Reposted from Lundale Farm article published 16 July 2025
Pictured L-R: Lyn Caltabiano (nestbox monitor), Patty Werth (VFAS Board Secretary and Programs Chair), Nancy Fraim (Bluebird Society of PA Board Member), Robin Spurlino (Lundale Farm Board Member), Joe Fraim (Bluebird Society of PA volunteer), John Werth (VFAS Conservation/Community Science Committee Co-Chair), and Becki Patterson (Lundale Farm Executive Director).
Local Conservation Groups Unite to Boost Bluebird Habitat at Lundale Farm
Ten new predator-proof nest boxes installed to support native birds through collaborative effort
Three local conservation organizations—Lundale Farm, Valley Forge Audubon Society, and the Bluebird Society of Pennsylvania—have joined forces to establish a new bluebird trail aimed at increasing the native bluebird and swallow population. While each group has long worked independently to promote habitat conservation, this marks a meaningful collaboration combining resources and expertise for greater impact.
Lundale Farm, a 550-acre preserved property in Chester County, has recently opened its landscape to bird lovers through a new series of guided bird walks hosted in partnership with the Valley Forge Audubon Society. These walks highlight the rich biodiversity of the farm, where visitors might spot everything from migratory warblers and soaring hawks to nesting bluebirds and swallows.
During these outings, Audubon experts shared the importance of enhancing nesting opportunities for cavity-nesting birds like Eastern Bluebirds and Tree Swallows, which often compete for limited nesting space. In response, Lundale Farm is proud to announce the installation of ten custom-built nesting boxes throughout the property.
The effort was led by Robin Spurlino, Lundale board member and secretary, who coordinated with both Audubon and the Bluebird Society to design and place the boxes. Funded by a grant from the Valley Forge Audubon Society and handcrafted by bluebird expert Ken Leister, each box includes predator guards to protect nesting birds from common threats.
“These boxes will help provide safe, dedicated nesting cavities for bluebirds and swallows while supporting our broader mission to enhance wildlife habitat on the farm,” said Spurlino. “It’s been an incredible collaboration, and we’re grateful to everyone involved.”
The boxes will be installed along key field edges and monitored by trained volunteers. Nesting data will be submitted to the Bluebird Society of PA and Cornell University’s NestWatch program, contributing to broader research and conservation efforts.
Although Lundale Farm is not typically open to the public, the community is invited to get involved—whether by joining a bird walk or volunteering to help monitor the new trail.
“Whether you’re passionate about birds or just want to be part of something meaningful outdoors, there’s a place for you at Lundale,” said Becki Patterson, Executive Director of Lundale Farm. “And yes—we’d love more volunteers to help!”
Bird walks will continue throughout the year. Upcoming dates and sign-ups can be found on Lundale Farm’s website and social media.
Ken Leister, builder of the bird boxes.
John S. and Joe F. installing the blue bird boxes at Lundale Farm.
