Blue birds are some of the most striking and easily recognized birds in California. Whether it’s the bright flash of a Western Bluebird in a meadow or the bold presence of a Steller’s Jay in a forest, these birds add a splash of color to all kinds of landscapes. California is home to a surprising variety of blue-colored birds, from common backyard visitors to seasonal migrants and island specialists.
You don’t have to be an expert birder to enjoy spotting them—many show up in parks, gardens, and along hiking trails. Their vivid plumage stands out against green trees, dry hillsides, and urban backdrops alike. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the blue birds you’re likely to see across the state, where to find them, and what makes each species unique. Whether you live in the city or the mountains, these birds are never too far away.
1. Indigo Bunting
- Scientific name: Passerina cyanea
- Life span: Up to 13 years
- Size: 4.5–5.9 in (11.5–15 cm)
- Weight: 0.4–0.6 oz (11.2–21.4 g)
- Wingspan: 7.1–9.1 in (18–23 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and rare
- Migratory behavior: Rare visitor; passes through during spring and fall.
The Indigo Bunting is a small songbird that glows with electric blue when seen in the right light. Males are entirely bright blue during breeding season, while females are a warm, streaky brown. These birds are mostly found in the eastern U.S., but they appear occasionally in California during spring and fall migration, especially in brushy or edge habitats.
Their preferred environment includes open areas with shrubs and scattered trees, and they are often located by their clear, musical song. Though rare in California, they spark excitement when spotted due to their vibrant appearance and relative scarcity. Indigo Buntings are migratory, traveling from wintering grounds in Central America to breeding areas in North America.
While their visits to California are brief and unpredictable, they add a splash of color and surprise to migration season, rewarding those who keep their eyes and ears open.
Indigo Buntings nest in dense shrubs or low thickets, often along woodland edges or in overgrown fields. Females handle most of the nesting work, constructing a well-hidden cup-shaped nest from grasses and plant material. The males often sing from nearby perches to mark their territory and attract mates.
During breeding season, Indigo Buntings primarily eat insects such as beetles and caterpillars. In the fall and winter, they shift toward seeds and small fruits. They forage both on the ground and in low vegetation, often staying under cover. Their feeding habits help control insect populations and disperse seeds.
Though rare in California, Indigo Buntings are widespread in the eastern U.S. and considered a species of Least Concern overall. Their appearance in California is usually during migration. Habitat preservation along their migratory path and breeding grounds helps support stable populations despite their occasional rarity in the state.
2. Tree Swallow
- Scientific name: Tachycineta bicolor
- Life span: 2-3 years
- Size: 4.7–5.9 in (12–15 cm)
- Weight: 0.6–0.9 oz (17–25 g)
- Wingspan: 11.8–13.8 in (30–35 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
- Migratory behaviour: Departs in fall; winters in Central and South America.
Tree Swallows are sleek, agile birds often seen gliding and diving over open fields, wetlands, and lakes in search of flying insects. Their iridescent blue-green upperparts and clean white underparts give them a crisp, glossy look that catches the sunlight in flight.
These birds are common breeding residents across northern and central California in spring and summer, typically nesting in tree cavities or nest boxes near water. Their range extends across much of North America, and they are long-distance migrants, wintering far to the south. Tree Swallows are highly social, often forming loose flocks even during breeding season.
They are graceful in the air and frequently seen skimming low over water or perched in lines along fences. Their arrival in spring is a welcome sign of the season’s change, and their constant motion and soft, twittering calls bring energy to open landscapes.
Tree Swallows are cavity nesters, often using old woodpecker holes or nest boxes near water. Both sexes contribute to nest building, using grasses and feathers.
Their diet primarily consists of flying insects, which they catch in acrobatic flight. They also consume berries, especially bayberries, during colder months.
Conservation efforts, including the installation of nest boxes, have helped maintain stable populations. However, competition for nesting sites requires ongoing attention.
3. Purple Martin
- Scientific name: Progne subis
- Life span: Up to 13 years
- Size: 7.5–7.9 in (19–20 cm)
- Weight: 1.6–2.1 oz (45–60 g)
- Wingspan: 15.3–16.1 in (39–41 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and uncommon
- Migratory behaviour: Migrates south in late summer after breeding season.
The Purple Martin is the largest swallow in North America and has a strong presence during the summer months in parts of California. Adult males have a glossy, deep blue-black sheen that gives them their “purple” name, while females are duller with paler underparts. These birds are highly aerial, spending most of their time in flight as they catch insects on the wing.
Purple Martins breed in cavities and are known to readily use human-made nest boxes. In California, their breeding range is scattered, with colonies often located near water or open fields. They are migratory, spending winters in South America before returning in spring. Martins are highly social, often nesting in colonies and foraging in groups.
Though their range is patchy, dedicated nest box programs have helped support their populations. Their graceful flight and cheerful calls make them a summer favorite wherever they appear.
Purple Martins are cavity nesters that often rely on human-provided nest boxes. In the western U.S., including parts of California, they may also use woodpecker holes or natural cavities. They breed in loose colonies and are highly social, often seen flying in groups or calling near their nest sites.
Their diet consists almost entirely of flying insects. They catch their food mid-air with great agility, often feeding high above fields, lakes, or open areas. Unlike many other swallows, they feed at higher elevations and spend much of their time in flight, helping reduce local insect populations during summer
Purple Martins have benefited greatly from nest box programs, especially in the east. In California, their range is patchier, and some regional populations have declined due to habitat loss and competition with non-native species like starlings. Ongoing conservation focuses on maintaining suitable nesting opportunities and monitoring population trends.
4. California Scrub-Jay
- Scientific name: Aphelocoma californica
- Life span: 9 years
- Size: 27–31 cm / 10.6–12.2 in
- Weight: 80–100 g / 2.8–3.5 oz
- Wingspan: 39 cm / 15.4 in
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and uncommon
- Migratory behaviour: Some individuals leave by late August or early September, but most stay.
The California Scrub-Jay is a bold, bright-blue bird commonly seen across much of California’s coastal and inland areas, from urban neighborhoods to oak woodlands. Its deep blue head, wings, and tail contrast with a grayish back and a white throat outlined by a subtle blue necklace.
These birds are known for their curious, often assertive behavior and strong presence in backyards and parks. Their range is largely restricted to the Pacific Coast, especially California, and they do not migrate, remaining year-round residents wherever they’re found. Though similar to other jays, the California Scrub-Jay has a more slender build and a straighter bill.
Their striking plumage, loud calls, and confident demeanor make them easy to spot, whether they’re perched on a fence post or hopping through dry underbrush in search of nesting materials or other resources.
These intelligent birds build their nests low in trees or shrubs, crafting sturdy structures from twigs and lining them with softer materials. Both parents participate in feeding and raising the young, showcasing their cooperative nature.
Their diet is diverse, including insects, fruits, nuts, and small animals like lizards. They are also known to consume nestlings of other birds, demonstrating opportunistic feeding habits.
Currently listed as a species of Least Concern, California Scrub-Jays have stable populations. However, habitat loss and West Nile virus pose threats, necessitating ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts.
5. Western Bluebird
- Scientific name: Sialia mexicana
- Life span: 6–10 years
- Size: 16–20 cm / 6.3–7.9 in
- Weight: 25–31 g / 0.9–1.1 oz
- Wingspan: 30–36 cm / 11.8–14.2 in
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Mostly resident; some migrate from northern areas in winter.
Western Bluebirds are charming and unmistakable with their soft blue plumage and warm rust-colored chest. They inhabit open woodlands, farmlands, and forest edges throughout the western United States, particularly in California, where they are year-round residents in many areas.
The males have vivid blue coloring on their head, back, and wings, which contrasts beautifully with their rusty throat and chest. Females are more muted in tone, with a bluish tint on the wings and tail and a pale rust wash. These birds often perch quietly on low branches or fence lines, scanning the ground below. Western Bluebirds are cavity nesters and are commonly seen in areas where nest boxes are maintained.
Their gentle presence, quiet chirping, and colorful feathers make them favorites among birdwatchers and a welcome sight across both rural and suburban landscapes in the state.
Western Bluebirds are cavity nesters, often utilizing tree holes or nest boxes. Females construct nests using grasses and plant fibers, while males assist by guarding the nesting site.
Their diet primarily consists of insects, such as beetles and caterpillars, supplemented with fruits and berries. They forage by perching low and scanning the ground for prey.
Conservation efforts, including the provision of nest boxes, have supported stable populations. Continued habitat preservation is essential to maintain their numbers.
6. Steller’s Jay
- Scientific name: Cyanocitta stelleri
- Life span: 10 years
- Size: 30–34 cm / 11.8–13.4 in
- Weight: 100–140 g / 3.5–4.9 oz
- Wingspan: 43–47 cm / 16.9–18.5 in
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Year-round resident, especially in forested and mountainous regions.
Found primarily in coniferous forests and mountainous regions, Steller’s Jays are striking birds with deep blue bodies and contrasting black crests. In California, they’re common in the Sierra Nevada, coastal forests, and high-elevation parks. Their bold appearance is matched by bold behavior—these birds are known for their sharp calls, curiosity, and tendency to approach campsites and picnic areas in search of food.
The plumage is rich and textured, with black extending from the crest to the upper back and deep blue across the rest of the body. The crest is tall and expressive, often raised when the bird is alert or agitated. Steller’s Jays are often seen moving in pairs or small groups, blending into the shaded forests until their sharp calls or flashes of color give them away. They’re year-round residents, well-adapted to cool, forested environments across California.
Steller’s Jays typically nest in coniferous forests, building bulky nests from twigs, moss, and leaves, lined with softer materials. Both parents share incubation and feeding duties, displaying strong pair bonds.
Their omnivorous diet includes insects, seeds, nuts, fruits, and occasionally small animals. They are also known to raid other birds’ nests for eggs and nestlings.
While currently not threatened, habitat loss and human encroachment could impact populations. Monitoring and habitat conservation are vital for their continued well-being.
7. Lazuli Bunting
- Scientific name: Passerina amoena
- Life span: 2–5 years
- Size: 13–15 cm / 5.1–5.9 in
- Weight: 13–18 g / 0.5–0.6 oz
- Wingspan: 20–23 cm / 7.9–9.1 in
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
- Migratory behaviour: Leaves by late summer; migrates south for winter.
The Lazuli Bunting brings a flash of vivid color to California’s shrubby grasslands and foothills each spring. Males are a brilliant sky-blue on the head and back, with a rusty orange breast and white belly, while females are more subdued, with soft brownish tones and hints of blue on the wings and tail. These birds are most commonly seen during their breeding season, which runs from late spring through summer.
Their range includes much of the western United States, and they are regular visitors in northern and central California during warmer months. They prefer semi-open habitats with scattered bushes or trees, where they perch and sing from exposed branches. Though small, they’re eye-catching and are often heard before they’re seen, thanks to their cheerful, warbling song. By late summer, they begin to migrate south, leaving a brief but colorful impression behind.
Lazuli Buntings nest in dense shrubs or low trees, constructing cup-shaped nests from grasses and bark strips. Females handle most of the building, while males defend the territory.
Their diet consists mainly of insects during the breeding season, shifting to seeds and berries in the fall. They forage both on the ground and in vegetation.
Populations are generally stable, but habitat loss due to agricultural development poses a threat. Conservation efforts focus on preserving shrubland habitats
8. Barn Swallow
- Scientific name: Hirundo rustica
- Life span: 4–8 years
- Size: 15–20 cm / 5.9–7.9 in
- Weight: 16–22 g / 0.6–0.8 oz
- Wingspan: 32–34 cm / 12.6–13.4 in
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and common
- Migratory behaviour: Leaves by early fall; migrates to South America.
Barn Swallows are easily recognized by their long, deeply forked tails and graceful flight. In California, they’re widespread during the breeding season and are often found near human structures, including barns, bridges, and porches. Their upperparts are a glossy blue, while the underparts are a warm cinnamon or buff color.
The throat is a deeper rusty red, which contrasts with the white underbelly. They build cup-shaped mud nests, usually on vertical surfaces with some shelter. These birds have a wide range across North America and migrate to Central and South America for winter. In flight, they are agile and swift, often seen in small flocks sweeping low over fields or water.
Their bubbling, cheerful songs are a familiar soundtrack to spring and summer in open country and rural communities, where they’re welcomed as natural insect control and signs of seasonal renewal.
Barn Swallows build cup-shaped nests from mud and grass, typically under eaves or bridges. Both parents participate in construction and care for the young.
Their diet consists almost exclusively of flying insects, which they catch on the wing. They are adept fliers, often seen swooping gracefully over fields.
While populations are currently stable, loss of nesting sites and declines in insect prey due to pesticide use are concerns. Conservation efforts focus on preserving suitable nesting habitats.
9. Blue Grosbeak
- Scientific name: Passerina caerulea
- Life span: 5–8 years
- Size: 15–18 cm / 5.9–7.1 in
- Weight: 26–31 g / 0.9–1.1 oz
- Wingspan: 26–29 cm / 10.2–11.4 in
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and uncommon
- Migratory behaviour: Migrates south by late summer; winters in Mexico.
The Blue Grosbeak is a striking summer visitor to California’s southern valleys and lowland brushy areas. Males are deep, rich blue with bold chestnut wing bars, while females are warm brown with faint bluish hints. Their sturdy build and large conical bill give them a distinctive silhouette, especially when perched in open brush or near field edges.
Though less commonly seen than other songbirds, their soft warbling song often gives them away. Blue Grosbeaks migrate north in spring to breed, spending the summer in dense vegetation near streams, agricultural fields, and overgrown clearings. Their range in California is primarily focused in the central and southern parts of the state.
They tend to be secretive and prefer thick cover, making them a rewarding find for birders willing to slow down and listen. By late summer, they quietly begin their migration south to Mexico and Central America.
Blue Grosbeaks prefer nesting in low shrubs or small trees, often near open areas. Females construct the nests, while males guard the territory.
Their diet includes insects, seeds, and grains, foraging both on the ground and in low vegetation. They may hover to glean insects from foliage.
Populations are stable and have expanded northward, possibly due to forest clearing. Continued monitoring ensures their conservation status remains secure.
10. Mountain Bluebird
- Scientific name: Sialia currucoides
- Life span: 6–10 years
- Size: 16–20 cm / 6.3–7.9 in
- Weight: 30–32 g / 1.1–1.3 oz
- Wingspan: 28–36 cm / 11–14.2 in
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and uncommon
- Migratory behaviour: Leaves higher elevations in fall; winters at lower elevations.
The Mountain Bluebird is a breath of sky come to life, especially when seen against open mountain meadows or desert grasslands. Males are brilliant sky-blue from head to tail, while females are more muted, with gray-brown tones and light blue highlights. These birds breed in high elevations and wide-open spaces, often nesting in tree cavities or nest boxes in sagebrush or pine habitats.
In California, they are typically found in the eastern parts of the state and Sierra Nevada regions during the breeding season. Mountain Bluebirds migrate to lower elevations or more southern areas for winter, though some individuals remain in the state year-round depending on conditions.
Their fluttering, hovering flight and soft, short calls make them gentle but distinctive presences in otherwise quiet landscapes. Their beautiful coloration and preference for open, scenic spaces make them a favorite among birders and photographers alike.
Mountain Bluebirds nest in cavities, such as tree holes or nest boxes, often in open terrains. They may also use holes in cliffs or dirt banks when tree hollows are unavailable.
Their diet primarily consists of insects during summer, shifting to berries and seeds in winter. They often hover low over the grass in open fields to seek food.
While not currently threatened, habitat loss and competition for nesting sites could impact populations. Conservation efforts focus on providing nest boxes and preserving open habitats.
11. Pinyon Jay
- Scientific name: Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus
- Life span: 10–15 years
- Size: 25–30 cm / 9.8–11.8 in
- Weight: 90–120 g / 3.2–4.2 oz
- Wingspan: 45 cm / 17.7 in
- IUCN Status: Vulnerable
- State status: Breeding and uncommon
- Migratory behaviour: Resident year-round; local movements depending on food.
The Pinyon Jay is a social, noisy bird that lives in the dry woodlands of the western U.S., especially areas dominated by pinyon pine and juniper. In California, they’re found in limited areas of the eastern and southeastern parts of the state. Their coloring is a uniform dusty blue, paler on the belly, with a strong, straight bill and a somewhat shaggy appearance.
Pinyon Jays are often seen in flocks, flying in tight, fast-moving groups or gathering noisily in treetops. Their behavior is highly communal, with birds often working together to find food and raise young. These birds do not migrate long distances, but they may shift their range locally in response to food availability.
While not rare across their overall range, Pinyon Jays are less commonly encountered due to their preference for remote, specialized habitats. Their presence often signals healthy pinyon-juniper ecosystems.
Pinyon Jays are colonial nesters, often forming loose groups that build nests within the same stand of trees. They typically choose pinyon pines or junipers, constructing nests from sticks, bark, and grass. Both parents share duties—incubating eggs and feeding chicks—with nesting closely tied to pinyon seed availability in a given year.
Their diet revolves heavily around pinyon pine seeds, which they harvest and cache during productive seasons. These jays also eat insects, berries, and small fruits when available. They’re known for their excellent memory, often relocating stored seeds months later. This behavior makes them essential to seed dispersal and forest regeneration across arid woodlands.
Pinyon Jays are currently listed as Vulnerable, with populations declining due to habitat loss, climate change, and fire suppression. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and restoring pinyon-juniper woodlands, understanding seed production cycles, and studying long-term population dynamics. Their decline highlights broader ecosystem stress in the American West.
12. Island Scrub-Jay
- Scientific name: Aphelocoma insularis
- Life span: 10–15 years
- Size: 28–30 cm / 11–11.8 in
- Weight: 80–90 g / 2.8–3.2 oz
- Wingspan: 39–43 cm / 15.4–16.9 in
- IUCN Status: Vulnerable
- State status: Breeding and rare
- Migratory behaviour: Non-migratory; stays on Santa Cruz Island year-round.
The Island Scrub-Jay is found only on Santa Cruz Island, the largest of California’s Channel Islands. It is the only bird species in the continental United States with a range restricted to a single island. Visually, it resembles its mainland cousin, the California Scrub-Jay, but is slightly larger and more vividly blue. It has a bold, upright posture, a strong bill, and a distinct white throat bordered by darker blue markings.
These birds inhabit oak woodlands and coastal scrub, foraging in trees and on the ground. They are non-migratory and live year-round on the island, where they play a crucial ecological role in seed dispersal, especially for oaks. Because their population is confined to such a small area, they are considered vulnerable. Visitors to Santa Cruz Island often report the Island Scrub-Jay as one of the most memorable wildlife encounters during their trip.
Island Scrub-Jays nest exclusively on Santa Cruz Island, usually in oak woodlands. They build their nests in dense shrubs or trees, using twigs and fibers to form a solid cup. Pairs are monogamous and stay close during breeding season. Their limited range makes each nest critically important to the population’s success.
Their diet is diverse, ranging from insects and spiders to seeds, fruits, and acorns. They’re especially important for spreading oak trees, often caching acorns across the island. They may revisit or forget these hidden stashes, helping regenerate native forests over time. Their foraging behavior plays a big role in maintaining island ecosystem balance.
Because they live only on one island, Island Scrub-Jays are vulnerable to disease, climate change, and habitat disruption. They are listed as vulnerable, and conservation efforts include habitat restoration, disease monitoring, and long-term population studies. Limiting human impact and protecting oak woodlands are essential steps.
Where to find Blue birds in California
Finding blue birds in California isn’t hard, but knowing where and when to look can make all the difference. These birds live in a wide range of habitats—from coastal scrub and oak woodlands to mountain forests and city parks. The best times to spot them are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when they’re most active and the light brings out their colours.
Bring a pair of binoculars, move slowly, and listen for calls or movement in the trees. Many blue birds, like the California Scrub-Jay, are bold and easy to spot, while others, like the Lazuli Bunting, may require a bit more patience.
Here are four great places in California to see blue birds:
- Point Reyes National Seashore – Great for Western Bluebirds and swallows.
- Yosemite National Park – Steller’s Jays and Mountain Bluebirds are common.
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park – Look for Blue Grosbeaks in summer.
- Griffith Park (Los Angeles) – Scrub-Jays and Western Bluebirds in an urban setting.
No matter where you are in the state, there’s likely a splash of blue not too far away. Take your time, stay quiet, and the birds will show themselves.
Conclusion
California’s blue birds offer a beautiful glimpse into the state’s rich and varied birdlife. From the vivid flash of a Western Bluebird to the bold presence of a Steller’s Jay, these birds can be found in forests, deserts, cities, and coastlines alike. Whether you’re hiking through the mountains or watching from your backyard, there’s always a chance to spot one of these striking species.
Learning to identify them adds a new layer of appreciation to time spent outdoors. With continued habitat protection and awareness, we can ensure these blue-feathered residents and visitors remain part of California’s landscape for generations.
