Western Bluebird

What it is

The western bluebird (Sialia mexicana) is a small thrush, about 15 to 18 cm (5.9 to 7.1 in) in length. Adult males are bright blue on top and on the throat with an orange breast and sides, a brownish patch on back, and a gray belly and undertail coverts. Adult females have a duller blue body, wings, and tail than the male, a gray throat, a dull orange breast, and a gray belly and undertail coverts. Immature western...

Where and when to find it

Habitat

You can find Western Bluebirds in open woodlands, savannas, farms, and even suburban parks across the western United States, from the Pacific Coast to the Rocky Mountains.

How to find it

Look for them sitting on fences, power lines, or low tree branches. They often fly down to catch insects on the ground. Listen for their soft, flutey song.

Best time of day

Year-round, but more active during spring and summer mornings. Look in open areas.

How it lives

What it eats

Mainly insects, especially grasshoppers and beetles; also berries in winter.

What eats it

Hawks, owls, cats, snakes.

Worth knowing

• Males have brighter blue feathers than females.
• They often nest in holes in trees or in birdhouses.
• Their young birds have spotted breasts.
• They sometimes dart out and catch insects right in the air, like a tiny acrobat!
• Groups of them might gather together in the winter to stay warm.
• They are related to Eastern Bluebirds.

Why it matters

Western Bluebirds help keep insect populations balanced. They also spread seeds when they eat berries.