Mississippi is home to many species of bluebirds, which can be seen throughout the state. These birds provide beautiful scenery and a unique glimpse into the diverse wildlife of Mississippi.
Bluebirds are a common sight in the state, with many species such as the Eastern Bluebird, Western Bluebird, Mountain Bluebird, and the Indigo Bunting calling Mississippi home. These birds can be seen in a variety of habitats, including fields, forests, and wetlands.
They play an important role in the ecosystem, providing food for larger predatory birds and mammals. They are also a favorite of birdwatchers, who flock to Mississippi to catch a glimpse of these stunning birds.
1. Bluebirds
Bluebirds are a species of birds found in North America and are part of the order Passerines and the thrush family. They are medium-sized birds, and primarily feed on insects, though some may include other foods such as seeds in their diet.
Bluebirds are distinguished from other thrush species, as they are one of the few genera found in the Americas. When it comes to reproduction, bluebirds generally lay between 4 to 6 eggs.
The eggs are usually a pale blue or greenish-blue color, and the female will incubate them until they hatch. After hatching, both parents will help feed the young birds until they are able to find food on their own.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
2. Blue Jay
The blue jay is a type of bird that belongs to the Corvidae family and is native to eastern North America. It is commonly found in the eastern and central parts of the United States, with some populations migrating further during certain parts of the year.
Additionally, blue jays can be found living in Newfoundland, Canada, and breeding populations can be found across Southern Canada.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
3. Eastern Bluebird
The eastern bluebird is a species of thrush, a type of migratory bird native to North America. It lives in open woodlands, farmlands, and orchards.
This species is easily recognizable due to its bright-blue breeding plumage the male, which can be seen on open perches or wires. This has made the eastern bluebird a popular species among birders, who admire its beautiful plumage and enjoy watching its movements.
The eastern bluebird is a small bird, usually measuring between five to seven inches in length. Its wingspan is typically between eight to eleven inches. The eastern bluebird has a rounded head, a short neck, and a slightly forked tail.
Its plumage is typically bright blue on the upper parts, with an orange-brown chest and a white belly. The wings are dark grayish-brown with white bars. Its bill is black, and its legs and feet are grayish-black.
The eastern bluebird is a solitary bird but is often seen in small flocks during migration. Its diet consists mainly of insects, fruit, and berries. During the breeding season, it will also eat spiders, caterpillars, and other invertebrates.
The eastern bluebird is a vocal species, with a range of songs and calls used to communicate with other birds. It is an important species in its habitat as it helps to control insect populations and aids in seed dispersal.
The eastern bluebird is considered a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Its population is stable, and it can be found in many parts of the United States and Canada.
However, habitat loss and degradation are major threats to this species, and it is important to protect its natural habitats to ensure its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. sialis |
4. Indigo Bunting
The indigo bunting is a small bird that belongs to the cardinal family, Cardinalidae. It is a migratory species, which means it moves from place to place in different seasons. During the breeding season, it can be found in southern Canada, all the way up to northern Florida.
During the winter, its range shifts to the south, with its presence felt from southern Florida to northern South America. It is believed that they migrate by night, using the stars for navigation.
It is a remarkable feat of nature, how a small bird can move so many miles by using the stars as a guide. It is a testament to the power and beauty of nature, and the incredible adaptability of the species..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. cyanea |
5. Painted Bunting
The painted bunting is a species of bird that belongs to the Cardinalidae family. It is native to North America and is known for its vibrant hues. The male of this species can only be distinguished from the female in its second year of life.
The males exhibit their bright plumage in this later stage, whereas in their first year, the two genders can only be distinguished from one another through close inspection. The painted bunting is a popular bird among birdwatchers, as its colorful feathers are a sight to behold.
Its bright array of colors is sure to bring some cheer to any nature-lover.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. ciris |
6. Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a small species of bird that is native to North America. It is one of the smallest songbirds in the world, with an average length of only 4 to 5 inches. Its wingspan is also quite small, usually measuring between 5 and 6 inches.
The blue-gray gnatcatcher has a distinct coloration, with a light blue-gray head and back, a white underside, and a black throat and tail. It also has a white eye ring and two white wing bars.
This songbird has a short, thin bill and prefers to feed on insects, including gnats, flies, and mosquitoes. It is also known to eat berries and other small fruits. The blue-gray gnatcatcher is usually found near wetlands, where it makes its nest in shrubs or low trees.
When breeding, it is known to form small, loose colonies. This species is not considered threatened or endangered, but its population is declining in some areas due to habitat loss and degradation.
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is an important species in North America and should be protected and conserved.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Polioptilidae |
| Genus | Polioptila |
| Species | P. caerulea |
7. Common Grackle
The Common Grackle is a species of large Icterid bird found in large numbers across much of North America. It was first documented in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus. Common Grackles are fairly large birds, with long, dark bills, pale yellow eyes, and long tails.
They have three distinct subspecies, which can be recognized by their unique physical characteristics. Common Grackles inhabit a variety of different habitats, ranging from open fields to wooded areas.
They feed mainly on insects, grains, and fruit, and are commonly seen in large flocks. They are also known to be quite vocal, producing a variety of different calls and songs.
Common Grackles are an important part of North American ecosystems, as they help to control the populations of various pests. They are also considered a pest species themselves, as they often raid gardens and farms in search of food.
Despite their negative reputation, they are important to the environment and can even be beneficial to humans in certain contexts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. quiscula |
8. 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, measuring approximately 15.5 cm in length. This species has a white breast and a grey back, with a black cap and a black stripe running along its eyes.
The bill is usually black and the underside is pale in color. Its wings are short and pointed, and its tail is relatively long. This species is found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, and parks.
It is known for its acrobatic behavior, often clinging to the trunks and branches of trees, and sometimes even hanging upside down while searching for food. The white-breasted nuthatch is omnivorous, with its diet consisting of insects, spiders, nuts, and berries.
It is known as an interesting species to watch, often seen in pairs or small groups as they forage for food. It is also a common sight in many backyards, often seen clinging to suet feeders..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
9. House finch
Source: Wikipedia
The house finch is a species of bird belonging to the finch family Fringillidae. It is native to western North America but has been introduced to the eastern half of the continent and Hawaii.
This species, as well as two other American rosefinches, are placed in the genus Haemorhous. The house finch is a medium-sized bird measuring around 12 cm in length, with males having a longer tail than females.
They have a distinctive red coloring on their head, breast, and shoulders, while their backs and wings are mottled gray-brown.
They are typically seen in small flocks, often near human habitation, and feed on seeds, grains, fruits, and insects. The house finch is an important bird species in North America, providing a valuable source of food for predators.
It also helps to disperse seeds, aiding in the spread of native plant species. The importance of this species makes it important to protect their habitat, which includes grasslands, woodlands, and urban areas.
The house finch is a hardy bird and has adapted to many different environments, including those with a wide range of temperatures. This has allowed it to expand its range and become an introduced species in some areas.
Despite its success, the house finch is threatened by habitat loss, and it is important to protect its natural habitats so that this species can continue to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
10. Red-breasted Nuthatch
The red-breasted nuthatch is a small songbird that is characterized by its vibrant coloration. The adult has blue-grey upperparts and cinnamon underparts, a stark contrast that is further accentuated by its white throat and faces with a black stripe running through the eyes.
It also has a straight grey bill and a black crown. This bird is known for its distinctive call, which has been likened to a tin trumpet. It is high-pitched and nasal, and can often be heard in woodlands from the spring to late summer.
The red-breasted nuthatch is a unique and interesting species, and its call is a beautiful addition to the natural soundscape.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. canadensis |
11. Purple Martin
The purple martin is a type of bird that belongs to the family of swallows known as Hirundinidae. These birds are native to North America and are the largest species of swallow found in the region. Despite its name, the purple martin is not actually purple in color.
Its feathers range from dark blue to black, with some having a purple iridescence. The bird’s name is thought to have originated from its bright and distinct coloring, though the exact origin of the name is unknown.
Purple martins are highly social birds that live in large colonies. They are typically found near bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and ponds. These birds feed mainly on insects, which they capture in mid-air.
They are agile fliers and can be seen swooping and diving in pursuit of their prey. In recent years, the purple martin has become a popular bird for backyard birdwatchers.
These birds are attracted to specially designed birdhouses and can often be seen perching on the roofs of these structures. The birdhouses provide the birds with a safe and secure nesting site, making it easier for them to raise their young.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Progne |
| Species | P. subis |
12. American Robin
Source: Wikipedia
The American robin is a migratory bird belonging to the Turdidae family, which is a larger group of birds known as true thrushes. Its name comes from the European robin due to the similarities in their coloring; both have reddish-orange breasts.
However, the American robin and the European robin are not closely related. The European robin is a member of the Old World flycatcher family. The American robin is a common sight in North America and can be spotted throughout the continent.
It has an orange-red breast, a grayish-brown back, and a white underside. It is known for its melodic song and is often seen hopping around on lawns in search of insects and worms. The American robin migrates with the changing of the seasons.
It typically spends the summer in the northern parts of the continent and heads south for the winter. It usually arrives in its wintering grounds in late October or early November and departs for the north in March or April.
Overall, the American robin is a well-known bird of the true thrush family and is distinct from the European robin, despite their similar coloring. It is a beautiful and iconic bird of North America, and its melodious song is often heard throughout the continent.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
13. Red-winged Blackbird
Source: vtecostudies.org
The red-winged blackbird is a type of bird that belongs to the family Icteridae. This species is widely found in North America, as well as in parts of Central America. Its wings are black in color, with bright red patches on the shoulder area.
This unique marking makes the red-winged blackbird easily recognizable. The bird is a passerine species, meaning it is a songbird with a perching habit.
They typically inhabit wetland areas, such as marshes, swamps, and flooded fields, where they can find plenty of food and shelter. Red-winged blackbirds are known to form large flocks, allowing them to protect themselves from predators.
The diet of the red-winged blackbird consists mainly of insects, seeds, and grains. They also enjoy eating berries and are known to feed on human food scraps.
During spring and summer months, the birds often feed on larvae, moths, and other types of insects found in the environment. The red-winged blackbird is an important species in its native range, as it helps to control insect populations.
The bird is also a popular sight for birdwatchers and is a common feature in North American landscapes.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
14. New World Warblers
The New World warblers, or wood-warblers, are a family of birds found exclusively in the New World. They are small in size and boast a variety of vibrant colors.
These birds, which make up the family Parulidae, are not closely related to Old World warblers or Australian warblers. The New World warblers are most commonly found in the northern and eastern parts of North America, as well as in parts of Central and South America.
These birds tend to inhabit areas with dense vegetation, such as forests and jungles. They feed mainly on insects, which they hunt by flying from branch to branch.
The New World warblers are known for their distinctive singing, which is composed of high-pitched, often melodious trills. As such, they are popular among birdwatchers.
Furthermore, many species of these birds have become increasingly rare, making them a sought-after sighting for birders. In conclusion, the New World warblers are a unique family of passerine birds that can be found exclusively in the New World.
They are small and colorful, and they are most often heard rather than seen. Furthermore, their close relation to Old World warblers and Australian warblers is non-existent, making them a truly special group of birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
15. Common Starling
The common starling is a well-known species of passerine bird that is found across a wide range of habitats. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, and is now also found in North America, where it is known as the European starling.
It is a medium-sized bird and is a member of the starling family, known as Sturnidae. The common starling is mainly known for its distinctive black plumage, with its bright white spots that are visible in certain light.
It has a short, conical bill, and its wings are broad and pointed, allowing it to maneuver quickly and efficiently through the air. The common starling is a highly sociable species, often seen in large flocks that can contain thousands of birds.
They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of insects, fruits, and seeds. They are also well-known for their attractive and melodic song, which is often heard during the breeding season..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
| Genus | Sturnus |
| Species | S. vulgaris |
16. Brown-headed Cowbird
The brown-headed cowbird is a small icterid, a species of bird in the blackbird family, native to temperate and subtropical North America. It is an obligate brood parasite, meaning that it does not build its own nest, instead laying its eggs in the nests of other species.
The cowbird is a permanent resident in the southern parts of its range, while the northern birds migrate south for the winter to the southern United States and Mexico. They typically return to their summer habitat around March or April.
The cowbird is a small bird, about 17–18 cm in length. Its head is brownish-black, its neck and underbelly are gray, and its back is a darker brown. It has a short, thick bill, and its wings and tail are black. The female is smaller than the male and less colorful.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Molothrus |
| Species | M. ater |
17. Tufted Titmouse
The tufted titmouse is a species of small songbird native to North America. It belongs to the family of tit and chickadees and is known for its distinctive tufts of feathers on its head.
In the past, the black-crested titmouse, which is found in central and southern Texas, was classified as a subspecies of tufted titmouse. However, it is now considered a separate species and is known as Baeolophus atricristatus.
The black-crested titmouse is slightly different from the tufted titmouse, in that it has a black crest on its head instead of the gray tuft of feathers found in the tufted titmouse.
In addition, the black-crested titmouse tends to be larger than the tufted titmouse, with a stockier build and a more powerful voice. Both species are found in North America, although the black-crested titmouse is restricted to a smaller range in the south.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Baeolophus |
| Species | B. bicolor |
18. Blue grosbeak
The blue grosbeak is a medium-sized bird that belongs to the passerine family, Cardinalidae. This bird is a North American species, with a migratory nature.
During winter, it travels to Central America, and breeds in northern Mexico and the southern United States during the summer months. Its most distinguishing feature is its bright blue plumage, which is made even more striking by the two brown wing bars that males possess.
The blue grosbeak is a popular species for birdwatchers, as they are a sight to behold in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. caerulea |
19. Great Blue Heron
The great blue heron is a majestic bird, easily identified by its long neck, long legs, and large wingspan.
It is a member of the heron family Ardeidae and can be found near the shores of open water and in wetlands throughout North and Central America, as well as parts of South America, the Caribbean, and the Galápagos Islands.
This species is usually seen wading in shallow waters, such as rivers, streams, lakes, or marshes, looking for small fish, frogs, or other aquatic creatures to eat. Its large size and striking color make it easily recognizable and a popular subject for nature photographers.
It is also highly adaptable and can be found in both rural and urban areas, as long as there is water nearby. The great blue heron is a beautiful bird and an important part of many ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. herodias |
20. Boat-tailed grackle
The boat-tailed grackle is a type of bird belonging to the Icteridae family. This family is comprised of birds that are mainly found in tropical Central and South America as well as the southern half of the United States.
The boat-tailed grackle, however, is unique in that it is a permanent resident along the coasts of the Southeastern United States. It is easily identified by its distinctively shaped tail, which is long and boat-shaped, hence the bird’s name.
This bird is found in wetlands, marshes, and estuaries, as well as mangroves, the edges of woodlands, and even in urban areas. It feeds mainly on small invertebrates such as insects, but will also eat fruit and seeds.
It is a social bird often found in flocks and is known for its loud, melodious calls. The boat-tailed grackle is an important part of the local ecosystem and is a valuable species to observe and appreciate..
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. major |
21. Gray Catbird
The gray catbird, also known as the grey catbird, is a type of bird that is found in North America and Central America. It belongs to the mimid family, which is a group of perching birds. The gray catbird is the only bird in its genus, which is called Dumetella.
It is a medium-sized bird, with a distinctive gray coloration and a long tail. It has a wide range of vocalizations, which include a harsh, mewing call that is similar to a cat’s meow. The gray catbird is an omnivore, feeding mainly on insects, fruits, and seeds.
It prefers to live in open woodlands and thickets and can be seen foraging on the ground and in low vegetation. It is also known to inhabit gardens and suburban areas.
The gray catbird is an important part of the ecosystem, providing food for other animals, including other birds, small mammals, and reptiles.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Dumetella |
| Species | D. carolinensis |
22. Blue-headed Vireo
The blue-headed vireo is a species of songbird that migrates between North and Central America. It has a wide range and can be found in Canada, the eastern coast of the United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America.
There are two recognized subspecies of the blue-headed vireo. It is a small bird, typically found in wooded areas, and has a bright blue head and a white breast with gray wings.
The blue-headed vireo eats insects, berries, and other small invertebrates, which it catches by flying through the air or hopping around on the ground. Its call is a loud, warbling song that can be heard in the spring and summer.
The blue-headed vireo is a fascinating bird and an important part of the ecosystem in its native range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Vireonidae |
| Genus | Vireo |
| Species | V. solitarius |
23. Double-crested Cormorant
Source: twitter.com
The double-crested cormorant is a species of bird that belongs to the cormorant family. It can be found in a variety of habitats, from freshwater rivers and lakes to coastal areas.
This species is native to North America, and its range stretches from the Aleutian Islands in Alaska to Florida and Mexico. This species of bird can be identified by its distinct double-crested head feathers. It is a large bird, with a dark body, a long neck, and a hooked bill.
It is often seen perched on rocks or floating on water. The double-crested cormorant is a fish-eating bird, and it uses its large bill to catch its prey. It dives underwater to search for food, and it is able to stay submerged for up to 30 seconds.
It can also use its wings to “fly” underwater, propelling itself forward with its feet. The double-crested cormorant is an important bird species and an integral part of the ecosystem. It helps to keep the fish populations in check, preventing them from becoming overabundant.
It is also an important source of food for other animals, such as large predatory birds and mammals. The double-crested cormorant faces a number of threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and hunting.
It is also vulnerable to climate change, as its preferred habitat is increasingly affected by rising temperatures and sea levels. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the continued survival of this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Nannopterum |
| Species | N. auritum |
24. Snowy Egret
Source: ebird.org
The snowy egret is a species of white heron that belongs to the genus Aigrette. The name of the genus is derived from Provençal French, which literally translates to “little egret”.
This species was mistakenly identified as the black-necked swan by Chilean naturalist Juan Ignacio Molina back in 1782, and the species name thula is actually an Araucano term for the swan.
The snowy egret is a medium-sized bird that is mainly white in color with black legs and a yellow bill. They are commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and estuaries and feed on fish, crustaceans, frogs, and insects.
The snowy egret is an important species that play a vital role in maintaining healthy wetland ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. thula |
25. American White Ibis
Source: photoartflight.com
The American white ibis is a species of bird that belongs to the ibis family, Threskiornithidae. This species is commonly found in the United States, ranging from Virginia to the Gulf Coast.
Furthermore, the American white ibis can also be seen in the coastal tropics of the New World. This species has white plumage, long legs, and a long, curved bill. The wings are broad and pointed, and the tail is short and rounded.
This species has a strong, direct flight and gathers in large flocks when foraging. They feed on crabs, frogs, and other aquatic invertebrates, as well as small vertebrates. They have also been known to feed on carrion and garbage.
The American white ibis is a highly adaptable species and is found in a variety of habitats, from coastal marshes and mudflats to mangroves, pastures, and woodlands.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Eudocimus |
| Species | E. albus |
26. Little Blue Heron
The little blue heron is a small heron that belongs to the genus Egretta. It is a dark-colored heron with a two-toned bill, which indicates that it is an adult. Juveniles of this species are entirely white and have a strong resemblance to the snowy egret.
During the breeding season, adult little blue herons develop different colorations on their head, legs, and feet. This variation in coloration helps to differentiate between adults and juveniles.
The bright colors of the adult’s head, legs, and feet help to attract a mate during the breeding season. The little blue heron is a unique species with its two-toned bill and different coloration in the breeding season.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. caerulea |
Conclusion
Bluebirds in Mississippi play an important role in the state’s ecosystem. They provide a variety of benefits to the environment, from controlling the insect population to providing an important food source for other species.
Additionally, their bright colors and beautiful songs make them a joy to observe. For these reasons, it is important to protect the bluebirds in Mississippi so that they can continue to thrive.