Just went to check on the bluebird box. The pair had a couple of eggs in there—their third attempt this spring at a family. I gave my cursory, customary tap on the box, but there’s never been anyone home each time I open it. My fingers were turning the latch when I saw a glint inside the entry hole. My breath caught, unsuspecting of this connection. Mama bluebird was holding her ground, looking at me with bright eyes. She didn’t seem worried—just aware. I backed away…slowly…and she held fast to her nest. No photos, she’s had shock enough for the day.
[...] Bluebird’s extra vigilance this time around—her third clutch this spring—has paid off. I opened her nest this [...]