Did you know that there are around 18,000 bird species in the world? If you’ve taken a closer look at the ones surrounding you, then you might be fascinated with the diverse wildlife right in your backyard!
For instance, you might’ve seen bluebirds and want to learn more about these creatures. In that case, you’re in the right place. Here’s what you should know about these birds!
What Are Bluebirds?
This might sound like a question with a simple answer, but you’d be surprised at just how many people get this wrong!
Contrary to popular belief, bluebirds aren’t all birds that are colored blue. So, for instance, blue jays, scrub jays, and great blue herons aren’t bluebirds, even though they have blue feathers.
Bluebirds are a specific species of bird that belongs to the thrush family. So they’re cousins of birds such as the American robin and the wood thrush. This means they also have a very unique birdsong like their cousins!
Within the bluebird classification, there are 3 types you’ll find in North America: eastern bluebird, western bluebird, and mountain bluebird.
When birdwatching, be careful that you don’t confuse bluebirds with some other birds. In particular, the lazuli bunting and indigo bunting look very similar to bluebirds!
What Do Bluebirds Look Like?
Bluebirds are considered a small bird. They’re about the size of your hand!
They’re colored an amazing blue on their heads and wings. And on their stomaches, they have tan and white feathers. Bluebirds also have thin beaks and beady black eyes.
What’s cool about these birds is even their eggs are blue!
How to Attract Bluebirds to Your Yard
All animals need 3 things: food, water, and shelter. If you can provide these to bluebirds, they’ll surely make a home in your yard!
For food and water, you’ll want to set up a birdfeeder and a birdbath. In the birdfeeder, you’ll want to put in mealworms, as they love to eat insects. If you’re growing berries, you can also pluck some and offer them in a dish since they’re a treat too!
As for shelter, you can set up birdhouses or nest boxes. For the best chances of bluebirds taking up residence, you should put these up before breeding season. That way, a breeding pair will see your nest box as the perfect home and will move in!
For more information about bluebird houses, visit www.birdinformer.com.
Have Fun Birdwatching
Now that you’ve learned more about bluebirds, you’re sure to have a newfound appreciation for these creatures. Make sure you don’t confuse them with other blue-colored birds!
Once you’re certain you’ve identified bluebirds in your yard, you’re sure to have a fun time birdwatching, especially if you’ve set up a nest box for them. And don’t forget to provide plenty of food and water for them too!
Want to read more on birds, such as blue jays? Then browse our other blog articles now!
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