What's with all those nest boxes on the Adventure Loop?

I'm happy to report that the bluebird boxes on the loop have had a lot of activity.  One clutch at box five has already fledged five chicks.  Today between three boxes we have 13 eggs being incubated.  Four boxes are occupied by Carolina Wrens.  They are so cute,  One box is hosting it's second clutch.  Right now there are 5 chicks and 13 eggs being cared for.  There are 2 boxes that just attract wasps and today was my day to get stung.  Two got me on the arm. 

Monitoring these boxes is important for research purposes.  All data is sent to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.  Their database is used to study the current condition of breeding bird populations and how they may be changing over time as a result of climate change, habitat degradation and loss, expansion of urban areas, and the introduction of non-native plants and animals.

If you have bird boxes in your yard you can participate at nestwatch.org and send data about your own little eco-system.  It's fun and very educational.