country blacktop roads. From 1985 until 2001 have fledged 4584 eastern blue- birds, trsw.chadees.wrens and tumouse. Boxes mounted on iron fence posts and telephone poles 3 to 5 ft from edge of the road. Since our winds and rains are mostly from the west and North would try to face houses east or south. As for facing a tree or bush their is very few to none and in resent years even no telephone or electric poles and no extra fences etc for BB's to perch on. Last year with 84 boxes fledged 275 birds. The side roads are all mowed with very few farmers corner posts left so fledging can fly to very few poles and have the farmers crops to land on. Very seldom do I lose young from hypothermia but a few from snakes,coons and of course sparrows. As far as direction effecting production of birds its weather and heat. Over these years have found maybe 4 or 5 bluebirds in road kill in vicinity. Would keep some distance from fence rows that have lots of brush and trees and heavy woods account house wrens.
Robt Rager N/W Ohio near Ind line

From: "Dan Y." dyagusic"at"hotmail.com
To: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)
Subject: attracting bluebirds
Date: Fri, 22 Feb 2002 20:52:09 +0000
 

This is my first venture into the world of bluebirding. I have read in-depth at numerous sites on the care, attracting, nestboxes, monitoring and problems of bluebirds. I realize this is a ton of work and one question simply nags in my mind. Will I have any luck in attracting them??????? The trail I am trying to start is within five miles of a major downtown city. However, because of the terrain here in Western Pennsylvania, there are numerous under and non-developed hillsides. The site I have in mind delegates approximately 8 acres with one five-story building on it. five of the acres are open land with scattered mature trees and saplings. The rest is wooded with scattered small open patches which we are going to enlarge shortly. There are also three ballfields just beyond this area......and I know there are bluebirds within fifteen miles of this site. So, any of you bluebird lovers have any firsthand knowledge or experience in attracting bluebirds this close to a city???? Is this even worth my time and effort, or am I doomed to failure? Any and all knowledgeable replies will be greatly appreciated....
Dan

From: "Dan Y." dyagusic"at"hotmail.com
To: BLUEBIRD-L"at"cornell.edu (BLUEBIRD-L)
Subject: boxes by chainlink fences
Date: Sat, 23 Feb 2002 18:27:57 +0000
 

I am starting a bluebird trail where I work. We are placing the boxes along an 8 or 10 high chainlink fence app. 100 yards apart. Does anyone know the recommended distance I should put these boxes from the fence? These boxes will be mounted on 3/4 inch galvanized steel posts 5' above the ground Thank you Dan

Starting a New Bluebird Trail (Part 2)