Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Blog Post Species #63/100
Few things on earth fill us with as much delight as birds, and knowing them by name only adds to our pleasure. In California’s Central Valley, with only a little bit of effort, anyone can learn 100 local bird species. Especially since on a daily basis Valley Residents come in contact with at least a dozen species that most recognize, but may not know the name of. The intent of this blog is for followers to learn about and be able to identify 100 common valley birds.
A Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain
WHAT’S IN A NAME
Western Bluebird – Sialia mexicana
Greek. sialidos unidentified bird, from Mexico
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Western Bluebird is a small songbird found in western North America. It’s known for its vibrant blue plumage on the head and wings, with a rusty-orange breast and white belly, making it easily recognizable. Both males and females (to a lesser extent) exhibit
this coloration, and they have a relatively compact size compared to other bluebird species
AN INTERESTING OR UNUSUAL FACT
Western Bluebirds are fascinating birds with many unique traits that make them a joy to observe. One interesting fact about them is that they are sometimes helped by birds from other species, such as Violet-green swallows, which have been observed feeding Western bluebirds and defending their nests.
DISTRIBUTION STATUS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY
Western Bluebirds can be found in a wide variety of habitats from your backyard, to parks and woodlands across the valley.
eBird Bar Charts & Map Grid
3 Most Recent Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Posts
- DP-19 — Ruddy Duck
One look at the stiff tail held conspicuously upright helps explain why the Ruddy Duck belongs to a group appropriately known as the stiff-tailed ducks - DP-17 — Wilson’s Snipe
A Wilson’s Snipe at Merced National Wildlife Refuge brings back memories of an Ornithology 401 field trip in 1984—and the first “Common Snipe” I ever struggled to find - Northern Pintail
LEARN 100 COMMON VALLEY BIRDS The Northern Pintail is a Fairly Common Winter Visitor in California’s Central Valley and can be found in Freshwater Wetlands and Open Water.
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