Mountain bluebirds, despite their name, are not limited to mountains but can also be found in the Canadian Prairies. Known for their vibrant blue feathers, they are a common sight in Alberta. However, the decline in their population over the years is a significant concern.
Data from The State of Canada’s Birds, a collaboration between Birds Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada, reveals that mountain bluebird numbers in the country have dropped by 60% since 1970. With an estimated 650,000 mountain bluebirds in Canada, accounting for about 12% of the species’ North American population, this marks the lowest recorded abundance to date.
Research, combining citizen science efforts and professional studies, indicates that mountain bluebird populations in the Canadian Prairies surged from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s but have been steadily declining since then. The exact causes for this decline, as stated by Jody Allair from Birds Canada, remain somewhat unclear but could be linked to factors like climate change, habitat loss, and a decrease in insect populations – the primary food source for these birds due to pesticide and herbicide usage.
To address this decline, the Badlands Trail Society in Alberta has taken steps to conserve mountain bluebirds. They have set up 48 bluebird nest boxes in the Drumheller Valley and surrounding areas to provide support for the bluebirds. Cheryl Taylor, a founder of the society, mentioned that these boxes are designed to assist the bluebirds, whose numbers have been dwindling.
The nest box project, established with the support of Claude Rioux, a long-time bluebird conservationist, operates on Nature Conservancy of Canada land west of Drumheller. This area offers an ideal prairie environment with ample food sources and minimal human interference, making it a perfect habitat for bluebirds.
Apart from aiding in nesting, the group aims to raise awareness about mountain bluebirds and the importance of conserving their habitat. Taylor emphasized the significance of understanding and protecting these birds as they serve as indicators of ecosystem health.
The initiative by the Badlands Trail Society is part of various bluebird nest box projects across Western Canada. Allair noted the public’s interest in bluebird conservation as a positive sign, emphasizing the value of engaging people in conservation efforts to protect these beautiful birds and their habitats.
While mountain bluebirds may not be experiencing as severe a decline as some other bird species, they play a crucial role in raising awareness about Canadian bird conservation. Allair highlighted the importance of these visually striking birds in capturing people’s interest and fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation efforts across the country.