Restore Saint Paul: Como Park Bluebird Trail Update: May 15th

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Como Park Bluebird Trail Update: May 15th

Post contributed by Sharon, volunteer Bluebird Trail monitor:

Hanging nest box near
Como Woodland Outdoor
Classroom and Como Pool

Chickadee nest with eggs

Bluebird nest, note the
deep cup shape.

A beautiful morning on the trail today. All eleven boxes are up and only three remain empty this week. Four boxes are occupied by bluebirds; one nest already has two blue eggs in it. Chickadees occupy two boxes and have laid four little speckled white eggs in one, and at least one in the other. Tree swallows are beginning a nest in the newest box, which was donated to replace the hanging box stolen last year.

Contributing Authors

Saint Paul Parks and Recreation--Natural Resources Division:

It would be impossible for us to maintain and improve Saint Paul's natural areas to the high standards that we are used to without the coordinated efforts of our many partner organizations and volunteers. In addition to Saint Paul's Natural Resources employees, the following groups will be contributing to the content of this blog as they work hard to keep Saint Paul "the most livable city in America."

Conservation Corps of Minnesota:

The Conservation Corps provides meaningful work for young people in conserving energy, managing natural resources, responding to disasters and leading volunteers. Not only do they provide training in resource management, safety, job-readiness and technical skills, they help young people develop personal responsibility, a strong work ethic and greater awareness of environmental stewardship. CCM has been a valuable partner in maintaining Saint Paul Parks natural areas for years.

Eco Ranger Acadamy:

The Environmental Services EcoRanger Academy is an educational summer job program for youth interested in plants, wildlife and the natural environment. Youth work throughout the City in forests, lakes and prairies on restoration projects. They perform tasks such as invasive species removal, planting and mulching. The program covers plant anatomy and identification, trees, entomology, water, soils and ecology. Youth that successfully complete the summer program graduate with a certificate and references from their crew leaders.