Louisiana is home to a variety of blue birds, including the Eastern Bluebird, the Western Bluebird, and the Mountain Bluebird. These birds are a symbol of beauty and hope in the state, and they can be found in a variety of habitats.
Louisiana’s blue birds are a delight to watch and provide a unique glimpse into the state’s natural beauty. They can be seen fluttering around wetlands, woodlands, and open fields throughout the state.
With their bright blue feathers and cheerful songs, these birds are an iconic part of the state’s landscape.
1. Eastern Bluebird
The eastern bluebird is a small bird native to North America, which migrates for the winter season. It is a thrush, which means it belongs to a group of songbirds that have a similar body shape and size. It typically lives in open woodlands, farmlands, and orchards.
During the breeding season, the male eastern bluebird takes on a bright-blue plumage, which is easily seen when it is perched on a wire or other open space.
This bright-blue coloration makes the bird particularly attractive to bird watchers and birders, who often take the time to observe and admire the bird in its natural habitat.
During migration, the eastern bluebird will travel in flocks, which can be easily spotted in the sky and makes it easy to count how many of the birds are in the area. The eastern bluebird is an iconic North American species that is easily recognizable and admired by many.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. sialis |
2. Blue Jay
The blue jay is a type of bird belonging to the Corvidae family, which is native to the eastern part of North America. It is found in most of the eastern and central United States, and some of the eastern populations may migrate.
It is a permanent resident in Newfoundland, Canada, while there are also breeding populations located across southern Canada. This bird is quite common in its range and can be seen in both rural and urban areas.
It is an omnivorous bird, eating a variety of foods such as insects, fruits, nuts, seeds, eggs, and even other small animals. Blue jays are known for their loud calls and bright colors, which makes them an easily recognizable species.
They are also known for their intelligence and often engage in various behaviors such as mobbing predators, caching food, and even mimicking the calls of other birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
3. Indigo Bunting
The indigo bunting is a small, seed-eating bird that belongs to the Cardinalidae family. During the breeding season, it can be found in southern Canada and northern Florida, while during the winter it migrates to southern Florida and northern South America.
It is known for its ability to migrate at night, using the stars to guide its path. This bird relies on the stars to orient itself and fly in the right direction, a behavior that has been known to occur in other bird species as well.
The indigo bunting is also an excellent navigator, as it has the ability to recognize landmarks and use them as reference points for its journey.
Its migratory habits have been studied extensively, allowing researchers to gain insight into the evolution and behavior of this fascinating species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. cyanea |
4. Painted Bunting
The painted bunting is a species of bird belonging to the Cardinalidae family. It is native to North America and is easily distinguished from other birds due to its bright plumage.
The male-painted bunting is especially vibrant, with its plumage only becoming visible in the second year of life. During the first year, the male and female painted buntings can only be distinguished from each other by close inspection.
The bright plumage of the male painted bunting is a stunning sight to behold, with a combination of yellow, blue, green, and red colors, and it is no wonder that the species is so popular among birdwatchers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. Ciris |
5. Purple Martin
The purple martin is a type of bird belonging to the family Hirundinidae, which is also known as the swallow family. This species is native to North America and is the largest swallow found in the region. Despite its name, the purple martin is not actually purple.
Instead, it has a glossy black coat with patches of blue and violet, which gives it its name. The wings, head, and back of the bird are predominantly black, while the throat and breast are a brighter blue-violet color.
The purple martin is a social bird that is often seen in large flocks, and it is a popular species among birdwatchers for its acrobatic flight patterns and vibrant plumage.
The purple martin can be found in habitats ranging from open fields to urban parks, and it feeds mainly on insects.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Progne |
| Species | P. Subis |
6. American Goldfinch
Source: kids.nationalgeographic.com
The American goldfinch is a common sight across North America. It belongs to the finch family, a group of small birds that are known for their small size and colorful plumage.
During the breeding season, the American goldfinch ranges from mid-Alberta all the way to North Carolina. During the winter, it can be found from just south of the Canada-U.S. border to Mexico.
This makes it a migratory species, as it moves from one region to another with the changing of the seasons. This bird is quite adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, from open fields to woodlands and even suburban gardens.
It has a variety of vocalizations ranging from a sharp “tsee-tsee” call to a sweet warbling song. It feeds on a variety of seeds and insects, making it a popular backyard bird.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
7. White-Breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is a species of bird that belongs to the nuthatch family, known as Sittidae. This species of bird is medium-sized, typically measuring 15.5 cm in length. It has a white breast, hence its name, and an overall grey and black body.
Its plumage is predominantly black, with distinct white stripes on its wings and back. It has a black bill and a white throat. The white-breasted nuthatch is a common bird found in North America, usually inhabiting deciduous and coniferous forests.
It is an agile bird, able to climb up and down trees and move around branches with ease. It often feeds on insects, nuts, and seeds. Its song is a loud, rolling trill that can be heard in wooded areas.
The white-breasted nuthatch is an important species, playing a significant role in the ecology of its habitat. It is an important seed disperser, helping to spread the seeds of trees, creating a more diverse and healthy forest.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
8. American Robin
The American robin is a migratory bird that belongs to the true thrush genus and Turdidae, which is a larger family of thrushes. It is called the American robin due to its reddish-orange breast, which is similar to that of the European robin.
However, despite the similarities in color, the two species are not closely related; the European robin belongs to the Old World flycatcher family. The American robin migrates every year to different areas, seeking out warmer climates in the winter.
It is a common sight in backyards and parks and is easily recognizable due to its distinctive orange breast. The American robin is an important part of the North American ecosystem, providing important services such as seed dispersal and pest control.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
9. Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a small songbird that resides mainly in North America. It is a member of the family Polioptilidae, which is a small group of birds that have a large range of color morphs, from black and white to gray and brown.
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is typically a gray-blue color with white underparts. It is around 4.5 inches in length and has a long, slender bill.
The male and female blue-gray gnatcatcher look similar, although the female may be slightly duller in color. This small songbird is found in a variety of habitats, such as woodlands, open fields, and even suburban areas.
It is often seen foraging among shrubs and low trees, or in the air as it catches flying insects. It has a variety of vocalizations, including a soft trill and a sharp, staccato call. Breeding usually occurs from April to July.
The male defends its territory and builds a nest in a shrub or tree. It is a monogamous species, with both parents helping to feed and protect their young. The blue-gray gnatcatcher is an important part of the avian ecosystem.
Its insect-catching habit helps keep insect populations in check. This small bird is also an important food source for other animals, such as hawks, owls, and snakes.
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is listed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, although its population is decreasing in some areas due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Polioptilidae |
| Genus | Polioptila |
| Species | P. caerulea |
10. House Finch
Source: reddit.com
The house finch is a species of finch that belongs to the Fringillidae family. It is native to western North America and has been introduced to the eastern half of the continent and Hawaii.
This species is part of the genus Haemorhous, along with two other species of American rosefinches. The house finch is a small bird, usually ranging from 4.3 to 5.5 inches in length, with a wingspan of 7.9 inches.
It has a reddish-brown head and breast, a grayish-brown back, a white belly, and black wings with white wing bars. The house finch is mainly found in open habitats such as gardens, parks, and urban areas, and it feeds mainly on seeds and grains.
It is a social species, often gathering in large flocks, and can be found in both summer and winter.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
11. Red-Breasted Nuthatch
The red-breasted nuthatch is a small songbird that stands out due to its striking plumage. Its upperparts are a blue-grey hue, while its underparts are a deep cinnamon color. The bird has a white throat and face, with a black stripe running in a straight line from its eyes.
Its bill is straight and grey, and a black crown tops off its head. The nuthatch’s call has been likened to a tin trumpet, as it is a high-pitched, nasal sound. This songbird is easy to recognize due to its distinct colors and call..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. canadensis |
12. Blue Grosbeak
The blue grosbeak is a type of bird that belongs to the Cardinalidae family. It is medium-sized and is native to North America. It migrates during the winter season, flying from its breeding grounds in northern Mexico and the southern United States to Central America.
The male grosbeak has deep blue plumage and two brown wing bars. The rest of its body is either grey or brown. The female is a more muted version of the male with a brownish-grey body, and it lacks distinctive wing bars.
The blue grosbeak is a beautiful sight to behold, with its bright blue feathers and striking wing bars.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. caerulea |
13. Tufted Titmouse
The tufted titmouse is a small bird native to North America that belongs to the family of titmice and chickadees. It is easily recognizable by its gray body, white face, and chestnut-colored crest on its head.
It is quite common in much of the eastern United States and parts of Canada and is often seen in backyards, parks, and gardens. The tufted titmouse’s range does not cover the entirety of North America, however.
The black-crested titmouse, a species closely related to the tufted titmouse, is found in central and southern Texas and parts of Mexico.
This species was originally included as a subspecies of the tufted titmouse but is now accepted as its own distinct species, Baeolophus atricristatus.
While both species have similar appearances, the black-crested titmouse has a black crest on its head rather than chestnut-colored, and its wings and back are darker in color.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Baeolophus |
| Species | B. bicolor |
14. Cerulean Warbler
The cerulean warbler is a small songbird belonging to the Parulidae family, which is made up of species of New World wood warblers. These birds are long-distance migrants, breeding in hardwood forests in the eastern part of North America.
In the non-breeding season, cerulean warblers migrate south to the eastern slope of the Andes in South America, where they prefer subtropical forests.
This is a long and difficult journey for these tiny birds, and it is thought to be one of the longest migrations among songbirds. They typically fly thousands of miles in a single journey, and many of the birds don’t survive the trip.
During the winter months, these birds are often found in flocks in the canopy of subtropical forests, where they feed on insects, berries, and other small food items.
Cerulean warblers are an important part of the ecosystem, and their conservation is important for the health of their habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. cerulea |
15. New World Warblers
The New World warblers, also known as wood-warblers, are a family of small birds that are native to the Americas. They are of the passerine group, meaning that they are perching birds with strong feet and claws. They are usually brightly colored and are quite small in size.
This family of birds is part of the Parulidae family, which is exclusively found in the New World. The New World warblers are not related to the Old World warblers or the Australian warblers.
The Old World warblers are a family of small passerines that are found in the Old World, such as Africa, Europe, and Asia. The Australian warblers are a group of passerines that are found only in Australia.
The New World warblers are considered to be more closely related to the Tanagers, Cardinals, Grosbeaks, and Buntings, which are all members of the Passeriformes order.
Although the New World warblers and Old World warblers have similar characteristics and behaviors, they are not closely related.
This is because the two families have been geographically separated for millions of years, leading to different evolutionary processes that have shaped their development. As a result, the two families have evolved separately, making them quite distinct from each other.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
16. Northern Parula
Source: dibird.com
The northern parula is a species of small New World warbler. It is native to North America, where it breeds from southern Canada to Florida. It is a migratory bird, with many of the northern populations traveling south for the winter.
The northern parula is a brightly colored bird, with a yellow or olive back, blue wings, and a white underbelly. Its head is blue with yellow streaks, and its throat is yellow with a black patch. It has a relatively short bill and a short tail.
Northern parulas are insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects and spiders on the ground and in trees. They nest in small, open cup-shaped nests, which are usually built in trees or shrubs.
The northern parula is a common breeding species in its range, and its population is considered to be stable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. americana |
17. Brown Pelican
The brown pelican is a species of bird belonging to the Pelecanidae family. It is native to the Americas and is one of three species that live in the region. Out of the three, it is the only one that feeds by diving into the water.
The pelican dives into the water in order to catch fish for its meals. Its large bill and pouch help it to scoop up the fish. It is also capable of diving up to ten meters beneath the surface and can stay underwater for up to 30 seconds.
The brown pelican is a unique species, as it is the only one in its family that feeds by diving into the water.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. occidentalis |
18. Pyrrhuloxia
The Pyrrhuloxia, also known as the desert cardinal, is a medium-sized songbird native to the American southwest and northern Mexico.
This species is easily identifiable because of its short, stout bill, red crest and wings, and similarities to the northern cardinal and vermilion cardinal, which are all in the same genus.
These birds are found in a variety of habitats, from desert scrub and grasslands to woodlands and riparian areas. They feed on seeds, insects, and small fruits.
During the breeding season, males are known to be quite territorial and will vigorously defend their nesting sites from other males. The female builds a cup-shaped nest made of grasses and other materials and often lays three to four eggs.
Both the male and female take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the young. Pyrrhuloxia is an important part of the American southwest ecosystem, providing food for other animals such as snakes, lizards, and mammals, and serving as an important pollinator.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Cardinalis |
| Species | C. sinuatus |
19. American Purple Gallinule
The Purple Gallinule is a species of bird belonging to the Porphyrio genus of the Gruiformes order. Gruiformes is a family of birds that also includes cranes, rails, and crakes, and is aptly named because of the crane-like appearance of its members.
The Purple Gallinule is a rail species, which places it into the Rallidae family, the group of birds which includes rails, crakes, and coots. It is also known by its local name, the Yellow-legged Gallinule.
The Purple Gallinule is found in freshwater wetlands, marshes, and swamps throughout much of its range, and is easily identified by its distinct purple plumage and yellow legs. It is a relatively small bird, measuring around 28 cm in length and weighing just under 100 grams.
Its diet consists of small invertebrates, aquatic insects, and plant material. The Purple Gallinule is considered to be of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List and is considered to be a common species across much of its range.
The Purple Gallinule is an important species in its wetland and marsh habitats. It is an important food source for many predators, and its behavior of foraging in shallow water helps to aerate the water, improving the health of the wetland systems in which it lives.
The Purple Gallinule is also an important species for scientific research, as it is one of the few species of rail which is relatively easy to observe in its natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Porphyrio |
| Species | P. martinicus |
20. Boat-Tailed Grackle
The boat-tailed grackle is a bird belonging to the Icteridae family. This species can be found in the coastal regions of the Southeastern United States all year round. The boat-tailed grackle has a long, broad tail that resembles a boat and is blackish-brown in color.
It also has a glossy black head and chest, and a bright yellow eye. The grackles are usually found in large flocks, foraging on the ground, and in trees for food.
They are omnivores, meaning that they eat a variety of food sources including insects, grains, fruits, and even eggs from other birds. The boat-tailed grackle is a popular bird to observe and is frequently seen in urban areas, such as parks, golf courses, and yards.
Not only are these birds interesting to watch, but they can also provide an important source of insect control, as they feed on a variety of insect pests.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. major |
21. Gray Catbird
The gray catbird, also spelled grey catbird, is a species of bird found natively in North America and Central America. It is a medium-sized bird, belonging to the mimid family, and is the only member of the genus Dumetella.
It is easily recognizable due to its distinct gray plumage and yellow bill. Gray catbirds have a variety of calls but are most well-known for their namesake “meow” vocalization, which is used to startle predators.
Their diet consists mostly of insects and berries, which they forage in thick vegetation.
During the breeding season, gray catbirds construct a cup-shaped nest of twigs and grass near the ground, usually in dense shrubbery, and lay two to four eggs. Gray catbirds are most commonly found in wooded and shrubby areas, but they can also be found in wetland areas and suburban gardens.
They are often seen on the ground, searching for food. Gray catbirds are fairly common throughout their range, but their populations have been declining due to habitat destruction and fragmentation.
Conservation efforts are underway to help protect them and ensure their future survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Dumetella |
| Species | D. carolinensis |
22. Great Blue Heron
The great blue heron is a species of wading bird belonging to the family Ardeidae. It is known to inhabit many regions in North and Central America, as well as northwestern South America, the Caribbean, and the Galápagos Islands.
The bird is typically found near the shores of open water bodies and wetlands. It is a large bird, usually with a wingspan of up to 6 feet and a body length up to 4 feet. It has a long, S-shaped neck, long legs, and a long bill.
It is usually grayish blue in color, with white underparts and black streaks on the neck. The great blue heron is an opportunistic feeder and primarily consumes small fish, crustaceans, amphibians, and insects. It also feeds on small mammals, reptiles, and occasionally, birds.
The bird uses its long bill to spear and snag its prey. The heron will also stand still in shallow water and wait for prey to come within reach. It can also wade through the water and catch its prey with a quick jab of its bill.
The great blue heron is a highly adaptable species and can be found in many different habitats. It is often spotted in marshes, swamps, estuaries, reservoirs, ponds, and streams. It is also found in more urban areas such as parks, golf courses, and even lawns.
It is a solitary species and can be seen in areas with high human activity. The great blue heron is a majestic species and is a common sight near open water bodies. Its long neck, long bill, and impressive wingspan make it a beautiful species that is worth admiring.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. herodias |
23. Double-Crested Cormorant
Source: ebird.org
The double-crested cormorant is a member of the cormorant family of water birds. It is an aquatic bird that can be found near rivers, lakes, and coastal areas.
It is one of the most widely distributed birds in North America, ranging from the Aleutian Islands in Alaska all the way down to Florida and Mexico. Its habitat is usually shallow and slow-moving bodies of water, such as estuaries, lagoons, and marshes.
It feeds mainly on small fish, but also consumes crustaceans, amphibians, and aquatic insects.The double-crested cormorant is a medium-sized bird, with an average weight of 1.3-2.3 lbs. and a wingspan of up to four feet.
The adults have a blackish-brown plumage, with a paler head and neck, and a distinctive yellow throat patch. The double-crested cormorant typically nests in colonies on cliffs or rocky outcroppings. The nest is made from sticks, grasses, and seaweed, and is lined with down.
The female lays three to four eggs, which are incubated for 22-28 days.The double-crested cormorant is a fascinating bird that plays an important role in its environment. It is an indicator of water quality and helps keep the population of fish in check.
It is also an important food source for predators like eagles and ospreys. As its population continues to grow, it is important to ensure that its habitats remain healthy and undisturbed, so that it can continue to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Nannopterum |
| Species | N. auritum |
24. American white ibis
The American white ibis is a species that belongs to the ibis family, Threskiornithidae. It is a migratory bird that can be found in the United States, from Virginia in the north, all the way down the Gulf Coast to the tropics of the New World.
This species of ibis is often seen flying in large flocks, and is fairly easy to identify due to its striking white plumage and long curved bill. In addition to its white feathers, the American white ibis has a red face and legs.
It mainly feeds on small fish, insects, and crustaceans, which it captures with its long bill. It is also known to scavenge for food, making it a familiar sight in coastal areas.
The American white ibis can be found in a variety of habitats, including marshes, swamps, mangroves, coastal lagoons, and beaches. It is an important species for the local ecosystems, providing food for other animals and helping to control insect and fish populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Eudocimus |
| Species | E. albus |
25. Snowy Egret
The snowy egret is a small white heron belonging to the genus Egretta. The name of this genus is derived from the Provençal French word for the little egret, aigrette, which is a diminutive of the word aigron, meaning ‘heron’.
The species name thula refers to the black-necked swan, which is an incorrect association made by Chilean naturalist Juan Ignacio Molina in 1782. The snowy egret is a striking bird with a long, slender neck and white plumage, often with yellowish plumes on its head and neck.
It is found throughout the Americas, from Canada to Argentina. The snowy egret is a common sight along coasts and wetlands, where it feeds on fish, frogs, and other aquatic animals.
It is also found in urban areas, such as parks and gardens, where it forages for insects and other small prey.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. thula |
26. Little Blue Heron
The little blue heron is a species of heron from the Egretta genus. It is a small heron, usually dark in color, with a beak that is two-toned. Juveniles are completely white, giving them a similar appearance to the snowy egret.
During breeding season, the adult birds will have different colors on their heads, legs, and feet. The head may become yellow, the legs and feet may be orange or yellow, and the bill may change to black and yellow.
This helps the birds to stand out from the other herons and makes it easier for them to identify each other. The breeding season is also a time when the birds will be more active and will be found in larger groups than during the non-breeding season.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. caerulea |
Conclusion
Blue birds are a beautiful sight in Louisiana. Their presence in the state is a reminder of the importance of protecting our local wildlife and their habitats.
With the right conservation efforts, blue birds can continue to thrive in Louisiana for many years to come.