2004 is over, the numbers are in, and we have some good news and some bad news. I always like to start with the bad news and this year it is not that bad. Iowa fl edged 181 less bluebirds (by our records) this year than last year. Iowa started their own bluebird group last year and some may not have reported the numbers to both states. We will try to get a count from the Iowa Bluebird Conservation group. My guess is their numbers are up.

The good news – Nebraska fledged 23,757 bluebirds this year in comparison to 22,876 in 2003 for an increase of 881 fledglings. Here are the final numbers:

We have talked about what makes the numbers go up or down. Here are a few of my thoughts:

Weather: Something that definitely affects the bluebirds and is for the most part out of our control.

Reporting: If you don't turn in a report form your birds don't get counted. I would like to thank all of the county coordinators who took the time to send letters, make phone calls or otherwise contact people to get their report forms in. You really made a difference in our numbers, I guarantee it.

Education: Our members are getting smarter. They know what to do when a nest gets wet, when sparrows are a problem, or when tree swallows move in, etc. We are developing better predator guards and traps thanks to our members. We are learning but still need to share our knowledge and look for new ideas.

Houses: Thanks to BAN's small but very dedicated group of box builders, we have an abundant supply of a variety of excellent bluebird houses. The Midwest bluebirds can live in the house of their choice.

Membership: Bluebirds Across Nebraska has a very large membership base (1,589). More people to put out more houses and monitor them.

Dedication: BAN has a very loyal and dedicated group of volunteers that make this organization what it is. Without their time and efforts the bluebird numbers would not look like they do.