Blue birds often capture attention, standing out in natural landscapes. Their striking appearance sparks curiosity about their unique plumage.
The Science of Blue Feathers
Most blue colors in birds do not come from blue pigments. Instead, their blue appearance is due to the physical structure of their feathers, a phenomenon known as structural coloration. This occurs when light interacts with microscopic structures within the feathers, leading to selective reflection and scattering of blue wavelengths. These structures are typically composed of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and nails, and often contain air pockets or melanin particles.
When white light hits these feather structures, only blue light is scattered and reflected, making the bird appear blue. This optical effect is similar to how the sky appears blue due to the scattering of sunlight by particles in the atmosphere. The intensity and shade of blue can vary depending on the precise arrangement and size of these nanostructures.
Identifying Common Blue Birds
Many bird species exhibit various shades of blue, ranging from pale sky blue to deep indigo, often combined with other colors.
One such bird is the Eastern Bluebird, a thrush-like bird with a brilliant sky-blue back and head, rusty orange throat and breast, and a white lower belly. These birds are typically found in open woodlands, orchards, and suburban areas across eastern North America, often perching on wires or fences. They are slightly smaller than a robin, measuring about 6.3 to 8.3 inches in length.
Closely related to its eastern counterpart, the Western Bluebird displays rich blue plumage on its head, back, and wings. Males feature an orange-brown breast and flanks, contrasting with a blue belly. Their habitat spans western North America, favoring open coniferous or mixed woodlands and often found in clearings or at forest edges. Both species are cavity nesters, often utilizing old woodpecker holes or nesting boxes.
Found in the mountainous regions of western North America, Mountain Bluebirds present a more uniformly blue appearance. Males are almost entirely sky-blue, with a slightly paler belly, while females have duller blue wings and tail with a grayish-brown body. They prefer open country, including grasslands, sagebrush, and high-altitude meadows. These birds are often seen hovering over fields while hunting for insects.
The Blue Jay is another recognizable blue bird, characterized by vibrant blue, black, and white plumage. They possess a prominent crest on their head, which they can raise or lower depending on their mood. Blue Jays are common across eastern and central North America, inhabiting deciduous and mixed forests, as well as suburban areas. They are known for their intelligence, diverse vocalizations, and their habit of burying acorns.
Another striking species is the Indigo Bunting, a small finch-like bird. Males are a deep, iridescent blue during breeding season, appearing almost black in poor light, while females are mostly brown with hints of blue on their wings and tail. These birds are migratory, breeding in eastern North America and wintering in the Caribbean and Central America. They prefer brushy areas, overgrown fields, and woodland edges, often singing from high perches.
Welcoming Blue Birds to Your Space
Creating an inviting environment can encourage blue birds to visit and even nest in your yard. Providing a consistent food source is a good start. Eastern, Western, and Mountain Bluebirds enjoy insects, especially mealworms, which can be offered in specialized feeders. Blue Jays are fond of peanuts and sunflower seeds, while Indigo Buntings are primarily seed-eaters, attracted to small seeds like nyjer.
Offering a reliable water source, such as a bird bath, attracts blue birds for drinking and bathing. Ensure the water is clean and fresh, changing it regularly.
Planting native berry-producing shrubs and trees, like dogwood, sumac, or juniper, provides natural food sources and shelter. These plants also support insect populations, a primary food source for many blue bird species, particularly during nesting season.
For cavity-nesting species like bluebirds, installing appropriately sized nesting boxes provides essential breeding sites. These boxes should be placed in open areas with nearby perches and away from predators.
Reducing or eliminating pesticides in your yard helps ensure a healthy insect population, a significant food source for many blue birds, especially when feeding their young.