Bluebird Nestbox Project

    In the early part of the last century, community development projects changed the face of the natural environment. Many birds, plants, and other animals were affected by these changes, both in good ways and bad. The eastern bluebird populations began to decline with the loss of farmland, orchards, and standing dead-wood. In order to increase bluebird populations, nesting cavities ere created by concerned citizens and placed in appropriate habitat. The project was a success and Eastern Bluebird populations rebounded. 
    When a series of bluebird boxes are installed in, or around, and open field, there is an opportunity to investigate the habits of these small songbirds. A nestbox trail can provide wonderful observations and valuable information. To get started with your own nestbox trail, be sure to download our simple data sheet, which contains some information about bluebirds and other species that may use your boxes. Be sure to let us know what's going on with your bluebird box trail!
     See directions for making a bluebird nest box from the Pennsylvania Game Commission: and choose Plan #1 - small nest box.
    This project has been developed to introduce fifth grade students to scientific research through field observation and systematic data collection. Students will learn about the biology and natural history of the Pocono’s birdlife. As citizen scientists, the data collected by students will become part of a larger study of cavity nesting birds throughout the region. Join in on this exciting project by calling to schedule a program today. 
     For more information about eastern bluebirds, visit the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology.