Blue Birds in Massachusetts: A Nature Lover’s Guide

Welcome to the captivating world of blue birds in Massachusetts, where nature’s palette comes alive with vibrant hues of blue. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual nature enthusiast, the sight of these stunning birds is sure to enchant you.

Massachusetts, with its diverse landscapes and rich habitats, offers a unique opportunity to observe a variety of blue bird species throughout the year. From the charming Eastern Bluebird to the striking Black-Throated Blue Warbler, these avian wonders bring a splash of color to the Bay State’s forests, fields, and backyards.

Join us as we explore the beauty, behavior, and habitats of blue birds in Massachusetts, and discover the best spots and tips for observing these feathered jewels in their natural surroundings.

For more birdwatching in Massachusetts see our articles on backyard birds, black birds, owls, ducks, hawks, and woodpeckers.

1. Eastern Bluebird

The Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea) is a small bird characterized by its striking coloration and distinctive features. Adult males are a vibrant deep blue during the breeding season, while females and juveniles are brown with subtle streaks, providing effective camouflage. Typically around 5-5.5 inches in length with an 8-9 inch wingspan, these birds are often found in open areas, fields, and along forest edges, preferring shrubby regions such as weedy fields, overgrown pastures, and roadsides.

Their diet primarily consists of seeds and insects, and they frequently visit bird feeders stocked with seeds, especially during migration periods. Males sing a bright, cheerful song, a series of paired notes, to establish territory and attract mates.

During the breeding season, males display their brilliant blue plumage to entice females. Nests are usually built in low shrubs or trees. As long-distance migrants, Indigo Buntings travel from North America to Central and South America for the winter. These features make the Indigo Bunting a distinctive and attractive bird, cherished by bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

In Massachusetts, bird watchers can attract them with bird feeders filled with black sunflower seeds, as these gentle birds are cavity nesters and love to use bluebird boxes for nesting. They are seen during the breeding season from late April to early September.

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2. Blue Jays

Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata) are medium-sized birds known for their striking blue plumage, white underparts, and distinctive black markings, including a bold crest and a white stripe across their wings. These intelligent and vocal birds are commonly found in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, forest edges, and suburban areas. Blue Jays are frequent visitors to backyard bird feeders, especially those stocked with seeds and nuts.

They are known for their remarkable ability to mimic the calls of other birds, particularly hawks, and their role in spreading oak trees by storing acorns. Blue Jays exhibit a complex social structure and are often seen in small family groups.

In Massachusetts, Blue Jays are present year-round, but their population can increase during the fall and winter months as northern populations migrate southward. Their distinctive “jay jay” calls and vibrant blue feathers make them easy to spot and identify throughout the state.

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3. Indigo Bunting

The Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea) is a small, vibrant blue bird known for its striking coloration and distinctive features. Adult males display a deep, brilliant blue during the breeding season, while females and juveniles are brown with subtle streaks, offering effective camouflage. These birds are typically around 5-5.5 inches in length with a wingspan of about 8-9 inches. Indigo Buntings are commonly found in open areas, fields, and along forest edges, favoring shrubby regions such as weedy fields, overgrown pastures, and roadsides.

Their diet primarily consists of seeds and insects, and they frequently visit bird feeders, especially during migration periods. Male Indigo Buntings sing a bright, cheerful song, a series of paired notes, to establish territory and attract mates. Nests are usually built in low shrubs or trees. These long-distance migrants travel from North America to Central and South America for the winter.

In Massachusetts, Indigo Buntings can typically be seen from late April to early May through August, during their breeding season. By late September, most have migrated south, making the spring and summer months the best time to observe these beautiful birds in the state.

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4. Black-Throated Blue Warbler

The Black-Throated Blue Warbler (Setophaga caerulescens) is a small, strikingly colored bird that is a delight to bird watchers. Males are easily recognizable by their deep blue upperparts, black face and throat, and white underparts, while females are olive-green with a faint blue tint, making them more challenging to spot. These warblers are typically around 5 inches in length and have a distinctive white wing spot, which is present in both sexes.

They inhabit deciduous and mixed forests, often favoring dense understories and thickets. Their diet consists mainly of insects, which they forage for among leaves and branches. Black-Throated Blue Warblers are known for their distinctive song, a buzzy “zree-zree-zree” that helps males establish territories during the breeding season.

In Massachusetts, these warblers can be seen during their migration periods in the spring and fall. They arrive in the state around late April to early May and can be observed throughout the summer until they migrate south in September to early October. The best times to spot Black-Throated Blue Warblers in Massachusetts are during these migration periods, particularly in forested areas where they stop to rest and feed.

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5. Great Blue Heron

The Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) is a large, majestic wading bird known for its striking blue-gray plumage, long legs, and sharp, dagger-like bill. Standing up to 4.5 feet tall with a wingspan of about 6.5 feet, these herons are a commanding presence in wetland areas.

They are commonly found along the shores of rivers, lakes, marshes, and coastal areas, where they hunt for fish, amphibians, and small mammals. Great Blue Herons are skilled hunters, often seen standing still in shallow water before striking quickly to catch their prey. They nest in colonies, typically in tall trees near water, where they build large stick nests.

In Massachusetts, Great Blue Herons are a familiar sight from spring through fall, arriving as early as March and remaining until late October. Some individuals may stay year-round in areas with open water, but most migrate south for the winter. The best times to observe these elegant birds are during the warmer months when they are actively foraging and nesting in the state’s diverse wetland habitats.

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6. Barn Swallow

The Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) is a small, agile bird known for its striking appearance and acrobatic flight. With glossy blue-black upperparts, a rusty throat and forehead, and a distinctive deeply forked tail, Barn Swallows are easily recognizable.

These birds are often seen darting gracefully over fields, meadows, and water bodies as they catch insects on their wings. Barn Swallows are highly adaptable and commonly nest in human-made structures such as barns, bridges, and eaves of buildings, constructing their nests out of mud and grass.

In Massachusetts, Barn Swallows are a common sight from spring through early fall. They typically arrive in the state around April and stay until October, when they migrate south to Central and South America for the winter. The best time to observe Barn Swallows in Massachusetts is during the warmer months when they are actively feeding, breeding, and raising their young. Their presence is a sure sign of the arrival of spring and the warmer weather.

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7. White-Breasted Nuthatch

The White-Breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis) is a small, agile bird known for its distinctive white belly, blue-gray upperparts, and black cap. One of its most notable behaviors is its unique ability to move headfirst down tree trunks as it forages for insects and seeds.

This bird is a frequent visitor to bird feeders, especially those stocked with sunflower seeds, and is often seen in forest edges, open woodlands, and suburban areas.

In Massachusetts, these birds are residents year-round, making them a familiar sight throughout all seasons. They are especially active during the fall and winter months when they visit feeders more frequently in search of food. Their presence in both natural and suburban habitats provides ample opportunities for observation, making them a delightful bird to watch at any time of the year.

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White-Breasted Nuthatches have a distinctive, nasal “yank-yank” call that is easy to recognize.

8. Little Blue Heron

The Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) is a slender, medium-sized wading bird distinguished by its striking slate-blue plumage and slender build. Juveniles are white and gradually transition to blue as they mature, making them unique among herons. Adult Little Blue Herons have a purplish-maroon head and neck, creating a beautiful contrast with their blue bodies. These herons are typically about 24 inches tall with a wingspan of around 40 inches.

They inhabit shallow freshwater and saltwater environments, such as marshes, swamps, ponds, and tidal flats, where they forage for small fish, crustaceans, and insects. Known for their slow and deliberate hunting technique, Little Blue Herons often wade slowly through shallow waters or stand still, waiting to ambush their prey.

In Massachusetts, Little Blue Herons are less common but can be seen during their migration periods, primarily from late spring to early fall. They usually arrive in the state around May and can be observed through September. The best places to spot Little Blue Herons in Massachusetts are in coastal wetlands and shallow inland waters, where they stop to rest and feed during their migration.

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9. Tree Swallow

The Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) is a small, sleek bird known for its iridescent blue-green upperparts and pure white underparts. These agile fliers are often seen performing acrobatic maneuvers over open fields, wetlands, and bodies of water as they catch insects in mid-air. Tree Swallows are also known for their sociable nature, frequently nesting in colonies and readily using nest boxes provided by bird enthusiasts. Their natural nesting sites include tree cavities and old woodpecker holes.

In Massachusetts, Tree Swallows are among the first swallows to return in the spring, typically arriving in late March or early April. They remain throughout the summer, raising their young, and begin their migration south in September. During their stay, these birds can be seen foraging and nesting in a variety of open habitats, from coastal marshes to rural farmlands. Observing Tree Swallows is particularly enjoyable during the spring and summer months when they are most active and visible.

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10. Red-breasted nuthatch

The Red-Breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis) is a small, energetic bird distinguished by its blue-gray upperparts, reddish-orange underparts, and a striking black-and-white face pattern, featuring a bold black stripe through the eye. Known for its acrobatic abilities, this bird can often be seen moving headfirst down tree trunks and branches as it searches for insects and seeds hidden in the bark.

Red-breasted nuthatches are frequent visitors to bird feeders, especially those stocked with suet and sunflower seeds.

In Massachusetts, Red-Breasted Nuthatches can be seen year-round, although their numbers fluctuate with the availability of food resources. They are more commonly observed during the fall and winter months when they move into lower elevations and suburban areas in search of food. These charming and active birds are a joy to watch in the state’s forests, parks, and backyards.

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Their call is a distinctive, nasal “yank-yank,” similar to the White-Breasted Nuthatch but higher-pitched.

11. Rock Pigeon

The Rock Pigeon (Columba livia), also known as the common pigeon, is a ubiquitous bird easily recognized by its variable plumage, which often features shades of gray, iridescent blue, greens, and purples around the neck, and two dark wing bars. These birds are highly adaptable and thrive in urban environments, making them a common sight in cities, towns, and rural areas.

Rock Pigeons are known for their strong homing ability and have been used historically as messenger birds. They feed on a wide range of food, including seeds, grains, and human scraps, often seen foraging on sidewalks, parks, and open fields.

In Massachusetts, Rock Pigeons can be seen year-round, making them one of the most familiar and constant avian presences in the state. Their adaptability to various habitats ensures that they are a frequent sight, whether perched on building ledges, congregating in public squares, or flying in flocks across the sky.

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12. Purple Martin

The Purple Martin (Progne subis) is the largest member of the swallow family, renowned for its glossy blue-black plumage and graceful, acrobatic flight. This social bird often gather in large flocks and is well-known for utilizing man-made nest boxes provided by bird enthusiasts. Purple Martins prefer open areas near water, such as lakes and meadows, where they can easily hunt for flying insects, their primary food source.

In Massachusetts, Purple Martins are migratory visitors, typically arriving in late spring, around April or May. They stay throughout the summer to breed and raise their young, then begin their southward migration to South America in late August to early September. Bird watchers can best observe Purple Martins during these warmer months, especially near colonies of nest boxes set up in suitable open habitats.

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13. Northern Parula

The Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) is a small, vibrant warbler known for its striking blue-gray upperparts, bright yellow throat and chest, and two white wing bars. The males have a distinctive rusty band across the chest.

These warblers are typically found in mature forests, especially those with an abundance of Spanish moss or old man’s beard lichen, which they use to build their nests. Northern Parulas are active foragers, often seen flitting through the canopy as they search for insects and spiders.

In Massachusetts, Northern Parulas are seen during their migration periods. They arrive in the state in late April to early May, staying through the summer to breed, and can be seen until September as they prepare for their southward migration.

Bird watchers can find Northern Parulas in forested areas, especially near water, where they sing their distinctive rising buzzy trill.

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14. Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

The Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (Polioptila caerulea) is a small, slender songbird known for its bluish-gray upperparts, white underparts, and a distinctive long, black tail with white edges. These birds are highly active and often seen flitting through trees and shrubs as they hunt for insects and spiders, their primary diet.

In Massachusetts, these agile birds are typically seen during their breeding season, arriving in late April and staying through the summer months. They prefer deciduous woodlands, forest edges, and shrubby areas, often near water. By September, they migrate south to Central America and the southern United States for the winter.

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Blue-gray Gnatcatchers are also known for their nasal, wheezy calls and their ability to mimic the songs of other birds.

15. Belted Kingfisher

The Belted Kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) is a striking bird known for its distinctive blue-gray plumage, white underparts, and prominent shaggy crest. Males have a single blue band across the chest, while females have an additional rust-colored band, making them one of the few bird species where females are more colorful than males.

Belted Kingfishers are often found near bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, where they hunt for fish and aquatic invertebrates. They are easily recognized by their loud, rattling calls and their habit of hovering over the water before diving to catch prey.

In Massachusetts, Belted Kingfishers can be seen year-round, although they are more commonly observed during the warmer months when open water is abundant. During the winter, some individuals may migrate to areas with unfrozen water, but many remain in the state, especially along the coast. Bird watchers can spot Belted Kingfishers perched on branches overhanging water or flying swiftly along shorelines.

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16. Blue-headed Vireo

The Blue-headed Vireo (Vireo solitarius) is a small songbird known for its distinctive blue-gray head, bold white spectacles, and olive-green back. Its white throat and yellowish sides add to its striking appearance. These birds prefer mixed deciduous and coniferous forests, often seen foraging methodically through the foliage for insects, spiders, and small fruits.

In Massachusetts, the Blue-headed Vireo can be seen during its migration periods and breeding season. They typically arrive in the state in late April and can be seen through the summer, as they nest and raise their young in forested habitats. By late September to October, they migrate south to their wintering grounds in the southeastern United States and Central America.

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Their song is a series of rich, melodious phrases, which they repeat with a deliberate, measured cadence.

Rare Blue Birds in Massachusetts

Several bluebirds are rare visitors to Massachusetts including the following:

• Cerulean Warblers can be sometimes seen during the spring and fall migration periods. Observing a Cerulean Warbler in Massachusetts is a special treat, given their declining population and preference for specific habitats.
• Blue Grosbeaks are considered rare but can occasionally be seen during the summer months.
• Western Bluebirds can occasionally be seen in Massachusetts, particularly in the western part of the state.
• Mountain Bluebirds are another occasional visitor to Massachusetts, especially during migration periods.

Where to Find Blue Birds in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has numerous great locations where you can spot blue birds. Here are a few prime spots to check out:

Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge

Located in Concord, this refuge offers a mix of open fields, wetlands, and forested areas, making it ideal for spotting Eastern Bluebirds, Blue Jays, and other blue-colored birds.

Boston Public Garden

In the heart of Boston, this iconic garden offers a surprising haven for birds, including Eastern Bluebirds and Indigo Buntings, especially during migration.

Mount Auburn Cemetery

This historical cemetery in Cambridge is also a renowned bird-watching spot. The combination of open areas and woodland edges attracts a variety of bluebirds, including Eastern Bluebirds and Black-Throated Blue Warblers.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Located on Plum Island, this refuge is a fantastic place to see Blue Jays, Eastern Bluebirds, and Tree Swallows, especially during the spring and fall migration seasons.

Quabbin Reservoir

This large reservoir and surrounding forest in central Massachusetts offer a great habitat for Eastern Bluebirds, Blue Jays, and White-Breasted Nuthatches. The open fields and forest edges are particularly attractive to these birds.

Moose Hill Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in Sharon, this sanctuary features a mix of habitats, including open fields, wetlands, and woodlands, ideal for seeing Eastern Bluebirds, Blue Jays, and other blue-colored birds.

Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary

In Easthampton and Northampton, this sanctuary offers varied habitats and is a great place to spot Indigo Buntings, Blue Jays, and Eastern Bluebirds.

Merrimack River Trail

This trail follows the Merrimack River and offers a scenic spot to see Blue Jays, Eastern Bluebirds, and other blue-colored birds. The open areas and woodland edges along the trail provide excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary

In Worcester, this sanctuary offers a mix of open grassy areas, woodlands, and wetlands, attracting a variety of blue birds, including Eastern Bluebirds, Blue Jays, and Indigo Buntings.

Cape Cod National Seashore

The diverse habitats along Cape Cod provide excellent opportunities to see blue birds like Eastern Bluebirds, Blue Jays, and Black-Throated Blue Warblers. The seashore’s open fields, woodlands, and coastal areas offer ideal habitats for these birds.

How to make my backyard attract blue birds

Creating a blue bird-friendly backyard in Massachusetts can be a rewarding and enjoyable project. Here are some tips to help you attract various blue-colored bird species, such as Eastern Bluebirds, Blue Jays, and Indigo Buntings:

1. Install Birdhouses and Nest Boxes

• Bluebird Boxes: Install bluebird boxes designed specifically for Eastern Bluebirds. These boxes should have an entrance hole about 1.5 inches in diameter and be placed 4 to 6 feet off the ground in open areas or along forest edges.
• Nesting Sites: Other blue birds, such as Tree Swallows and Western Bluebirds, also appreciate suitable nesting sites. Ensure the boxes are placed in areas free from dense vegetation to avoid predators.

2. Provide Bird Feeders

• Seed Mix: Offer a variety of seeds to attract different species. Black sunflower seeds are a favorite for Blue Jays and Eastern Bluebirds. Thistle feeders can attract Indigo Buntings.
• Suet Feeders: Suet feeders are great for attracting White-Breasted Nuthatches and other insect-eating birds.
• Feeder Placement: Place feeders in open areas and near shrubs or trees to provide cover and resting spots for the birds.

3. Offer Water

• Bird Baths: Install bird baths for drinking and bathing. Ensure the water is fresh and clean.
• Water Features: Moving water, like a small fountain or dripper, can be particularly attractive to birds.

4. Plant Native Plants

• Fruit-Bearing Plants: Planting berry-producing plants, such as dogwood, holly, and serviceberry, provides natural food sources for blue birds.
• Native Flowers: Native flowers can attract insects, which are an essential food source for many blue birds during the breeding season.
• Grassy Areas: Open grassy areas can provide foraging grounds for Eastern Bluebirds and Indigo Buntings.

5. Provide Shelter

• Trees and Shrubs: Planting a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs can provide shelter and nesting sites for birds.
• Dead Trees: Leave dead trees or “snags” standing if safe to do so, as they offer nesting and foraging sites for many bird species.

6. Avoid Pesticides

• Natural Habitat: Creating a natural habitat without pesticides ensures a healthy environment for birds and their food sources.
• Beneficial Insects: Allowing beneficial insects to thrive provides essential food for blue birds, especially during the breeding season.

7. Create Safe Spaces

• Minimize Windows: Blue birds are prone to window collisions. Apply decals or other markers to large windows to prevent collisions.
• Keep Cats Indoors: Outdoor cats are a major threat to birds. Keeping cats indoors helps protect backyard birds.

8. Monitor and Maintain

• Clean Boxes and Feeders: Regularly clean birdhouses and feeders to prevent disease.
• Observe: Monitor bird activity and adjust your setup as needed to best attract and support blue birds in your backyard.

By creating a welcoming environment with the right mix of food, water, shelter, and safety, you’ll likely attract a variety of beautiful blue birds to your backyard in Massachusetts.

Conclusion

Massachusetts is a fantastic place for bird watchers and nature lovers to see a variety of bluebirds. With their beautiful colors, melodious songs, and gentle nature, these birds are a delight to observe in their natural habitats. Whether you’re exploring a golf course, a nature reserve, or simply your backyard, you’ll have the best chance of seeing these gorgeous blue birds during the breeding season or in the winter months.