BLUEBIRD BOXES: When it comes to attracting bluebirds -- 
"if you build it, they will come." That's coming up on 
Passport to Texas.
____________________________________________________________

Passport to Texas from Texas Parks and Wildlife. 

Not all birds nest in trees.

[sfx ... .bluebird song]

In fact bluebirds are actually a cavity dwelling species in 
need of holes to build their homes. Habitat loss has 
impacted their housing opportunities; bluebird 
enthusiasts are rolling out the welcome mat with man-
made nest boxes. 

"It's a rectangular box. In Texas we make it with a large 
overhanging roof, to protect from the sun. The dimensions are 
a little larger, that's because our birds need more air because 
it's so hot. Our birds need to be protected from the heat." :16

Pauline Tom is with the Texas Bluebird Society. The hole 
of bluebird nest box is about one and a half 
inches ... perfect for a bluebird, not so great for a 
European Starling.

"These birds came over from England in the mid 1800's. It was 
like bringing fire ants in, a terrible, terrible pest. And so they'll 
take the cavities that our native birds need, and they'll actually 
destroy the eggs and the nestling." :16

For information on how to build you own nest box, log on 
to the Texas Parks and Wildlife web site. And if you do 
take on the responsibility of a blue bird nest box ... 

"You would clean out the nest box when the birds fledge. The 
nest box is used over and over." :09

That's our show for today. For Texas Parks and Wildlife, 
I'm Cecilia Nasti.