I went hiking east into the local mountains and away from my usual coastal hang outs. I spotted bluebirds I don’t usually see. This is a Western Bluebird. These birds are highly social, and usually feed in flocks during the non-breeding season. They hunt for terrestrial insects by dropping to the ground from a low perch. Western Bluebirds also frequently feed on berries in trees. They rely on trees both for nesting cavities and hunting perches, and also perch on fences and utility lines which made them an easy catch for a budding photographer like me ;0).
The Western Bluebird is not to be confused with my previous post on the blue jay (Western Scrub) – a member of the ‘crow’ family.
On another note – if you are into birding, insects, flowers, etc – I found some very cool apps for my android phone and tablet developed by Green Mountain Digital for the Audubon Society. You can get them on the Audubon app website.
Western Bluebird
Western Bluebird taking flight
What a lovely blue…
Great Capture..
Thank you Vikey :0)
Very good BD! You’re doing fantastic photo work and good research too!
Thank you H.J. I’m a research nut….I really love that part of it probably as much as photographing.
Great catch, Beedie! Really love the vibrant color.
Thank you Gracie! Yes…the blue really stands out. :O)
Brilliant colors, great action shot Beedie!