17 Mesmerizing Blue and Red Birds [Images + IDs]

Birds, with their vibrant plumage, bring color and joy to the world. Among them, some birds sport a particularly dazzling combination of blue and red feathers. These feathered wonders create a striking contrast that never fails to captivate our eyes and hearts. In this blog post, we’ll embark on an exciting journey to explore the world of blue and red birds. We’ll discover what makes them so eye-catching, where they make their homes, and what fuels their vibrant lives. So, get ready to be dazzled by these feathered gems as we celebrate their brilliant presence in the avian kingdom.

Types of Blue and Red Birds

Red-throated Blue Bird

The Spangled Cotinga is a dazzling bird species found in parts of South America, particularly in the Amazon Rainforest. These cotingas are renowned for their striking and iridescent plumage, which features a vibrant turquoise or blue coloration with distinctive spangled or mottled patterns on their feathers.

Spangled Cotingas are often observed perched high in the canopy of tropical forests. They are frugivorous birds, primarily feeding on a diet of fruits and berries. Their iridescent plumage, paired with their elegant appearance, makes them a visually captivating presence in the lush greenery of the Amazon.

These cotingas are known for their vocalizations, which include melodious calls and whistles. They contribute to the ecological diversity of their rainforest habitats and are considered a captivating sight by birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts exploring the vibrant landscapes of South America.

Painted bunting

• Scientific name: Passerina ciris
• Life span: Up to 8 years
• Size: 11-13 cm (4.3-5.1 in)
• Weight: 12-17 g
• Origin: North America

The Painted Bunting is a small, vibrantly colored songbird found in North America. Adult males are known for their stunning and diverse plumage. They have a bright blue head, a greenback, and a vibrant red throat, chest, and rump. The rest of their body is a mix of blue and green hues. In contrast, females and juveniles are more subdued, with greenish-yellow plumage.

Painted Buntings inhabit a variety of habitats, including woodland edges, shrubby areas, and grasslands. They are often seen perched on shrubs and trees, where they forage for seeds, insects, and berries. These buntings are known for their melodious and varied songs during the breeding season, which include a series of musical notes.

Their range includes the southeastern United States during the breeding season, while they migrate to Central America for the winter. They are highly sought after by birdwatchers for their striking appearance and captivating songs.

Crimson Rosella:

• Scientific name: Platycercus elegans
• Lifespan: Typically around 10 to 15 years
• Wingspan: Approximately 36 to 40 cm (14.2 to 15.7 inches)
• Native to: Eastern and southeastern Australia.

The Crimson Rosella is a colorful parrot native to eastern and southeastern Australia. Adult Crimson Rosellas are known for their striking plumage, which includes a bright red head, neck, chest, and underparts, contrasting with deep blue wings and tail. Their cheeks are white, and they have a distinct blue cheek patch. Juveniles and females have more subdued plumage, with less vibrant colors.

Crimson Rosellas inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, woodlands, and gardens. They are often seen foraging on the ground, using their strong bills to crack open seeds, nuts, and fruit. They are also known to feed on nectar from flowers, displaying their versatility as foragers.

Their range includes eastern and southeastern Australia, where they can be found in a range of altitudes and climates. They are social birds often seen in small flocks, and their striking appearance makes them a favorite among bird enthusiasts.

Sri Lankan Blue Magpie:

• Scientific name: Urocissa ornata
• Lifespan: Typically 6-10 years
• Size: Approximately 16-18 inches (41-46 cm)
• Origin: Native to Sri Lanka

The Sri Lankan Blue Magpie is a striking and unique bird endemic to Sri Lanka. Adult Blue Magpies are characterized by their bright azure blue plumage, with a long tail that has distinctive black and white markings. They have a prominent black crest on their head and a white patch on their wings.

These magpies inhabit the dense rainforests and montane forests of Sri Lanka, where they are known for their loud calls and social behavior. They are often seen in family groups or small flocks, and their calls are a combination of melodious whistles and harsher notes.

The Sri Lankan Blue Magpie primarily feeds on a diet of insects, small vertebrates, and fruits. They are known for their agility in capturing prey, often leaping through the trees to catch insects in mid-air. Due to habitat loss and deforestation, these magpies are considered vulnerable, and conservation efforts are in place to protect their unique and colorful population.

Red Lory:

• Scientific name: Eos bornea
• Lifespan: Typically around 20 to 30 years
• Wingspan: Approximately 30 cm (11.8 inches)
• Native to: Islands in Southeast Asia

The Red Lory is a medium-sized parrot known for its striking plumage and vibrant colors. Adult Red Lories are primarily red, with deep red plumage covering their entire bodies, except for the black markings on their wings and tail. They have blue cheeks and a black beak, which adds to their bold appearance.

Red Lories are native to parts of Indonesia, including the Moluccan Islands and New Guinea. They inhabit tropical rainforests and dense woodlands, where they feed primarily on nectar, pollen, and fruits. These parrots have specialized brush-tipped tongues that allow them to extract nectar from flowers.

Known for their playful and social nature, Red Lories are often kept as pets due to their striking appearance and engaging personalities. They are also skilled mimics and can imitate various sounds and human speech.

Scarlet Macaw

Image Source

• Scientific name: Ara macao
• Lifespan: 40-50 years
• Size: 81-96 centimeters (32-38 inches)
• Origin: Central and South America (Mexico to Peru)

The Scarlet Macaw is one of the most iconic and visually stunning parrot species in the world. Adult Scarlet Macaws are large, with brilliant scarlet plumage covering their entire bodies, including their wings and long tail feathers. They have a white face with patches of bare skin around their eyes, which are adorned with small lines of feathers. Their strong beaks are black and curved.

Scarlet Macaws are native to Central and South America, inhabiting tropical rainforests, lowland forests, and savannas. They are known for their loud calls and are often seen flying high in the canopy in pairs or small groups.

Their diet primarily consists of fruits, seeds, and nuts. Scarlet Macaws are also renowned for their intelligence and ability to mimic sounds. They are highly sought after as pets and are protected by international conservation laws to prevent illegal trade.

Red-and-green Macaw:

• Scientific name: Ara chloropterus
• Lifespan: Approximately 50 to 70 years
• Wingspan: Approximately 102 to 127 cm (40.2 to 50 inches)
• Native to: South America, including parts of Brazil and Bolivia.

The Red-and-green Macaw is another striking parrot species with a distinctive appearance. Adult Red-and-green Macaws have bright red plumage on their bodies, contrasting with vibrant green wings and tail feathers. They have a white face with patches of bare skin around their eyes, and their beaks are black.

These macaws are native to the tropical rainforests and woodlands of Central and South America. They are known for their impressive size and are among the largest of the macaw species.

Red-and-green Macaws primarily feed on a diet of fruits, seeds, and nuts, using their strong beaks to crack open hard shells. They are social birds, often seen in pairs or small flocks, and their loud calls echo through the canopy as they fly high above the forest.

Like Scarlet Macaws, Red-and-green Macaws are highly sought after as pets due to their beauty and intelligence. Conservation efforts are in place to protect their populations in the wild from habitat loss and illegal trade.

Blue-eared Kingfisher:

• Scientific name: Alcedo meninting
• Lifespan: Typically 4-6 years
• Size: Approximately 5-6 inches (13-15 cm)
• Origin: Native to Southeast Asia

The Blue-eared Kingfisher is a small and vibrant bird species native to parts of Southeast Asia. Adult Blue-eared Kingfishers have striking plumage, featuring deep cobalt-blue feathers on their head and upperparts, a white throat and underparts, and bright orange-red legs. They have a sharp, dagger-like bill, which they use for hunting.

These kingfishers are typically found near slow-moving streams, rivers, and ponds in densely vegetated habitats such as tropical rainforests and mangrove forests. They are known for their exceptional fishing skills and are often seen perched on branches or hovering above the water before diving in to catch fish, insects, and aquatic invertebrates.

Blue-eared Kingfishers are known for their sharp, high-pitched calls and are highly territorial during the breeding season. They are a delightful sight for birdwatchers and photographers due to their vivid colors and striking hunting behavior.

Blue-fronted Redstart:

• Scientific name: Phoenicurus frontalis
• Lifespan: Typically 2-5 years
• Size: Approximately 5.5-6 inches (14-15 cm)
• Origin: Native to parts of Asia, including the Himalayan region

The Blue-fronted Redstart is a small songbird found in parts of Asia, particularly in the Himalayan region. Adult male Blue-fronted Redstarts are known for their vibrant and distinctive plumage. They have a deep blue-black head, throat, and upperparts, which contrast with a bright blue patch on their forehead, hence their name. The rest of their body is orange-red, and they have a white belly and a white patch on their wings.

These redstarts prefer habitats with fast-flowing mountain streams, rocky terrain, and forested areas at higher elevations. They are agile and active foragers, often seen hopping along rocks or perched on branches near water bodies.

Their diet primarily consists of insects, larvae, and small invertebrates. During the breeding season, they sing melodious songs and are known for their vibrant displays to attract mates.

Blue Pitta:

• Scientific name: Hydrornis cyaneus
• Lifespan: Typically 2-4 years
• Size: Approximately 6-7 inches (15-17 cm)
• Origin: Native to Southeast Asia

The Blue Pitta is a striking and elusive bird species found in Southeast Asia. Adult Blue Pittas have bold and colorful plumage, with bright blue upperparts, including the head, wings, and tail. The rest of their body is a rich chestnut-brown, and they have a white patch on their throat and belly.

These pittas are typically found in lowland and montane evergreen forests, where they forage on the forest floor for insects, small invertebrates, and worms. Despite their vibrant appearance, they are often difficult to spot due to their shy and secretive nature.

Blue Pittas are known for their distinctive, flute-like calls, which are often heard during the breeding season. They build cup-shaped nests on the forest floor and are highly territorial during this time. These striking birds are a prized find for birdwatchers, and their vibrant colors make them a beautiful addition to the avian diversity of their habitat.

European kingfisher

• Scientific name: Alcedo atthis
• Lifespan: Typically 2-3 years
• Size: Approximately 6-7 inches (15-18 cm)
• Origin: Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa

The European Kingfisher is a stunning and colorful bird species found across Europe and parts of Asia. These kingfishers are renowned for their vibrant plumage, featuring bright blue and orange colors.

European Kingfishers are typically associated with freshwater habitats, including rivers, streams, and lakes. They are skilled hunters, often perching near the water’s edge and diving headfirst into the water to catch fish and aquatic insects. Their diet primarily consists of aquatic prey.

These kingfishers are also known for their rapid, high-pitched calls and are considered iconic symbols of European freshwater ecosystems.

Masked Trogon:

• Scientific name: Trogon personatus
• Lifespan: Typically around 6 to 10 years
• Wingspan: Approximately 30 to 35 cm (11.8 to 13.8 inches)
• Native to: Central and South America

The Masked Trogon is a striking bird native to parts of South and Central America, particularly in countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Panama. Adult Masked Trogons have distinct plumage with a black mask across their eyes and throat, which contrasts with a white forehead and chest. They have green upperparts, a red belly, and a long, broad tail with black and white markings.

These trogons inhabit humid tropical forests and montane cloud forests, where they are often seen perched in the canopy or on exposed branches. They primarily feed on a diet of insects and small fruits, which they catch on the wing or pluck from foliage.

Masked Trogons are known for their low, melodious calls and are highly prized by birdwatchers for their striking appearance and distinctive vocalizations. They are cavity nesters and often excavate nest holes in dead trees for breeding.

Cuban Trogon:

• Scientific name: Priotelus temnurus
• Lifespan: Typically around 5 to 10 years
• Wingspan: Approximately 42 to 44 cm (16.5 to 17.3 inches)
• Native to: Cuba.

The Cuban Trogon is the national bird of Cuba and is known for its vibrant and patriotic plumage. Adult Cuban Trogons have a striking combination of red, white, and blue colors. They have a crimson-red throat, chest, and underparts, a white face and belly, and bright blue wings and tail. Their bills are short and stout.

These trogons are endemic to Cuba and are typically found in lush forests and woodlands throughout the island. They are known for their acrobatic flight and are often seen perched on branches, scanning for insects, spiders, and small fruits.

Cuban Trogons are celebrated in Cuban culture and are associated with national identity. They are often featured in art and folklore. Their unique appearance and symbolic significance make them a special bird in the avian world.

Blue-crowned Trogon:

• Scientific name: Trogon curucui
• Lifespan: Typically 4-6 years
• Size: Approximately 9-10 inches (23-25 cm)
• Origin: Native to parts of South America

The Blue-crowned Trogon is a medium-sized bird found in various parts of South America, particularly in countries like Brazil, Bolivia, and Argentina. Adult Blue-crowned Trogons have a striking appearance, featuring a vivid blue crown and nape, a black face, and a greenish-blue back. Their wings and tail are a contrasting dark brown, and they have a white throat and chest.

These trogons inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and savannas. They are often seen perched in the canopy, where they scan for prey such as insects, spiders, and small vertebrates. Blue-crowned Trogons are known for their slow, deliberate flight.

These birds are cavity nesters, often choosing abandoned woodpecker holes for breeding. They have a distinctive vocalization, with a series of repetitive, hollow calls that can be heard throughout their range. Their striking colors and vocalizations make them a treat for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Surucua Trogon:

• Scientific name: Trogon surrucura
• Lifespan: Typically 4-6 years
• Size: Approximately 9-10 inches (23-25 cm)
• Origin: Native to South America

The Surucua Trogon is a vibrant and eye-catching bird native to parts of South America, including Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. Adult Surucua Trogons have striking plumage, featuring a deep green head, wings, and back, contrasting with a bright red belly and chest. They have a white throat and distinctive black eye patches.

These trogons are typically found in humid lowland and montane forests, where they forage for a diet consisting of insects, small vertebrates, and fruits. Surucua Trogons are known for their agile flight and ability to capture prey in mid-air.

They often call with a distinctive, loud, and repeated “ko-ko-ko-korrrr” sound that echoes through the forest. These trogons are known for their striking appearance, and their vibrant colors make them a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers.

Blue Manakin:

• Scientific name: Chiroxiphia caudata
• Lifespan: Typically 5-7 years
• Size: Approximately 3.5-4 inches (9-10 cm)
• Origin: Native to Central and South America

The Blue Manakin is a small, brilliantly colored bird found in Central and South America. Adult male Blue Manakins are known for their striking azure-blue plumage, which covers their entire bodies. They have a contrasting black crown and wings, with a small red cap on their head. Female Blue Manakins are more subdued, with olive-green plumage.

These manakins inhabit tropical and subtropical forests, where they are often seen in the mid-story and canopy. They feed primarily on a diet of fruits, insects, and small invertebrates. Blue Manakins are also known for their acrobatic courtship displays, involving intricate and synchronized movements by groups of males to attract females.

Their melodious calls and vibrant displays, along with their stunning blue plumage, make them popular subjects for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts in their range.

Long-tailed Manakin:

• Scientific name: Chiroxiphia linearis
• Lifespan: Typically 5-7 years
• Size: Approximately 3.5-4 inches (9-10 cm)
• Origin: Native to Central and South America

The Long-tailed Manakin is a small and striking bird found in Central and South America. Adult male Long-tailed Manakins have a remarkable appearance, with bright emerald-green plumage on their bodies, contrasting with a black crown and wings. They have an extended long tail, which is blue-black with bright red tips. Females, on the other hand, have more subdued greenish-brown plumage.

These manakins inhabit lowland and foothill rainforests, where they are known for their unique courtship behavior. Male Long-tailed Manakins perform coordinated displays in which one male jumps into the air and makes a distinctive “snap” sound by clapping its wings together. This display is often followed by another male, creating a duet.

Long-tailed Manakins primarily feed on fruits and insects. They are known for their vocalizations, including clear whistles and chirps. Their striking plumage, courtship displays, and vocalizations make them a captivating subject for birdwatchers and researchers studying avian behavior.

• Painted Bunting
• Crimson Rosella
• Sri Lankan Blue Magpie
• Red Lory
• Scarlet Macaw
• Red-and-green Macaw
• Blue-eared Kingfisher
• Blue-fronted Redstart
• Blue Pitta
• Masked Trogon
• Cuban Trogon
• Blue-crowned Trogon
• Surucua Trogon
• Blue Manakin
• Long-tailed Manakin
• Red-throated Blue Bird
• European kingfisher