Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides)

Possibly nothing is much more breathtaking than a male Mountain Bluebird in its rich, sky-blue colours. Preferring more open areas, such as fields, pastures and estuaries, Mountain Bluebirds can often be spotted on fence posts or the tops of shrubs and small trees. They often fly down to the ground to catch insects from a perch or after a short hover. Like all bluebird species in North America, they nest in cavities and take readily to nest boxes in their breeding area. They are a rare breeder in our checklist area preferring regions in the interior but does breed in Manning Park. Migratory, Mountain Bluebirds spend the winter in the southern states through to central Mexico. At times, are seen in flocks numbering over a dozen birds. Usually flocks of two to three birds are typical.

Similar species:
Males are unmistakable. Bright females Mountain Bluebirds can be a challenge telling apart from female Western Bluebirds. Note the difference in structure with Western Bluebirds being stockier with larger heads, thicker bills and shorter wings and tails.

Best Viewing Locations:
Hope Airport is probably the most reliable place to view them from mid-late March through to middle April.

Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Sibley, D. (2000)

Noteworthy Data

Photos