Indigo Bunting
NameIndigo Bunting
Common NameIndigo Bunting
Scientific NamePasserina cyanea
FamilyCardinalidae
Wingspan (cm)20.5
Length (cm)13.25
Weight (g)15.25
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely brilliant indigo blue, appearing darker on the wings and tail. Females are dull brown with faint streaking on the breast and sometimes a hint of blue on the wings or tail. Non-breeding males resemble females but may retain some blue feathers.
Vocalization / CallThe song is a high-pitched, sweet, jumbled series of paired notes, often described as 'sweet-sweet-chew-chew-sweet-sweet'. Calls include a sharp 'spik' or 'chip' note.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest edge, shrubland, grassland, open woodland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across eastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and the Gulf Coast. Winters in southern Florida, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean islands.
Identifying Featuresvibrant indigo blue plumage (male), small size, conical bill, brown plumage with streaking (female), distinctive jumbled song
Description
The Indigo Bunting is a small, vibrant songbird. Males are brilliant blue during the breeding season, often singing their distinctive jumbled song from high perches in open woodlands and shrubby fields.
