Blue birds are some of the most peaceful and relaxing birds to observe. Their calming blue colors are not as common on birds in North America, making them stand out when encountered. In this article, we have compiled a list of our favorite 20 types of blue birds for you to discover and appreciate.

From the Mountain Bluebird found in rocky mountain habitats, to the Blue Grosbeak commonly found in untended fields, we have included a variety of blue bird species in our list. Whether you are a bird enthusiast or simply enjoy observing backyard birds, you are sure to find a blue bird that catches your eye.

Key Takeaways

• Blue birds are known for their calming and peaceful colors.

• Our list includes 20 different types of blue birds, from the Mountain Bluebird to the Blue Grosbeak.

• Whether you are a bird enthusiast or enjoy observing backyard birds, there is a blue bird species for everyone to appreciate.

List of Birds That Are Blue

Cerulean Warbler

Trait	Cerulean Warbler
Scientific Name	Setophaga cerulea
Length	4.5 inches
Wingspan	7.9-8.7 inches
Weight	0.3-0.4 ounces

The Cerulean Warbler is a striking songbird known for its sky-blue plumage and flitting movements in the forest canopy.

Appearance: Males boast a vibrant cerulean blue color on their upperparts, with streaked underparts, and a black necklace. Females have a more subdued bluish-green hue and lack the prominent black markings seen in males.

Diet: The diet of the Cerulean Warbler is predominantly made up of insects and spiders. They actively forage high in the treetops, gracefully maneuvering through leaves and branches.

Reproduction: Cerulean Warblers nest in the upper branches of tall deciduous trees. The female weaves a shallow cup-shaped nest and lays a clutch of 3-5 eggs.

Northern Parula

Trait	Northern Parula
Scientific Name	Setophaga americana
Length	4.3-4.7 inches
Wingspan	6.3-7.1 inches
Weight	0.2-0.4 ounces

The Northern Parula is a small, brightly colored warbler with vibrant shades of blue and yellow, often seen flitting about the tree canopy.

Appearance: This warbler boasts a blue-gray upper body with a green patch on the back and two white wing bars. Males have a distinctive band of rufous and black on the chest, while females are more muted in color, often lacking the chest band entirely. Both genders display a bright yellow patch on the throat and upper chest.

Diet: Northern Parulas primarily feed on insects and spiders. They forage actively in the tree canopy, often hanging upside down to glean their prey from leaves and branches.

Reproduction: Northern Parulas typically nest in hanging vegetation like Spanish moss or beard lichen. The female constructs a pendant-shaped nest and lays a clutch of 3-5 eggs.

FAQS on Blue Bird Species

How do birds get their blue pigment?

Interestingly, birds don’t produce blue pigments at all! The blue we see in birds like blue jays and bluebirds isn’t a result of pigments, but rather a structural coloration.

Here’s how it works:

1. Structure Over Pigment: Instead of relying on pigments, the blue color in birds comes from the way light interacts with the microscopic structure of their feathers.

2. Scattering of Light: The blue appearance is a result of the Tyndall effect. When light hits the feathers, it is scattered by the protein structures within them. The feather structure causes shorter blue wavelengths of light to scatter more than the other colors. As a result, our eyes pick up this scattered blue light, making the feathers appear blue.

3. No True Blue Pigment: Unlike some other colors in birds which come from actual pigments (like melanins for light brown birds and blacks or carotenoids for yellows and reds birds), there isn’t a true blue pigment in birds.

What is the most common blue bird?

The Eastern Bluebird is often regarded as the most common blue bird in North America, particularly in the eastern regions. This bird, with its vibrant blue back and rust-orange chest, can be found in gardens, farmlands, and open woodlands. Its cheerful song and striking appearance make it a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

What blue colored bird is solid blue?

The Indigo Bunting is a bird that’s predominantly solid blue. These small birds flaunt an almost electric blue plumage, especially in males during the breeding season. Though the females are brown, the striking blue males are unmistakable when observed under direct sunlight.

How many bird species are blue?

There isn’t a precise number for how many bird species are blue, as “blue” can vary from pale blue to dark indigo shades, and many birds have only patches of blue. However, there are dozens of species worldwide with varying degrees of blue in their plumage, from blue jays to kingfishers to fairy-wrens.

What is a small dark blue bird?

The Dark-eyed Junco is a small bird that sometimes appears in a dark slate-colored or bluish variant, particularly in the eastern populations. Found across North America, these birds are known for their hopping movements on the ground and their distinctive, sharp chirps. They’re a common sight, especially in winter, often visiting backyard feeders.