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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. |
| These photographs were all made in eastern Sacramento County California: |
| 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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Camera: Leicaflex SL |
| This was another back yard grab shot, made while I was trying out my new camera. |
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Camera: Leica R8 with Leica Digital Module-R |
| 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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Camera: Leica R8 with Leica Digital Module-R |
| 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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Camera: Leica R8 with Leica Digital Module-R |
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Camera: Leica R8 with Leica Digital Module-R |