Watch Bluebird Man

Bluebird Man is a 2014 documentary film that chronicles the fascinating life and work of Al Larson, a retired forest ranger who has devoted over thirty years of his life to the conservation of the bluebird species in the Pacific Northwest. Directed by Matthew Podolsky, the film is an intimate portrait of an exceptional man and his mission to protect one of North America's most beloved birds.

The documentary follows Larson as he visits his network of over 300 bluebird nest boxes situated in the majestic Methow Valley in Washington State. He monitors each box, counting eggs and chicks, and carefully noting any changes in population density or nesting behavior. Larson spends countless hours each day monitoring and maintaining the boxes in the hope of increasing the bird's population, which has been in decline due to habitat loss, competition from other bird species, and interactions with humans.

The film takes us on a journey through Larson's childhood and the experiences that led him to become a bluebird conservationist. He grew up in Indiana, where he had always been fascinated by nature and wildlife. He worked as a farmer and a cowboy before becoming a forest ranger for over three decades. After his retirement, he became an avid bird watcher and bluebird enthusiast.

The documentary also explores the impact of Larson's work on the bluebird population. The film shows how the boxes Larson installed on private and public lands around the valley have helped increase the population of Western bluebirds by over 50 percent. His dedication and perseverance in protecting the species have made him a hero to environmentalists and bird lovers alike.

The movie features interviews with various experts, including the author and environmentalist Robert Michael Pyle and the founder of the North American Bluebird Society, Dr. Lawrence Zeleny. They all express their respect and admiration for Larson's dedication and accomplishments in the field of bluebird conservation.

One of the highlights of the film includes Larson's interactions with schoolchildren who have taken an interest in the bluebird project. Larson takes a group of children out on his rounds, teaching them about the bluebird's life cycle and showing them how to monitor the bird's homes. The director captures the magic of children's curiosity and the simple pleasure they find in observing nature.

The documentary has stunning visuals of bluebirds in their natural habitat, nesting in the boxes Larson installed. The film also features breathtaking landscapes of the Methow Valley, captured in all seasons, including the snow-capped mountains in the winter and wildflowers in the spring.

Overall, Bluebird Man is a heartwarming story of one man's dedication to conservation and his passion for protecting the Western bluebird, beautifully captured by director Matthew Podolsky. The documentary inspires us to take care of the natural world and highlights the importance of preservation through individual effort. The film is a must-watch for anyone who loves nature and is concerned about the conservation of endangered species.

Bluebird Man is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 27 minutes.