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.
π«π· | Passerin indigo |
π©πͺ | Indigofink |
π²π½ | Azulejo Γndigo |
Taxonomy | |
Order | Passeriformes |
Family | Cardinalidae |
How to Identify
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.
Click on photo to enlarge.
Characteristics
Length | 11.5β15cm |
Weight | 11.2β21.4g |
Wingspan | 18β23cm |
Clutch Size | 3-4 eggs |
Incubation | 11-14 days |
Fledging | 8-14 days |
Sexual Maturity | 1 year |
Source | Wikipedia |
Where and When to Spot
I observed this species in a mixed forest near Granby.