Bluebirds

Western Bluebird

NPS Photo

Western Bluebird (Sailia Mexicana)

The western bluebird is about 6-7 “tall (15-18 cm). The males are a deep purplish blue on the upper parts and throat with some red on the chest or back. Its belly is a grey. These birds prefer scattered trees, farmland or arid environments in which to nest and live. The Western Bluebird’s diet consists of insects, like grasshopper, beetles, ants, and caterpillars. It also eats berries and small fruits like juniper berry, mistletoe, and elderberry.

Fun Fact: When displaying mating rituals, the male Western Bluebird may try to offer food to the female to show her that he can provide for any hatchlings they have.

 

Mountain Bluebird

NPS/J. Stringfield

Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides)

Mountain Bluebirds are about 7” tall (18 cm). The males are sky blue and the females are grey with blue tinges and a white belly. They can be found in open country with trees, prairies, sagebrush and above alpine tree lines. They prefer to eat insects and berries. They also eat mistletoe, juniper, and hackberry fruit in the winter when other food sources are scarce.

Fun Fact: Mountain bluebirds can have up to 2 broods per year.