Juvenile Bluebirds Enjoy the Water

Most of the time, I have seen the juvenile bluebirds playing in the birdbath as I've walked by the window and glanced out.  But this was a delightful occasion two days ago when I happened to be settled on the patio when they arrived, camera ready.  What a delight.

Even though they are doing what birds naturally do in water--drinking and bathing--there is something naive and curious about the expressiveness of juveniles while they visit the birdbath, especially when more than one visits at once.  These images show the new birdbath that I purchased after the juveniles fledged in anticipation of more than one family member visiting the water at the same time.  It was a good decision.

Notice in the images below, how the young female (I think) backs into the water from her position on the rock.  All the rest is just plain fun.  Juveniles bathing and playing and sharing that time together.  

Often when they visit the birdbath, they will interrupt their visit and fly to a perch for a few minutes, possibly to affirm the safety of the area.  If all seems safe, back they come, not quite finished with their enjoyment of the water. .  

A great way to celebrate the hot days of summer and the many freedoms represented in our celebration of Independence Day!

Links and Resources:

This is the thirteenth post in my series on this bluebird family.  To see all of the posts visit the link, bluebird family.   The most recent post will be first.  Click "older posts" at the bottom of the page to see earlier posts.  You may also enjoy Wishing Upon a Bluebird at Vickie's Sketchbook and my June article for Wild Birds Unlimited, Having Fun with Bluebirds.

For articles leading up to the bluebird family posts, visit my Wild Birds Unlimited articles:

Smitten with Bluebirds and April Celebrations.  

The birdbath seen in the images is available at Wild Birds Unlimited.  The "meal worm feeder" you see in my bluebird family blog posts is also available through Wild Birds Unlimited.

Find instructions for making nest box predator guards by clicking the link.  These guards have worked to keep the 9" arm of a raccoon out and have prevented prowling cat predation, as well as snakes.  A 7-inch depth is recommended.  You may also find a version of these guards at the Wild Birds Unlimited store nearest you.