Expert: Bluebird Bob Walshaw - 6/13/2010

Question
QUESTION: 4 Bluebird eggs hatched in a house we built for them this past June 5th.  The male and female are definitely around defending their nest but I noticed the past two days the babies who have grown and have blue-gray fuzz on them have not been that active.  When I open the side door to check on them, they are breathing but do not flinch or open their mouths as they did when they were first born.  They have changed positions in the nest between yesterday and today so they are moving a little. I am afraid they are sick.  I checked under the nest and there is no dampness or parasites.  Like I said the parents have been staying in the area and today I sat and watched for approximately 20 minutes.  The mother did come to the hole, looked in for about 20 seconds and then flew off-seeming to have not fed them.  If they are sick and dying would the parents still be so vigilant in keeping other birds at bay and if they are sick is there anything I can do or someone I could notify to try to save them?  I contacted the place we learned about the bluebirds and built our house and am awaiting a response from them as well. I know enough not to interfere with nature but I do feel responsible for their tiny lives.  Can I do anything to help?

ANSWER: This is normal behavoir. During the first few days they don't know enough to hunker down and keep quiet so as not to attract predators. Once they start to grow they remain quiet during any disturbance. Please send your mailing address to me at walshaw1@cox.net and I will send you my free 20 page Bluebird book that will make you an expert, See especially page 19 as to why you should not have only one Bluebird house. Bluebird Bob Walshaw.

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QUESTION: Should I be concerned that the parents do not seem to be feeding them that often or do you think I am just missing observing feeding times?  I did check them this morning.  They are lying upright, huddled together and still breathing and mom and dad are still hovering around. Thanks for your help!!

Answer
If both parents are there they should be OK. Feeding is often quick, and you are probably missing some of it. And are you sending your mailing address to me at walshaw1@cox.net for the free Bluebird book? You can also use this email if you have any more questions, and it is also in my book. That is quicker and easier. (If you are concerned about giving out your address Google Bluebird Bob to see the work that I do).