Many males in the winged world also labor in raising their families, so today we salute all of the hard working dads who help raise their kids!

A typical view inside blue bird houses, dad keeps a watchful eye on nestlings, while taking turns with mom bringing food to the babies.

The digs: A male bird’s skill at nest building is a sign of his suitability as a mate; he invests huge effort in the task. Males will build multiple nests to attract females, they’ll continue to build new nests until a female is happy with the construction and chooses one.

The food: Many male birds help raise their families, bringing food home to the babies.  Sometimes they even have to incubate the eggs alone or take turns with the female.  Male bald eagles, for example, take turns sitting on the eggs as well as bring food home to the young.

Protection: In species where both parents care for the young, the male often gathers food while the female spends more time brooding, keeping the baby birds warm, sheltered and safe from predators.

– Western Bluebirds usually breed in monogamous pairs.  By the end of breeding season, most daughters disperse; most sons and the occasional daughter remain with their family for winter.  In spring, the yearlings go off and nest on their own, but sometimes one or more sons stay to help their parents.  Sometimes a bluebird with his own mate will help at his parents’ nest, while also feeding his own young next door. Source citation: The Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Happy Father’s Day to All~We salute your dedication to family!