Date: 1/3/08
Contact: C. Doug Nielsen
Phone: (702) 486-5127, ext. 3500

MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS WINTERING IN THE LAS VEGAS AREA

Ever get those winter blues? You and many of the rest of us, but sometimes the blues are just the thing to perk you up. Against the dull grays of winter, the bright color of the mountain bluebird lights up the landscape. The mountain bluebird is Nevada’s state bird and is present in much of the state year-round, but lingers in the southeastern tip during the winter. This is the edge of its winter range that actually reaches south into Mexico.

These birds also winter in the plains states or further south preferring open areas and avoiding the mountains when it’s colder. Summer ranges of this western bird extend all the way up into Alaska.

Like most bird species, mountain bluebirds follow the norm when it comes to outer regalia. The males are primarily a brilliant sky blue in color while the females are grey with just a touch of blue in wings and tail. This coloration enables the females to more easily blend into the winter landscape.

You can tell the mountain bluebird from the western because the western bluebird has red on its chest. Mountain blues are medium-sized (6-8 inches) and fairly easy to spot whether they are perched or flying by in a colorful flash.

“They’re also fun to watch, often pursuing insects and berries on the ground,” said Margie Klein, NDOW wildlife educator. “If you listen quietly, you may hear the nasal-sounding whistle that is their song.”

How many mountain bluebirds make their winter home in southern Nevada? No one knows for sure. The Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve lists them as a winter visitant but a representative said that they can also be seen at other area locations such as Corn Creek Station, Overton, and Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. So while you’re enjoying Southern Nevada’s crisp wintery days keep your eyes open. Maybe you’ll get lucky and see a bluebird on your horizon.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) protects, restores and manages fish and wildlife, and promotes fishing, hunting, and boating safety. NDOW’s wildlife and habitat conservation efforts are primarily funded by sportsmen’s license and conservation fees and a federal surcharge on hunting and fishing gear. Support wildlife and habitat conservation in Nevada by purchasing a hunting, fishing, or combination license. For more information, visit www.ndow.org.