By. Ran

Named the Nevada state bird in 1967, the Mountain Bluebird is considered to be one of the most beautiful birds in the West because of its amazing blue feathers. Often found in mountainous terrains, they usually live in open land, but they have been spotted in prairie lands and deserts too.

Their nests are usually built in any type of cavity, in trees, cliffs, or dirt banks. It is believed that the female bluebirds do most of the work when building a nest; it is also the female who takes charge when deciding where to build a nest. Male birds are seen to be ‘pretending’ to be helping.

Image credits: sparky_stensaas

Image credits: santisoukp

They are commonly found in the western United States and Canada, especially during the breeding season, and they are a common sight in the beginning of the spring. For a while in the 20th century, there was a decline in their population but now they have managed to make a comeback. Since the birds nest in cavities without making their own nests, deforestation and agricultural procedures have led to loss of habitats. Conservation efforts and the creation of “nest boxes” for them play a major role in helping this. Also, they are said to be aggressive birds.

If you are lucky enough to live in a place that is located in their breeding territory, building your own nesting boxes in your backyard or even on a tree in your garden may give you an amazing opportunity; building nests for them can mean that you get to enjoy the sight of them all season long.

H/T: All About Birds

Image credits: santisoukp

The American Bird Conservancy compares the forging of the Mountain Bluebird to the forging of Falcons. These birds feed on the ground, going for various insects and berries. It is their unique feeding behavior that sets them apart from similar species.

Image credits: glness