BLUE BIRD FIELD TRIP
By Adam Wolf
Beep beep. All aboard!
Last month, I had the opportunity to tag along with Kiawah River homeowners, Dana Berg and Lou Bendrick, to learn more about their inspiring nest box program for eastern bluebirds. In the early 20th century, eastern bluebird populations declined by more than 90% due to pesticide use, loss of nesting habitat, and competition from invasive bird species. It’s hard to believe that this now-common songbird was once on the brink of disappearing from our landscapes entirely.
I had heard that the Kiawah River team, lead by Jeff Snyder, had developed an extensive network of bluebird boxes, and it was exciting to see the project firsthand. These nest boxes—or birdhouses—aren’t a new idea, but they’re a powerful reminder that providing even a small amount of shelter can help wildlife thrive.
A dedicated volunteer group monitor the boxes by walking designated trails throughout the neighborhood. With guidance from the North American Bluebird Society and the Seabrook Island Bluebird Society, the team has installed nearly 100 boxes across six trails—and the results have been remarkable. In 2023 alone, 177 birds successfully hatched and fledged into the wild.
Of course, the program has seen its share of trial and error. Over time, small adjustments—like ensuring boxes face southeast, applying Irish Spring soap to deter insects, and adding baffles to deter predators—have all helped improve success rates since the program’s launch in 2021.
Programs like this show how small, community-driven conservation efforts can make a meaningful impact—supporting wildlife not only in rural landscapes but in suburban neighborhoods as well.
