I have never considered the eastern bluebird to be a species that travels in flocks. When I think of birds that flock birds such as red-winged blackbirds, waterfowl and mourning doves come to mind. However, ornithologists tell us that bluebirds will form flocks of upwards of 30 to over 100 individuals
I would love to see a large flock of these dazzling songbirds. If you would like to see such a flock too, now is a great time embark on a search for one. This is because the birds gather in flocks most often in fall and winter.
I currently have a flock of at least 30 if not more. Hard to count. We feed meal worms and have a birdbath which they love both. Wondering when they will leave or if this is a year round gathering?
The peak of the fall migration takes place in October. It is thought that the timing of migration may be triggered by changes in the weather, such as the onset of freezing rain and snow. Bluebirds migrate in flocks. In Georgia, migrants join birds that are permanent resident. Consequently, when northern migrants fly north the residents will stay behind and spread out to occupy their own breeding territories. I don’t expect the flocks to break up until at least March.
Our bluebird family disappeared for a while sometime during the fall. Now that the cold we has set in, they have returned to their house and mealworm dish. They are also eating from the suet feeders. It’s good to have them back.
No problem in our yard. We routinely see groups of 15 to 30 birds attacking our mealworms and water sources.
Richard,
I am envious! I have never seen anywhere near that number at my Middle Georgia home.
I certainly had no idea that they ever formed flocks. Good information, Terry.
William,
A blogger responded to say he routinely sees groups of 15-30 using water and eating mealworms. Not me.
I currently have a flock of at least 30 if not more. Hard to count. We feed meal worms and have a birdbath which they love both. Wondering when they will leave or if this is a year round gathering?
The peak of the fall migration takes place in October. It is thought that the timing of migration may be triggered by changes in the weather, such as the onset of freezing rain and snow. Bluebirds migrate in flocks. In Georgia, migrants join birds that are permanent resident. Consequently, when northern migrants fly north the residents will stay behind and spread out to occupy their own breeding territories. I don’t expect the flocks to break up until at least March.
Depending on where you live in Georgia, the birds should be leaving in late February into March.
Our bluebird family disappeared for a while sometime during the fall. Now that the cold we has set in, they have returned to their house and mealworm dish. They are also eating from the suet feeders. It’s good to have them back.
That is great news. I am sure that the mealworms and suet are helping the family survive the rigors of winter.