Welcome to the wonderful world of bluebirds in Idaho! Idaho is a beautiful state with plenty of opportunities for bird watching, and the bluebird population is just one of its many colorful residents.
Bluebirds can be found in a variety of habitats in Idaho, such as woodlands, meadows, and even urban areas. With their bright colors and sweet songs, bluebirds provide a cheerful addition to the Idaho landscape.
In this guide, we will explore the different species of bluebirds found in Idaho, their behaviors, and the best places to observe them. So grab your binoculars and get ready to discover the bluebirds of Idaho!
1. Mountain Bluebird
The mountain bluebird is a small migratory bird that is found in mountainous regions of western North America. It has a white underbelly and black eyes.
The adult male birds have slender beaks and are brightly colored in a turquoise-blue hue, with a slightly lighter coloration underneath. This bird is fairly easy to identify due to its bright coloring.
The mountain bluebird is a popular bird among birdwatchers, as it is quite unique in appearance and is not often seen in other areas of the world. The mountain bluebird is a social bird, often seen in flocks, and is known for its melodic song.
It is a species of conservation concern, with its population slowly declining in recent decades due to a variety of factors, such as habitat loss and climate change.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. currucoides |
2. Barn Swallow
The barn swallow is a remarkable species of swallow found all over the world. It is among the most widespread species of passerines, which are small perching birds, and has a range of over 251 million square kilometers.
This is an incredibly vast area, and the barn swallow is one of the few species of birds to be found in such an expansive area. The barn swallow is easily recognizable due to its distinctive appearance. It has a distinct blue upperparts and a long, deeply forked tail.
This species of swallow is also one of the few species able to fly at high altitudes, making them a common sight in the sky no matter the location. The barn swallow is an impressive species of bird, and its global range is a testament to its success.
It is an adaptable species, able to thrive in a variety of habitats, and its presence is a reminder of the wonders of nature that can be found all over the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Hirundo |
| Species | H. rustica |
3. Steller’s Jay
Steller’s jay is a strikingly beautiful bird that can be found in western North America as well as the mountains of Central America. It is a member of the crow family and is closely related to the blue jay which can be found in eastern North America.
Its distinguishing feature is its striking blue and black plumage, which is highlighted by a crest of feathers on its head. It also has a long, curved bill, and a raucous call that sounds like a mix of a whistle and a squawk.
The Steller’s jay is the only crested jay west of the Rocky Mountains. It is highly adaptable and can live in a variety of habitats, from coniferous and deciduous forests to open grasslands. Its diet consists of seeds, insects, nuts, berries, and even the eggs of other birds.
It is also a scavenger and will often raid campsites and picnic areas for food. The Steller’s jay is an important part of the ecosystem. Its vibrant colors make it an important feature of the natural landscape, and its diet helps to disperse the seeds of many plants.
It is also an important predator and helps to control the number of insect populations. The Steller’s jay is an iconic species of the western North American and Central American mountains, and its presence is a reminder of the interconnectedness of our planet’s ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. stelleri |
4. Tree Swallow
The tree swallow is a migratory bird found in the Americas, belonging to the family Hirundinidae. It was first described in 1807 by the French ornithologist Louis Vieillot, who classified it as Hirundo bicolor. Since then, it has been placed in the genus Tachycineta.
However, its exact phylogenetic placement within this genus is still being debated among scientists. The tree swallow has a number of distinctive features, including its small size and colorful plumage. Its head and wings are black, while its back and belly are white.
It also has a bright blue stripe on its chest. Its diet consists mainly of insects, which it catches in the air while flying.
During the summer months, it builds its nest in tree cavities or on man-made structures, such as bridges or buildings. The tree swallow is an important part of the environment, as it helps to control insect populations.
It is also a popular bird among birdwatchers, due to its attractive appearance and its tendency to nest in easily-observable locations. As such, it is an important species for conservation, and efforts have been made to protect its habitats and nesting sites.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Tachycineta |
| Species | T. bicolor |
5. Cliff Swallow
The cliff swallow, also known as the American cliff swallow, is a type of passerine bird. This family includes birds such as swallows and martins. It can be found in North America, ranging from Alaska and Canada to the northern parts of South America.
The cliff swallow is a small bird, typically measuring 4-5 inches in length. It has a dark-brown back and wings, with a pale-brown or gray breast and belly. Its tail is forked, and its bill is short and pointed.
The cliff swallow typically builds its nest in the crevices of cliffs or buildings, and it feeds on insects, such as flies, beetles, and moths. The cliff swallow is an important species for controlling insect populations, and it is protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Petrochelidon |
| Species | P. pyrrhonota |
6. California Scrub Jay
The California scrub jay is a species of bird native to western North America. It is found from southern British Columbia all the way to California and western Nevada, near Reno, and west of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
The California scrub jay is known for its distinctive blue-gray coloring, black-and-white markings, and its long tail. It is an omnivorous bird, meaning it feeds on both plants and animals. Its diet consists of nuts, berries, insects, eggs, and small lizards.
California scrub jays have also been known to steal food from other animals. They have adapted well to human activity, and are often seen on residential properties, and in parks and gardens.
The California scrub jay is an important part of the local ecosystem, helping to disperse the seeds of native plants and trees.
It is an important species in the region and is listed as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Aphelocoma |
| Species | A. californica |
7. Blue Grosbeak
The blue grosbeak is a type of bird found mainly in North America. It belongs to the Cardinalidae family, which is part of the passerine bird group.
This species is a migratory bird, with individuals spending the winter in Central America and breeding in northern Mexico and the southern United States.
The male blue grosbeak is easily identified by its striking blue coloration, which is complemented by two brown wing bars on each wing. The female blue grosbeak is of a more muted color, usually having a brownish-gray body with buffy streaks.
The blue grosbeak is a popular sight in North American backyards, often seen perched atop shrubs or trees in search of food. They have a wide diet that includes a variety of insects, fruits, and grains.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. caerulea |
8. Red-breasted Nuthatch
The red-breasted nuthatch is a small songbird that is easily identifiable by its distinctive coloration. Its upper parts are mostly blue-grey, while its underparts have a cinnamon hue.
The bird has a white throat and face, with a black stripe extending from the bill, through the eyes, and up to the crown. The nuthatch has a straight grey bill and a black crown. Its call is a high-pitched, nasal sound that has been likened to a tin trumpet.
The red-breasted nuthatch is one of the few songbirds that can be heard all year round, and its unique call is a sure sign of its presence.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. canadensis |
9. Lazuli Bunting
The lazuli bunting is a small songbird native to North America. Its name is derived from the gemstone lapis lazuli, which is a deep blue mineral with golden veins. The bird itself is a bright blue color and is a common sight in open grasslands, shrubs, and woodlands.
It feeds on insects, seeds, and berries, and can often be seen flitting among branches and grasses. Its song is a pleasant warbling sound, and its bright blue feathers make it stand out in its habitat.
The lazuli bunting is a beautiful and distinct species and a favorite of bird watchers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. amoena |
10. White-breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is a species of bird that belongs to the family Sittidae. It is a medium-sized nuthatch, measuring about 15.5 cm in length. This bird has a white breast and a grey back, with a black cap on its head.
It has a short, stout bill, and its tail is usually held upright. This species of bird is mainly found in deciduous forests and woodlands in the eastern half of North America, from southeastern Canada to the Gulf Coast of the United States.
It is also found in parts of Mexico and Central America. The white-breasted nuthatch is an active forager, climbing up and down tree trunks in search of food. It frequently forages on the ground, and it also sometimes catches insects in mid-air.
The white-breasted nuthatch is a cavity nester, meaning that it builds its nest in natural cavities or in manmade nest boxes. It is a vocal species, and its call is a nasal “yank” sound.
It is an interesting species of bird to observe, and its ability to climb up and down tree trunks is remarkable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
11. Belted Kingfisher
The Belted Kingfisher is a large bird that is native to North America and is easily recognizable due to its bright blue and white plumage. It is a member of the Alcedinidae family, which includes all kingfishers.
However, recent research has suggested that this family requires further subdivision into three distinct subfamilies. These include the River Kingfishers, the Sea Kingfishers, and the Tree Kingfishers.
Each of these subfamilies is characterized by its own unique traits and behaviors. River Kingfishers, like the Belted Kingfisher, inhabit areas near rivers and other bodies of water. They have large wings and a powerful beak, making them adept at diving for fish and other prey.
Sea Kingfishers, on the other hand, are smaller in size and spend most of their time at sea, where they feed on small fish and aquatic invertebrates. Tree Kingfishers are the smallest of the three subfamilies and mainly inhabit woodlands.
They feed mainly on insects and small reptiles. The research that led to the subdivision of the Alcedinidae family was based on the analysis of anatomical features, behavior, and habitat preferences.
This revealed that the three subfamilies of kingfishers evolved from a common ancestor and that they have adapted to their respective environments over time. Thus, the division of the family into three distinct subfamilies reflects the evolutionary history of the kingfishers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Genus | Megaceryle |
| Species | M. alcyon |
12. House Finch
Source: birdwatchingacademy.com
The House Finch, also known as Haemorhous mexicanus, is a bird found in the finch family Fringillidae. Native to western North America, this species has been introduced to the eastern part of the continent as well as Hawaii.
Along with two other species of American rosefinches, the House Finch is placed in its own genus, Haemorhous. The House Finch is a small bird, ranging in size from 4.3 to 5.1 inches in length and weighing between 0.5 to 0.7 ounces.
It has a short, conical bill, brown upperparts, and is typically pinkish-brown or a dull brownish-gray in color. Its diet consists of various seeds, fruits, and insects. The House Finch is a social species and is often seen in flocks.
They are also known to breed in urban, suburban, and rural habitats, making them very adaptive. They will nest in a variety of places, such as in tree cavities, on the ledges of buildings, and even on window sills.
The House Finch is a species of least concern, although its population has been decreasing in recent years due to habitat destruction and urbanization. However, its overall population remains stable and is not currently in danger of extinction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
13. American Robin
Source: wikipedia.org
The American robin is a migratory bird in the Turdidae family, also known as the wider thrush family. It is a member of the true thrush genus and has a reddish-orange breast, which is why it is named after the European robin.
However, the American robin and European robin are not closely related. The European robin actually belongs to the Old World flycatcher family, which is a different family of birds. This means that while they share similar physical characteristics, they are not closely related.
It is an interesting example of convergent evolution, where two species can develop similar traits, but due to their different evolutionary histories, they are not closely related.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
14. Common Starling
The common starling is a member of the starling family, Sturnidae, and is a medium-sized passerine bird found primarily in Europe, North America, and Great Britain and Ireland.
It is known by many different names, such as the European starling in North America and simply as the starling in Great Britain and Ireland. The common starling has a glossy black plumage with a metallic sheen, and its wings are short and pointed.
Its beak is short and conical, and its legs are long and strong. Its diet consists primarily of insects, fruits, and grains. It also feeds on small invertebrates, such as grubs and worms, and can be seen gathering in large flocks to forage for food.
The common starling is very social and is often seen in large flocks with other starling species. It is a very vocal bird and can be heard calling out during the day and night.
The common starling is also known for its impressive mimicry abilities, and it can imitate a variety of sounds from other birds and animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
| Genus | Sturnus |
| Species | S. vulgaris |
15. Black-billed Magpie
The black-billed magpie, also known as the American magpie, is a member of the corvid family which is a group of birds known for their intelligence and complex social behavior.
It is native to the western half of North America and is easily recognizable by its black and white plumage. The bird has black wings and a tail that features iridescent hints of blue or blue-green, making it quite striking to look at.
The black-billed magpie is quite social and can often be seen gathering in flocks. They are also highly intelligent, evidenced by their ability to remember the location of food and their skill at problem-solving.
They also have an incredible range of vocalizations, from complex songs to shrill calls. In addition to being an interesting and engaging species to observe, the black-billed magpie is also an important component of the ecosystem.
They help to control insect populations and disperse seeds for plants, making them important players in the balance of nature. The black-billed magpie is an interesting and important bird to observe and protect.
With its striking black and white plumage, its intelligence, and its contribution to the ecosystem, it is a species worth appreciating..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Pica |
| Species | P. hudsonia |
16. Lesser Goldfinch
The lesser goldfinch is a tiny songbird found throughout the Americas. It is part of the Spinus genus of the New World goldfinch clade, which also includes the American goldfinch and Lawrence’s goldfinch.
Males of all three New World goldfinches have a distinctive black forehead, which is absent in females. This is an important visual identifier that can help birders distinguish one species from the other.
The size and shape of the head, bill, and wings can also help to differentiate between the three species. The lesser goldfinch stands out from its two relatives with its yellowish-green back and yellowish-olive underparts.
It also has a bold white wingbar and a yellow patch on the rump.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. psaltria |
17. American Goldfinch
Source: wikipedia.org
The American goldfinch is a small bird species native to North America. It belongs to the finch family and is known for its migratory habits. During the breeding season, it can be found from mid-Alberta to North Carolina.
During the winter, its range extends south, from just south of the Canada–United States border to Mexico. The American goldfinch is a colorful bird, with a distinctive yellow body, black wings and tail, and white wing bars. Its song is a cheerful, tinkling melody.
It primarily feeds on the seeds of plants, but will also eat insects in the summer.
Its population is highly variable and is often dependent on the availability of food sources. The American goldfinch is an important part of the ecosystem, as it helps to disperse the seeds of native plants, aiding in the regeneration of vegetation.
It is seen as a symbol of joy and optimism, often associated with good luck.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
18. Red-winged Blackbird
Source: vtecostudies.org
The red-winged blackbird is an iconic bird of North and Central America. It is a member of the family Icteridae, which includes several genera of birds, including the grackles, orioles, meadowlarks, and bobolinks.
The red-winged blackbird is a passerine, which means that it has an upright stance and perches on branches and wires. This species is found in a wide range of habitats from open fields to wetlands, and is one of the most widespread birds in the Americas.
Its distinctive red and yellow shoulder patches are unmistakable and easily recognized. The red-winged blackbird has a loud, melodic song that often carries great distances, making it a familiar sound of the American landscape.
The males are especially vocal during the breeding season, engaging in complex aerial displays in an effort to attract a mate. Red-winged blackbirds are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, seeds, and fruits.
They are a common sight in backyard bird feeders, and their presence often attracts other species of birds. Red-winged blackbirds are an important part of our natural environment, and their range and population numbers have been stable in recent years.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
19. Brown-headed Cowbird
The brown-headed cowbird is a small icterid, or blackbird, native to temperate and subtropical North America. It is an obligate brood parasite, meaning that it lays its eggs in the nests of other species and allows them to incubate and raise the young cowbirds.
It is a permanent resident in the southern parts of its range, but northern birds migrate to the southern United States and Mexico in the winter, returning to their summer habitat in around March or April.
The brown-headed cowbird is an important species of the North American avifauna, and its range covers most of the continent, from southern Canada to the northern parts of Central America.
The bird is particularly beneficial in agricultural settings, as it helps to control pests by eating large numbers of insects.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Molothrus |
| Species | M. ater |
20. Gray Catbird
The gray catbird also spelled grey catbird, is a medium-sized bird native to North America and Central America. It belongs to the mimid family and is the only bird in its genus, Dumetella.
It is a perching bird, meaning that it spends most of its time perched on branches or other surfaces, to look out for predators and prey. The gray catbird is easily identifiable by its gray-brown coloration, which gives it its name.
Its head is black, and its wings and tail are black with white-tipped feathers. It has a white tip to its tail, and its bill is stout and slightly curved. Its legs are short and yellow. The gray catbird is a solitary bird, and it is often seen alone or in pairs.
It mostly eats insects and berries, and it can often be seen in gardens or other areas with plenty of vegetation.
It is also known to consume small birds and rodents. The gray catbird makes a range of vocalizations, including its namesake “cat” call, as well as a variety of chirps and whistles.
It is believed to be able to recognize and remember particular calls, and can even imitate other birds’ songs. The gray catbird is an important part of the local ecology, and it plays an important role in controlling insect populations, as well as providing food for other animals.
It is also a popular bird to watch and enjoys the company of humans.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Dumetella |
| Species | D. carolinensis |
21. Brewer’s Blackbird
Brewer’s blackbird is a type of bird native to the Americas. It is medium-sized compared to other blackbirds, with a length of about 8 inches and a wingspan of up to 16 inches.
The Blackbird is named after Thomas Mayo Brewer, an American ornithologist who was born in 1814 and died in 1880. He was a professor of zoology at Harvard University and was an influential figure in the field of ornithology.
He wrote several books on ornithology, including The History of North American Birds, which was published in 1874. In addition, he wrote an extensive catalog of American birds, which was published in 1861 and provided a summary of the birds known at the time.
Brewer’s blackbird has been documented in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and parts of Central America. It can be found in open woodlands, agricultural areas, and wetlands. The blackbird is omnivorous, consuming insects, grain, and fruit.
It also feeds on carrion, nestlings, and eggs. It is known for its loud and distinctive call, which can be heard from a distance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Euphagus |
| Species | E. cyanocephalus |
Conclusion
Bluebirds are an important part of Idaho’s natural landscape, providing essential habitat for many species of wildlife. They are also a symbol of hope and renewal for many in Idaho, who appreciate their beauty and the joy they bring to the area.
As their numbers continue to decline, it is important that we do our part to protect and conserve them. This includes creating and maintaining suitable nesting and foraging habitat, as well as monitoring and managing bluebird populations.
With our help, bluebirds in Idaho can continue to thrive for generations to come.