Bluebird treats

A viable habitat is what initially attracts bluebirds, but food availability is also important. Most of the year, bluebirds enjoy insects caught on the ground. In autumn, they begin reverting to blackberries, elderberries, bayberries and fruits of the sumac, deciduous holly, Virginia creeper, poke weed, juniper and dogwood.

When berries become absent in late winter, the birds welcome mealworms, which can be purchased at some pet-food stores, bait shops and online. Another treat can be made by combining one part peanut butter with six parts cornmeal.