The eastern bluebird is welcomed in North American gardens as much for its insect devouring benefits as it is for its beautiful plumage. The population of the eastern bluebird suffered declines in the 1970s, but has been steadily increasing with the help of conservation efforts. Learn to identify this colorful thrush and distinguish it from its western variants.
Instructions
1. Notice the deep blue back, rust-colored throat and white belly of the male eastern bluebird to help identify the bird. The female has similar but duller grayish-blue plumage on the head. The mountain bluebird lacks any rusty coloration.
2. Estimate the size of the eastern bluebird, which helps to distinguish it from the similar looking lazuli bunting. The eastern bluebird measures 7 inches, and the lazuli bunting measures 5 ? inches in length.
3. Observe the nesting habits of the eastern bluebird. This cavity nesting bird suffered from competition with two other non-native cavity nesting birds, the house sparrow and the starling. With the aid of artificial nesting boxes, populations have rebounded.
4. Compare the range of the eastern bluebird to the very similar looking western bluebird. The eastern bluebird dominates the eastern half of the United States from the southern tip of Texas up through North Dakota and into southern Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The western bluebird is concentrated in the western coastal states.
5. Listen to the call of the eastern bluebird to help identify it. The resonant "chur-li" call may be interspersed with short warbling songs.
6. Enjoy the display of the male eastern bluebird as he prances about the nesting site to attract females. He brings nesting material to the cavity and waves his wings, but it is up to the female to eventually construct the nest.
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