Welcome to the wonderful world of bluebirds in Alberta! Alberta is home to a variety of bluebirds, including the Western bluebird, Mountain bluebird, and Common bluebird.
These beautiful birds add a splash of color and vibrancy to the prairies of Alberta and can be seen fluttering through the air in search of food and nesting sites.
Alberta’s bluebirds are an important part of the province’s biodiversity and are considered a “species of special concern” by the Canadian Wildlife Service.
In this article, we will explore the different bluebird species found in Alberta, their habitats and behaviors, and the conservation efforts being made to ensure their long-term survival.
1. Blue Jay
The blue jay is a type of bird in the family Corvidae that is native to parts of North America. It is found in the eastern and central parts of the United States, but some of the population may migrate.
There are also permanent populations in Newfoundland, Canada, and breeding populations across southern Canada. It is a passerine bird, which means it is a perching bird, with its feet adapted for perching rather than walking or grasping.
The blue jay is known for its bright blue plumage and crest, as well as its loud and raucous call, which can be heard throughout its range. Its diet consists mainly of arthropods, nuts, and seeds, and it is a common sight in backyards and woodlands.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
2. Tree Swallow
The tree swallow is a migratory bird belonging to the family Hirundinidae. This species of bird can be found in the Americas and was first described in 1807 by French ornithologist Louis Vieillot.
At the time, it was classified as Hirundo bicolor, but since then it has been moved to the genus Tachycineta. This new classification has caused some debate among ornithologists due to its phylogenetic placement.
Tree swallows are small to medium-sized birds and have a glossy blue-black head, wings, and tail, with a white throat and breast. They usually feed on small insects such as flies, beetles, and caterpillars.
During the breeding season, tree swallows build cup-shaped nests in tree cavities or on artificial structures such as buildings and bridges. They usually lay 3-6 eggs which are incubated by both parents.
Migratory tree swallows typically travel south in the autumn and north in the spring. They are often seen in flocks, and they may migrate up to several thousand miles in a single season.
During the winter months, the tree swallow can be found in open areas such as agricultural fields, marshes, and meadows. Tree swallows are an important part of the ecosystem as they are known to help control insect populations.
They are also beautiful birds and make wonderful subjects for bird watchers and photographers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Tachycineta |
| Species | T. bicolor |
3. Steller’s Jay
Steller’s jay is a beautiful and unique bird found in North America and Central America. It is a close relative of the blue jay, which can be found in eastern North America.
The Steller’s jay has a unique feature that sets it apart from other jays, a crest of feathers on its head. This crest is what gives the jay its distinctive appearance. The Steller’s jay is also the only jay in the western half of North America with this feature.
The Steller’s jay is native to the western part of North America, particularly the Rocky Mountains, as well as some parts of Central America. It can be found in many different habitats, ranging from coniferous forests to open woodlands, but it is most common in mountain areas.
The Steller’s jay has a striking blue and black plumage, and its loud, distinctive call is often heard across the mountains. It is an important part of the mountain ecosystem and plays an important role in the dispersal of seeds and other plant material.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. stelleri |
4. Lazuli Bunting
The lazuli bunting is a small, colorful songbird native to North America. Its name is derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli, which is a deep blue stone with gold or white flecks.
The male bunting has a bright blue head, neck, and wings, with a white chest and belly, and a black tail. The female is paler in coloration, with a brownish head, neck, and wings, and a buffy white chest and belly.
Both sexes have a black patch on the throat. The lazuli bunting is found in western North America, from British Columbia and Alberta, south to northern Mexico. They prefer open grassland and shrub-steppe habitats, and can often be seen in pastures, meadows, and along roadsides.
They typically feed on insects, such as grasshoppers, and also take grains and fruit. They sing a melodious song of short, warbled phrases, often from the top of a tree or bush. Lazuli buntings are monogamous and defend their territories from other buntings.
They nest in a cup-shaped nest, typically on the ground, in shrubby areas. The female will lay up to 4 eggs, which hatch in 11-14 days.
The young are fed by both parents and fledge in about two weeks. The lazuli bunting is an important part of the North American songbird population and has a special place in our hearts.
It is a delight to watch them flit about in search of food and to listen to their beautiful song.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. amoena |
5. American Robin
Source: Wikipedia
The American robin is a species of migratory bird belonging to the true thrush genus, and the larger thrush family, Turdidae. It is named after the European robin, due to its reddish-orange breast. However, the American and European robins are not closely related.
The European robin belongs to the Old World flycatcher family. The American robin is a migratory bird, meaning it moves from one area to another in different seasons. It is a medium-sized bird, with a brownish-gray back, and a reddish-orange breast.
The American robin can be found throughout North America and parts of Central America. It is a very common bird found in gardens, parks, and other open areas. The European robin is a small passerine bird native to Europe and parts of Asia.
It is a member of the Old World flycatcher family and is not closely related to the American robin. The European robin is distinguished by its bright reddish-orange breast, which is the reason for its common name.
It can be found in woodlands, gardens, and other open areas. The American and European robins are similar in appearance but are not closely related.
The American robin is a member of the true thrush genus, and the larger thrush family, Turdidae, while the European robin belongs to the Old World flycatcher family.
Despite the lack of relation, both species are named after each other due to their similar reddish-orange breast.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
6. House Finch
The house finch is a species of bird belonging to the finch family Fringillidae. It is native to the western parts of North America but has been introduced to the eastern half of the continent and to the Hawaiian islands.
This species, along with two other American rosefinch species, are classified in the genus Haemorhous. This genus is part of the vast finch family, which consists of over 100 species of birds.
The house finch is a small bird with a rounded shape and is sometimes mistaken for the purple finch. Its plumage is mostly brown and gray, with some red or yellow markings on the wings and head.
It is a popular bird among birdwatchers, and can often be seen flitting among trees and shrubs or perched on birdfeeders. It is a social species that is often seen in small flocks, and it has a loud, cheerful song.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
7. American Goldfinch
Source: Wikipedia
The American goldfinch is a small bird that is native to North America. It is a part of the finch family and is known for its migratory habits.
During the breeding season, these birds can be found in the mid-Alberta region of Canada, all the way down to North Carolina in the United States.
During the winter, the American goldfinch migrates south, stretching from just south of the Canada-United States border all the way down to Mexico. This behavior helps the bird to survive during harsh weather conditions and to find food sources.
The American goldfinch is known for its bright yellow feathers and its cheerful song. It is a beloved bird that is very common in many parts of North America.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
8. Crow Family
Corvidae is a widely distributed family of birds that includes many of the most familiar species of passerines. These birds, commonly known as crows, ravens, rooks, magpies, jackdaws, jays, treepies, choughs, and nutcrackers, are found on every continent except Antarctica.
Currently, 135 individual species comprise the Corvidae family, and their populations range from very common to locally rare. These birds are distinguished by their intelligence, behavior, and adaptability to a wide variety of habitats.
Corvids are highly social animals, living in large flocks and forming complex social hierarchies. Their intelligence is demonstrated by their ability to learn and remember intricate behaviors, including tool use and communication.
Corvids are omnivorous, eating a wide range of foods including seeds, fruits, insects, small mammals, and carrion. The Corvidae family is an important part of many ecosystems, providing essential services such as seed dispersal, food for predators, and pest control.
These birds also provide valuable insights to scientists, helping us to better understand their behavior and how they interact with their environment.
Corvids are also beloved by many people, who enjoy watching the vibrant and intelligent birds as they go about their daily lives.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
9. Red-winged Blackbird
Source: vtecostudies.org
The red-winged blackbird is a species of passerine bird found in the family Icteridae. Passerine birds, also known as songbirds, are the most numerous group of birds, and red-winged blackbirds are one of the most common.
These birds can be found all across North America and much of Central America, though they are also found in some parts of Europe and Asia. These birds are medium-sized, with males typically reaching lengths of 8.3 inches and weighing around 1.2 ounces.
Red-winged blackbirds have distinctive red and yellow patches on their wings, which are most visible during flight.
They also have black feathers on their head, throat, and back, with a yellow patch on their shoulder. The red-winged blackbird has a wide variety of habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, marshes, and agricultural fields.
They are most often seen foraging on the ground for food, which consists mainly of insects, seeds, and grain.
They also feed on fruits, nectar, and smaller animals such as frogs and snakes. Red-winged blackbirds are known for their loud, melodious songs, which they sing throughout the day.
They are also known for their aggressive behaviour towards other birds, defending their territories by chasing away intruders. Red-winged blackbirds are an important part of the North American ecosystem, providing food for many other species and controlling insect populations.
They are also considered an important part of the culture and economy of many countries, as they are hunted for sport and eaten in some parts of the world..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
10. White-breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is an interesting species of bird found in the nuthatch family, Sittidae. It is notable for its size, measuring an average of 15.5 cm in length, making it a medium-sized nuthatch.
It has a unique appearance, with a white underside and a grey-brown back, and a distinctive black cap. The wings are black, and the tail is short and square.
These birds are well adapted to living on tree trunks and branches, and they are able to climb up and down trees with ease. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to parks, and they feed on a variety of insects, seeds, and nuts.
They are known to be quite vocal, with a variety of calls that can be heard throughout the day. The white-breasted nuthatch is a common sight in many parts of the world and is an important part of the ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
11. Red-breasted Nuthatch
The red-breasted nuthatch is a small songbird that has striking blue-grey upperparts and cinnamon underparts. The bird has a white face and throat, with a distinctive black stripe across the eyes. Its straight grey bill and black crown add to its unique appearance.
The call of the red-breasted nuthatch is quite distinctive and has been likened to the sound of a tin trumpet. It is a high-pitched and nasal sound that can be heard from some distance away.
The red-breasted nuthatch is a fascinating bird that can be seen in wooded areas throughout North America. It’s striking plumage and unique call make it a beautiful bird to watch and listen to.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. canadensis |
12. Brown-headed Cowbird
The brown-headed cowbird is a species of icterid bird native to temperate and subtropical North America. It is a relatively small bird, with a distinctive brown head and dark body.
This species is known as an obligate brood parasite, meaning it does not build its own nest, but instead lays its eggs in the nests of other species.
The brown-headed cowbird is a permanent resident in the southern parts of its range, while northern individuals migrate to the southern United States and Mexico for the winter, returning to their summer habitat in March or April.
This species is a widespread and common bird, and it is an important part of the North American avifauna.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Molothrus |
| Species | M. ater |
13. Black-billed Magpie
Source: Wikipedia
The black-billed magpie, also known as the American magpie, is a type of bird in the corvid family. This bird is found in the western half of North America, ranging from Alaska and Canada, all the way to California and Mexico.
The black-billed magpie is a striking bird, with mostly black and white feathers. It has black wings and tail feathers, which have a beautiful iridescent sheen.
The black areas of the wings and tail shimmer with hints of blue or blue-green, giving the bird an extra dose of elegance. In addition to its beautiful appearance, the black-billed magpie is also known for its intelligence and curiosity.
It is an omnivore, with a diet composed of insects, small mammals, seeds, and fruits. Their loud and varied vocalizations also make them a favorite among birders. These birds are often seen in groups and are known for their playful behavior.
As a result, the black-billed magpie has become a symbol of joy and celebration in many cultures.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Pica |
| Species | P. hudsonia |
14. Finches
Finches are birds belonging to the family Fringillidae and are usually small to medium in size. They typically have distinctive, conical-shaped bills which are adapted to crack open seeds and nuts, and their plumage often displays beautiful colors.
Finches can be found in a wide variety of habitats and are generally non-migratory, staying in the same area for their entire lives. They are able to adapt to many different environments and climates, which has allowed them to thrive in various places across the world.
Finches also play an important role in the natural ecosystem, acting as a food source for predators and pollinating nearby flowers and plants.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
15. Common Grackle
The common grackle is a species of large icterid bird native to North America. First described in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus, the common grackle has three subspecies.
Adult common grackles have a distinctive appearance, featuring a long and dark bill, pale yellow eyes, and a long tail. In general, their plumage is glossy black, although some subspecies can have a purple or green sheen.
Common grackles are found in large numbers in many parts of North America, from Canada to Mexico. They can live in a variety of habitats, such as open fields, wetlands, and urban areas.
As omnivores, they feed on a wide range of foods, including fruits, seeds, insects, small animals, and even food scraps. Common grackles are social birds that typically form large flocks during the breeding season.
They are known for their loud, harsh vocalizations and are often seen perched atop trees or other high places, calling out to their flock members.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. quiscula |
16. Gray Catbird
The gray catbird, also spelled grey catbird, is a medium-sized North American and Central American bird that belongs to the mimid family. It is commonly found in wooded areas, such as forests and parks, and is known for its distinctive grey plumage and its vocalizations.
Its scientific name is Dumetella carolinensis, and it is the only member of the genus Dumetella. The gray catbird has grey and black feathers, with a black cap and a black tail. It has a short, rounded bill, and its wings are relatively long and pointed.
Its eyes are yellow, and its feet are yellowish-gray. It is usually around 7 to 8 inches long and weighs about 1.2 ounces. The gray catbird is omnivorous, meaning it eats both plants and animals. Its diet consists of insects, fruits, and seeds.
It also likes to scavenge, so it will often eat food from the ground or from bird feeders. The gray catbird is a vocal species, making a variety of different sounds. Its calls include a cat-like meow, chattering, and whistles.
Its song consists of a variety of whistles and warbles, and it is often heard during the breeding season. The gray catbird is an important part of the North American and Central American ecosystems.
It is a keystone species, meaning its presence can help support other species in the area. It also helps to control insect populations, which can be beneficial to humans and other species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Dumetella |
| Species | D. carolinensis |
17. New World Warblers
The New World warblers are a family of passerine birds found in the New World. They are small, colorful birds that are part of the Parulidae family. These birds inhabit the regions of North and South America and are not related to Old World warblers or Australian warblers.
They are sometimes called wood warblers because they prefer wooded areas. The New World warblers are highly adapted to their environment and have many unique features. They have short, pointed bills that allow them to forage for insects in dense foliage.
They also have bright, distinct plumage that helps them stand out in their habitats. The range of colors they display is quite varied, from yellow to blue and even red. These birds are important to the ecological balance of the New World.
They feed mainly on insects, which helps to control pest populations. They also disperse seeds and pollen, which supports the growth of plants. Despite their importance, the New World warblers are threatened by human activities.
Habitat destruction due to urban development and deforestation is a major threat to these birds. They are also killed by collisions with vehicles and windows, and some are hunted for sport. The New World warblers are a unique and integral part of the New World’s ecosystems.
Conservation efforts are needed to ensure that these birds can continue to thrive and play their important role in the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
18. Ruddy Duck
The ruddy duck is a species of duck found in North America and is classified under the stiff-tailed duck family. Its genus name, Oxura jamaicensis, is derived from Ancient Greek, with oxus meaning “sharp” and oura meaning “tail”.
The species name, jamaicensis, is indicative of its origin, Jamaica. The ruddy duck is easily identified by its reddish-brown plumage, long, stiff tail feathers, and distinctive white cheek patches.
This duck is also known for its unique courtship behavior, which includes males displaying their inflated throat patches and wings, as well as producing a distinctive “whistle” sound.
The ruddy duck is classified as a “least concern” species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), but it is facing threats due to habitat loss and hybridization with the introduced, non-native, Eurasian population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Oxyura |
| Species | O. jamaicensis |
Conclusion
Bluebirds are a common sight in Alberta. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from urban parks to rural farmlands, and they are known for their cheerful songs and striking blue and white plumage.
Bluebirds are an important part of Alberta’s ecosystem, and their presence is welcomed by many residents of the province.