Thrushes (Turdidae)
Western Bluebird
Sialia mexicana. Insects in summer; berries in winter.
Thrushes (Turdidae)Western BluebirdSialia mexicana
- Scientific name
- Sialia mexicana
- Length
- 6.3–7.5 in
- Weight
- 0.9–1.1 oz
- Nest
- Cavity or nest box
- Entrance hole
- 1 1/2 in
- Clutch
- 2–8 eggs
- Incubation
- 12–17 days
- Broods
- 1–2 per season
Identification
- Male deep blue with a rusty breast and blue throat
- Rust often extends onto the back
- Female grey-brown with pale rust breast
Voice
Soft 'pew' calls.
Diet and feeding
Insects in summer; berries in winter.
What do western bluebirds eat? · Best feeder for western bluebirds
Western Bluebirds by state and province
| Region | Status | Nesting |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Year-round resident | March–July |
| British Columbia | Summer breeder | May–July |
| California | Year-round resident | March–July |
| Colorado | Summer breeder | April–July |
| Idaho | Summer breeder | April–July |
| Montana | Summer breeder | May–July |
| Nevada | Year-round resident | April–July |
| New Mexico | Year-round resident | April–July |
| Oregon | Year-round resident | April–July |
| Texas | Winter visitor | — |
| Utah | Year-round resident | April–July |
| Washington | Summer breeder | April–July |
Frequently asked
What do western bluebirds eat?
Insects in summer; berries in winter. At feeders: mealworms, suet nuggets.
How big is a Western Bluebird?
6.3–7.5 in long and 0.9–1.1 oz.
Do western bluebirds use birdhouses?
Yes — a 1 1/2 in entrance, 5 × 5 in floor, mounted 5–10 ft.
Sources
- Western Bluebird — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Western Bluebird life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Western Bluebird — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
- NestWatch nest box plans and species requirements — Cornell Lab
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.