The **indigo bunting** (*Passerina cyanea*) is a small seed-eating bird in the cardinal family, Cardinalidae. Here are some key details about this vibrant species:
1. **Appearance**:
– **Male**: During the breeding season, the male indigo bunting is a striking, vibrant blue. It has brightly colored plumage to attract a mate. In winter, it turns brown.
– **Female**: The female is brown year-round, lacking the bright blue coloration.
2. **Size**:
– Length: 11.5–13 cm (4.5–5.1 inches)
– Weight: 12–18 grams
3. **Habitat**:
– Found in farmland, brush areas, and open woodlands.
4. **Range**:
– Breeding: Ranges from southern Canada to northern Florida.
– Winter: From southern Florida to northern South America.
– Migrates by night, using stars for navigation.
5. **Behavior**:
– Males sing vigorously during the breeding season, often perching at the tops of visible spots.
– Females and young are more inconspicuous, with brown plumage.
Remember, these “blue canaries” are widespread and their cheerful songs fill the late spring and summer across eastern North America! 🐦🌟
6. **Diet**:
– Primarily insectivorous during summer.
– Shifts to seeds during winter.