What Is New York's State Bird?

The official state bird of New York is the Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis), a small thrush known for its vibrant blue plumage and soft rust-colored breast. Designated in 1970, the Eastern Bluebird stands as a symbol of hope, renewal, and the natural beauty embedded in New York’s diverse landscapes. This charming songbird, often associated with springtime and田园 imagery, emerged as the top choice after a coordinated effort by schoolchildren and conservation advocates, making it one of the most democratically selected state birds in U.S. history. For those wondering what is NY state bird, the answer lies in both biological distinction and cultural resonance.

Historical Background: How the Eastern Bluebird Became New York’s Symbol

The journey to selecting the Eastern Bluebird as New York’s state bird began in the late 1960s, during a nationwide trend of states formalizing their avian emblems. Prior to 1970, New York did not have an officially recognized state bird, despite several unofficial favorites among residents. In response to growing interest in environmental education and civic engagement, the New York State Legislature authorized a vote among elementary school students to choose the state bird.

Students were presented with a shortlist of native species, including the Northern Cardinal, American Robin, and Black-capped Chickadee. After thousands of ballots were cast across school districts, the Eastern Bluebird received the most votes. Its win was not only a reflection of its aesthetic appeal but also its symbolic association with cheerfulness and resilience. On May 18, 1970, Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller signed Chapter 573 of the Laws of 1970, officially adopting the Eastern Bluebird as the state bird of New York.

Biological Profile: Understanding the Eastern Bluebird

To fully appreciate why what is NY state bird matters beyond symbolism, it’s essential to understand the bird’s biology and ecological role. The Eastern Bluebird belongs to the thrush family (Turdidae) and measures about 6.5 to 7 inches in length, with a wingspan of 9 to 12 inches. Males are easily identified by their bright azure-blue upperparts, rusty-red throat and chest, and white belly. Females are more subdued, displaying grayish-blue feathers and faint reddish tones, an adaptation that helps them remain camouflaged while nesting.

These birds are insectivores during warmer months, feeding on beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, and caterpillars. In fall and winter, they supplement their diet with berries and small fruits, particularly from dogwood, sumac, and wild grape vines. Their preference for open woodlands, meadows, and farmlands makes them common sights in rural and suburban areas across New York, especially during breeding season from March to August.

Habitat and Nesting Behavior

Eastern Bluebirds are secondary cavity nesters, meaning they rely on existing holes in trees or structures rather than excavating their own. Historically, their populations declined due to habitat loss and competition with invasive species like House Sparrows and European Starlings. However, widespread installation of nest boxes—especially in parks, nature reserves, and private backyards—has helped stabilize and even increase their numbers.

Nesting typically begins in early spring. A female will lay 4 to 6 pale blue eggs per clutch and may raise two or three broods per season. Both parents share responsibilities in feeding and protecting the young. The survival rate of fledglings has improved significantly thanks to conservation programs supported by organizations such as the New York State Ornithological Association and Audubon Society chapters.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

The selection of the Eastern Bluebird goes beyond ornithology—it reflects deeper cultural values. Across many traditions, bluebirds symbolize happiness, optimism, and the arrival of better times. In Native American folklore, particularly among Algonquian-speaking tribes historically present in New York, the bluebird is seen as a harbinger of spring and a messenger of warmth after long winters.

In broader American culture, the phrase “bluebird of happiness” entered popular lexicon through Maurice Maeterlinck’s 1908 play *L’Oiseau bleu* (*The Blue Bird*), later adapted into films and songs. This metaphor resonates strongly with the public perception of the Eastern Bluebird, reinforcing its suitability as a state symbol. Unlike more aggressive or predatory birds, the bluebird embodies gentleness and harmony with nature—qualities many New Yorkers identify with their relationship to the environment.

Where to See the Eastern Bluebird in New York

For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts curious about where to observe the state bird in its natural habitat, several locations across New York offer excellent opportunities. These birds thrive in edge habitats—areas where forests meet open fields—and are frequently spotted near fence posts, utility wires, and dead trees used for perching and hunting insects.

Some of the best places to view Eastern Bluebirds include:

• Cayuga Lake Trail (Ithaca): Part of the Finger Lakes region, this trail offers open vistas and restored meadows ideal for bluebird sightings.
• Jones Beach State Park (Long Island): Coastal grasslands here support seasonal populations, especially during migration.
\li>Allegany State Park (Western NY): With extensive forest clearings and maintained trails, this park hosts breeding pairs each spring.
• Bear Mountain State Park (Hudson Valley): Nest box trails managed by volunteers make this a reliable spot for observing nesting behavior.

Early morning hours during spring and summer provide optimal viewing conditions. Using binoculars and a regional field guide can enhance identification accuracy, especially when distinguishing females from other similar-sized songbirds.

Conservation Status and Current Challenges

While the Eastern Bluebird population has rebounded since the mid-20th century, ongoing threats remain. Urban sprawl continues to reduce suitable nesting and foraging habitats. Pesticide use in agriculture and landscaping can diminish insect availability, impacting chick development. Climate change may also alter migratory patterns and breeding cycles, potentially leading to mismatches between hatching times and peak food abundance.

Despite these challenges, the species is currently listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In New York, it is protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which prohibits harming, capturing, or possessing the birds or their eggs without federal authorization.

Characteristic	Description
Scientific Name	Sialia sialis
Length	6.5–7 inches (16.5–18 cm)
Wingspan	9–12 inches (23–30 cm)
Weight	1.0–1.1 oz (28–32 g)
Lifespan (wild)	6–10 years
Diet	Insects, berries, small fruits
Conservation Status	Least Concern (IUCN)
Adopted as NY State Bird	May 18, 1970

How You Can Support the Eastern Bluebird

Residents and visitors alike can contribute to the continued success of New York’s state bird. Here are practical steps:

• Install Nest Boxes: Mount properly designed bluebird houses on poles in open areas, facing east to southeast. Monitor them regularly to prevent invasive species from taking over.
• Avoid Pesticides: Reduce chemical use in gardens to maintain healthy insect populations that bluebirds depend on.
• Participate in Citizen Science: Join initiatives like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Project FeederWatch or eBird to report sightings and help track population trends.
• Support Local Land Trusts: Many conservation groups manage lands specifically for native wildlife, including bluebird-friendly habitats.

Common Misconceptions About the Eastern Bluebird

Despite its popularity, several myths persist about the state bird. One common misconception is that Eastern Bluebirds migrate south en masse every winter. While some do move to southern states, others remain in New York year-round if food and shelter are available. Another myth is that bluebirds will use standard birdhouses indiscriminately. In reality, they require specific dimensions and entrance hole sizes (1.5 inches in diameter) to exclude larger competitors.

Additionally, some confuse the Eastern Bluebird with the Mountain Bluebird or Western Bluebird, which are found primarily west of the Mississippi River. Only the Eastern Bluebird is native to New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did New York choose the Eastern Bluebird as its state bird?

New York chose the Eastern Bluebird in 1970 after a student-led vote due to its beauty, gentle nature, and symbolic connection to happiness and renewal.

Can you keep an Eastern Bluebird as a pet?

No. It is illegal under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to capture, possess, or keep Eastern Bluebirds—or any native wild bird—as pets.

When is the best time to see Eastern Bluebirds in New York?

The best viewing period is from March through August during breeding season, though some individuals stay year-round.

Do Eastern Bluebirds sing? What does their call sound like?

Yes, they produce soft, warbling melodies often described as ‘tu-a-wee’ or ‘chur-lee.’ Their song is sweet and repetitive, commonly heard at dawn.

Are there other state symbols related to birds in New York?

While the Eastern Bluebird is the official state bird, New York does not currently have a designated state raptor or butterfly, though proposals have been made.