Help Preserve Maryland's Bluebirds!

Contact: Kathy Talbot
Phone: 301.283.2113 ext. 32
Email: ktalbot@accokeek.org

Why do bluebirds need your help? In the late 1700's and early 1800's the population of farmers in America exploded. People began to clear land for pastures, they planted fruit trees, and they began to grow their own food. This provided the bluebird with an ideal habitat; log cabins and farm buildings for nesting and a vast array of berries and insects for food. As the bluebirds feasted on insects that affected the crops, many of the farmers added birdhouses throughout their fields to aid in pest control.

Over the years the bluebird population began to decline and by the 1970's most people under the age of 40 had never seen a live bluebird. Individuals who remembered the charm of the bluebird began to think of ways to increase the population and the concept of "bluebird boxes" sprang up. Bluebird boxes actually received their start from the farmer's birdhouses and are based today on the same premise - to provide a safe place for the bluebird to nest.

The Accokeek Foundation has excellent habitats for bluebirds, and maintains the Ken Otis Bluebird Trail. Volunteers and staff build, repair and set up nesting boxes, and monitor the trail on a weekly basis.

What can you do? Join us on Saturday, March 15th, for the Bluebird Trail Monitor Volunteer Orientation. Volunteers will learn how to monitor bluebird nesting boxes, and take a guided hike of the trail. Please wear closed-toe shoes and clothing appropriate for walking in tall grasses and on various terrains.

BLUEBIRD TRAIL MONITOR VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION
Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 1:00 p.m.
Education Center, Rain or Shine, Free
Registration Required: Contact Tricia Hardin at 301.283.2113, ext. 12 or by email at Tricia Hardin