Friday's Foto

New York's official state bird, the Eastern Bluebird until relatively recently faced an uncertain future. The introduction of the European Starling and the English House Sparrow during the late-nineteenth century negatively impacted the bluebirds breeding success due to these species taking over nest sites. During the 20th century, loss of nesting habitat and increased use of harmful pesticides contributed to more population declines. In recent decades, however, better wildlife management practices and the construction of bluebird friendly nestboxes by organizations such as the New York State Bluebird Society have helped this bird species bounce back.