Eastern Bluebird -- South Dakota Birds

Eastern Bluebird

Sialisa sialis

A favorite summer visitor for many, the Eastern Bluebird is more common in the eastern part of the state.  They will readily nest in man-made bluebird boxes, and have greatly benefited from the increased placement of these boxes.  The photo on the right depicts a male.

Habitat: Farmyards, open country with scattered trees, roadsides. 

Diet: Mostly insects and berries. 

Nesting: Late April through July

Breeding Map: Breeding bird survey map

Song: Eastern Bluebird Call

Migrations: Winters in the southeastern United States and Mexico, although small numbers may winter in the state in selected spots.

Similar Species: Western Bluebird

Birdhouses: Will nest in man-made bluebird boxes

Status: Showed sharp decline previously due to competition for nesting sites with non-native species (European Starling, House Sparrow).  Has been recovering, thanks in large part to the large numbers of nest boxes erected for their benefit.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Eastern Bluebird

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Eastern Bluebird"

3) E-nature.com: Eastern Bluebird

Photo Information: March 25, 2001 -- Big Sioux Recreation Area near Brandon -- Terry L. Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Eastern Bluebird photos.

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Please mail any comments/suggestions/additional links for this page to: Terry L. Sohl

This page was last edited on 02/03/08