About the Cover…
Fall Bluebirds—Messengers of Hope and Resilience
Photos courtesy Betsy Cross
Betsy Cross
Bluebirds suffered a significant setback in February 2021 during winter storm Uri, but they are steadily making a comeback. Always a rare sight in my yard, I was surprised when a flock of them appeared on the day of the Fall Equinox. Their arrival felt like a quiet reminder of nature’s resilience and its ability to bring unexpected joy.
Fall Equinox 2024
What’s more, they’ve continued to return in recent weeks, adding to my delight and wonder.
October 31, 2024
On November 1, the bluebirds stayed for over an hour.
A mixed community—two house finches, two lesser goldfinches, a house sparrow, and a bluebird—came together and shared space in my bird bath. A golden-fronted woodpecker was part of this mashup, but I wasn’t quick enough on the draw to capture him in the shot.
I haven’t seen the bluebird flock since the early part of the month, but when the weather permits, I prop my office door open and listen. The phoebe is calling, his sharp notes insistent. For four years in a row, he and his mate have raised dozens of babies under my front porch. But there’s another birdsong, further out—a faint call, distant in the background. Is it just my imagination, or is that the bluebird? I test myself on Merlin, and yes, finally there it is again. They are still here! And that makes my heart soar.
November 25, 2024
This final photo makes me smile and reminds me that during challenging days, when we all dive in together, no matter how insignificant it may seem, we CAN make a big splash!
Project 702 - Bluebird Nestbox Monitoring
Bluebirds will begin prospecting for a place to nest in late January. HCMN volunteers are needed to monitor, manage, and document nest boxes across Hays County. If you are interested in participating in Project 702 Bluebird Nestbox Monitoring, contact me at betsy.cross@haysmn.org.
Bluebird Nestbox Monitoring - Project 702: Assist in the construction, placement, and monitoring of nesting boxes to support the local bluebird population. Your efforts will help ensure the successful raising of bluebird nestlings. Photo courtesy Jo Korthals