Western Bluebird Sialia mexicana

All The Birds Of North America: Western Bluebird Sialia mexicana

Western Bluebird Sialia mexicana This member of the thrush family usually nests in old woodpecker holes and natural tree cavities. The related Mountain Bluebird (S. currucoides) occurs jvith this species in woodland areas of the West; the male can be distinguished from the male Western by'its paler blue color and all-blue breast; the female Mountain Bluebird is grayer overall than the female Western.

Identification Male deep blue on head, back, and wings, with chestnut patch on back; breast and flanks chestnut; belly gray-blue. Female grayish above with pale blue wings; gray below with pale rust wash on breast and flanks. Juvenile strongly spotted, with blue in tail and wings.

Western Bluebird Sialia mexicana Voice Song a short, soft warble; call note a phew and a harsher chuck.

Western Bluebird Sialia mexicana Habitat Forest edges, woodlands, orchards, and pasture areas with scattered trees.

Range Breeds from S. British Columbia and Alberta to S. California and W. Texas. Winters in most of southern half of breeding range.