There are three species of these colorful North American birds. Eastern and western bluebirds have a reddish brown breast, which contrasts with their predominately blue plumage. Their relative, the (male) mountain bluebird is entirely blue. Bluebirds eat small fruits and hunt insects, spiders, and other creatures. The birds perch, watch, and then swoop to the ground to pounce on their prey.

Pairs mate in spring and summer. Females lay four or five eggs and incubate them for about two weeks. The young remain in the nest, cared for by both parents, for an additional 15 to 20 days.

Enjoy birding and watching bluebirds, which are considered fairly common in the U.S., with one of the excellent blue bird houses or nexting boxes below.