Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea)
The Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea) is a strikingly vibrant bird belonging to the cardinal family, renowned for the brilliant blue plumage of the males during the breeding season. This small, seed-eating species breeds in Southern Canada and migrates to the Caribbean and Mexico for the winter, showcasing a fascinating seasonal transformation in both appearance and habitat.
Common Names
| 🇨🇦 | Indigo Bunting |
| 🇫🇷 | Passerin indigo |
| 🇩🇪 | Indigofink |
| 🇲🇽 | Azulejo índigo |
Taxonomy
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
Characteristics
| Length | 11.5–15cm |
| Weight | 11.2–21.4g |
| Wingspan | 18–23cm |
| Clutch Size | 3-4 eggs |
| Incubation | 11-14 days |
| Fledging | 8-14 days |
| Sexual Maturity | 1 year |
Explore More
📖 Wikipedia Page: For more information about this species.
Identification and Whereabouts
During the breeding season, the male Indigo Bunting is easily identifiable by its vibrant blue plumage. Outside of this period, the male's feathers turn brown, similar to the female's year-round coloration. The bill's form and size are also distinguishing characteristics.
I observed this species in a mixed forest near Granby.
All content on this page — including photos, videos, and field audio recordings — was created by Karl-Heinz Müller, a Montréal-based wildlife filmmaker, sound recordist, and photographer. Founder of MUUUH and Québec Sauvage, he has spent over a decade documenting Canada’s natural habitats through immersive soundscapes and wildlife films. Learn more about Karl-Heinz
Last updated: 2025-01-08