Nestlings at 10 days old

Nestlings at 10 days old.  Notice their eyes are now open and their feathers are growing

Lucy and Desi's "kids" are starting to look more and more like baby birds every day!  Yesterday, June 20, 2011, the nestlings were 10 days old.  Their eyes are starting to open and their feathers, although still in sheaths, are growing and becoming longer.  The nestbox is also starting to become a bit cramped, but the nestlings don't seem to mind, and snuggle up next to each other for warmth and comfort.  Yesterday was the last time we will open their nestbox up until they fledge.  It is recommended that the box is not opened when they are 14 days old or older, because bluebird nestlings sometimes will try and fledge from the box pre-maturely if given the chance at that age.  Normally, western bluebirds will fledge from the nest box any where between 19-22 days.  We will continue to monitor the boxes from afar and will keep you updated on the nestlings first big flight from the nestbox!