Syracuse.com - Marietta woman appreciates winter bluebird visitors in her backyard

[HuntingNY-News]

Not all bluebirds migrate -- some will overwinter if there is adequate food, water and shelter.

Submitted photo

Margie Manthey, of Marietta, sent in this neat photo of an Eastern bluebird.

She wrote: "Here in January, a small flock of Eastern bluebirds continues to visit my backyard. Not all bluebirds migrate -- some will overwinter if there is adequate food, water and shelter. They will forage among trees, shrubs and vines such as dogwood, hawthorn, mountain ash, sumac, bittersweet, holly, honeysuckle and wild grape.

"Attractants at backyard feeders should include mealworms, suet, chopped fruits, nuts and berries, and a fresh water source (they show interest in our small, bubbling water feature).

"This female Eastern Bluebird (photo) was perched in one of our ash trees earlier this winter. I find her muted colors and soft expression enchanting!"

View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog