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Join BRAW or renew your membership online. This form supports new members, gift memberships, and donations to help protect Wisconsin’s bluebirds. ONLINE MEMBERSHIP FORM Use This Form to: Apply for Membership Renew Membership Give A Gift Membership Donate Form Filling Instructions 1. Fill-in the form below if you plan to apply, renew, or gift a BRAW Membership, and pay online. 2. Fill-in the contact information blanks 3. When done - review entries, then if OK click SUBMIT, and wait a second for payment page to appear. 4. Please answer all questions on payment page by using black arrow at end of response box. 5. Click to pay using your credit card or PayPal. Buy Now Part 1- Provide Your Contact Information Fields marked with an * are required. First Name Last Name Street Address City State Zip / Post Code County Email Phone Number Part 2 - Membership Preference Use Checkbox to Select Desired Membership * Required Gift Annual Membership (Online subscription is emailed to your gift recipient) - $10 USD Student/Teacher Annual Membership (Online WB Newsletter included) - $15 USD Annual Membership (Online WB Newsletter included) - $20 USD 2 Year Annual Membership (Online WB Newsletter included) - $ 40 USD 3 Year Annual Membership (Online (WB Newsletter is mailed) - $60 USD Individual or FamilyMembership (WB Newsletter is mailed) - 25 USD 2 Year Individual or Family Membership (WB Newsletter is mailed) - $50 USD 3 Year Individual or Family Membership (WB Newsletter is mailed) - $75 USD Life Membership - $300 USD Part 3 - Identify Membership Type Note: You cannot gift yourself a membership. Nature of the Membership * Required This is a RENEWAL Membership. This is a NEW Membership. This is a GIFT Membership. Enter name, address, and email of gift recipient. Use this space to enter a message to gift recipient. Submit Form Your membership form has been received. Please wait for the payment to appear on screen. Your content has been submitted Whoops! Something went wrong! Give it another try a little later! Revised 3.29.25.agr Your content has been submitted Your content has been submitted

Pay for new or renewing BRAW memberships, gift memberships, or donations. Support bluebird conservation and trail maintenance. Membership Fee Payment Please note: If you are purchasing more than one membership, please complete each purchase separately. We use the questions below to as a final check to verify and finalize your membership registration and desired purchase. Please answer all questions using black downward arrow. Pay Pal is very secure. You can use PayPal or your Credit Card Company. Below is a sample of the screen that pops-up after clicking the Add to Cart button above. To use your credit card press the grey Check Out button and follow provided. instructions Press PayPal button to pay via PayPal Click grey check out button to pay using your Credit Card Contributing to BRAW through donations at braw.org helps support bluebird research, maintain nest boxes, replace box hardware, and further our education and conservation efforts. Your generosity directly impacts Wisconsin’s bluebirds and their habitats. Donate Today!

BRAW's 2024 Bluebird Haven Campaign Initiative This crucial initiative is dedicated to attracting, preserving and enhancing bluebird populations across our beautiful state Bluebirds are more than just a symbol of joy; they are indicators of a healthy environment. Unfortunately, their populations have faced significant challenges due to climate change, habitat loss and competition for nesting sites. The Bluebird Restoration Association of Wisconsin (BRAW) uses your generous donations to support their mission of conserving and restoring bluebird populations in Wisconsin. Join Us in Protecting Wisconsin’s Bluebirds! Donate Today: Your generous contributions will fund the construction and maintenance of nest boxes and support our educational programs. What We Do with Your Donations Nest Box Installation: We build and place nest boxes along bluebird trails, providing secure homes for bluebirds to raise their young. Maintaining and monitoring nearly 7,000 nest boxes annually. Supporting the work of 750 dedicated members who help with these efforts. Support Network: Our network of county coordinators works tirelessly to promote bluebird conservation throughout Wisconsin. Educational Outreach : We offer resources and guidance on how to attract and protect bluebirds in your own backyard. Educational programs to raise awareness about bluebird conservation. Annual Collection and Reporting Bluebird Fledging Data - Report is distributed to members & Cornell Lab of Ornothology. Community Engagement: We invite community members to join us in our conservation efforts by becoming members, volunteering, and spreading awareness. How do you want to contribute to help bluebirds? One time One time Monthly Monthly Yearly Yearly Amount $25 $25 $50 $50 $75 $75 $100 $100 $200 $200 Other Other 0/100 Comments (optional) Donate $25 Become a member and/or join our team of dedicated volunteers and help monitor bluebird trails, build nest boxes, and participate in community outreach. Bluebird Haven Campaign Join Us in Protecting Wisconsin’s Bluebirds! The Bluebird Restoration Association of Wisconsin (BRAW) is thrilled to introduce the Bluebird Haven Campaign, a crucial initiative dedicated to preserving and enhancing bluebird populations across our beautiful state . Our Mission Bluebirds are more than just a symbol of joy; they are indicators of a healthy environment. Unfortunately, their populations have faced significant challenges due to habitat loss and competition for nesting sites. The Bluebird Haven Campaign is committed to creating safe and thriving habitats for these beloved birds. What We Do with Your Bluebird Haven Donations Nest Box Installation: We build and place nest boxes along bluebird trails, providing secure homes for bluebirds to raise their young. Community Engagement: We invite community members to join us in our conservation efforts by becoming members, volunteering, and spreading awareness. Educational Outreach: We offer resources and guidance on how to attract and protect bluebirds in your own backyard. Support Network: Our network of county coordinators works tirelessly to promote bluebird conservation throughout Wisconsin. How You Can Help Your support is crucial to the success of the Bluebird Haven Campaign. Here’s how you can make a difference: Donate: Your generous contributions will fund the construction and maintenance of nest boxes and support our educational programs. Volunteer: Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help monitor bluebird trails, build nest boxes, and participate in community outreach. Spread the Word: Share our mission with your friends and family. Follow us on social media and help raise awareness about the importance of bluebird conservation. Together, we can ensure that bluebirds continue to grace our skies for generations to come. Join the Bluebird Haven Campaign today and be a part of something truly special!

BRAW is Wisconsin’s voice for bluebird conservation. Since 1994, it has collected and analyzed data on bluebird populations, sharing insights through workshops, meetings, and newsletters. BRAW aims to expand public knowledge and enthusiasm for Eastern Bluebirds, encouraging community efforts to aid cavity nesters. What We Do - Activities and Services BRAW’s volunteer and members generously donate thousands of hours annually to ensure that bluebirds and other cavity nesters survive and thrive in Wisconsin. WE CREATE AWARENESS ... ... of challenges faced by cavity nesting birds. In 1964 there were only an estimated 600 nesting bluebird pairs left in the state. The decline was most likely due to multiple factors, e.g., changing agricultural practices, competition with English sparrows and starlings, weather, lack of suitable nest cavities, and habitat loss. Each year BRAW members’ nest boxes alone fledge thousands of bluebirds, plus numerous tree swallows, chickadees and other birds. WE EDUCATE STATE RESIDENTS... ... about building, locating, maintaining and monitoring nest boxes. BRAW’s 900 members who maintain and monitor over 7,000 nest boxes throughout the state bring a wealth of experience to those wanting to learn how to do it. WE COORDINATE STATEWIDE CONSERVATION EFFORTS... ... geared to sustaining bluebird populations and creating habitat for all cavity nesters. BRAW’s County Contacts facilitate these efforts, plus serve as “go to” help sources. WE SERVE AS AN ONLINE RESOURCE... ... for organizations and individuals to obtain information about bluebirds. Our website www.BRAW.org supplies a wide array of useful resources. WE CONDUCT SEMINARS & WORKSHOPS... ... to promote building, monitoring and maintaining nest box trails. From garden expos to seed store seminars to school workshops, BRAW members spend hours in face-to-face contact with the public. WE KEEP OUR MEMBERS INFORMED... ... via a quarterly newsletter Wisconsin Bluebird , social media, emails, and an Annual Convention that features informative speakers. Networking focuses on sharing best practices for nesting success and practical experience. WE SPEAK for BIRDS... ...While not lobbyists, its officers and Board of Directors publicly voice BRAW’s opinion about issues that impact birds, especially cavity nesters. For example, with help from the North American Bluebird Society and elected representatives, BRAW was able to get Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) properties in Wisconsin opened for erecting bluebird nest boxes. WE SUPPORT RESEARCH... ... BRAW provides funds for field research that helps improve nest box design, as well as refines management tools to increase fledgling production. Current studies have looked at use of wren guards and skylight next boxes to discourage House Sparrows. You can help Eastern Bluebirds and other cavity nesters by becoming a member of BRAW. learn more about our memberships Rev.7.27.24/gk

Membership Information Page - Your membership supports bluebird conservation education and field activities. Levels of reasonably priced memberships, benefits of membership, and online and mail-in new and renewal applications are listed. MEMBERSHIPS Welcome! You are cordially invited to become a member of the Bluebird Restoration Association of Wisconsin. Expertise in bluebirds or their presence in your yard is not a requirement. Your membership contributes to the conservation of bluebirds in Wisconsin, supports educational initiatives, and aids field activities aimed at boosting the population of the Eastern Bluebird and other native cavity-nesting songbirds through an organized, statewide program of nest box construction and monitoring. Membership offers the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, gain insight into the significance of bluebird conservation efforts, and access a wealth of knowledge from seasoned members and our website. The most rewarding experience is observing these splendid birds in your yard or along a trail, knowing that your efforts positively impact the lives of Wisconsin's bluebirds. You don't have to be a bluebird expert to have bluebirds in your yard or to start a trail. Join and we'll show you how. Membership Benefits New Member Information Packet Wisconsin Bluebird Newsletter Fall Annual & Spring Regional Meetings Meet people with similar interests Start a Bluebird Trail Monitor a Bluebird Trail Access to Practical Bluebird Information Membership Types Annual Gift Membership (Online subscription) - $10 - USD Online Student/Teacher Membership - $15 US Online Membership - $ 20 USD Individual or Family Membership - $25 USD Lifetime Membership - $300 USD Please Note Options for extending memberships for up to 3 years available on membership application form Questions For Questions or Assistance Please contact: Val Van Winkle Membershi p Chairperson phone: 1-847-302-5684 or email: ripvws@gmail.com To Join or Renew by Mail Download & print form. Fill-in form. Mail it to the address on the form. Enclose a check or money order payable to: BRAW, Inc. P.O. Box 628492 Middleton, WI 53562 Get Mail-in Form To Join or Renew Online Fill-in form Press Submit Button. Payment button page opens. Select form of payment. Press " Add to Cart Button. " Open Online Form

View archived membership application forms and instructions. Includes online and mail-in options for joining BRAW and supporting bluebird conservation. New Membership Application/Contribution Form Fields marked with an * are required Last Name and/or Corporate Name First Name Address 1 Address 2 City State Zip / Post Code Email County of Residence Subscription/Membership contribution Online Gift Membership - $10 USD Student Annual Membership (Online) - $15 USD Online Annual Membership - $20 USD Extend Online Annual Membership for 2 years - $40 USD Extend Online Annual Membership for 3 years - $60 USD Individual/Family Annual Membership (hard copy mailed) - $25 USD Extend Individual/Family Annual Membership (hard copy mailed) for 2 years - $50 USD Extend Individual/Family Annual Membership (hard copy mailed) for 3 years - $75 USD Corporate Annual Membership - $100 USD Life Membership - $300 USD Donation for educational research (Master's thesis) $ In addition to my membership contribution, I wish to contribute (nest boxes, new trails) $ amount Nature of the Subscription * This is a RENEWAL. This is a NEW subscription. This is a GIFT subscription. NOTE(S) If it is a Membership gift to someone else, enter Last Name, Address and Email of the receiver of the gift Submit Fill-In Instructions STEP ONE Fill in Application Form Review your entries Click SUBMIT button STEP TWO Fill-in the Payment Page Select your mode of payment By Mail or Online you want (Check by mail or online payment) and the kind of amount you entered in the previous page form. You click ADD TO CART. and you are sent to the PayPal page where you can use PayPal or your Credit Card to pay your membership or your contribution. If you mentioned in the Membership Form that you want to pay your membership and a donation/contribution, you have to go back a second time to the PayPal page and click on the Contribution or Donation Add to Cart. Did any of your membership Information change since last year, including your email address ? Existing Members Start Here If any part of your information changed since last year, two steps are necessary. First you fill in the form below. Then you click SUBMIT. A new page appears, the PAYMENT page . You choose the mode of payment you want (Check by mail or online payment) and the kind of amount you entered in the previous page form. You click ADD TO CART. and you are sent to the PayPal page where you can use PayPal or your Credit Card to pay your membership or your contribution. If you mentioned in the Membership Form that you want to pay your membership and a donation/contribution, you have to go back a second time to the PayPal page and click on the Contribution or Donation Add to Cart. Please Note If you pay a subscription for someone else, include all the following: First Name, Last Name, Address, Email, County of residence, Gift, etc. of the person receiving this gift in the NOTE(S) box of the form.

One of the most exciting an rewarding experience of being a member is to take care of a Bluebird Trail. this page contains useful resources related to monitoring a trail. Links to printable trail monitoring forms are available here for recordkeeping. Monitoring A Trail Once your trail or boxes are up and ready, it is important to monitor them. This will allow the bluebirds to thrive in the best possible conditions. Blue birders are urged to monitor all nest boxes under their care on a weekly basis using monitoring forms. Monitoring Forms Form 20S Multiple Nest Box Weekly Field Record Monitor’s Short Form Form 22 Individual Nest Box Weekly Field Record EZ Form The Annual Bird Nesting Survey Summary EZ Form Frequently asked questions Where should you put the nest boxes to avoid predators? Do not put boxes on wooden fence or electrical posts. The cheapest and most convenient mounting system uses 3/4” electrical conduit. Cut 10’ conduit to 6’-8” lengths. Flatten 4” at end bury 18” of conduit. To the remaining 5’ conduit attach two 3/4” clamps and screw to box. Two 3/4” pieces can be joined with a coupler to make a 6’-8” post. See more… Racoons In the summer of 2012, Leif Marking and assistants videotaped raccoons climbing fence posts covered with PVC tubing. Previously, it was thought that such protected posts not be climbed by them. It was also thought that one detect raccoon predation raids by nesting materials being pulled from boxes. The Marking team found that raccoons remove eggs and pop them into their mouths like we do M & M’s without removing nesting materials. Numerous monitors ask me what causes the loss of eggs with the nest left perfectly intact. We must now suspect that many of these losses are due to raccoons. To prevent raids of your nest boxes by raccoons, two preventive measures are suggested:Use wool or a wire brush to smooth off oxidized PVC and/orSmear car wax paste on the post. House Sparrows House Sparrows are exotic, introduced species from Europe. They have no legal protection from the USFWS in North America. They have a strong, seed crushing beak that easily out-competes the slender/weaker insect-eating beak of other. The best way to prevent these pests from occupying your nest boxes is to keep them away from livestock (especially cattle) or homes with feeders using millet and/or cracked corn as these locations attract large numbers. But these pests can fly up to ½ mile to occupy a box, so considerable habitat is lost nest boxes unless another alternate is used. And the best alternative is a Van Ert trap (VanErt Sparrow traps: 22684 US 69, Leon, Iowa 50144, 641-446-6471, fvanert@grm. net, www.vanerttraps.com (cost is about $10 + S&H) Van Ert are easy to insert and highly effective when used properly. should be set only when the sparrow is building a nest or has already constructed one. Then, all nesting materials should be removed from the box (including eggs). Usually, the male is trapped and that is a good thing because he is the “enticer” of the female. Trapping a female is not as effective as the male will attract another female. Rarely, both are trapped together. Dispose of the sparrow, put a clear, plastic sack (held tight at the bottom) over the nest box. Open the door and the sparrow will fly out and can be penned against the side of the box and disposed of. In 60-75% of the time, only one trapping is necessary to clear up the nest box for protected songbirds. In two years of ALAS studies, almost 100% of boxes with removed sparrows have produced young from other songbirds, mainly bluebirds. The major problem faced by trapping sparrows is how long to leave the traps in place. I use two approaches: Set trap and return after monitoring the rest of my boxes or Set trap and return the next day. By that time, the sparrows are dead, but if you have trapped a swallow or bluebird, they will still be alive and can be released unharmed. My experience is this: “Leaving traps in nest boxes rarely leads to the deaths of accidentally trapped but protected songbirds, if the trap is left no longer than 12 hours”. See also this PDF made by a bluebird lover. Black Flies Black flies are a menace like no other to cavity nesting song-birds. In Wisconsin, blackflies are limited mainly to the south-drift less areas of the state. The counties there have many slow-moving but low-pollution streams that are ideal for of black flies. Female black flies are the real culprit of this insect. Like female mosquitoes, they are attracted by CO2 given off by incubating hens or immobile chicks and bite them for a blood meal. Females are driven off their eggs by the persistent biting of black flies but chicks can’t get away from black flies and are killed by dozens of black fly bites. Anyone who finds a brood of chicks killed by black flies will not soon forget it. But we now have a way to prevent black fly deaths: Use Permethrin-10 poultry insecticide. Dilute it to 0.50% concentration and place it into an aspirator bottle such as a “Windex Bottle”. When you find black flies around your nest box (swarms hover like a large fruit fly) use this protocol to prevent the hen from abandoning the nest box and the death of the chicks: Spray the opening and all cracks on the box, both inside and out If there are eggs in the nest, put a small, clear jar over the eggs and spray the nest thoroughly If there are chicks in the nest, make sure they are at least 3 days of age—mist thoroughly (spray does not harm the eyes) The 2nd week: Spray the hole and cracks on the outside of the box only, again plus the nest if the eggs have not hatched and spray the chicks for the 2nd and final time. If you recognize that black flies are being attracted to your boxes, you can almost eliminate black fly problems entirely, if you use these techniques. Woodpeckers Woodpeckers can cause great destruction to nest boxes as they use them as roost-sites in fall, winter and early spring. Hairy Woodpeckers occupy boxes the most followed by Downy Woodpeckers. We have tried to keep woodpeckers out of our boxes by placing thin wafers of aluminum or ¼” plastic over the damaged holes. Nothing has worked well as woodpeckers have the striking ability to “chisel” materials used to patch the damage. Heavier metal can be used, but is too costly to be useful for large trails. The only practical solution is to leave the boxes open in the winter to keep woodpeckers out (even then, they sometimes do damage). We use wire to keep the doors open as “good Samaritans” walking past boxes completely open, sometimes close them as an act of good will during the winter. Wires can be unwrapped and boxes closed on March 15 to accommodate early arriving bluebirds. These wires can also be used to keep lids open for a week after the first bluebird has fledged to increase the likelihood that the bluebird will produce a 2nd brood. Another advantage to keeping the boxes open during the winter is that chickadees and House Sparrows do not use the boxes for roost sites during the winter. This approach levels the playing field for bluebirds coming to nest in the early weeks of the season. Nest, Egg & Chick Removal for bluebirds, chickadees, Tree Swallows (1, 2, 3, 4) and House Wrens (4): What are the Procedures approved by USFWS in Dec., 2006" Partial or complete nests w/o eggs: 1st week; 2nd , 3rd weeks no change, then remove; restart week count if more building occurs; if wet, remove, replace with dry, fine grass or pine needles (white pine preferred). Touch eggs each week; if they are warm, they are being incubated; if they then turn cold, they have been abandoned and are dead; to test your judgment, remove a single egg and crack it open. If the egg is viable (has a moving embryo), leave the remaining eggs—but if the embryo does not move (= dead) or the egg is empty, remove cold eggs and nest. It is also possible for dead eggs to be incubated well after they should have hatched (up to four weeks), and are warm to the touch. Leaving eggs in a nest this long simply “robs” the nesting pair of precious time in the season when they could be rebuilding a productive nest. To prevent this problem, estimate the date for the last egg being laid (one egg is laid/day). Add 19 days to that date (14 for incubation; 5 for a delay in incubation) and when the monitoring date hits the 19 days or beyond, remove a single egg and repeat the procedure in #2). Chicks starving/lethargic: foster into nests with chicks of similar age, + or – 2 days [place with slightly younger, if possible]: 85% reared by adoptive parents in a 4-year study by the ALAS in central WI. House Wrens Only: If a partial nest of sticks is in your nest box the 1st week, remove them; the 2nd week, remove them and tape the opening. In two weeks, open the box and repeat. The 2nd taping should be left until the end of the season because no other species can nest in the box in the territory of a wren or you can choose to allow the wren to complete its nesting. If egg cup or eggs are found at any time, you should allow the natural cycle to continue. Kent Useful Resources Bluebird Chick Development The First 14 Days By Jack Bartholmai and Pat Ready Life Cycles Eastern Bluebirds Photos by Jack Bartholomai Tree Swallows Photos by Pat Ready and Jack Bartholmai Chickadees Photos by Pat Ready and Jack Bartholmai House Wren Photos by Pat Ready and Jack Bartholmai Nest Guide to Cavity Nesters Eastern Bluebird, Tree Swallow, Black-capped Chickadee, House Wren, House Sparrow Species Identification of Cavity Nesters The Monitoring Program at Discovery Park, TN This short educational video provides an example of what a Bluebird Monitoring Program is all about.

BLUEBIRD RESTORATION ASSOCIATION of WISCONSIN Mail-in Nesting Report Form Online Nesting Report Form We are accepting 2024 Nesting Reports Get Mail-in Nesting Report Form Online EZ Nesting Report Form Please send in your report(s) by the October 31 deadline. Avian Influenza Outbreak Statement From Cornell's Lab of Ornithology This excellent 2025 update of the current bird flu outbreak answers questions you may have about the risks to songbirds, nest boxes, bird feeders, and more. News DNR responds to BRAW's inquiry about invasive species, particularly the European Tree Sparrow. See BRAW's Inquiry to DNR See DNR Response to BRAW Mail-in Form Register Today! C-25 Form Home page Buttons President: Steve Sample • (term to 12/26 ) Vice-President: Brad Branwell • (term to 12/ 26) Secretary: Gene Kroupa • ( term to 12/26) Treasurer: Dan Schroeder • ( term to 2 / 27) Director: Patrick Ready • (term to 12/27) Director: Steve Fallon • term to 12/26) Director : Dave Lucey • (term to 12/27) Director: Mary Sobol • (term to 12/27) Director: Mike Crawford • (term to 12/26) Director: Andy Garcia-Rivera • (term to 12/27) Director: Gail Smith • (term to 12/27) Director: Amy Harriman • (term to 12/26) Director: Sharon Johnson • (term to 12/26) Featured Video - Eastern Bluebird Arrival: Can I find One in Wisconsin? Source : YouTube Created by: Badgerland Birding , March 9, 2022 Video Content 0:00 Introduction of Eastern Bluebird Arrival: Can I find One in Wisconsin? 0:25 Spring Migration and Eastern Bluebirds 1:10 River Edge Nature Center and Bluebird Boxes 3:27 Searching for Bluebirds at Retzer Nature Center 5. 4:45 Finding a Thrush and Two Bluebirds 6. 5:59 Eastern Bluebird Facts and Habitat 7. 7:23 Flyover Sandhill Cranes 8. 7:44 Conclusion of Eastern Bluebird Arrival: Can I find One in Wisconsin? Mary Holleback Riveredge Nature Center Note: Underlined text = box contains files. SP 2020 MP SP March 2020 MP March 2020 SP June 2020 MP June 2020 SP September 2020 MP September 2020 SP December 2020 MP December 2020 SP 2021 MP SP March 2021 MP March 2021 SP June 2021 MP June 2021 SP September 2021 MP September 2021 SP December 2021 MP December 2021 SP 2022 MP SP March 2022 MP March 2022 SP June 2022 MP June 2022 SP September 2022 MP September 2022 SP December 2022 MP December 2022 Why Wisconsin's Bluebirds and Other Cavity Nesters STILL Need Our Help Wisconsin, with its diverse habitats, is home to a wide variety of bird species, including the Eastern Bluebird and other cavity nesters. However, these birds are facing increasing challenges due to climate change and habitat loss. Read on to learn more why our WI bluebirds need our help and what we can do to ensure their survival and prosperity in Wisconsin. The Eastern Bluebird: A Wisconsin Treasure The Eastern Bluebird, a small thrush with a big personality, is a beloved sight in Wisconsin. Known for their vibrant blue and orange plumage, these birds are a symbol of happiness and joy. They are cavity nesters, meaning they build their nests in holes or cavities in trees or man-made structures. The Importance of Human Intervention Given these challenges, it’s clear that Eastern Bluebirds and other cavity nesters in Wisconsin need our help. Here are some ways we can assist: Helping You to Get involved: Consider becoming a member of BRAW. You can join for as little as $20 for an annual membership. Volunteer some available time to help BRAW with its indoor, outdoor, and Annual Convention activities. We can show you how to become a County Contact for those helping bluebirds in your county. If volunteering is not your thing, consider donating, to support our work, or in the memory of a loved one. BRAW is a non-profit volunteer organization. Our Federal Tax-Exempt ID Number is: 52-1542503 Providing Nest Boxes : As natural cavities are becoming less available due to urbanization and changes in forest management practices, providing nest boxes can give these birds a place to raise their young. Planting Native Plants : Native plants provide food and habitat for birds and other wildlife. They are adapted to our local climate and soil conditions, making them easier to care for than non-native species. Reducing Pesticide Use : Pesticides can have harmful effects on birds either directly, through consumption of treated plants or insects, or indirectly, by reducing their food sources. Supporting BRAW's Conservation Efforts : A number of BRAW members and volunteers work to protect Wi's bluebirds and other native cavity nesters and their habitats. BRAW members participate in: Citizen science projects, help solve issues in the trail, backyards, collect and share nesting data. Construction and distribution of nestboxes Track bird populations and contribute to our understanding of how birds are responding to climate change. County contact conservation activities. Make a difference in this world by helping Wisconsin bluebirds. The Eastern Bluebirds and other cavity nesters of Wisconsin are a vital part of our ecosystem. They need our help to continue to survive and thrive in the face of climate change and habitat loss. By taking small steps in our own backyards and communities, we can make a big difference for these birds. Get involved with let's work together to ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and joy these birds bring to our lives. After all, you do not have to be a bluebird expert to attract bluebirds to your home or trail. With a little patience, a welcoming environment, and a love for nature, anyone can invite these beautiful birds into their backyard. Joining the Bluebird Restoration Association of Wisconsin (BRAW) is a great way to start your journey, learn from others, and contribute to the conservation of our native bluebirds and cavity nesters. Remember, every effort counts, and your backyard could be the next haven for bluebirds!” The Impact of Climate Change Climate change poses significant threats to the Eastern Bluebird and other cavity nesters. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns affect these birds’ ability to find food and reproduce, which over time impacts local populations. For Eastern Bluebirds and other cavity-nesting species, these changes can be particularly challenging. Dear Friends of Bluebirds, Today is Giving Tuesday (Bluesday ) — a day when generosity takes flight. We invite you to join BRAW in supporting our mission to help bluebirds flourish across Wisconsin. Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, we distributed nearly 500 new nestboxes this year! Each donation directly funds the materials and construction of these safe homes, giving bluebirds the shelter they need to survive and thrive. Your gift today ensures this vital conservation work continues. Ways to Give: Donate via PayPal Donate via Square Mail a check payable to BRAW: and mail it to: Joanie Haugen 9773 Vermont Church Rd Black Earth, WI 53515 Every act of generosity makes a difference. Thank you for being part of this movement and for helping us protect Wisconsin’s bluebirds. With gratitude, Steve Sample President, BRAW BRAWs Invest in Feathers Campaign Investing in the conservation of bluebirds and other cavity nesters in Wisconsin is a vital step towards preserving our natural heritage. These birds play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems by controlling insect populations and aiding in plant pollination. By supporting BRAW' 2025 INVEST CAMPAIGN you are directly contributing to the protection and restoration of these beautiful species and their habitats. Your donations, no matter the size, help fund essential conservation efforts, including the installation and monitoring of nest boxes, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives. Every contribution makes a difference in ensuring that future generations can enjoy the vibrant presence of bluebirds in our environment. Join us in our mission to protect these precious birds and invest in a healthier, more biodiverse Wisconsin. Your support is invaluable, and together, we can make a lasting impact. Donate Today How You Can Help There are several meaningful ways to contribute to the "Invest in Feathers" campaign. You can make a one-time donation to provide immediate support for our conservation efforts. Note: For ongoing impact, we should consider consider setting up a recurring donation, which helps us plan and sustain long-term projects. We can also refine our in-design (by me) "honor the memory of a loved one with a memorial donation", ensuring their legacy supports the preservation of bluebirds. Additionally, we can add a "celebrate the life of someone special with a celebration donation", Examples of celebrations may include marking birthdays, anniversaries, or other milestones with a gift that makes a difference. Our motto for this drive at the end of the info is: Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us protect and restore the Eastern Bluebird population in Wisconsin. Webpage Outline for "Invest in Feathers" Campaign 1Hero Section Title: Invest in Feathers Subtitle: Support Bluebird Conservation in Wisconsin Call to Action: "Donate Now" button (linked to PayPal) 2. Introduction Heading: Why Invest in Feathers? Paragraph: We briefly explain the importance of bluebird conservation and how contributions make a difference. 3. Impact of Your Donation Heading: Your Impact Bullet Points: Installation and monitoring of nest boxes Educational programs and workshops Community outreach and engagement Research and conservation efforts 4. Success Stories Heading: Success Stories Paragraph: Share inspiring stories of how donations have positively impacted bluebird populations and habitats. Images: Include photos of bluebirds, volunteers, and successful projects. 5. How to Donate Heading: How You Can Help There are several meaningful ways to contribute to the "Invest in Feathers" campaign. We can have a few donation or contribution categories, including a one-time donation to provide immediate support for our conservation efforts. Note: For ongoing impact, we should consider consider setting up a recurring donation, which helps us plan and sustain long-term projects. We can also refine our in-design (by me) "honor the memory of a loved one with a memorial donation", ensuring their legacy supports the preservation of bluebirds. Additionally, we can add a "celebrate the life of someone special with a celebration donation", Examples of celebrations may include marking birthdays, anniversaries, or other milestones with a gift that makes a difference. Our motto for this drive at the end of the info is: Every contribution, no matter the size, help s us protect and restore the Eastern Bluebird population in Wisconsin. Paragraph: Explain the different ways to contribute, including one-time and recurring donations. Call to Action: "Invest in Feathers" button (linked to PayPal) 6. Donation Form Heading: Make a Donation Form Fields: Name Email Donation Amount Payment Method (linked to PayPal) 7. Volunteer and Membership Heading: Get Involved Paragraph: Encourage visitors to volunteer or become members of BRAW. Call to Action: "Join Us" button (linked to membership/volunteer page) 8. Contact Information Heading: Contact Us Paragraph: Provide contact details for any questions or further information. Contact Form: Simple form for inquiries 9. Footer Links: Quick links to other important pages (Home, About, Contact, etc.) Social Media Icons: Links to BRAW's social media profiles 10. Other I recommend that the Best Name for PayPal Button used to collect contributions: "Invest in Feathers" This name clearly communicates the purpose of the donation and aligns with the campaign's title, making it easy for donors to understand where their contributions are going. Please review this outline and provide me with your initial feedback - - no holds barred - meaning tell me the good, the bad, and the ugly of this Funding Campaign to increase our savings and enable additional Programs and conservation efforts also am thinking about creating podcasts of some of our presentations as well as some of those given at our convention provided the presenter agrees (Vai a signed statement to protect us from unintentional oversight of any applicable "legal/copyright issues). Ta ta for now! Andy

Watch educational videos on bluebird trail monitoring, nest box setup, predator control, and seasonal care. Curated by BRAW for new and experienced monitors. Bluebird Video Library Bluebird Basics & Cavity Nest Boxes

Explore trusted resources for bluebird trail monitoring, nest box plans, predator control, and seasonal care. BRAW supports monitors with expert guidance and downloadable tools. Eastern Bluebird Resource Links and Videos The Eastern Bluebird Overview & Cool Facts Bluebird Song Identification Information Life History Range Map Nest Cams - Assorted How to Attract Bluebirds All About Nest Boxes NABS Nest Box Design Plan NESTWATCH Nest Box Plan & Info Nest Box Placement Tips Managing Invasive Species Dealing with Predators Managing Nest Box Competitors Nest Box Troubleshooting Guide NABS Bluebird Fact Sheets NABS Nest Box Design Plan Bird ID Copyright © 2021 Cornell University State Associations & Societies + Bluebird Emergencies Children's BB Links Kid Wings Birding for Kids Resource Guide (Thank you to the Brenham Community Center!) "I Wish You Bluebirds" This website was developed as a resource for people interested in helping bluebirds and other native cavity-nesters survive and thrive. See the Site Map (index) or the Pulldown (Jump) Menu for an alphabetical list of topics covered. © 2022 SIALIS: Smith, Elizabeth Zimmerman BLUEBIRD VIDEO SERIES The 10 videos in this series are intended for: People interested learning about bluebirds and how to attract them to your backyard. People want to learn how to set up a bluebird nest box or a trail. People seeking to refresh their bluebirding knowledge. About Eastern Bluebirds - The Basics Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... Now Playing Bluebird Basics & Cavity Nest Boxes 13:11 Play Video Now Playing Bluebird Facts: Learn about BLUEBIRDS! | Animal Fact Files 04:20 Play Video Now Playing 10 Amazing Facts About The Eastern Bluebird 02:56 Play Video Now Playing Eastern Bluebird Sings Mating Call 05:14 Play Video Visitor Submitted Links Hobbies at Home: A Guide to Bird Watching Turning a Garden Building into a Wildlife Watching Room Make Your Own Plastic Bottle Bird Feeder Flowers and Plants to Attract Birds and other Wildlife A Guide to Bird-Watching with Binoculars Guide to Bird-Watching From Your Window The Bluebird Box Bird Watching Forum Bird Watchers Digest OTHER RESOURCES Beginner’s Guide to Bird Watching Birding for Kids Resource Guide Western Great Lakes Bird and Bat Observatory Birding.com – Top 25 Birding Web Sites The Bluebirding Forum Wildlife Rehabilitees Bluebird Nest Box Cams Washington State Dept. of Fish & Wildlife Other Resources Visitor Links Bluebird Associations & Societies STATE BLUEBIRD ASSOCIATIONS & SOCIETIES Hear the Song of the Bluebirds Ambassador for the Bluebird BRAW Bluebird Restoration Association of Wisconsin Bluebird Society of Pennsylvania Facebook Page for: Woolwine House Bluebird Trail The Eastern Bluebird and the Tree Swallow - Video Southern California Bluebird Club Colorado Bluebird Project Florida Bluebird Society Bluebird Hollow Farm – Georgia Indiana Bluebird Society Kentucky Bluebird Society Louisiana Bayou Bluebird Society Maryland Bluebird Society Michigan Bluebird Society Bluebird Recovery Program – Minnesota Missouri Bluebird Society Mountain Bluebird Trails – Montana Nebraska - Bluebirds Across Nebraska New Jersey Bluebird Society New York State Bluebird Society North Carolina Bluebird Society Ohio Bluebird Society Prescott Bluebird Recovery Program – Oregon Bluebird Society of Pennsylvania South Carolina Bluebird Society Tennessee Bluebird Society Texas Bluebird Society Virginia Bluebird Society Reference Books REFERENCE BOOKS The Bluebird Monitor’s Guide to Bluebirds and Other Small Cavity Nesters by Cynthia Berger, Keith Kridler, Jack Griggs; sponsored by NABS and Cornell; HarperCollins Publishers The Bluebird Book by Donald & Lillian Stokes Bluebird Trails: A Guide to Success by Scriven Bluebirds and Their Survival by Davis & Roca Symbol of Hope: Bluebirds by Steve Grooms and Dick Peterson (ISBN 1-55971-095-0) Studying Eastern Bluebirds : A Biologist’s Report and Reflections by T. David Pitts

This page presents the current directory of BRAW's elected and appointed officers dfficers, committee chairpersons, and liaisons. Board of Directors, Chairs, & Liaisons Past Presidents Patrick Ready Joe Schultz Carol McDaniel Del Parkinson Tom Whalley Dick Nikolai Harvey Halvorsen Elected & Appointed Officers President: Steve Sample • (term to 12/26) Vice-President: Brad Branwell • (term to 12/ 26) Secretary: Gene Kroupa • (term to 12/26) Treasurer: Dan Schroeder • (term to 2 / 27) Director: Patrick Ready • (term to 12/27) Director: Steve Fallon • term to 12/26) Director: Dave Lucey • (term to 12/27) Director: Mary Sobol • (term to 12/27) Director: Mike Crawford • (term to 12/26) Director: Andy Garcia-Rivera • (term to 12/27) Director: Gail Smith • (term to 12/27) Director: Amy Harriman• (term to 12/26) Director: Sharon Johnson • (term to 12/26) Officers & Committee Chairpersons Data Collection Officer: Steve Fallon • (term to 12/26) County Contact Chair: Gene Birr • (term to 12/26) Funding: Joanie Haugen • (term to 12/26) WI Bluebird Editor: Patrick Ready • (term to 12/27) Membership: Valerie Van Winkle • (term to 12/25) Website: Andy Garcia-Rivera • (term to 12/27) BRAW Liaisons WIDNR - Liaison: Sumner Matteson WSO Liaison: Jennifer Wenzel Wisconsin Purple Martin Association: Les Rhine Madison Audubon: Brenna Marsicek

Wisconsin Bluebird Newsletter Archive WB Newsletter Archive Welcome! BRAW is pleased to provide access to Wisconsin Bluebird newsletters published from 2016 thru 2022. Current year newsletters are not listed here because they are a benefit of membership. Inside each issue you will find association news, practical Bluebird information, articles, county coordinator activity reports, trail monitoring tips, fledging data, awards, photo contest outcomes, and more. Click on a newsletter cover or on a season listed below to open newsletter. Newsletter Archive 2019 Spring Summer Fall Winter 2018 Spring Summer Fall Winter 2017 Spring Summer Fall Winter 2016 Spring Summer Fall Winter 2020 Newsletters Spring 2020 Fall 2020 Summer 2020 Winter 2020