Photo © Kelly Sandefur

Juvenile “Helpers” at the Nest

Unlike in Western Bluebirds, juvenile “helpers” at the nest are less common among Eastern Bluebirds. In a recent study on this helping behavior in Eastern Bluebirds, biologists highlighted the contributions of four NestWatchers who provided photos or video of the behavior: Glenda Simmons; Wild Birds Unlimited of Yorktown, Virginia; Kelly Sandefur; and Randy Windsor. The study authors cite these images so that other researchers can find them, too!

The study was published in Alabama Birdlife. Thank you to the NestWatchers who provided detailed photo descriptions that elevated the discussion on helping behavior in Eastern Bluebirds. You too can upload your photos to our Participant Photos gallery where they can be easily searched by the public.