Discovering the wonders of nature at MBTCS’ spring orientation

A crisp June morning greeted a group of eager nature enthusiasts as they gathered for the annual Mountain Bluebird Trails Conservation Society's (MBTCS) spring orientation in the parking lot of the Helen Schuler Nature Centre.

The group convoyed to a nearby Bluebird Trail for a quick three hour walk-about orientation. The event, led by the knowledgeable and charismatic MBTCS President Jim Leitch, offered a firsthand experience of the beauty and diversity of local wildlife, particularly focusing on the cherished Bluebirds that the society works tirelessly to protect.

MBTCS spring orientation participants gather around a nest box near Lethbridge

Randy the Rattlesnake in the cattle guard

Kathy Koenig, the Treasurer of the society and a dedicated member for several years, shared her excitement about the day. "Jim's trail is always full of exciting things," she said. The adventure began with an unexpected introduction to Randy the Rattlesnake, who has made the pipes of a cattle guard his annual residence. This thrilling encounter set the tone for a day filled with remarkable wildlife sightings and engaging discussions about Bluebirds.

White-tailed Deer were browsing nearby as the group moved from nest box to nest box along the trail

Great Horned Owls were spotted in the nearby cottonwood tree

The group, composed of nine individuals ranging from seasoned trail managers to curious newcomers, was treated to an array of wildlife. "The wildlife never fails there - deer, meadowlarks, hawks, violet green swallows, tree swallows, goldfinches, a family of great horned owls and of course, our beloved Bluebirds," Kathy recounted. Jim's ability to spot and explain the behavior of these animals added an enriching layer to the experience.

A Meadowlark sang beautiful songs for us as we traversed the Bluebird Trail

Taking a closer look at the Bluebird nestling

A highlight of the day was observing the different stages of the Bluebird nesting cycle. "Jim was able to show all stages of Bluebirds - eggs, nestlings and even a nest that was very close to fledging," Kathy noted. One particularly memorable moment was when Jim carefully took out a nestling for the group to see up close, delighting everyone present.

Jim Leitch, MBTCS President, showing Les Sarsfield’s raccoon guard on the Mountain Bluebird nest box

The orientation was not only about observing wildlife but also included a thorough educational session. Jim, who has been involved with the society for 12+ years, provided detailed information on various aspects of Bluebird conservation. "He gave a very comprehensive 'lecture,' going through how the boxes are constructed, introducing them to Les Sarsfield's invention - the raccoon collar, cleaning the boxes, predation, the effects of inclement weather on the parents and young, the importance of recording data, the frequency of checking boxes, and all the stages of the nesting cycle," Kathy explained.

An unexpected surprise awaited Jim himself. "The day before, he checked a box and it had eggs. When he opened the box, they had all hatched, save for one," Kathy shared, highlighting the ever-changing and fascinating nature of wildlife monitoring.

A male Mountain Bluebird perched on a fencepost to keep a close eye on the group, which provided some great photo opportunities!

A female Mountain Bluebird brings back lunch for the hungry nestlings

The day concluded on a high note with a female Bluebird demonstrating her hovering skills, perfectly timed with Jim's explanation. "At the last box on the tour, there was a female Bluebird with lunch in her beak, and Jim was just going to explain how Bluebirds will hover. Lo and behold, she did - right on cue!" Kathy exclaimed.

Reflecting on the day, Kathy summed up the experience beautifully: "All in all, it was a great day. Perfect weather, perfect surroundings, and once again, a great presentation by Jim."

The Mountain Bluebird Trails Conservation Society's spring orientation was a resounding success, offering both educational value and an unforgettable wildlife experience. For those interested in joining future events or learning more about Bluebird conservation, join as a member and stay tuned to events posted at bluebirdtrails.org.