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How to Find and Identify the State Bird of New York

Contributor
By John L
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)
Eastern Bluebird
Eastern Bluebird
www.birding.com

In 1970 the New York state legislature passed a motion to adopt the Eastern Bluebird as the state bird. Long thought to be a sign off good luck by humans, the Eastern Bluebird saw its numbers decline due to loss of habitat and pesticide use by the 1960s, but was rescued by individuals who erected nest boxes and provided the species a place to raise their young. Eastern Bluebirds are on the rise now and as popular with birdwatchers as ever.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Go to open spaces, not the deep woods. Bluebirds live in places such as orchards, farms, parks and the lawns of homes. They eat insects and are a great aid to farmers, as some of their favorite bugs are the worst enemies of crops. Bluebirds also eat berries and fruit. The Eastern Bluebird heads south for the winter, escaping the cold weather by heading to Texas and Mexico.

  2. Step 2

    Look for the bluebird by nest boxes and crevices in trees and fences. They do not build nests in trees and shrubs, preferring to make them in the cavities of old trees or in the nest boxes provided by people. The female lines the home with dried grasses and pine needles before laying up to seven bluish-white eggs. The Eastern Bluebird can have up to two broods a year in the northern portions of its range, and have more broods once it goes to its southern home.

  3. Step 3

    Watch for the blue coloration. The Eastern Bluebird is blue on its head, wings and tail, with a white belly and a reddish chest. The female of the species is a duller grayish-blue hue. A member of the thrush family, the state bird of New York is also the state bird of Missouri.

  4. Step 4

    Keep a lookout for bluebirds on fences and wires. They like to perch on phone lines and then descend to the ground to grab an insect meal. This bird's excellent eyesight helps it see bugs, and it will fly out and snap them up.

  5. Step 5
    Bluebird box
    Bluebird box

    Build a nest box, but don’t put a perch on it. This allows starlings and house sparrows a chance to sit and endanger the opening. They will then take over the nest and the bluebird will be left out in the cold. Bluebirds don’t need a perch to get into their nest boxes.

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