Eastern Blue Bird

Eastern Blue Bird, originally uploaded by Sachin N Saraf.

The Eastern Bluebird, a member of the Thrush family and one of three species of bluebirds that occur in North America, is a cavity nester that lives in open country. They occur in the eastern half of North America as far west as the Rocky Mountains, and as far south as Nicaragua. Populations have suffered since these birds must compete with House Sparrows, Starlings, woodpeckers and other cavity nesters. Placement of nest boxes for Bluebirds has resulted in population increases in many regions. These birds are an important predator on destructive insects such as grasshoppers, caterpillars, crickets, Katydids, and beetles. Their diet also consists of various berries, spiders, sow bugs, earthworms and snails.

Bluebirds are popular with bird watchers. The male is deep blue above, with a chestnut throat, breast and flanks. Many people place specially designed nest boxes in suitable habitat to provide nesting opportunities for Bluebirds.