The Western Bluebird was selected because it’s a perfect representative for the Urban Forest. Both entities manifest hope, resilience and renewal in the face of myriad challenges to our natural environment.

The Western Bluebird came close to entirely disappearing in Orange County in the last century due to destruction of its needed forested environment that was being rapidly urbanized without essential mitigation. An association of concerned birders arose 30 years ago to place customized nest boxes in key parks across the county providing a lifeline for a beloved species on the edge of disappearance in our urban areas. The Southern California Bluebird Club continues this focused mission throughout the southland to great success (see also: socalbluebirds.org).

Likewise, the Urban Forest rose from tiny seedlings planted a mere 20 years ago into a maturing, towering forest in a lush, vibrant environment providing ideal nesting opportunities for the vulnerable Western Bluebird. The Western Bluebird thrives in this forested habitat offering natural crevices for nesting as well as abundant food sources. Urban Forest volunteers supplement tree crevices with customized nest boxes perfectly designed for Western Bluebirds’ breeding success.

Read more about the Western Bluebird and its new spokesbird status by clicking here.

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