Welcome to the world of Missouri’s blue birds. Missouri is home to a variety of blue birds, including the Eastern Bluebird, Western Bluebird, Mountain Bluebird, and Violet-green Swallow.
These colorful birds are a beautiful sight to see and make a wonderful addition to any backyard. Blue birds in Missouri have a unique connection to the state’s history and are often seen as symbols of hope and goodwill.
In this guide, we will discuss the different species of blue birds found in Missouri, their habitats, and behaviors. We will also provide resources to help you create a safe and inviting habitat for these beautiful birds. So, come and explore the world of Missouri’s blue birds.
1. Eastern Bluebird
The eastern bluebird is a small migratory thrush native to North America. It can be found in a variety of habitats including open woodlands, farmlands, and orchards. The male eastern bluebird is particularly distinctive due to its vivid bright-blue breeding plumage.
This colorful display is easily spotted by birders when the bluebird perches on a wire or open perch. The beauty of the eastern bluebird makes it a favorite among birders, who often seek out this species during their birding excursions.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. sialis |
2. Indigo Bunting
The indigo bunting is a beautiful small bird that belongs to the cardinal family, Cardinalidae. It is a migratory bird, meaning it flies south for winter and north for summer.
During the summer months, it can be found all the way from southern Canada to northern Florida, while in the winter it is seen in southern Florida and northern South America.
When making its way south or north, the indigo bunting flies during the night, using the stars in the sky to guide its way. This is a remarkable ability of the bird and is aided by its bright feathers which help it to be visible against the night sky.
The indigo bunting is a remarkable bird that has adapted to its environment to survive the changing seasons and has even learned how to navigate using the stars.
| 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 passerine bird, meaning that it is a perching bird. It belongs to the Corvidae family, which includes a variety of birds such as crows and ravens. This species of bird is native to North America, particularly in the eastern regions of the United States.
In fact, it is quite widespread and can be found in most of the eastern and central states. Additionally, some eastern populations may migrate seasonally, while others remain in the same region all year round.
Blue jays can also be found in Newfoundland, Canada, where they have established resident populations, and in southern Canada, where they breed.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
4. Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a tiny songbird native to North America. This species is typically found in open woodlands, coastal shrublands, and pine savannas. Its size ranges from 4.3 to 5.1 inches in length, with a wingspan of 6.7 to 8.7 inches.
The blue-gray gnatcatcher has a distinct blue-gray upper body, with white underparts and a white-tipped tail. Its call is a high-pitched “tseet”, and its song is a series of “tsi-tsi-tsi” notes.
This species is an insectivore, feeding primarily on small insects such as flies, wasps, and moths. During the breeding season, it builds a cup-shaped nest of grass, moss, and plant material in low shrubs or trees.
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a solitary species, usually seen alone or in pairs. It is a relatively common and widespread species in its range and is not considered threatened.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Polioptilidae |
| Genus | Polioptila |
| Species | P. caerulea |
5. Blue Grosbeak
The blue grosbeak is a medium-sized songbird that belongs to the cardinal family. It is native to North America and is mainly migratory, which means it spends part of the year in Central America and part of the year in northern Mexico and the southern United States.
The male blue grosbeak is easily identified by its bright blue plumage, which is accented with two brown wing bars. The female is a plain brown color, lacking the bright blue feathers of the male.
The blue grosbeak is a popular bird for birdwatchers, as it is a fairly common sight in its native range. It is also a desirable bird to have in the garden, as it will eat many of the insects that can cause damage to plants.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. caerulea |
6. Cardinalidae
Cardinalidae is a family of birds that are endemic to the New World. This family consists of birds from the genera Cardinalis, Coccothraustes, and Emberiza. These genera contain species such as cardinals, grosbeaks, and buntings.
In addition to these genera, Cardinalidae also includes other genera such as Piranga and Granatellus. Piranga are tanager-like birds, while Granatellus are warbler-like birds.
The birds of the Cardinalidae family inhabit a wide range of habitats, such as woodlands, forests, and grasslands. They are omnivorous, with a preference for seeds, fruits, and insects. Most species of this family are brightly colored and have beautiful songs.
The members of this family are important seed dispersers, contributing to the regeneration of forests. In addition, they also play an important role in controlling insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
7. White-Breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is a type of bird that belongs to the Sittidae family. It is a medium-sized bird, usually measuring around 15.5 cm in length.
It is part of the nuthatch family, which is composed of species of small to medium-sized birds typically found in wooded areas. The white-breasted nuthatch has a distinctive white breast and a grey back and wings, as well as a long tail.
It is an agile little bird that is able to cling to tree trunks and branches and can also climb up and down trees in search of food. It usually feeds on insects, nuts, and seeds, and can be seen searching for food on the ground beneath trees.
The white-breasted nuthatch is a common species found in many parts of North America and is also found in some parts of Europe and Asia. It is a sociable bird that can often be found in small flocks, and its distinctive call can be heard from quite a distance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
8. Cerulean Warbler
The cerulean warbler is a small songbird belonging to the family Parulidae. It is a long-distance migrant, breeding in the hardwood forests of eastern North America.
During the non-breeding season, it migrates southward to the eastern slope of the Andes in South America, where it prefers to reside in subtropical forests.
This species of warbler is unique in its extensive migration pattern, which spans from North America to South America twice a year. The cerulean warbler is not a solitary creature; during its migration, it often travels in flocks with other small songbirds.
On its journey, the warbler relies on its keen eyesight to spot food sources and potential predators. It mainly feeds on small insects, such as caterpillars, spiders, and ants.
The cerulean warbler has an impressive ability to adapt to a variety of habitats, which has allowed it to thrive in both its breeding and non-breeding locations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. cerulea |
9. Barn Swallow
The barn swallow is a species of swallow that has the widest distribution of any passerine bird, inhabiting habitats on every continent except Antarctica. It is a migratory bird, and its range covers an impressive area of 251 million square kilometers.
It is a small, slender bird, with blue plumage on its upperparts and a long, deeply forked tail. The male and female have similar plumage, although the female is usually duller than the male.
Its most distinctive feature is its forked tail, which is longer than that of any other swallow species. Its underside is pale, with white and brownish-red tones. Its diet consists mainly of insects, which it catches while in flight.
The barn swallow is a social species, often nesting in colonies and gathering in large flocks during the winter. It is an important component of many ecosystems, as it helps to control insect populations, and its presence is seen as a sign of a healthy environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Hirundo |
| Species | H. rustica |
10. Northern Parula
The northern parula is a species of small songbird that belongs to the New World Warbler family. It is found in eastern North America, ranging from southern Canada down to Florida.
This species is mainly a summer resident in its breeding range, though some birds may remain in the southern states year-round. Its habitat is typically deciduous or mixed forests, swamps, and shrubby areas.
They feed on a variety of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates, as well as some berries and seeds. The northern parula is a colorful bird with a bluish-green back, yellowish underparts, and a white throat with a black band across the chest.
During the breeding season, males sing a loud and beautiful song to attract potential mates. The female builds a cup-shaped nest out of plant material and mosses, which is usually built close to the ground in a shrub or evergreen tree.
The northern parula is an important part of the local ecosystem, helping to control insect populations that can become pests if left unchecked.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. americana |
11. Cyanocitta
Cyanocitta is a genus of birds that belongs to the Corvidae family, which consists of crows, jays, and magpies. It was established by Hugh Edwin Strickland in 1845 and includes several species.
The name is Cyanocitta is a combination of the Greek words kuanos, meaning “dark blue”, and kitta, meaning “jay”.
This suggests that the genus includes dark blue jays, and this is indeed the case – some species of Cyanocitta are the blue jays, the Steller’s jays, and the Chihuahuan jays. These birds are known for their vibrant colors and distinctive calls.
They are found in North and Central America, as well as parts of Asia. Cyanocitta has a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. They are omnivorous, meaning they feed on both plants and animals.
They are also highly social, often forming flocks that can number in the hundreds. Cyanocitta are an important part of their ecosystems, dispersing seeds and helping to regulate insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
12. Blue-Headed Vireo
The blue-headed vireo is a species of song bird that migrates between North and Central America. These birds are found throughout Canada, the eastern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America.
There are two subspecies of the blue-headed vireo, both of which are recognized by scientists. The birds have a relatively large range, which covers a large area across various countries. These birds have a grey-blue head and a light yellow breast.
Their wings are dark brown in color and they have a white stripe on the underside of their tail. They are quite small, measuring around 5-6 inches in length.
They are also adept at climbing trees and they feed mainly on insects and small fruits. The blue-headed vireo is an important migratory species, flying south for the winter months and then returning to its breeding grounds in the spring and summer.
During migration, they form large flocks that can span hundreds of miles. They are well-adapted to a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, coniferous forests, and even suburban areas. The blue-headed vireo is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
However, their population has been declining in recent years due to habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitats and help maintain their population.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Vireonidae |
| Genus | Vireo |
| Species | V. solitarius |
13. Tree Swallow
The tree swallow is an avian species belonging to the Hirundinidae family, which is found in the Americas. It was first described in 1807 by Louis Vieillot, a French ornithologist, as Hirundo bicolor.
Since then, it has been placed in the genus Tachycineta, though its exact placement within the genus is still being debated. The tree swallow is a migratory bird, which means that it moves to different areas at different times of the year.
This behavior is typical of many species of birds, and it allows them to find food and suitable habitats in different climates. The tree swallow is an important part of the food chain, as it feeds on insects and other small creatures.
It is also an important species for its role in pollination, as it carries pollen from one plant to another. The tree swallow is a beautiful bird, with its iridescent blue-green feathers. It has a white belly and black wings, which are usually spotted with white spots.
Its tail is forked and its bill is short and pointed. It is usually seen in open fields and woodlands and is often seen in small flocks. The tree swallow is an important species and its conservation is important for the ecosystem.
Its numbers have been declining in recent years due to a number of factors, such as habitat loss and degradation, and climate change. To ensure its continued survival, it is important to protect its habitat and to take steps to reduce the impact of climate change.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Tachycineta |
| Species | T. bicolor |
14. Common Grackle
The Common Grackle is a species of large bird belonging to the Icterid family. It is found in large numbers throughout much of North America and was first described in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus.
Common Grackles have a distinctive appearance, with a long, dark bill, pale yellow eyes, and a long tail. There are three recognized subspecies of the Common Grackle, each having slightly different characteristics and adaptations.
The Common Grackle is a fairly large bird, with males typically being larger than females. They have a black or dark brown body and a bright purple or iridescent sheen on its wings and head.
The Common Grackle is known for its loud and varied vocalizations, which include a variety of harsh and squeaky calls. They are also very social birds, often found in large flocks.
Common Grackles feed mainly on insects, seeds, and fruit, and can often be found in open areas and around humans. They are also known to scavenge for food and will eat almost anything they can find.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. quiscula |
15. New World Warblers
The New World warblers or wood-warblers are a vibrant family of birds found in the New World. They are small passerine birds, meaning they perch on branches and fly short distances.
These birds are known for their beautiful colors, which can range from yellow, to black, gray, and even blue. They are part of the Parulidae family, which is only found in the New World.
It is important to note that these birds are not related to Old World warblers or Australian warblers, which are different species of birds. Old World warblers are found in Europe, Asia, and Africa, while Australian warblers are only found in Australia.
The New World warblers are a unique family of birds with their own unique characteristics and behavior.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
16. Purple Martin
The purple martin is a type of passerine, or perching bird, that belongs to the Hirundinidae family of swallows. It is the largest swallow species in North America. Contrary to its name, the purple martin is not actually purple in color.
Instead, its feathers range from dark blue to a deep glossy black, making it appear almost iridescent in the sunlight. The male’s feathers are slightly lighter than the female’s and can appear to have a purple sheen when viewed in certain lighting.
The purple martin also has a white patch on its forehead and a black patch on its throat, giving it a distinctive look. The name “purple martin” comes from the fact that the bird’s feathers can appear to have a purple hue in certain light.
Despite its name, the purple martin is not actually purple.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Progne |
| Species | P. Subis |
17. Great Blue Heron
The great blue heron is a majestic bird that is easily recognized by its long neck and pointed bill. It belongs to the family Ardeidae, which includes other wading birds such as egrets and bitterns.
These birds are commonly found near the shores of open water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans, as well as in wetlands. They are found all across North and Central America, as well as in parts of South America, the Caribbean, and the Galápagos Islands.
The great blue heron has a long, slender body and wingspan that can reach up to six feet. Its feathers are typically grey-blue in color with a white underside. Its long neck and pointed bill, which is yellowish-orange in color, help it to spot and capture prey in the water.
The great blue heron feeds on a variety of fish, frogs, snakes, and small mammals. The great blue heron is a solitary bird, preferring to hunt and nest alone. It is often seen standing still in the water, waiting to ambush its prey.
It nests near water, usually in tall trees or on the ground, and lays up to five eggs that are pale blue in color. The great blue heron is an impressive bird that is admired by many. Its large size, graceful flying, and beautiful colors make it an unforgettable sight.
Whether standing alone in the water, flying through the sky, or nesting in a tree, the great blue heron is truly a sight to behold.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. herodias |
18. American Goldfinch
Source: kids.nationalgeographic.com
The American goldfinch is a small bird native to North America, belonging to the finch family.
It is migratory, with its range extending from mid-Alberta to North Carolina during the breeding season, and from just south of the Canada–United States border to Mexico during the winter.
This species of bird is known for its distinctive yellow and black plumage, which can be seen during the summer months. During the winter, the goldfinch molts, and its feathers become a mottled brown and white color.
During the breeding season, the birds are typically found in open woodlands, meadows, and farmland. They feed on seeds, buds, and insects, which they are able to find in these habitats.
During the winter, they feed on weed seeds and other sources of food that are easier to find in the harsher climates that they inhabit during this time.
The American goldfinch is an important species to many North American ecosystems, as they help to disperse seeds which aid in the growth of new plants.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
19. Common Starling
The common starling is a species of passerine bird found all over the world. It is a member of the starling family, Sturnidae, and is known by different names in different places.
In North America, it is known as the European starling, while in Great Britain and Ireland, it is simply referred to as the starling. The common starling is a medium-sized bird, with glossy black feathers, speckled with white spots.
It has a distinctive yellow beak, and its eyes are dark brown. It is an inquisitive and adaptable bird and is often seen in cities and towns, where it forages in parks and gardens.
It is omnivorous, and its diet consists of a variety of insects, seeds, fruits, and berries. The common starling has an impressive flying ability and can reach speeds of up to 55 mph. It is also highly vocal, producing a range of melodic songs and calls.
During the winter months, it forms large flocks, which can be seen wheeling and swooping across the sky in a spectacular display. The common starling is a hardy species, and its populations are not threatened.
It is a resilient bird that is able to thrive in a variety of habitats, from woodlands and scrublands to urban areas. It is an important species in the ecosystem, providing important ecological services such as pest control and pollination.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
| Genus | Sturnus |
| Species | S. vulgaris |
20. Red-Winged Blackbird
Source: kimsmithdesigns.com
The red-winged blackbird is a species of bird belonging to the family Icteridae, which includes many species of blackbirds, orioles, and meadowlarks. This species is found in most of North America, as well as in parts of Central America.
They are passerine birds, meaning that they are perching birds, with feet adapted to clinging onto branches and other surfaces. Red-winged blackbirds are generally black in color with a distinctive red shoulder patch, which gives them their name.
They have a pointed bill and a long tail. Males are generally more colorful than females, with a yellow-orange band across their shoulders and a bright red shoulder patch.
Females are more neutral in colour with brown patches around the shoulder area. Red-winged blackbirds are usually found in grassy wetlands, marshes, and meadows, often near water.
They feed on a variety of insects, such as grasshoppers and beetles, as well as on grains, fruits, and seeds. They often gather in large flocks at roosting and breeding sites. The red-winged blackbird is an important part of the North American ecosystem.
They provide an important food source for many other animals, including insects, frogs, and snakes. They also help to control insect populations, and their droppings help to fertilize the soil.
They are also a popular bird for birdwatching and are known for their melodious songs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
21. Snow Goose
Source: naturephotographyblog.com
The snow goose is a species of goose that is native to North America and can be found in both white and dark morphs. The white morph is the most recognized and is often referred to as the “snow goose,” drawing its name from the white plumage that it is known for.
The dark morph is more commonly known as the “blue goose.” This species was originally placed in the Chen genus, however, it is now typically included in the “gray goose” genus Anser. Snow geese are migratory birds and can be found throughout North America.
They are primarily herbivores, feeding on grasses, sedges, grains, and other vegetation. They are known to form large flocks, which can be seen in many areas during migration season.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. caerulescens |
22. Snowy Egret
Source: ebird.org
The snowy egret is a small white heron that is native to parts of the Americas.
The genus of the snowy egret is derived from the Provençal French word for “little egret,” aigrette, which is a diminutive of aigron, meaning “heron.” The species name thula, however, is an Araucano term for the black-necked swan, which was mistakenly applied to this species by Chilean naturalist Juan Ignacio Molina in 1782.
This error has since been corrected, but the name has remained as a reminder of the mistake. The snowy egret is a beautiful bird, with white feathers and a black bill, and long legs which are typically yellow in color.
They can be found in marshy habitats, often preying on small fish, frogs, and insects. They are also known to feed on small birds, lizards, and even small mammals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. thula |
23. American Robin
The American robin is a type of bird belonging to the true thrush genus and Turdidae family. It is named after the European robin because of its distinct reddish-orange breast, although these two species are not closely related.
The European robin belongs to the Old World flycatcher family, a separate family from the American robin. The American robin is a migratory bird, which means it moves seasonally from one area to another.
These birds usually migrate in the late summer or early autumn, when the weather starts to get colder. During the winter, they will migrate to more southern regions, where the temperatures are milder.
The American robin is easily recognized by its reddish-orange breast and grey-brown back. It has a white belly, black head, and yellow beak. These birds can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, parks, gardens, and even backyards.
They are omnivorous, which means they feed on both plant and animal matter. The American robin is an important species for many reasons, including the fact that they are a food source for many other animals.
They also help to spread seeds and other plant material, aiding in the propagation of many plant species. They are also important pollinators, transferring pollen between flowers and plants, which helps to promote healthy ecosystems.
Overall, the American robin is an important species in many ecosystems. Their distinctive coloring and migratory habits make them easy to recognize and identify. They are also a beneficial species, helping to spread plant material and pollinate flowers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
Conclusion
Blue birds are a common sight in Missouri and can be seen in many parts of the state. They are a beautiful addition to the landscape and play an important role in the local ecology.
They are a reminder to us of the beauty of nature and the importance of preserving our environment.