Second look at the bluebird nestlings

Two days later I returned to check on the baby Eastern Bluebirds and their parents. I watched from a distance at first, and saw both parents going back and forth with food for the nestlings. A good sign that all was well with the babies.

I quickly and quietly opened the nestbox and was relieved to see all five babies still snug and safe in their home. They are 7-8 days old today.

Five Eastern Bluebird Nestlings  7-8 days old

A couple of quick pics and I closed up the box. I didn't want to disturb the babies any more than was necessary to make sure they were safe, healthy looking and free from blowflies and ants.

Blowfly larva can infest a nest attach themselves to the little nestlings in order to feed on their blood, which can do serious harm and possible death to the babies..vampire-like awful little beasts. If discovered in a nestbox, many authoriative sights recommend removing the blowfly larva and/or replacing the nest with dry grass made into a "nest" and returning the nestlings to the new clean nest.

I watched for the parents and they were back within 3 minutes with food for their offspring.

Five Eastern Bluebird Nestlings  7-8 days old