Pennsylvania is home to a vibrant array of blue bird species that bring life and color to its forests, fields, and backyards. From common backyard visitors to rare sightings, here’s a guide to understanding these fascinating birds, including answers to some common questions about blue birds.
List of 20 blue birds found in Pennsylvania:
| # | Bird Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Eastern Bluebird | A bright blue bird with an orange chest, found in open fields and woodlands. |
| 2 | Blue Jay | A bold blue, black, and white bird, common in woodlands and suburban areas. |
| 3 | Tree Swallow | An iridescent blue-green bird found near water bodies, feeds on insects. |
| 4 | Indigo Bunting | A vibrant blue bird with a rust-colored chest, often found in open fields and shrublands. |
| 5 | Cerulean Warbler | A sky-blue bird found in mature forests at higher elevations. |
| 6 | Belted Kingfisher | A blue-gray bird with a white collar, often found near rivers and ponds. |
| 7 | Northern Rough-winged Swallow | A brownish-blue bird that feeds on flying insects near water. |
| 8 | Blue Grosbeak | A deep blue bird with black wings, commonly found in brushy fields. |
| 9 | Purple Martin | An iridescent purple-blue bird found near human-made structures or open fields. |
| 10 | Mountain Bluebird | A light blue bird that prefers open habitats and is seen in higher elevations. |
| 11 | Cliff Swallow | A blue-black bird with a pale throat, often seen around cliffs and human-made structures. |
| 12 | Western Bluebird | A bright blue bird with reddish underparts, typically found in open woodlands or grasslands. |
| 13 | Blue-crowned Motmot | A striking bird with a turquoise-blue crown and blue-green plumage, found in wooded areas. |
| 14 | Lazuli Bunting | A deep blue bird with a lighter belly, seen in shrubland and weedy fields. |
| 15 | Barn Swallow | An iridescent blue bird with a long tail, commonly found in open fields near water. |
| 16 | Black-throated Blue Warbler | A blue bird with a black throat, found in forests with dense underbrush. |
| 17 | Wilson’s Warbler | A bright yellow bird with a blue-green back, often seen in scrubby habitats. |
| 18 | Scissor-tailed Flycatcher | A blue-gray bird with a long, forked tail, commonly seen in open fields. |
| 19 | Swainson’s Thrush | An olive-brown bird with blue-gray wings, often found in woodland areas. |
| 20 | Plumbeous Vireo | A gray-blue bird with a faint olive tinge, found in dense shrubs and forests. |
Common Blue Birds in Pennsylvania
These are the blue birds most commonly seen in the state.
Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis)
- Size: 6-7 inches
- Habitat: Open fields, meadows, gardens, and woodlands
- Diet: Insects, berries, small fruits
The Eastern Bluebird is a vibrant and charming bird often found in open fields or backyards. It has a bright blue plumage on its back and wings, with a warm, rusty orange chest. This bird is known for its gentle nature and its tendency to perch on fences or tree branches while searching for insects. Eastern Bluebirds are insectivores but also enjoy eating berries, especially in the fall. Their sweet song and colorful appearance make them a favorite among birdwatchers.
Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)
- Size: 9-12 inches
- Habitat: Woodlands, suburban areas, parks, and gardens
- Diet: Nuts, seeds, fruits, insects
The Blue Jay is a striking bird known for its bold blue, black, and white feathers. Found in forests, parks, and even suburban neighborhoods, this bird is often seen hopping on the ground or perched high in trees. Blue Jays are highly intelligent and known for their ability to mimic the calls of other birds, including hawks. Their diet consists mainly of acorns, seeds, and insects, though they are also fond of berries and fruit. With their loud calls and vivid colors, Blue Jays are hard to miss in any environment they inhabit.
Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor)
- Size: 5-6 inches
- Habitat: Open fields, wetlands, and near water bodies
- Diet: Insects (especially flying insects)
The Tree Swallow is a small, graceful bird with striking iridescent blue-green plumage on its back and white underparts. Typically found near water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, and wetlands, these swallows are often seen gliding and darting through the air in search of flying insects. Known for their acrobatic flight patterns, Tree Swallows are insectivores that feed primarily on mosquitoes, beetles, and other small insects they catch mid-flight. Their swift movements and vivid coloring make them a delightful sight for birdwatchers, especially during migration.
Rare Blue Birds in Pennsylvania
Some blue birds are harder to spot but are worth the effort for dedicated birdwatchers.
Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea)
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Habitat: Mature deciduous forests, especially at higher elevations
- Diet: Insects, spiders
The Cerulean Warbler is a small, striking bird known for its brilliant sky-blue plumage, which makes it stand out among other warblers. This species prefers mature deciduous forests with tall trees, often found in areas with a mix of oaks, maples, and hickories. They are primarily insectivores, feeding on a variety of insects and spiders found in the tree canopy. Cerulean Warblers are elusive and can be difficult to spot due to their high-altitude habitats and quick movements. Their song is a soft, high-pitched trill that adds to their charm. Sadly, due to habitat loss, they are considered a species of conservation concern.
Belted Kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon)
- Size: 12-14 inches
- Habitat: Rivers, lakes, ponds, and coastal areas
- Diet: Fish, amphibians, crustaceans
The Belted Kingfisher is a distinctive bird known for its striking blue-gray plumage, white collar, and rust-colored band across the belly in females. Typically found near freshwater or coastal habitats, this bird is an excellent fisher, diving into the water to catch small fish and invertebrates. Kingfishers are often seen perched on tree branches or power lines, scanning the water for prey before making a quick plunge. With its loud, rattling call and sharp beak, the Belted Kingfisher is an exciting bird to spot in its natural environment.
Migratory Blue Birds in Pennsylvania
Some blue bird species are only seasonal visitors, making their appearances during migration periods.
Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea)
- Size: 4.5-5 inches
- Habitat: Open fields, shrublands, and forest edges
- Diet: Seeds, berries, insects
The Indigo Bunting is a small, vibrant blue bird often seen in open fields and along the edges of forests. During the breeding season, the male’s striking indigo-blue plumage is its most notable feature, while females are generally brownish with a hint of blue. These birds are typically seen in areas with dense shrubs and grasslands, where they forage for seeds, berries, and insects. Indigo Buntings are migratory, traveling long distances between their breeding grounds in North America and wintering areas in Central America. Their sweet, trilled song and colorful appearance make them a favorite among birdwatchers.
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis)
- Size: 5-6 inches
- Habitat: Open areas near water bodies, such as streams, rivers, and ponds
- Diet: Flying insects
The Northern Rough-winged Swallow is a small, sleek bird often found near streams, rivers, and ponds. It is known for its brownish, slightly iridescent plumage and its characteristic “rough” edges on its wing feathers. This swallow spends much of its time in flight, swooping down to catch flying insects such as mosquitoes and beetles. These birds are migratory, breeding in Pennsylvania during the spring and summer before migrating south for the winter. Their quick, agile flight and their presence in open, wetland areas make them a delightful bird to spot while they are in the state.
Bluebirds in Pennsylvania in Winter
| Bluebird Species | Size | Habitat | Diet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Bluebird | 6-7 inches | Open fields, meadows, gardens | Insects, berries, small fruits |
| Blue Jay | 9-12 inches | Woodlands, gardens, suburban areas | Seeds, acorns, insects |
| Tree Swallow | 4.5-5.5 inches | Open fields, wetlands, near water | Insects, small berries |
During winter, some bluebirds, especially the Eastern Bluebird, stay in Pennsylvania. While many birds migrate, bluebirds adapt to the cold by changing their diet and behavior.
In winter, bluebirds primarily feed on berries from holly, juniper, and sumac. They may also eat insects and visit bird feeders for suet, mealworms, or sunflower seeds. These food sources help them survive the cold months.
To stay warm, bluebirds seek shelter in tree cavities, birdhouses, or dense shrubs. They rely on these spots to roost during the night.
Protecting Blue Birds in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to many beautiful birds, including blue birds that bring color and life to the state. It’s important to protect these birds to make sure their numbers stay healthy and to keep Pennsylvania’s natural beauty safe.
How to Help Protect Blue Birds
Save Natural Homes
Birds need places like forests, wetlands, and fields to live and find food. Keeping these areas safe from being cut down or developed helps blue birds survive.
Avoid Using Chemicals
Chemicals used in gardens or farms can harm birds. Use natural ways to control pests so blue birds stay safe.
Support Protected Areas
There are special places in Pennsylvania, like state parks, where wildlife, including blue birds, are safe. Visiting and supporting these parks helps protect birds.
Keep Cats Inside
Cats can be dangerous to birds, especially small ones like blue birds. Keep cats inside or watch them when they go outside to stop them from hunting birds.
Tell Others
Share information with friends and family about why it’s important to protect birds. The more people know, the more they can help.
Why Protecting Blue Birds is Important
Blue birds help keep nature balanced by controlling insects, pollinating plants, and spreading seeds. Protecting them also helps keep Pennsylvania’s environment healthy.
By doing simple things, you can help protect blue birds in Pennsylvania!
Attracting and Feeding Blue Birds in Pennsylvania
Many people in Pennsylvania love watching birds. You can attract blue birds to your home by doing a few simple things.
How to Attract Blue Birds
Plant Native Plants
Blue birds like native plants because they give them food and places to live. Planting these types of plants can attract more blue birds to your garden.
Give Them Water
Birds need fresh water to drink and bathe. Set up a shallow birdbath and change the water regularly to keep it clean.
Use Bird Feeders
Hang bird feeders with seeds or fruit to attract blue birds. Different birds like different foods, so try using sunflower seeds, millet, or small pieces of fruit like apples and grapes.
What to Feed Blue Birds
- Seeds: Most birds love sunflower seeds and millet.
- Fruit: Blue birds like slices of apple, grapes, and berries.
- Nectar: Hummingbirds, which are also found in Pennsylvania, enjoy sugar water (mix 1 part sugar with 4 parts water). Use a special feeder for this.
Tips for Feeding Birds
- Keep Feeders Clean: Clean feeders often to avoid spreading diseases.
- Don’t Use Chemicals: Don’t spray plants with chemicals that birds might eat from.
- Feed in Moderation: Don’t feed birds too much food, so they still search for natural food.
Feeding blue birds can help them in tough times and brings the joy of birdwatching to your home!
Bird Photography Tips in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has many beautiful birds, and it’s a great place to take bird photos. Here are some easy tips to help you capture amazing pictures of blue birds.
1. Use the Right Equipment
- Camera: A camera with a zoom lens (at least 200mm) helps you take clear pictures without disturbing the birds.
- Tripod: A tripod keeps your camera steady, especially with a zoom lens.
2. Find the Best Time
Birds are most active in the early morning or late afternoon. These times also give soft, natural light for good photos. Avoid the harsh midday sun.
3. Be Patient and Quiet
Birds can get scared easily. Move slowly and quietly. Find a good spot and wait patiently. Sometimes the birds will come to you!
4. Focus on the Eyes
Focus on the bird’s eyes to make your photos look lively and interesting.
5. Use Natural Surroundings
Take pictures of birds in their natural homes, like trees, bushes, or near water. This makes the photo look more real.
6. Try Different Angles
Take pictures from below, from the side, or even from behind. Shooting at the bird’s eye level gives the best view.
7. Be Safe
Don’t get too close to birds or disturb their nests. Wear comfortable clothes and use insect repellent if you’re in the forest.
By following these simple tips, you can take beautiful photos of blue birds in Pennsylvania and enjoy the outdoors!
Hunting in Pennsylvania: What You Need to Know
Hunting is a part of many people’s lives in Pennsylvania. People hunt for food, sport, or tradition. But there are rules to make sure hunting doesn’t hurt the environment or wildlife.
Types of Hunting in Pennsylvania
Small Game Hunting
Many people hunt small animals like rabbits and squirrels. Some also hunt birds like ducks or quails. This is common in rural areas.
Sport Hunting
Some people hunt for fun or sport. This usually involves birds like ducks or small animals. There are rules to make sure it’s done safely.
Cultural Tradition
In many areas, hunting has been passed down from older generations. It is seen as a way to get food and connect with nature.
Is Hunting Blue Birds Allowed in Pennsylvania?
No, it’s illegal to hunt blue birds in Pennsylvania. Some birds, like blue birds, are protected by law to keep their populations healthy.
Rules About Hunting in Pennsylvania
Hunting Seasons
There are certain times of the year when hunting is allowed. These seasons help protect animals and birds during their breeding times so their populations stay strong.
Permits and Licenses
If you want to hunt, you need a hunting permit. This ensures that hunting is done safely and legally.
Protected Species
Some animals and birds, like blue birds, are protected. This means you can’t hunt them because they are endangered or rare.
Why Are There Hunting Rules?
The rules help keep Pennsylvania’s wildlife healthy. Without them, some animals and birds could disappear. By following the rules, we can make sure wildlife stays strong for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Bluebirds Are in PA?
The most notable blue birds in Pennsylvania include the Eastern Bluebird, Blue Jay, Indigo Bunting, and Tree Swallow. Each has its unique traits, habitats, and behaviors, adding diversity to Pennsylvania’s avian population.
What Kind of Bird Has Blue?
Several bird species display blue plumage in Pennsylvania, including the Eastern Bluebird, Blue Jay, and Indigo Bunting. The blue coloration in these birds results from light refraction through feather structures, not blue pigments.
Which Bird Can Identify Blue Color?
Birds, including blue birds, have excellent color vision. They can see a range of colors, including ultraviolet light, which humans cannot detect. This ability helps them identify food, mates, and navigate their environment effectively.
What Is the Blue Bird That Looks Like a Cardinal?
The Blue Grosbeak is often compared to a cardinal due to its size and robust shape. While its plumage is a vibrant blue, its similar body structure and thick bill resemble the Northern Cardinal.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring blue birds to your garden, you can plant plants that they like and provide fresh water. Hanging a bird feeder with seeds or fruit can also attract them. Be sure to clean the feeders often and avoid using chemicals on your plants.
For people who enjoy taking photos of birds, Pennsylvania is a great place to capture pictures of blue birds. Using a good camera, being patient, and not disturbing the birds are important for getting good photos.
In Pennsylvania, hunting is allowed, but there are rules to protect some birds, including blue birds. These rules help keep the birds safe and ensure there will be more blue birds in the future.
By doing small things to protect and help blue birds, we can make sure they stay healthy and continue to live in Pennsylvania.