What Is the New York Bird? Eastern Bluebird Facts

The official state bird of New York is the Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis), a small, brightly colored songbird known for its vibrant blue plumage and soft, warbling call. This designation was made official in 1970, following a campaign led by schoolchildren and supported by bird conservation groups across the state. The Eastern Bluebird is not only a beloved symbol of spring and renewal but also a species with deep cultural significance and ecological importance. As a key part of New York's natural heritage, understanding what is the New York bird reveals much about regional identity, avian biodiversity, and the role of public engagement in environmental decisions.

Historical Background: How the Eastern Bluebird Became New York's State Bird

The journey to select an official state bird began in the mid-20th century as part of a broader movement to foster civic pride and environmental awareness. Prior to 1970, New York did not have an officially recognized avian emblem, despite growing interest from educators, ornithologists, and youth organizations. In response, the New York State Legislature initiated a formal process to designate a state bird that would reflect both natural beauty and widespread public appeal.

Schoolchildren across the state were invited to participate in the selection process through classroom projects and statewide votes. Among the contenders—such as the American Robin, Northern Cardinal, and Black-capped Chickadee—the Eastern Bluebird emerged as the favorite. Its gentle demeanor, striking appearance, and association with hope and happiness resonated strongly with young voters. On May 18, 1970, Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller signed Chapter 567 of the Laws of New York, officially naming the Eastern Bluebird as the state bird.

Biological Profile: Understanding the Eastern Bluebird

To fully appreciate why what is the New York bird matters beyond symbolism, it’s essential to understand the biology and behavior of Sialia sialis. The Eastern Bluebird is a member of the thrush family (Turdidae), closely related to the American Robin and Hermit Thrush. Males are easily identified by their brilliant royal-blue upperparts, rusty-red throat and breast, and white belly. Females are more subdued, with grayish-blue feathers and hints of rust on the chest, making them less conspicuous during nesting.

These birds typically measure 6.3 to 8 inches in length, with a wingspan of about 9.8 to 12.6 inches. They weigh between 27 and 30 grams—light enough to flit effortlessly between branches and nest boxes. Their diet consists primarily of insects during the breeding season, including beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, and caterpillars. In colder months, they switch to berries and small fruits, particularly from dogwood, sumac, and holly plants.

Eastern Bluebirds are cavity nesters, meaning they rely on pre-existing holes in trees or artificial nest boxes for breeding. Historically, competition with invasive species like House Sparrows and European Starlings reduced their populations significantly. However, thanks to widespread nest box programs and habitat restoration efforts, their numbers have rebounded since the 1970s.

Range and Habitat in New York

While found throughout eastern North America, the Eastern Bluebird is especially common in open woodlands, farmlands, orchards, and suburban areas—habitats widely distributed across New York State. They prefer edge environments where trees meet open fields, providing both cover and hunting grounds. During the summer breeding season, bluebirds can be seen across all regions of New York, from Long Island to the Adirondacks.

In winter, northern populations may migrate southward, while those in milder climates such as the Hudson Valley or western New York often remain year-round if food sources are available. This partial migration pattern makes them a reliable sight in many parts of the state even during colder months.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

The Eastern Bluebird carries rich symbolic meaning across cultures. In Native American traditions, bluebirds are often associated with joy, prosperity, and the arrival of spring. Some tribes believed that seeing a bluebird brought good fortune or signaled positive change. In broader American culture, the phrase “bluebird of happiness” has become synonymous with optimism and emotional well-being—a reflection of the bird’s cheerful presence and vivid coloration.

In New York, the adoption of the Eastern Bluebird as the state bird reinforces these positive associations. It also highlights the value placed on native wildlife and the importance of conservation education. By involving schoolchildren in the selection process, the state emphasized intergenerational stewardship and the idea that nature belongs to everyone.

How to Spot the New York State Bird: Practical Tips for Birdwatchers

For amateur and experienced birders alike, spotting the Eastern Bluebird in New York can be a rewarding experience. Here are practical tips to increase your chances:

• Visit Open Habitats: Look in meadows, golf courses, cemeteries, and parks with scattered trees or fence lines. These environments mimic the natural edge habitats bluebirds prefer.
• Look for Nest Boxes: Many conservation groups and private landowners install bluebird trails—series of standardized nest boxes spaced apart to reduce competition. Spring and early summer are ideal times to observe nesting activity.
• Listen for Calls: The Eastern Bluebird’s song is a soft, melodious warble, often described as “tu-a-wee” or “chur-lee.” Their calls are quieter than robins or cardinals, so attentive listening improves detection.
\li>Use Binoculars: Because males are bright blue, they stand out against green foliage or gray skies. Scan low perches like fence posts, utility wires, or shrubs near open ground.
• Time Your Observations: Bluebirds are most active in the early morning and late afternoon when they forage for food. Midday hours often find them resting in shaded areas.

Conservation Status and Challenges

Although the Eastern Bluebird population has recovered dramatically due to human intervention, ongoing threats remain. Habitat loss from urban development, pesticide use reducing insect availability, and climate shifts affecting migration timing all pose risks. Additionally, non-native species continue to compete for nesting cavities, sometimes displacing bluebirds entirely.

Organizations such as the New York State Ornithological Association and Audubon New York run monitoring programs and advocate for policies that protect critical habitats. Citizen science initiatives like the Breeding Bird Survey and eBird allow individuals to contribute valuable data on bluebird distribution and abundance.

One effective way to support local populations is by installing properly designed nest boxes. Key features include:

• An entrance hole measuring 1.5 inches in diameter (to exclude larger invasive species)
• Ventilation and drainage holes
• Easy access for cleaning after nesting season
• Placement on a pole at least 4–6 feet above ground, facing open field

Feature	Eastern Bluebird	Similar Species
Size	6.3–8 in (16–20 cm)	American Robin: 10 in; Tree Swallow: 5.5 in
Male Plumage	Royal blue upperparts, red-orange breast	Indigo Bunting: solid blue; Blue Jay: white/black markings
Habitat	Open fields, edges, nest boxes	Woodland interior (Veery); Wetlands (Red-winged Blackbird)
Diet	Insects, berries	Seeds (Goldfinch); Nectar (Hummingbird)
Nesting Behavior	Cavity nester, uses nest boxes	Open cup nest (Robin); Ground nester (Killdeer)

Common Misconceptions About the New York State Bird

Despite its popularity, several misconceptions surround what is the New York bird. One common error is confusing the Eastern Bluebird with other blue-colored birds such as the Indigo Bunting or Blue Jay. Unlike these species, the Eastern Bluebird has a distinctive reddish-brown chest and lacks prominent wing bars or crests.

Another myth is that bluebirds migrate south every winter. While some do, many remain in New York if sufficient food is available. Providing native berry-producing plants and maintaining clean nest boxes can help sustain local populations year-round.

Finally, some believe that feeding bread or seeds attracts bluebirds. In reality, they rarely eat seed and depend heavily on live insects. Mealworms offered in shallow trays are a far more effective attractant.

Regional Variations Across New York

While the Eastern Bluebird is found statewide, regional differences affect sighting likelihood. On Long Island and in the lower Hudson Valley, mild winters support larger resident populations. In contrast, higher elevations of the Adirondacks and Tug Hill Plateau see fewer overwintering birds due to snow cover limiting insect access.

Urban areas like New York City present unique challenges. Although Central Park and other green spaces host transient individuals, dense development and high predator density make sustained breeding rare. Suburban communities with backyard gardens and preserved greenbelts offer better opportunities for observation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the official bird of New York?

The official state bird of New York is the Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis), designated in 1970.

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

New York chose the Eastern Bluebird because of its beauty, gentle nature, and broad public support—especially among schoolchildren who participated in the selection process.

Can you see Eastern Bluebirds in New York year-round?

Yes, in many parts of New York, especially southern and coastal regions, Eastern Bluebirds can be seen throughout the year, though northern areas may lose most migrants in winter.

How can I attract Eastern Bluebirds to my yard?

You can attract them by installing proper nest boxes, planting native berry-producing shrubs, and offering mealworms as supplemental food.

Are Eastern Bluebirds endangered in New York?

No, Eastern Bluebirds are not endangered. Thanks to conservation efforts, their population has rebounded and remains stable across most of the state.