“If the warble of the first bluebird does not thrill you know that the morning and spring of your life are past.” ~Henry David Thoreau
One of my favorite hobbies is bird watching. I know, I’m a bit of a geek. Or a nerd. Or maybe little of both! I love to watch them because I am amazed at this creation, the diversity of color and breeds, and all the things birds accomplish with some wings and a beak. Besides, Jesus said to “look at the birds” (Matt. 6:26), so we should follow His command. The birds have no worries, and we can learn from them. I have really enjoyed watching the various red finches and red-headed woodpeckers at the feeder out front, which sits outside my office window. Now, while I have the time, I thought I’d try something new.
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:25-27)
Nestbox and Eastern Bluebird
I bought a Texas Bluebird box before I went in for surgery, and mounted it to our backyard fence. They aren’t that expensive (less than $20 at Wal-mart), and it was very easy to mount. (I did it all by myself, so I was pretty proud.) The fence is not the best place to mount due to possible predators, but I am praying for their safety. The box is made of cedar and has a very attractive scent. I imagined it would make a nice home for any cavity bird, but really hoped a Texas Bluebird would take up residence. Bluebirds are symbols of hope and happiness. It was a little late in the season to put up the box, so I wasn’t sure what would happen…
I thought he had an “Angry Bird” face, then I read that bluebirds develop an affinity for those who watch over them.
After waiting almost a month, we finally got a looker! He fought some other birds for it, and scared away all who might have enjoyed it otherwise. Amazing how the bluebirds know these boxes are for them! Apparently the wife makes the final choice, and she must have approved or our box. I am happy to report a Texas Bluebird is officially moving into our backyard! She has been working on the nest for two days now – it takes about four days to complete. (The male finds the potential nesting site, but the female makes the final decision and builds the nest.)
Bluebird in flight.
I’m including some pictures of the nest-building process. Amazing how they can complete these beautiful designs with no opposable thumbs (or hands for that matter). I had to crop these so you can see the bird but a longer telephoto lens would be helpful. Hmmm. Perhaps it’s time for a purchase! I signed up to be a certified NestWatcher with The Cornell Lab of Ornithology (I told you I was a nerd), and I will take periodic pictures of the nest – up close and personal. I will keep you posted on any nesting progress as well. Please pray for the safety of my new little friends and their future family!
Building a nest.
It took several tries to get the big stick into his new home.
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À la prochaine (Until next time) …