AFF Review: ‘Bluebirds of Antietam’ features Alexandria resident

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AFF Review: ‘Bluebirds of Antietam’ features Alexandria resident
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By Missy Schrott | mschrott@alextimes.com

“Bluebirds of Antietam” is a beautifully filmed short documentary that has special significance for Alexandria.

The documentary is about how Alexandria resident Mark Raabe and his late wife, Jean Raabe, spent decades working to save the Eastern Bluebird population.

After spotting a bluebird outside of their home near the Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg, Maryland in the 1970s, the couple began to build cedar boxes to give the bluebirds a place to make nests and lay eggs. For years, the Raabes monitored the boxes, protecting eggs and young fledglings and clearing out birds that hadn’t survived.

Since 1979, the Raabes’ efforts have led to the fledging of more than 10,000 bluebirds and the development of one of the oldest continually monitored bluebird trails in the United States.

The documentary shares the Raabes’ tale and details the continuing efforts to save the bluebirds in Antietam.

The film, directed by Conrad Weaver, is composed of interviews with Raabe and others involved in the conservation efforts and set to a backdrop of pleasant bird songs and stunning imagery of bluebirds.

Excellent filming, editing and narration. Highly recommended for those looking for a short, educational piece that shows how even seemingly small efforts can make a big difference.

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