35 Types of Blue Birds [Images + IDs]

Exploring different kinds of blue birds is a fun adventure in the bird world. For ages, the mesmerizing blue colors of these birds have enchanted observers and bird enthusiasts alike.

From the stunning Blue Grosbeak to the agile Mountain Bluebird, each species of blue bird has its own distinct characteristics and behaviors, adding to the beauty of these bluebirds.

Within this article, we will look into 35 unique types of blue birds, each presenting a fascinating glimpse into the spectrum of blues found throughout the avian kingdom. Join us as we traverse across North America and beyond, discovering the beauty and diversity of these captivating creatures.

Types of Blue Birds

Blue-black Grosbeak

• Scientific name: Cyanoloxia cyanoides
• Lifespan: 6-7 years
• Size: 5 to 6-inch
• Native to: Middle America and northwestern South America

Blue grosbeaks are medium-sized birds, approximately 8 inches in length. They are quite eye-catching with their vibrant, large, bright blue bodies and silver bills. You can easily spot chestnut wingbars on them. In contrast, the female blue grosbeak has a primary color that resembles light cinnamon, with wings that are darker in color.

When it comes to their diet, blue grosbeaks enjoy a menu that includes insects, seeds, and grains. If you want to attract them to your yard, offering grain and birdseed can be enticing.

These birds tend to make their homes in areas with thick shrubbery and tall trees. For nesting, they create small cup-shaped nests using twigs and various organic materials, placing them in low-lying trees, shrubs, or bushes. They typically have 1-2 broods per breeding season, with each brood containing 3-5 eggs. The eggs are pale blue to white with occasional brown spots and are relatively small, measuring about 0.8 inches by 0.7 inches. The incubation period for these eggs lasts for approximately 12-13 days.

Blue grosbeaks are migratory birds. During the spring, they embark on a journey north to the United States to breed and raise their young. When fall arrives, they head back south for the winter, with many of them finding refuge in Mexico and the Caribbean islands. However, there is a small group of blue grosbeaks that call a specific area in Mexico their year-round home, and they do not typically migrate like their counterparts. In their year-round range, blue grosbeaks can be found in parts of Mexico, while their breeding range extends across the southern half of the United States, including North Dakota, South Dakota, and Kansas.

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.

Eastern Bluebird

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• Scientific name: Sialia sialis
• Lifespan: 6 to 10 years
• Size: 6.3–8.3 in
• Native to: Eastern North America and south as far as Nicaragua

Eastern bluebirds are small birds, measuring about 7 inches in length. They are easily recognizable by their vibrant royal blue plumage, along with an orange throat and breast, and a white belly and undertail. While both male and female eastern bluebirds share similar features, the female tends to have more muted colors.

When it comes to their diet, eastern bluebirds have a varied menu. During the spring and summer months, they primarily feed on insects and spiders. However, as the seasons change to fall and winter, their diet shifts towards small fruits.

For those looking to attract eastern bluebirds to their yards, providing suet, sunflower seeds, dried fruit, and jelly can be enticing food options.

Eastern bluebirds are often found in wide-open spaces, including fields and meadows, where they make their homes and raise their young.

In terms of nesting, eastern bluebirds are cavity nesters. The male bluebird takes on the task of selecting the nest site, which could be an old woodpecker hole in a tree or a manmade nestbox. However, it is the female who is responsible for building the nest. Interestingly, she may reuse the same nest for multiple broods. During the breeding season, they tend to have 2-7 broods, each containing 4-5 pale blue (sometimes white) eggs with no blemishes or discoloration. These eggs are relatively small, measuring about 0.9 inches by 0.8 inches. The incubation period for these eggs typically lasts from 11 to 19 days.

While many eastern bluebirds remain within their year-round range throughout the entire year, some exhibit migratory behavior. These migratory bluebirds head north for breeding and raising their young and then travel south during the winter months. They either return to their year-round range or move further west into regions like Colorado, New Mexico, and western Texas.

Their year-round range encompasses the U.S. states located south and east of Nebraska, as well as Mexico and Central America. During the breeding season, they can be found in regions including northwest Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, the northern half of Wisconsin and Michigan, New Hampshire, Maine, and parts of Canadian provinces such as Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. In the winter, eastern bluebirds can be spotted in areas including eastern Colorado, New Mexico, western Texas, and northeast Mexico.

Indigo Bunting

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• Scientific name: Passerina cyanea
• Lifespan: 10 years
• Size: 5 inches
• Native to: Southern Canada to northern Florida during the breeding season, and from southern Florida to northern South America during the winter.

Indigo Buntings are commonly found in a variety of habitats. You can spot them in brushy fields, where they often perch on weedy plants, scrub areas, and along the edges of woodlands. They also make themselves at home in clearings within deciduous woods and along the edges of swamps.

When it comes to their diet, savannah sparrows have a diverse menu. They typically feed on small seeds, insects, and fruits. While they are not regular visitors to bird feeders, you may attract them by offering nyjer/thistle and white millet seeds.

Their preferred habitat includes brushy fields, weedy plants, scrubland, and woodland edges, as well as clearings within deciduous woods and swampy areas.

For nesting, Indigo Bunting create cup-shaped nests, which they usually place in shrubs or trees about 3 feet high off the ground. During the breeding season, they tend to have 1-3 broods, with each brood containing 3-4 eggs. These eggs are white with a few brown spots.

Blue Jay

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• Scientific name: Cyanocitta cristata
• Lifespan: about 7 years
• Size: 9 and 12 inches
• Native to: North America

The blue jay is a large bird, measuring about 12 inches in length. It has a medium blue and white body with distinctive features like a blue crest on its head, which it can flatten at will. The bird also sports a gray belly and a white face. Its wings are a combination of white and blue with noticeable black spots. Interestingly, both male and female blue jays share the same appearance.

When it comes to their diet, blue jays are omnivorous, which means they eat a variety of foods. They enjoy insects, fruits, seeds, nuts, and they are not averse to consuming other birds’ eggs and nestlings.

For those interested in attracting blue jays to their yards, offering whole peanuts, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn can be enticing.

Blue jays are quite adaptable when it comes to their habitat. They are commonly found in forested areas with mixed types of trees, but they are also a frequent sight in suburban and urban environments.

When it comes to nesting, blue jays build substantial nests made from twigs, bark, and mud, typically resting on tree branches at heights ranging from 5 to 50 feet. During the breeding season, they tend to have 1-2 broods, and each brood can contain 2-7 eggs. The eggs of blue jays vary in color from pale blue to a light brown base, often adorned with brown or gray spots. These eggs are relatively small, measuring about 1 inch by just under 1 inch. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs, which takes about 17-18 days. The young birds, or fledglings, typically leave the nest between 17 to 21 days after hatching.

Blue jays are known for being non-migratory birds. They tend to stay within their year-round range throughout all four seasons, including the breeding season. While they may move around within this range, they do not have a regular pattern of migrating north for breeding and south for the winter, as some other bird species do. However, in rare instances, some blue jays may venture west of their year-round range during the winter months.

Mountain Bluebird

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• Scientific name: Sialia currucoides
• Lifespan: Up to 6 years
• Size: Approximately 16-20 centimeters (6-8 inches) in length
• Origin: Native to North America

The Mountain Bluebird is a small bird, measuring about 7 inches in length. They are known for their sky-blue coloring, with darker blue wings and tails. Their undersides are lighter in shade, and they have a distinctive white undertail with black wingtips. These birds have straight, thin bills. Females, on the other hand, have a more subdued appearance, with grayish-brown feathers and a touch of soft blue on their wings and tail.

When it comes to their diet, Mountain Bluebirds have a varied menu. They primarily feed on insects, but they also enjoy consuming fruit and seeds.

While they are not commonly seen at bird feeders, Mountain Bluebirds prefer natural foraging. They are more likely to be found in open woodlands, fields, and prairies.

For nesting, Mountain Bluebirds are cavity nesters. They often use old woodpecker holes in trees or manmade nesting boxes for their nests. During the breeding season, they typically have 1-2 broods, with each brood containing 4-8 eggs. The eggs are relatively small, measuring about 1 inch by 0.8 inches. They can be pale blue to bluish-white, with pure white eggs being a rare occurrence. The incubation period for these eggs lasts for approximately 18-21 days.

Steller’s Jay

• Scientific name: Cyanocitta stelleri
• Lifespan: 16 years
• Size: 12–13 in
• Native to: Western North America and the mountains of Central America

The Steller’s Jay is a large bird, measuring around 11.5 inches in length. These birds are known for their striking appearance with a dark blue body and crest, contrasted by a black head and crest adorned with spots of blue. Female Steller’s Jays share a similar look to the males.

In terms of diet, Steller’s Jays have a varied menu. They primarily feed on nuts, seeds, fruits, and insects. Additionally, they are known to consume other birds’ eggs and nestlings, as well as small animals.

Although they may not be frequent visitors to bird feeders, you can attract Steller’s Jays by offering foods like whole peanuts, sunflower seeds, and suet.

Steller’s Jays are typically found in forested areas that feature a mix of tree types, including coniferous and deciduous trees.

For nesting, Steller’s Jays create large open-cup nests constructed from twigs, bark, and mud. They usually position these nests high up in conifer trees. During the breeding season, they typically have one brood, consisting of 4-5 eggs. These eggs have a distinctive appearance, with blue or green coloration and dark brown, purple, or olive spots. The incubation period for these eggs lasts for approximately 16-18 days, and the young jays, or fledglings, typically leave the nest at around 16-18 days old.

Pinyon Jay

The Pinyon Jay is a bird that measures approximately 10-11 inches in length. These birds have a distinctive appearance with a dusty blue body, a lighter blue belly and throat, a short tail, and no crown on their heads. The female Pinyon Jay looks quite similar to the male in terms of its appearance.

In terms of diet, Pinyon Jays primarily feed on Pinyon-pine seeds, acorns, various fruits, and grains. However, they are not picky eaters and also consume insects, lizards, snakes, nestling birds, and small mammals.

While they may not be regular visitors to bird feeders, you can attract Pinyon Jays by offering whole peanuts, sunflower seeds, suet, and cracked corn.

Pinyon Jays tend to inhabit forested areas characterized by Pinyon-juniper trees, sagebrush, scrub oak, and other types of pine trees.

When it comes to nesting, Pinyon Jays construct large, bulky nests made of sticks and twigs in trees, often at heights ranging from 3 to 115 feet above the ground. They typically have one brood per breeding season, with each brood containing 2-5 eggs. The eggs are relatively large, measuring between 1.3 to 1.5 inches in length, and they are pale blue with dark brown specks. The incubation period for these eggs lasts for approximately 17 days, and the young birds, or fledglings, typically leave the nest between 21 to 22 days after hatching.

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.

Barn Swallow

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• Scientific name: Hirundo rustica
• Lifespan: 4 years
• Size: 5.5 and 7 inches
• Native to: Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas

The barn swallow is a small bird with a distinctive appearance. It measures about 7 inches in length and has shiny steel-blue feathers on its back. Its forehead and throat are chestnut in color, while its underparts are a rusty-orange shade. One of its noticeable features is its long forked tail, which has a white base. It’s worth noting that the female barn swallow has lighter coloring and a shorter tail compared to the male.

When it comes to their diet, barn swallows primarily feed on insects, with a preference for beetles, wasps, and flies. They have a unique way of getting a drink by skimming the surface of the water, but they are not typically seen visiting bird feeders.

These birds are commonly found in open fields and pastures, where they build their nests. Barn swallows prefer manmade structures such as barns for nesting. They construct their nests using mud. During the breeding season, they produce two broods, each containing 4-5 white eggs with brown markings. The incubation period for these eggs ranges from 13 to 17 days.

Barn swallows are migratory birds. In the spring, they migrate north to the United States and Canada for breeding and raising their young. When autumn arrives, they head south to the southern states of Mexico. However, some barn swallows remain in central Mexico throughout the year, maintaining a year-round range there.

Belted Kingfisher (Crested Bluebirds In Florida)

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• Scientific name: Ardea alba
• Lifespan: 15 years
• Size: 3 feet
• Native to: Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe

The belted kingfisher is a relatively large bird, measuring about 13 inches in length. It has a distinctive appearance with a large head, a long bill, and a stout body. The bird is predominantly blue-gray in color with a white ring around its neck and a white chest. However, the female belted kingfisher is similar in appearance to the male but features an additional chestnut band on her chest.

When it comes to their diet, belted kingfishers primarily feed on fish. They are not commonly seen at bird feeders but are often attracted to areas with streams or ponds.

These birds are typically found in habitats near bodies of water, including streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, and calm marine waters, especially those with clear water and minimal vegetation.

For nesting, belted kingfishers dig burrows along the water’s edge. They usually have 1-2 broods per season, each containing 5-8 large, glossy white eggs that are about 1.5 inches long. The incubation period for these eggs lasts for approximately 22-24 days.

Belted kingfishers are known for their migratory behavior, although not all of them migrate. In the spring, migratory individuals head north to places like Montana, North Dakota, northern Minnesota, Canada, and Alaska for breeding and raising their young. When fall arrives, these migratory birds head back south, sometimes as far as Arizona, New Mexico, southern California, and Mexico.

While many belted kingfishers migrate, some choose to stay in their year-round range, which includes all U.S. states except North Dakota and Arizona, as well as the Pacific coast of Canada’s British Columbia. During the winter, some remain in their year-round range, while others continue their migration south to escape the cold temperatures.

Black-throated Blue Warbler

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• Scientific name: Setophaga caerulescens
• Lifespan: 10 years
• Size: 5.1 in
• Native to: North America

The Black-throated Blue Warbler is a small bird, measuring about 5 inches in length. These birds have midnight or steel-blue feathers on their back, a black throat, and a white belly. They primarily eat insects and fruit, but you can attract them to your feeder with suet, peanut butter, and nectar.

Black-throated Blue Warblers prefer to live in mature deciduous and mixed evergreen woodlands that have lots of thick shrubs. When it comes to nesting, they create cup-shaped nests in shrubs using bark and spider webs. They typically have 1 to 3 broods per breeding season, with each brood containing 2 to 5 small, speckled, creamy white eggs measuring about 0.6 to 0.8 inches. The incubation period for their eggs lasts approximately 12 to 13 days.

These warblers are known for their migrations. They head north in the spring to breed and raise their young, and in the fall, they fly south to spend the winter in southern Florida and the Caribbean. Their breeding range includes areas like Northern Wisconsin, Northern Michigan, eastern Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, the New England states, and the southern provinces of Ontario and Quebec in Canada. During the winter, you can find them in southern Florida and various Caribbean islands.

Asian Fairy-bluebird

• Scientific name: Irena puella
• Lifespan: 10-12 years
• Size: 10-inch
• Native to: Sri Lanka and the western coast of India

A medium-sized tree-dwelling bird, the Asian fairy-bluebird (also known as the Asian blue-backed fairy bluebird) may be found in woods across tropical southern Asia. This stunning bird has powerful black legs and a beak, as well as vivid red eyes.

While females have a duller turquoise back, males have a dazzling blue back. The head is the same shade of blue as the sky, which may be both vivid and azure at different moments.

Asian fairy-bluebirds nest in the densest, moistest regions of the forest, usually in couples or small groups. They are known to conceal their nest and the young using green moss.

These omnivorous blue-headed birds mostly eat fruits, floral nectar, and a few insects.

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (Small Bluebirds In Florida)

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• Scientific name: Polioptila caerulea
• Lifespan: 3-4 years
• Size: 3.9–5.1 in
• Native to: North America

The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a tiny bird, measuring around 4.25 inches in length. These birds have soft blue-gray feathers on their upperparts, distinctive white eye-rings, and white underparts. They are characterized by their long black tails with white undersides. Interestingly, both male and female blue-gray gnatcatchers look the same in terms of their appearance. However, during the breeding season, the male may have narrow black eyebrows that accentuate its features.

When it comes to their diet, blue-gray gnatcatchers primarily feed on insects and spiders, which they catch as they dart through the air.

These birds are not commonly seen visiting bird feeders. They tend to prefer foraging for insects in their natural environment.

Blue-gray gnatcatchers are typically found in deciduous forested areas, where they make their nests and raise their young.

For nesting, they create tidy cup-shaped nests using natural fibers, bark, and spiderwebs. These nests can be situated at heights ranging from 3 to 80 feet in trees or shrubs. During the breeding season, they usually have 1-2 broods, with each brood consisting of 3-5 pale blue eggs with red or brown spots. The eggs are quite small, measuring between 0.5 to 0.6 inches by 0.4 to 0.5 inches. The incubation period lasts for approximately 11-15 days, and the young birds, or fledglings, typically leave the nest at around 10-15 days old.

Blue-gray gnatcatchers exhibit migratory behavior. While some of them stay within their year-round range during spring and summer, most migrate north into the United States to breed and raise their young. In the fall, these migratory individuals head back south, returning to their year-round range or even traveling further south along the Mexican Pacific coast, southern Florida, and the Caribbean islands to spend the winter.

Their year-round range includes the southernmost parts of several U.S. states, such as California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. Their breeding range encompasses the eastern half of the United States, as well as parts of California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Kansas, and Oklahoma. During the winter months, they can be found in regions including southern California, southwest Arizona, along the Pacific coast of Mexico, the southernmost tip of Florida, and various Caribbean islands.

Cerulean Warbler

• Scientific name: Setophaga cerulea
• Lifespan: 6 years
• Size: 4.5 in
• Native to: Eastern North American 

Cerulean Warblers are small birds, measuring about 4.3 inches in length. They have sky-blue feathers on their upper bodies with white wing bars and darker blue streaks on their backs. Their bellies are white, and they sport a steel-blue neck band with stripes on their sides. The female Cerulean Warblers, on the other hand, have light blue or green upper bodies, soft yellow bellies, brown wings, and a touch of white under their eyes.

These birds primarily eat insects and plants but are unlikely to visit bird feeders. They prefer living in deciduous forests with mature tall trees. When it’s time to nest, they create cup-shaped nests using twigs, grass, and spiderwebs, usually placed high up in trees at heights ranging from 16 to 115 feet. They typically have one brood per breeding season, with each brood containing 1 to 5 eggs. These eggs are small, measuring between 0.6 to 0.8 inches, and are grayish-green with brown speckles. The incubation period for their eggs lasts around 11 to 12 days.

Cerulean Warblers are known for their migrations. They head north to the Midwest and Northeastern United States for the spring and summer months, and then they travel south to South America for the winter. Their breeding range includes areas like Eastern Minnesota, the southern halves of Wisconsin and Michigan, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Kentucky, Tennessee, southern New York, and the far southern edge of Ontario, Canada. During the winter, you can find them in various regions of South America.

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.

Common Grackle

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• Scientific name: Quiscalus
• Lifespan: 17 years
• Size: 11-inch
• Native to: North and South America

The common grackle is a relatively large bird, measuring around 12.5 inches in length. These birds are easily identifiable by their iridescent blue-purple and bronze plumage. They have striking yellow eyes and distinctive long, flared tails. While both male and female common grackles share similar features, the female tends to have less vibrant coloring, appears somewhat browner, and possesses a shorter tail.

In terms of their diet, common grackles have diverse preferences, as they feed on insects, grains, seeds, and fruit, and even scavenge for discarded food in the garbage.

When it comes to attracting common grackles to bird feeders, offering sunflower seeds, particularly black-oil sunflower seeds, can be enticing.

These birds are adaptable when it comes to their habitat, and they are commonly found in fields with scattered trees, open woodlands, farmlands, and marshes. It’s not uncommon to spot common grackles in suburban yards as well.

For nesting, common grackles construct bulky cup-shaped nests made of twigs. They typically place these nests at heights ranging from 3 to 20 feet in conifer trees. Their nests usually contain 3-5 eggs, which are incubated for about 12-15 days. The young birds, or fledglings, typically leave the nest at around 12-15 days old.

Common grackles exhibit migratory behavior. While some remain within their year-round range throughout all four seasons, many migrate north in the spring, venturing as far north as Canada’s Northwest Territories to breed and raise their young. Then, when fall arrives, they head back south into their year-round range. A small portion of the population pushes even further southwest into Texas.

Their year-round range includes Nebraska and the U.S. states located south and east of it. Their breeding range extends to regions such as Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, western Kansas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, the New England states, and all Canadian provinces (except for Nunavut and British Columbia). During the winter months, common grackles can be found along the southwest edge of their year-round range in Texas.

Purple Martin

• • Scientific name: Progne subis
  • Lifespan: about 5 to 7 years
  • Size: 7-inch
  • Native to: North America

The Purple Martin is a medium-sized bird, approximately 8.5 inches in length, known for its distinct appearance. It boasts a blue-purple head, back, and belly, along with black wings and tail.

In terms of diet, Purple Martins primarily feed on insects, with a particular fondness for dragonflies.

Although they are not commonly seen at bird feeders, Purple Martins are known to be social birds and are usually found within 100 feet of human dwellings. They often exist in large colonies, where multiple birds live together.

When it comes to nesting, Purple Martins are cavity nesters, meaning they nest in cavities or hollow spaces. They primarily utilize manmade nest boxes designed to accommodate a colony of birds. During the breeding season, they typically have one brood, which consists of 4-5 white eggs. The incubation period for these eggs lasts for approximately 15-18 days, and the young birds, or fledglings, typically leave the nest after 26-30 days.

Purple Martins are migratory birds. They spend their winters in South America and migrate north during the breeding season to raise their young.

Their breeding range includes the Pacific northwest coast of Washington, Oregon, and California, as well as parts of Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. They are also found in the eastern half of the United States and the southern parts of Canada’s Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Ontario. During the winter months, Purple Martins can be found in South America.

Red-breasted Nuthatch

• Scientific name: Sitta canadensis
• Lifespan:  6 years.
• Size: 4.5 in
• Native to: North Americ

The Red-Breasted Nuthatch is a small bird, measuring about 4.5 inches in length. These birds have distinctive features, including grayish-blue backs, a white head adorned with black stripes over each eye, and an orange-cinnamon-colored breast. They also have a pointed, pick-like beak. Female Red-Breasted Nuthatches share a similar appearance, but their undersides tend to have more muted colors. You’ll often spot them climbing upside-down on deciduous trees while foraging for insects beneath the bark.

When it comes to their diet, Red-Breasted Nuthatches primarily feed on insects, spiders, and various other bugs.

While they may not be regular visitors to bird feeders, you can attract Red-Breasted Nuthatches by offering suet, sunflower seeds, shelled peanuts, and fruit as feeder food.

Red-Breasted Nuthatches are commonly found in forested areas, particularly those primarily comprised of coniferous trees like pines. In the eastern regions, you can also find them in wooded areas with deciduous trees. During the winter months, southern populations of these birds tend to prefer mountainous regions before heading to lower-lying areas.

For nesting, Red-Breasted Nuthatches are cavity nesters, and they have a unique habit of excavating their own holes for nesting. During the breeding season, they typically have one brood, and each brood contains about 6 eggs. These eggs are white and speckled with red-brown markings.

Red-Breasted Nuthatches exhibit partial migratory behavior. While many remain in their year-round range throughout the year, others migrate south for the winter. Their year-round range encompasses southern Alaska, the western third of the United States, northern Minnesota and Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New England, and all Canadian provinces except Nunavut. During the winter, you can find them in U.S. states that are not part of their year-round range.

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.

Superb Fairywren

• Scientific name: Malurus cyaneus
• Lifespan: 5 – 6 years
• Size: 5-inch
• Native to: eastern Australia

Superb Fairywren may be spotted sitting high on barren twigs inspecting their territory with their magnificent blue heads.  One of the species with the most vibrant colors during the mating season is the splendid fairywren. Their sky-blue-colored crowns became iridescent at that time. They have dark brown legs as well.

The male super fairywrens are said to be “the least loyal birds in the world” because they are sexually promiscuous while being socially monogamous. A significant percentage (about 76%) of the offspring are the product of avian “cheating” and are sired by males from outside the social group.

The common food of fairywrens are grasshoppers, ants, larvae, tiny seeds, and fruits.

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.

Blue-black Kingfisher

• Scientific name: Todiramphus nigrocyaneus
• Lifespan: n/a
• Size: 9.1 inches
• Native to: New Guinea

The medium-sized Blue-back Kingfisher has a dark blue head (crown), light blue eyebrows, a black face, and a pale blue back that darkens toward the rump and tail.

It may be found in Papua New Guinea and the nearby islands of Salawati, Batanta, and Yapen, and is thought to be rare. The carnivorous blue-back kingfisher eats fish and crabs.

Rock Pigeon

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• Scientific name: Columba livia
• Lifespan: 6 years
• Size: 11-13 inches
• Native to: Europe North Africa and India, it now lives in wild or semi-wild conditions in cities all over the world, including most of North America

The Rock Pigeon is a large bird, measuring approximately 12-14 inches in length. These birds have a plump appearance, characterized by blue-gray wings with black pointed tips, short red legs, a round and wide black tail, and an iridescent neck.

When it comes to their diet, Rock Pigeons primarily feed on grains, seeds, and fruit. They are often spotted scavenging for food around trash cans in urban areas.

While they may not be regular visitors to bird feeders, you can attract Rock Pigeons by offering foods like millet, cracked corn, black-oil sunflower seeds, safflower, and peanut hearts.

Rock Pigeons are commonly found in areas around cities, towns, and farmlands. They are adaptable birds that thrive in urban environments.

For nesting, Rock Pigeons construct large nests made of sticks and grass. They often choose locations with ledges, such as highway overpasses, barns, bridges, and tall buildings. During the breeding season, they can have multiple broods in a single year, ranging from 1 to 6 broods. Each brood typically contains 1-3 eggs, which are white in color. The incubation period for these eggs lasts for about 18 days, and the young pigeons, or squabs, fledge at around 25-32 days of age.

Rock Pigeons are not migratory birds. They stay within their year-round range throughout all seasons of the year. Their year-round range includes every U.S. state, the southernmost edges of Canada, and Mexico.

Tree Swallow

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• Scientific name: Tachycineta bicolor
• Lifespan: 5 years
• Size: 14 cm
• Native to: North America

The Tree Swallow is a small bird, measuring about 5-6 inches in length. These birds have a distinct appearance, featuring dark metallic blue to blue-green feathers with a white belly. They also have notched tails and pointed wingtips. While the males exhibit these vibrant colors, female Tree Swallows share a similar appearance but tend to be a bit duller in coloring.

When it comes to their diet, Tree Swallows primarily feed on insects and small fruits, which they catch while in flight.

Although they are not typically seen at bird feeders, Tree Swallows prefer open areas such as fields, large lawns, and marshes for foraging and nesting.

Speaking of nesting, Tree Swallows are cavity nesters. They often choose to nest in old, dead trees or existing holes left behind by other cavity-nesting birds. During the breeding season, they lay 2-8 eggs. These eggs start with a light pink color and gradually fade to white. The incubation period for these eggs lasts for approximately 14-15 days, and the young Tree Swallows, or fledglings, typically leave the nest at about 18-22 days of age.

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.

Tufted Titmouse

• Scientific name: Baeolophus bicolor
• Lifespan: 2.1 years
• Size: 5.5–6.3 in
• Native to: Nearctic region

The Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) is a small songbird found in eastern North America. With its distinctive tufted crest atop its head, this charming bird is easily recognizable. It has a grayish upper body, a white face, and rusty-colored flanks.

Tufted Titmice are highly active and social birds that inhabit woodlands, forests, and suburban areas. They have a varied diet, feeding on insects, seeds, berries, and nuts. These agile birds can be seen hopping from branch to branch or hanging upside down as they search for food.

During the breeding season, Tufted Titmice build cup-shaped nests in tree cavities or nest boxes, often lined with moss, fur, and feathers. They lay a clutch of 5 to 8 eggs, which are incubated by the female.

Known for their curious nature and distinctive “peter-peter-peter” song, Tufted Titmice is a delight to observe for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Their lively presence and acrobatic foraging behaviors bring joy to any backyard or woodland encounter.

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.

White-breasted Nuthatch

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• Scientific name: Sitta carolinensis
• Lifespan: 2-6 years
• Size: 13-15 centimeters (5-6 inches)
• Origin: North America

The White-Breasted Nuthatch is a small bird, typically measuring between 5 to 6 inches in length. These birds have a distinct appearance with a gray-blue back, a white head adorned with a black cap, and a chestnut-colored area under their tail. They also possess a long, thin, pick-like beak. Female White-Breasted Nuthatches share a similar look, except their cap and neck are gray. These nuthatches are often observed climbing upside-down on deciduous trees as they search for insects beneath the tree bark.

When it comes to their diet, White-Breasted Nuthatches primarily feed on insects and seeds.

While they may not be frequent visitors to bird feeders, you can attract White-Breasted Nuthatches by offering suet, sunflower seeds, and shelled peanuts as feeder food.

White-Breasted Nuthatches tend to reside in habitats near mature deciduous and mixed forests, as well as wooded suburban areas such as orchards, parks, and backyards.

For nesting, White-Breasted Nuthatches are cavity nesters. They typically have one brood per breeding season, consisting of 5-9 eggs. These eggs are white with brown markings. The incubation period for these eggs lasts for approximately 11-12 days, and the young nuthatches fledge at about 13-14 days of age.

Unlike migratory birds, White-Breasted Nuthatches do not undertake seasonal migrations. They remain in their year-round range throughout all seasons of the year. However, a small portion of the population may migrate to a strip in the south-central United States for the winter months. Their year-round range includes every U.S. state, Canada’s southern provinces, and Mexico.

Final Thoughts on Blue Birds

Exploring the realm of blue birds has been truly enlightening, revealing the vast array and breathtaking allure of these magnificent creatures.

From their enchanting hues to their distinct behaviors, encompassing feeding, mating rituals, and vocalizations, each blue bird discussed here underscores the remarkable diversity within this avian group.

However, with numerous blue birds inhabiting diverse regions, there remains a wealth of undiscovered wonders waiting to be explored, making the world of birdwatching an endlessly exciting pursuit for enthusiasts of all kinds.

We welcome you to share your insights, encounters, or any additional types of blue birds you’ve encountered — feel encouraged to contribute by leaving a comment below!

List of all Blue birds mentioned in the post

• Barn Swallow
• Red-throated Blue Bird
• Belted Kingfisher
• Black-Throated Blue Warbler
• Blue Grosbeak
• Blue Manakin
• Blue Jay
• Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher
• Steller’s Jay
• Cerulean Warbler
• Mountain Bluebird
• Pinyon Jay
• Common Grackle
• Eastern Bluebird
• Indigo Bunting
• Northern Parula
• Purple Martin
• Red-Breasted Nuthatch
• Rock Pigeon
• Tree Swallow
• Sri Lankan Blue Magpie
• Painted bunting
• Tufted Titmouse
• White-Breasted Nuthatch
• European kingfisher
• Blue Pitta
• Asian Fairy-bluebird
• Blue-fronted Redstart
• Blue-eared Kingfisher
• Blue-crowned Trogon
• Blue-black Kingfisher
• Superb Fairywren