A Western Bluebird | Staff Archive
It has been a thrilling week for the Preservation Trust and our beloved Western Bluebirds. As of May 21, 2025, we’ve recorded 28 adult Western Bluebirds this year — our highest spring count yet! This development highlights the ongoing successes in our species recovery efforts.
Our dedicated staff and volunteers have been out on San Juan Island, banding baby bluebirds before they take to the skies. This meticulous, delicate work is crucial for tracking and research.
Our count is up to 28 adult Western Bluebirds this season — the most we’ve ever had!
Check out a short video of our Special Projects Director, Kathleen, banding two-week-old nestlings:
Surprise Sightings: ‘Bonus’ Males Join the Flock
During a recent check of our first nest box, a volunteer landowner suspected a “bonus” bird. Their sharp observation led us to discover an unbanded male—an uplifting development in our season’s monitoring efforts. We suspect he may be an offspring of the site’s 2024 resident pair who had evaded banding. Likely unmated, this “big brother” has decided to stick around and help care for the next generation. This heartwarming and cooperative behavior is common in Western Bluebirds.
Continuing our streak of good fortune, we found another bonus male at our second site. This brings our count up to an amazing 28 adult Western Bluebirds! This particular male grew up right next door last year and is now helping to protect and feed the newest nestlings.
Two male and one female Western Bluebirds | Staff Archive
Volunteer Vigilance: Key to Our Success
These remarkable discoveries show how important SJPT’s volunteer nest box monitors are. Their careful observations and quick reports are vital to the project’s success — ensuring that juvenile birds are comprehensively banded. A huge thank you to everyone who gives their time to watch over these beautiful birds!
The Western Bluebird Project, now in its nineteenth year, sings a success story. It demonstrates the positive impact of sustained conservation efforts. We’ve seen population growth and genetic diversity increase, with some journeying all the way from Vancouver Island! To top it off, we’ve even spotted bluebirds utilizing natural cavities for nesting.
Red Mill Farm Snag | Staff Archive
Join Us: Help Bluebirds Thrive
Every banded bird, every new nestling, and every helping hand (or wing!) contributes to the success of this vital species restoration. The regional Western Bluebird population is still vulnerable, but with your continued support, we’re hopeful for their future in the San Juan Islands.
Want to be part of this incredible story? Help us make a difference! Your support can secure a bright future for these lovely birds.
Learn more about volunteer opportunities here.