Welcome to the wonderful world of blue birds in Illinois! Illinois is home to four species of blue birds: the Eastern Bluebird, the Western Bluebird, the Mountain Bluebird, and the Blue Grosbeak.
These birds can be found throughout the state, from the Chicago area to southern Illinois and everywhere in between. Blue birds are incredibly beautiful and are a joy to watch. They are also an important part of the ecosystem, providing food for many other creatures.
In this article, we will explore the different species of blue birds in Illinois and share interesting facts about them.
1. Eastern Bluebird
The Eastern Bluebird is a small migratory bird that is native to North America. It can usually be found in open woodlands, farmlands, and orchards, where it builds its nests and feeds on insects.
This species is popular among birders due to its distinctive, bright blue-colored plumage that the males display while perched on a wire or open perch. The males’ bright blue breeding plumage is easily recognizable, making it a favorite among birdwatchers.
The Eastern Bluebird is a protected species in many parts of the United States, and its population is monitored regularly to ensure its continued survival.
This species is a popular sight in open fields and woodlands, and can often be seen perched atop a wire or on a tree, singing its distinctive song.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. sialis |
2. Indigo Bunting
The indigo bunting is a small, seed-eating bird that is part of the cardinal family, known as Cardinalidae. It spends part of its year in North America, while the other part of the year is spent in South America.
During the breeding season, it migrates from southern Canada to northern Florida. During the winter, this bird migrates from southern Florida to northern South America.
The migratory pattern of the indigo bunting is quite remarkable, as it is believed to use the stars as a navigational guide to fly during the night.
This bird is well adapted to its migratory pattern, as it has a wide range of habitat preferences, including open woodlands, meadows, and even backyards.
The indigo bunting is an important part of the ecosystem, as it plays an essential role in the dispersal of seeds, which helps promote the growth of various vegetation.
This bird is also known for its beautiful plumage, which consists of a bright blue head, neck, and back, and a white belly.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. cyanea |
3. Blue Jay
The blue jay is a type of bird belonging to the family Corvidae. It can be found in the eastern and central parts of the United States, and in some parts of Canada, including southern Canada and Newfoundland.
Furthermore, some of the eastern populations of the blue jay may be migratory, meaning they travel to different areas in different seasons. The blue jay is native to eastern North America and plays an important role in the ecosystem there.
It feeds on insects, grains, fruits, and other small animals, which helps to keep the populations of these animals in balance. Additionally, the blue jay is known for its beautiful plumage and loud, distinctive call, which makes it a popular bird to observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
4. Red-Breasted Nuthatch
The red-breasted nuthatch is an adorable small songbird. It has a unique appearance with its blue-grey upperparts and cinnamon underparts. It has a white throat and face with a black stripe, a straight grey bill, and a black crown.
This bird is known for its distinct call which has been likened to a tin trumpet. Its call is high-pitched and nasal in sound. This small bird is native to North America and can be found mostly in coniferous forests of the northern United States and Canada.
It is known for its acrobatic ability to climb up and down tree trunks and branches. The red-breasted nuthatch is also a cavity nester, preferring to build its nest in a hole or crevice in a tree trunk. The red-breasted nuthatch feeds mainly on insects, spiders, and seeds.
It is able to capture prey by hanging upside down from tree branches and then plucking the insects from the bark. In autumn and winter, it often joins mixed-species flocks, searching for food together with other bird species.
In conclusion, the red-breasted nuthatch is a unique and interesting bird. Its distinct call, acrobatic ability, and charming appearance make it a favorite among birders.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. canadensis |
5. White-breasted nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is a species of bird that belongs to the nuthatch family Sittidae. It is a medium-sized bird, with an average length of 15.5 cm. This bird is known for its unique ability to climb down trees head first, which is quite a feat for a bird.
It is also known for its white underparts and dark blue-grey upperparts. It has a black crown and nape, white cheeks, and a throat, with a black line running down the sides of its face. The white-breasted nuthatch is found in deciduous and mixed forests across North America.
It is a sociable bird that often forms flocks and feeds in the treetops. Its diet consists of insects, seeds, nuts, and berries. It is also known for its vocalizations, which include a range of soft squeaks, whistles, and churrs.
The white-breasted nuthatch is an important part of North American ecology and provides many services to the environment, such as controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
6. Tree Swallow
The Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) is a migratory bird belonging to the family Hirundinidae, a family of passerine birds found in the Americas.
It was originally described in 1807 by French ornithologist Louis Vieillot as Hirundo bicolor but has since been reclassified to its current genus, Tachycineta.
The Tree Swallow’s exact phylogenetic placement within the family Hirundinidae is not clear, with debate about its exact position. The Tree Swallow is a small, slim bird, measuring around 16 cm in length and weighing between 16 and 20 grams.
It has a glossy blue-green back, and a pale to bright white throat and belly. The wings and tail are dark brown, and the forehead and crown are pale grey.
The Tree Swallow is an aerial insectivore, meaning it mainly feeds on flying insects like moths, mosquitoes, and dragonflies. The Tree Swallow is mainly found in temperate climates, often near water, such as marshes, ponds, rivers, and lakes.
It migrates south during the winter months, returning to its breeding grounds in the spring. It builds its nest in cavities, such as tree stumps or natural cavities in trees, and often uses nest boxes provided by humans.
It will also use the cavities of other species, such as woodpeckers. The Tree Swallow is a socially monogamous species, with pairs forming during the breeding season and remaining together until the following season.
The male and female share in nest building, incubation of the eggs and feeding of the young. The female usually lays between four and seven eggs, and both parents incubate them for 13 to 16 days. The young fledge at around 21 to 25 days old.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Tachycineta |
| Species | T. bicolor |
7. Common Grackle
The common grackle is a species of large icterid bird, commonly found throughout much of North America. It was first described by the renowned Swedish botanist and zoologist, Carl Linnaeus, in 1758.
There are three subspecies of the common grackle, all of which share some common features. Typically, adults of this species have long and dark beaks, pale yellow eyes, and a long tail. The common grackle is a beautiful bird, that has an iridescent sheen to its feathers.
Their wings are typically dark, with a purple-green sheen, and the wingspan of these birds can range from 11-15 inches. Common grackles are omnivores, meaning they will eat a diet of both plants and animals. They mainly feed on insects, fruits, grains, and even small animals.
Common grackles are known to be very social, and can often be found in large flocks. In addition, they are known for their impressive vocal skills, as they are capable of producing a wide variety of calls and sounds.
All in all, the common grackle is a beautiful and fascinating bird, that has been around for centuries.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. quiscula |
8. Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a species of small songbird that is native to North America. It is a member of the family Polioptilidae, which consists of small passerine birds which include the gnatcatcher, gnatwren, and dippers.
The gnatcatcher is usually seen in open woodland and shrubland habitats and is known for its small size and its distinct blue-gray color. Its head, neck, and underparts are a greyish-blue color, while its back and wings are a darker gray. Its tail is long and has a white tip.
It has a slender bill and a white eye ring. This species feeds on small flying insects, such as gnats and midges, which it catches in mid-air with its bill. It also feeds on spiders, beetles, and other small insects, which it finds on the ground or in trees.
It is an important part of the food web, as it helps to keep insect populations in balance. The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a social bird, and it often forms small flocks with other species of birds.
It has a loud, high-pitched song which it uses to mark its territory and to attract a mate. The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a beautiful and important species, and it is an important part of the North American ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Polioptilidae |
| Genus | Polioptila |
| Species | P. caerulea |
9. Barn Swallow
The barn swallow is an incredibly widespread species of swallow across the globe and is the most common of all the species of passerines. These birds have an impressive natural range, stretching about 251 million square kilometers all over the world.
Barn swallows have a very distinctive appearance, with their bright blue upperparts and their long, deeply forked tails. This makes them easily recognizable from a distance and helps them stand out in a crowd of birds.
In addition to their coloration, barn swallows have a number of other features that help them thrive in their environment.
They have short, wide wings that help them catch quick updrafts and soar through the air with ease, while their long, forked tails help them to turn quickly and efficiently.
Their strong beaks can help them to capture prey, while their long legs help them to move around with agility. All these features make the barn swallow an incredibly successful species of swallow and explain why it is so widespread across the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Hirundo |
| Species | H. rustica |
10. Great Blue Heron
The great blue heron is a majestic bird that is part of the heron family Ardeidae. It is found in many parts of the Americas, from North and Central America to far northwestern South America, the Caribbean, and the Galápagos Islands.
This large wading bird is typically seen near the shorelines of open water and in wetlands. Its long legs and neck make it an easily recognizable bird and its bright blue feathers and white head and chest make it a beautiful sight to behold.
The great blue heron is an important species found in many parts of the world and plays an important role in the environment. It is a top predator in many aquatic food webs, helping to keep populations of fish and other aquatic wildlife in balance.
It is also an important part of the culture of many Native American tribes, and many tribes use the bird’s feathers in traditional ceremonies.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. herodias |
11. Purple Martin
The purple martin is a species of bird in the Hirundinidae family, which is a group of passerine birds commonly known as swallows. It is the largest swallow species found in North America and is found across much of the continent.
Despite its name, the purple martin is not actually purple in color. Instead, it has a glossy black upper body and wings with a white or grayish belly. Its head is black with a bluish tint and its bill is dark.
Males also have a purplish sheen on their heads, hence the name “purple” Martin. These birds are primarily found near water sources, like lakes, rivers, and marshes, and they often migrate south for the winter.
They mainly feed on insects, such as flies, beetles, and moths, which they catch in the air, while in flight. Purple martins have a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, farmlands, and urban areas.
They are also cavity-nesting birds, meaning they build their nests in tree cavities or in man-made structures like birdhouses.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Progne |
| Species | P. subis |
12. Northern Parula
The northern parula is a type of New World warbler, which is a small migratory bird. It is native to eastern North America, ranging from Canada in the north down to Florida in the south. These birds breed during the warmer months of the year, creating nests in trees or shrubs.
They feed mostly on insects, which they catch in mid-air or pluck from plants and foliage. The northern parula is a colorful bird with a yellowish-green head, blue-gray wings, and a white breast with an orange patch on its side.
Its call is a series of high-pitched whistles that can be heard in the forest. The northern parula is an important species for the health of eastern North American ecosystems, as it helps to control insect populations and provide food for other animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. Americana |
13. Black-Throated Blue Warbler
The black-throated blue warbler is a species of New World warbler found in North America. It is a small passerine bird, typically measuring between 11 and 13 cm in length.
During the breeding season, it inhabits deciduous and mixed coniferous forests in the interior of eastern North America. During the cooler months, it migrates south to islands in the Caribbean and Central America.
It is thought to be a solitary species, foraging alone in its breeding grounds and migrating south alone. The black-throated blue warbler is a striking species, with bright blue upperparts and a black face and throat.
Its wings and tail are black, while its belly and underparts are white. During the breeding season, males are easily distinguishable by their bright blue heads, while females have a duller blue hue to their heads.
Both sexes have a white eye ring and a thin white line above the eye. The black-throated blue warbler typically feeds on insects, spiders, and caterpillars, though it will also eat small fruits and berries during the winter months.
Its main predators are birds of prey, such as hawks and owls, as well as snakes and other small mammals. Overall, the black-throated blue warbler is an important species to the North American environment.
Its migratory habits bring it to areas that are otherwise lacking in warbler species, and its insectivorous diet helps to keep insect populations in check.
Thanks to its beauty and ecological importance, the black-throated blue warbler is a species that is sure to be enjoyed for many years to come.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. caerulescens |
14. Little Blue Heron
The little blue heron is a species of heron belonging to the genus Egretta. It is a small bird with a darkly-colored body and a two-toned bill. Juveniles are entirely white, which makes them look quite similar to the snowy egret.
During the breeding season, adults of the species show different coloration on their heads, legs, and feet. This coloration helps to distinguish them from other herons of similar size and shape.
The little blue heron is a unique species that can be found in wetlands and shallow estuaries throughout North and Central America. Its diet consists mainly of small fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and aquatic invertebrates.
It is a solitary species that spends most of its time foraging for food. During the breeding season, adults perform an elaborate courtship dance to attract a mate. They also construct nests in colonies, usually near the water.
The little blue heron is an important species in wetland ecosystems, as it helps to keep the population of small prey species in check.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. caerulea |
15. Cerulean Warbler
The cerulean warbler is a small, songbird belonging to the family Parulidae. It is a long-distance migrant, meaning it migrates great distances from where it breeds in the summer. Its breeding grounds are located in the hardwood forests of North America.
During the non-breeding season, it spends its time wintering in the subtropical forests of the eastern slope of the Andes in South America. This species of bird is specially adapted to fly over long distances between its breeding and wintering grounds.
Its ability to migrate long distances allows it to find the optimal conditions for breeding and feeding during the appropriate seasons. The cerulean warbler is an amazing species that is able to make these long and difficult journeys each year.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. cerulea |
16. Blue Grosbeak
The blue grosbeak is a passerine bird, meaning that it belongs to the family of birds known as the Cardinalidae.
It is native to North America, where it migrates south for the winter to Central America and returns to breed in northern Mexico and the southern United States during the summer months.
The male blue grosbeak is a striking bird, with its deep blue feathers and two brown wing bars. It is a medium-sized bird, making it easily distinguishable from other species of birds.
The female is less colorful, with a brownish-grey shade on the wings and a yellowish-brown on the chest. The blue grosbeak is a popular bird among birdwatchers due to its beauty and the distinctive sound it makes.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. caerulea |
17. Belted Kingfisher
The belted kingfisher is a large, brightly colored bird native to North America. It belongs to the family Alcedinidae, which is a group of birds known for their predatory behavior and for eating a variety of fish, as well as other aquatic prey.
Until recently, all kingfishers were placed into this one family, however, new research has suggested that Alcedinidae should be divided into three subfamilies. This research has been based on the birds’ physical characteristics, as well as their behavior.
The first subfamily comprises kingfishers that have long beaks and large heads, and that hunt over water. The second subfamily includes kingfishers that are smaller in size, have shorter bills, and hunt on land.
The third subfamily comprises kingfishers that have medium-sized heads and bills, and that hunt both over and on land.
By dividing Alcedinidae into these three subfamilies, researchers have been able to gain a better understanding of the different species of kingfishers, as well as their behaviors and habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Genus | Megaceryle |
| Species | M. alcyon |
18. Cliff Swallow
The cliff swallow, also known as the American cliff swallow, is a species of passerine bird belonging to the Hirundinidae family. This family is composed of swallows and martins, two groups of birds that have many similarities, such as their long, pointed wings and forked tails.
The cliff swallow has a dark brown forehead and crown, pale brown underparts, and a white face with a brown line running along the sides. Its wings and tail are dark brown, and it has a narrow, forked tail.
The cliff swallow is a highly social bird, often seen in large flocks, and it is known for its mud nests that are built in colonies, typically on cliffs and man-made structures. They feed mainly on flying insects, and they migrate to warmer climates in the winter.
The cliff swallow is an important bird species, and it is a symbol of grace and agility.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Petrochelidon |
| Species | P. pyrrhonota |
19. New World Warblers
The New World warblers, also known as wood-warblers, are a family of small passerine birds that are found exclusively in the New World. They are renowned for their beautiful, vibrant colors which vary from species to species.
They are part of the family Parulidae and are not related to the Old World warblers or the Australian warblers. The New World warblers are incredibly diverse, with over one hundred species being identified.
They inhabit a range of habitats, from forests and woodlands to grasslands, coasts, and wetlands.
They vary in size, with some species having a length of 4 inches, while others can grow up to 6 inches. The New World warblers have an array of behaviors, and many species engage in singing. They are usually seen in pairs or small groups and are often active foragers.
They feed on a variety of insects, seeds, and berries. The New World warblers are important for their contribution to the ecosystem, as they help to keep insect populations in check.
They are also a great source of joy and entertainment for many bird watchers, due to their beautiful colors and dynamic behavior.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
20. Rock Dove
The rock dove, also known as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family. It is a widely recognized bird, commonly referred to simply as a “pigeon”.
The rock dove is the ancestor of the domestic pigeon, which is now found all over the world. As a result of domesticated pigeons escaping and being released into the wild, the populations of feral pigeons have grown significantly across the globe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
21. Cardinalidae
Cardinalidae is a family of birds that are found only in the New World. This family consists of birds such as cardinals, grosbeaks, and buntings.
In addition to these species, there are other genera included in the family such as the tanager-like Piranga and the warbler-like Granatellus. These birds are brightly colored and their diet consists of insects, fruit, and seeds.
They are often seen in open woodlands, meadows, and marshes, as well as in gardens and parks. These birds are able to adapt to human-altered environments and can be found in urban and suburban areas.
The males of these species are usually more brightly colored than the females and are often seen displaying their colors in courtship. Cardinalidae birds are important seed dispersal agents and are vital for maintaining the health of ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
22. House Finch
The house finch is a species of bird that belongs to the finch family, Fringillidae. This species is native to western North America but has been introduced to the eastern half of the continent and Hawaii.
House finches are part of the genus Haemorhous, which also includes two other American rosefinch species. All three species of finches have similar characteristics, such as their small size and brightly colored feathers.
The house finch is known for its distinctive song, and it is often seen in urban areas due to its ability to adapt to human-made habitats. This species is considered to be an important seed disperser, as it feeds on a variety of seeds and fruits.
Additionally, the house finch is a popular pet, and it is widely kept in aviaries across the United States.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
23. American Robin
The American robin is a migratory bird that belongs to the genus of true thrushes and the family of Turdidae, which is part of the larger thrush family. It is named after the European robin due to its reddish-orange breast, although the two birds are not related closely.
The European robin is part of the Old World flycatcher family. The American robin is a migratory bird that is found throughout North America, typically during the months of March through October. It is a plump bird with gray-brown upperparts and a reddish-orange breast.
The American robin is often found in gardens, parks, and woodlands where it feeds on insects, fruits, and berries. The American robin is an important part of the ecology of North America, as it helps control insect populations and disperses seeds.
Its presence is a sign of a healthy environment and it is often seen as a harbinger of spring. The species is not currently considered threatened, though its population has seen declines due to habitat loss and human disturbance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
24. Gray Catbird
The gray catbird is a common bird species found in North America and Central America. It belongs to the mimid family, which consists of birds that are often known for their ability to mimic other birds’ songs.
The gray catbird is the only species in the genus Dumetella, making it the sole representative of its family. The gray catbird has a distinct plumage, with gray feathers covering its body and a black cap on its head.
Its tail is typically black, and its wings have white and black barring. Its distinctive call sounds much like a cat’s meowing, hence its name. The gray catbird prefers to inhabit wooded areas, often near water, and can be found in parks, woodland edges, and gardens.
This species is known to form monogamous pairs and often nests in dense vegetation, such as trees or shrubs. The gray catbird feeds mainly on insects, fruits, and seeds. During the spring and summer, its diet consists mostly of insects, such as beetles, cicadas, and moths.
In the fall and winter, it will often switch to eating fruits and seeds. The gray catbird is an important part of the natural ecosystems found in North America and Central America.
It helps to control insect populations and disperses the seeds of fruit and other plants, aiding in species diversity.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Dumetella |
| Species | D. carolinensis |
25. Red-Winged Blackbird
The red-winged blackbird is a type of passerine bird, which is a bird that belongs to the perching bird family. It is a species found in a large variety of habitats, most predominately in North America and Central America.
Red-winged blackbirds can be identified by their distinctive red and yellow wings. These birds are usually found in large flocks in open fields, wetlands, and near bodies of water.
They can often be heard singing their loud, distinct song that is made up of both high and low notes. Red-winged blackbirds feed primarily on insects, seeds, and berries. They are an important part of the natural ecosystem, as they help to keep insect populations in check.
These birds can also be important pollinators, as they travel from flower to flower in search of nectar. The red-winged blackbird is an important species that must be protected and conserved.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
26. Tufted Titmouse
The Tufted Titmouse is a small bird native to North America, belonging to the tit and Chickadee family. It is easily identified by its rounded head and crest of black feathers.
The bird is usually around 5 inches in length, with a gray-brown back, wings, and tail, a white breast and belly, and black eyes and bill.
It is also known for its loud and varied vocalizations. The Black-crested Titmouse is a separate species of the Titmouse, found in Central and Southern Texas. It resembles the Tufted Titmouse but is slightly smaller in size and has a black crest instead of a gray-brown one.
It was originally classified as a subspecies of the Tufted Titmouse but is now considered its own species, Baeolophus atricristatus. The Black-crested Titmouse is found in a variety of habitats including woodlands, chaparral, and suburban areas.
It feeds on insects, spiders, fruits, and seeds.
Its nesting habits are similar to those of the Tufted Titmouse, building a nest of grass, bark, and moss in a tree cavity or birdhouse. Overall, the Tufted Titmouse and the Black-crested Titmouse are two species of birds that are closely related but have distinct features and behaviors.
They are both native to North America and are found in a variety of habitats. They are also both important species to the local environments they inhabit.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Baeolophus |
| Species | B. bicolor |
27. Brown-Headed Cowbird
The brown-headed cowbird is a type of North American bird from the icterid family. It is small in size and is an obligate brood parasite, meaning it lays its eggs in the nests of other species of birds. This species is native to temperate and subtropical areas in North America.
Its range is divided into two parts: those that are permanent residents in the more southern parts of its range, and those that migrate northwards to the United States and Mexico during the winter months. The migratory birds return to their summer habitat in March or April.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Molothrus |
| Species | M. ater |
28. Painted Bunting
The painted bunting is a species of bird that belongs to the cardinal family, Cardinalidae. This species is native to North America and is easily recognizable for its bright coloration.
The males of this species have particularly striking plumage, however, this bright coloration only appears in the second year of life. In the first year, the males can only be distinguished from the female by close inspection.
This can be done by looking closely at the size, shape, and coloration of the bird. The males tend to have a slightly larger body size and brighter coloration, while the females are smaller and more muted in color.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. ciris |
29. American Purple Gallinule
The purple gallinule is a species of swamphen that is part of the genus Porphyrio and the order Gruiformes. The Gruiformes is a diverse order of birds that are characterized by having “crane-like” characteristics, and this order includes species like cranes, rails, and crakes.
Specifically, the purple gallinule is a species of rail, which places it in the family Rallidae. It is also known as the yellow-legged gallinule in some local areas. This species of swamphen is recognized by its vibrant purple feathers and its yellow legs.
It is found in wetlands and wet grasslands, where it feeds on small animals, aquatic vegetation, and sometimes grains.
The purple gallinule is a highly social bird that often congregates in groups, and in some parts of its range, it is even considered a pest due to its large numbers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Porphyrio |
| Species | P. martinicus |
30. Blue-And-Yellow Macaw
The blue-and-yellow macaw is a vibrant and colorful bird that is native to South America. It is part of the larger group of neotropical parrots known as macaws and is easily recognized by its striking blue and yellow plumage.
The dorsal part of its body is bright blue, while the ventral part has a lighter yellow/orange color. The head of the bird is green, with a gradient of hues.
The blue-and-yellow macaw is one of the largest South American parrots, with a wingspan of up to 38 inches. These birds are highly sociable and live in large flocks in tropical rainforests. They are also quite vocal and use a variety of sounds to communicate.
They feed mainly on nuts, fruits, and seeds. The blue-and-yellow macaw is classed as ‘near threatened’ on the IUCN Red List, due to the destruction of its natural habitat and illegal trapping for the pet trade.
In order to protect this species, it is important to conserve its natural habitat and stop the illegal trapping and trading of these birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittacidae |
| Genus | Ara |
| Species | A. ararauna |
Conclusion
The blue bird population in Illinois is growing steadily and is a welcome sight. With a variety of habitats and resources in the state, these birds have been able to thrive and are an important part of Illinois wildlife.
With the right conservation measures, the blue bird population will continue to grow for years to come.