At Covenant Woods, community life extends beyond our homes and into the natural environment around campus. The Bluebirders are a wonderful example, with residents dedicated to caring for and monitoring nine birdhouses across campus.
Each house is assigned to a group member who tracks activity throughout the nesting season. Residents record which species move in, such as bluebirds, chickadees, house wrens, tree swallows, and house sparrows. They also document the number of eggs, hatchlings, the age of young birds, and how many successfully “fledge,” or leave the nest.
At the end of the season, this data is shared with the Virginia Bluebird Society to support ongoing bird conservation and research efforts across the region.
The Bluebirders also maintain the houses using simple tools like scrapers, paintbrushes, and mirrors to safely clean and check inside. Each box is equipped with snake and raccoon guards to protect its occupants and give young birds a better chance to thrive. Through this hands-on work, members have gained a deeper understanding of bird behavior. Bluebirds, known as cavity nesters, often build their nests from pine needles inside these sheltered spaces.
The Bluebirders group offers residents a meaningful way to connect with neighbors, nature, and the changing seasons across campus. It is just one of the many ways residents stay active, engaged, and involved throughout the Covenant Woods community.