Montana, with its vast landscapes and diverse habitats, is a haven for bird enthusiasts. A special delight for birdwatchers is the plethora of blue-colored birds found across the state. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the 12 Blue Birds found in Montana, complete with a Free Photo Guide to help you identify and appreciate the subtle differences and unique characteristics of each species.
Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or a beginner eager to learn, this guide is the perfect companion for your birdwatching journey in Montana.
Blue Birds Found In Montana
The diversity of habitats in Montana, ranging from the alpine regions of the Rocky Mountains to the prairies of the Great Plains and the dense coniferous forests, creates a unique environment that supports a wide variety of bird species.
The state’s diverse geography provides a range of nesting and feeding opportunities, making it a favorable location for many different types of birds, including a variety of blue birds.
Violet-green Swallow
Scientific Name: Tachycineta thalassina
Length: 4.7-5.1 in (12-13 cm)
Wingspan: 9.8-11.4 in (25-29 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz (11-17 g)
The Violet-green Swallow is a small, agile bird known for its vibrant coloring and acrobatic flight skills.
Appearance: The male Violet-green Swallow has a bright, iridescent green back and head, and violet-blue wings and tail. The face, sides of the rump, and underparts are white. The female has a similar but duller coloration, with less iridescence on the back and head, and often a brownish tinge on the face and flanks.
Diet: Violet-green Swallows primarily feed on flying insects, which they catch in the air during their acrobatic flights. Their diet includes a wide variety of insects such as flies, wasps, ants, and beetles.
Reproduction: Violet-green Swallows typically nest in tree cavities, building nests, or cliff crevices. They often use old woodpecker holes or nest boxes provided by humans. The female lays a clutch of 4 to 6 white eggs, and both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks once they hatch.
Where to Spot Montana’s Blue Birds
Montana is a paradise for bird watchers, offering a wide variety of habitats that attract an array of bird species, particularly blue-colored birds. Here are some of the top locations in the state known for their bird diversity:
- Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area: Located near Choteau, this area is one of Montana's premier bird watching locations, especially during spring and fall migrations. It is home to a large variety of waterfowl, shorebirds, and of course, blue birds.
- Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge: Situated in the Flathead Valley, this refuge consists of wetlands, grasslands, and croplands. It is a great spot to see a wide variety of birds, including several species of blue birds.
- Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge: Located near Great Falls, this refuge is a crucial habitat for migratory and resident birds. The wetlands and grasslands of Benton Lake support a variety of bird species, including the Mountain Bluebird and other blue bird species.
- Bitterroot Valley: The Bitterroot Valley is located in the southwestern part of the state and is known for its spectacular scenery and diverse birdlife, including the Western Bluebird.
- Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest: This is the largest national forest in Montana, and it offers a diverse range of habitats, making it an ideal location to spot a variety of bird species, including several blue birds.
| Neighboring State's Blue Birds | Best Spots for Blue Birds |
|---|---|
| North Dakota's Blue Birds | 1. Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge 2. Theodore Roosevelt National Park 3. Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge |
| South Dakota's Blue Birds | 1. Custer State Park 2. Badlands National Park 3. Bear Butte State Park |
| Wyoming's Blue Birds | 1. Grand Teton National Park 2. Bighorn National Forest 3. Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge |
| Idaho's Blue Birds | 1. Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge 2. Coeur d'Alene River Wildlife Management Area 3. Camas National Wildlife Refuge |
FAQs on Blue Bird Species Found in Montana
What are the differences between Mountain Bluebirds and Western Bluebirds?
Mountain Bluebirds and Western Bluebirds are two different species of bluebirds found in North America. Male Mountain Bluebirds have a bright blue color all over their body with a gray belly, whereas male Western Bluebirds have a blue head and wings, but their chest and back are gray-brown with an orange chest. Females of both species are duller in color. Western Bluebirds are typically found in areas with scattered trees and shrubs, while Mountain Bluebirds prefer more open areas, often in mountainous regions.
What kind of nesting sites do Mountain Bluebirds prefer?
Mountain Bluebirds are secondary cavity-nesting birds, which means they rely on existing cavities or holes for nesting rather than making their own. They prefer nest sites in open areas with scattered trees, especially pine trees. These blue beauties often use nest boxes or bluebird houses provided by humans, but they will also use old woodpecker holes or natural cavities in trees. Providing a nesting box with the right dimensions can greatly help in attracting Mountain Bluebirds to your area.
How does the range of Mountain Bluebirds compare to other bluebird species?
The range of Mountain Bluebirds is different from other bluebird species. Mountain Bluebirds are found in the western half of North America, from Alaska to central Mexico. They breed in mountainous regions and migrate to lower elevations or southern regions in the winter. Western Bluebirds, on the other hand, are found in the western and southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. Eastern Bluebirds, another bluebird species, are found in the eastern half of North America. Range maps from organizations like Montana Audubon and Cornell Lab of Ornithology can provide detailed information on the habitats and ranges of these three species.
What is the favorite food of house sparrows?
House sparrows primarily eat seeds and grains, making sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and white proso millet some of their favorite foods. However, they have a varied diet and will also eat insects, fruits, and other food scraps when available. They are often seen foraging in large flocks on the ground or at bird feeders. Providing a mix of sunflower seeds, millet, and cracked corn at bird feeders can attract house sparrows and other bluebirds to your backyard.