photographs by Douglas Herr
Bluebirds (genus Sialia)
Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides)
Biology:
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Mountain Bluebirds (Sialia currucoides) occupy open woodland and edge habitats with short grasses and few shrubs. They feed by watching for prey from perches and then fly in to drop on insects and other arthropods. More than the other bluebird species, they will also hover above prey and then drop down to catch it. They avoid areas of high grass, presumably to avoid predators, preferring very low grass about an inch high. In addition to recently burned areas, clear cuts provide appropriate habitat and are frequently used.
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Photographic notes:
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I followed a single male Mountain Bluebird as he foraged for insects. This particular bird allowed me within 6' (2 meters) so I was able to use my shorter lenses.
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Western Bluebird (Sialia mexicana)
Biology:
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The Western Bluebird (Sialia mexicana) in summer is found in western North America from southern British Columbia south to central Mexico, east to western Montana and west Texas, but absent from Great Basin. The winter range is in lower elevations in much of breeding range. Also winters outside breeding range in central California and along the lower Colorado River.
Unlike other bluebirds, the Western Bluebird prefers open woodland habitat where in summer it forages for insects, hunting from perches and dropping to its prey on the ground. Winter food includes fruit and seeds.
The nest is in cavities in trees and snags, or between bark and trunk and is made of woven dry grasses, straw, conifer needles, fur, string, or cedar bark strips. May also use nest boxes.
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Photographic notes:
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These were grab shots in my back yard, made while I was watching an Oak Titmouse's nest. The bluebird pair appeared to be looking for nest sites.
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This was another back yard grab shot, made while I was trying out my new camera.
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I followed a small flock of bluebirds for a few hours as they foraged until they allowed me within camera range. This technique worked well but often depends on the wariness of individual birds.
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As with the photos above, I followed a small flock of bluebirds for a few hours as they foraged until they allowed me within camera range.
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Text and photographs Copyright (C) 1989 - 2008 Douglas Herr
last updated 04 June 2008
