Perhaps you have a similar story to share about a bird who just wouldn't go away!
If so, you've probably dealt with this issue we're having, the bird who 'attacks' a window.
Some birds species are naturally very aggressive and territorial. When they notice their
reflection in a window, car mirror, chrome bumper, reflective grill, gazing ball, or
similar shiny surface, they assume it's a rival bird and will attack the reflection to try
and drive the intruder away. They may fly at the reflection, peck at it, rake it with their
talons, or beat it with their wings. They may also strike aggressive poses and
threat postures in front of the reflection between actual attacks.
While these actions do not generally cause severe injuries, they can lead to
exhaustion that will make the bird more vulnerable to disease, malnutrition
and predators.
The Eastern Bluebird is one of the many birds who are known to attack
themselves in a reflection. This is most common in late winter/early spring
toward the breeding season when birds' competitive drive is highest and
they start to claim territory.
So, introducing BLUE BOY, the handsome Eastern bluebird who has been driving us
crazy the past two days! Apparently his calendar is off as it's nowhere near breeding
season. . . . . . . plus he already has a mate, You will see her further down in the photos
casually eating seeds, while he continues to bang on the dining room window, stare at
me through the glass, chirping quietly and then fly up to check out the hanging
bird boxes. These bluebirds have been nesting here for several years, but not in those
boxes, they prefer the larger birdhouse on a pole in the garden, which by the way, we
recently cleaned out ready for spring when hopefully they'll raise another family.
Above and below, Mrs. Bluebird, who doesn't seem concerned her mate is in
attack mode all day long! Note her colorization is more subtle than the male bluebird.
So, here is Blue Boy looking in the window as he has for two days.
This morning he was back, flying at and tapping on the glass so we've
decided to keep the blinds down and partially closed, hopefully this will
make him stop as his reflection is now impeded.
He is a beautiful boy and we don't want him injured. We also noticed he doesn't seem
to be eating as he's so busy 'attacking' himself, and that's worrisome too.
All photos taken with Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V - edited in iPhoto and PicMonkey
Hope you enjoy these closeup photos I've managed to take - through the windows
of course. This episode of bird behavior did at least allow me to gather a lot
of photos - I'm talking well over a hundred - of this gorgeous garden bird.
And then of course there is always the lovely thought that this particular bird brings.
It is known as the proverbial 'bluebird of happiness' and we can always use more that!
FYI - Bob and I are still struggling somewhat with the 'bug from hell' but each day
we are a little better. Tomorrow I have to see my doctor for a problem with my right
shoulder which is causing me excruciating pain to the point I'm even finding typing
very difficult (and just when I got my lovely new MacBook Air - which I'm so
pleased with). It has taken me ages to write this post, grrrrrrr! I'm dreading what
this pain might be - I need this dominant arm/hand to get back in working mode
so I can start on the Christmas decorating - which is why you haven't seen any here!!
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