Eastern Bluebird vs Mountain Bluebird

In short

The Eastern Bluebird and Mountain Bluebird are both small thrushes with striking blue plumage, but they can be distinguished by their habitat preferences and subtle differences in coloration. Eastern Bluebirds have a more vibrant blue with a rusty-orange breast, while Mountain Bluebirds are a more uniform sky-blue without the orange. Both species are cavity nesters but prefer different environments.

Identification tips

1. Plumage: Look for the rusty-orange breast of the Eastern Bluebird, absent in the Mountain Bluebird. 2. Habitat: Note the environment; Eastern Bluebirds favor areas with trees and nest boxes, while Mountain Bluebirds are found in open, treeless landscapes. 3. Behavior: Observe foraging behavior; Mountain Bluebirds may hover more than Eastern Bluebirds. 4. Vocalization: Listen for the more melodious song of the Eastern Bluebird compared to the softer warble of the Mountain Bluebird.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small thrushes, with no significant size difference to aid in identification.

Plumage

Male Eastern Bluebirds have a bright blue back and head with a rusty-orange throat and breast, while females are more subdued with grayish-blue tones. Mountain Bluebirds, both males and females, are more uniformly sky-blue, with males being brighter and females having a paler, grayish-blue hue. The lack of orange on Mountain Bluebirds is a key distinguishing feature.

Behaviour

Both species are cavity nesters and can be seen perching in open areas. Eastern Bluebirds often hunt insects from low perches, while Mountain Bluebirds may hover more frequently when foraging.

Habitat

Eastern Bluebirds are commonly found in open fields, orchards, and suburban areas with scattered trees and artificial nest boxes. Mountain Bluebirds prefer more open, treeless areas such as grasslands and high-altitude meadows.

Voice

Both species have similar soft, musical calls, but the Eastern Bluebird's song is a series of melodious whistles, while the Mountain Bluebird's song is a softer, more subdued warble. These differences can be subtle and are not always reliable for identification.