What Is the NYS Bird? The Eastern Bluebird Explained

The official bird of New York State (NYS) is the Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis), a small thrush known for its brilliant blue plumage and soft rust-colored breast. This designation was made official in 1970, making the Eastern Bluebird a recognized symbol of natural beauty and resilience throughout New York. As one of the most beloved backyard birds in North America, the Eastern Bluebird serves as a perfect representation of the state’s commitment to conservation and appreciation of native wildlife. A common longtail keyword variant like 'what is the nys bird and when was it chosen' leads directly to this key fact: the bird was selected after a statewide campaign involving schoolchildren and conservation groups, reflecting both ecological importance and public sentiment.

Historical Background: How the Eastern Bluebird Became the NYS Symbol

The journey to selecting the Eastern Bluebird as New York’s state bird began in the late 1960s, during a broader movement across the United States to formalize state symbols that reflected regional identity. Prior to 1970, New York did not have an officially designated state bird, despite growing interest from educators and environmental advocates. In 1967, the New York State Legislature authorized a vote among schoolchildren to choose a candidate, fostering civic engagement and environmental education.

Children were presented with several native species, including the American Robin, Black-capped Chickadee, and Northern Cardinal. However, the Eastern Bluebird emerged as the favorite due to its striking appearance, gentle song, and nostalgic association with rural landscapes. Its image had long been linked with springtime, renewal, and optimism in American culture—qualities that resonated deeply with voters of all ages.

In 1970, Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller signed legislation officially naming the Eastern Bluebird as the state bird of New York. This decision aligned with national trends; by that time, nearly every U.S. state had adopted an avian emblem. What sets New York’s choice apart is the democratic process behind it—one rooted in youth participation and ecological awareness.

Biological Profile: Understanding the Eastern Bluebird

To fully appreciate why the Eastern Bluebird was chosen, it's essential to understand its biology and behavior. The Eastern Bluebird belongs to the thrush family (Turdidae), which also includes the American Robin and Hermit Thrush. Males are easily identified by their vivid sky-blue upperparts, warm red-orange breast, and white belly. Females are more subdued, with grayish-blue feathers and faint orange on the chest, but still distinctly elegant.

These birds typically measure about 6.5 to 7 inches in length, with a wingspan of 9 to 12 inches, and weigh around 1 ounce. They inhabit open woodlands, farmlands, orchards, and suburban areas—ecosystems commonly found across upstate and central New York.

Feature	Description
Scientific Name	Sialia sialis
Length	6.5–7 inches (17–18 cm)
Wingspan	9–12 inches (23–30 cm)
Weight	Approx. 1 oz (28 g)
Lifespan	6–10 years (wild); up to 10+ in captivity
Diet	Insects, berries, small fruits
Nesting Season	March to August
Habitat Preference	Open fields, meadows, edges of forests

Eastern Bluebirds are cavity nesters, relying on natural tree holes or abandoned woodpecker nests. Historically, habitat loss and competition from invasive species like House Sparrows and European Starlings caused population declines in the early 20th century. Conservation efforts—including the widespread installation of bluebird nesting boxes—have helped restore their numbers significantly since the 1970s.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance of the Eastern Bluebird

Beyond its biological attributes, the Eastern Bluebird carries deep cultural meaning. In Native American traditions, particularly among Algonquian-speaking peoples indigenous to the Northeastern U.S., the bluebird is often seen as a messenger of hope, happiness, and seasonal change. Its arrival in early spring signals the end of winter and the rebirth of nature—a theme echoed in many folktales and songs.

In modern American culture, the phrase “bluebird of happiness” has become synonymous with joy and contentment, popularized by Maurice Maeterlinck’s early 20th-century play *L'Oiseau Bleu* (The Blue Bird). This symbolic resonance likely contributed to the bird’s popularity during the selection process in New York.

Additionally, the Eastern Bluebird appears in regional art, literature, and even branding—from garden decor to eco-tourism campaigns promoting birdwatching trails in the Finger Lakes and Adirondacks. It stands as a unifying emblem between urban and rural communities, reminding residents of shared natural heritage.

Where and When to See the Eastern Bluebird in New York

For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts asking 'where can I see the NYS bird,' the answer lies in understanding seasonal patterns and preferred habitats. Eastern Bluebirds are year-round residents in much of southern and central New York, though some northern populations migrate short distances southward during harsh winters.

The best times to observe them are during breeding season (April through July), when males sing from fence posts and low branches to attract mates and defend territory. Early morning hours offer optimal viewing conditions, as bluebirds are most active at dawn.

Prime locations include:

• Cayuga Lake Trail – Part of the Ithaca area’s famed birding corridor
• Jamestown Audubon Center – Offers guided walks and bluebird box monitoring programs
• Allegany State Park – Open meadows provide ideal foraging grounds
• Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge – Wetland edges support insect-rich feeding zones
• State-owned grasslands and former agricultural lands – Especially those managed for wildlife conservation

If you're planning a birding trip, consider visiting between May and June, when fledglings begin leaving the nest and family groups remain together. Binoculars and a field guide or app (such as Merlin Bird ID or eBird) will enhance your experience.

How to Attract Eastern Bluebirds to Your Yard

Many New Yorkers take pride in supporting their state bird at home. Here are proven strategies to make your property more hospitable to Eastern Bluebirds:

1. Install a Nest Box: Use a properly sized wooden box with a 1.5-inch entrance hole, mounted 4–6 feet above ground on a metal pole. Avoid using PVC or plastic boxes, which do not regulate temperature well.
2. Place Boxes in Open Areas: Bluebirds prefer wide visibility to spot predators. Avoid dense woods; instead, place boxes near mowed lawns, gardens, or meadows.
3. Monitor for Competitors: Seal off extra openings to prevent House Sparrows from taking over. Never use traps or lethal methods unless permitted by local regulations.
4. Provide Food Sources: While bluebirds primarily eat insects, they may visit platforms with mealworms (live or dried) during nesting season or winter.
5. Maintain Habitat Diversity: Keep some native berry-producing shrubs like dogwood, sumac, or serviceberry for fall and winter nutrition.

It's important to clean out used nests annually after fledging is complete (usually late summer) to prevent parasite buildup and prepare for next season.

Conservation Status and Ongoing Challenges

Although the Eastern Bluebird population has rebounded thanks to conservation initiatives, ongoing threats remain. Habitat fragmentation, pesticide use reducing insect availability, and climate change affecting migration and food supply all pose risks.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) supports bluebird recovery through land management practices and public outreach. Citizen science projects such as the New York Breeding Bird Atlas encourage volunteers to report sightings and nesting activity, helping track long-term trends.

One notable challenge is ensuring equitable access to nesting sites. Because bluebirds cannot excavate their own cavities, they depend entirely on existing holes or human-provided boxes. Expanding community-based bluebird trail networks—especially in schools and parks—helps sustain healthy populations.

Common Misconceptions About the NYS Bird

Despite its fame, several myths persist about the Eastern Bluebird:

• Myth: The Eastern Bluebird is rare in New York.
  Fact: While once declining, it is now common in suitable habitats thanks to conservation efforts.
• Myth: Bluebirds eat seeds and will visit standard tube feeders.
  Fact: They are primarily insectivorous and rarely consume birdseed. Mealworms are far more effective for attracting them.
• Myth: Any blue-colored bird in New York is an Eastern Bluebird.
  Fact: Tree Swallows, Indigo Buntings, and Blue Jays are also blue but differ significantly in size, shape, and behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When was the Eastern Bluebird designated as the NYS bird?

The Eastern Bluebird became the official state bird of New York in 1970, following a student-led initiative and legislative approval.

Can you keep an Eastern Bluebird as a pet?

No. It is illegal under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to capture, possess, or harm Eastern Bluebirds without federal and state permits.

Do Eastern Bluebirds migrate?

Some do. Populations in northern New York may move south within the state or into Pennsylvania and New Jersey during severe winters, while southern groups often stay year-round.

How can I tell a male from a female Eastern Bluebird?

Males have bright blue upperparts and rich rusty-red breasts. Females are paler, with muted blue-gray feathers and faint orange coloring underneath.

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

Yes. New York also recognizes the Bay-breasted Warbler as the official state bird of the Adirondacks (a regional designation), though the Eastern Bluebird remains the sole official statewide avian emblem.

In conclusion, understanding what is the NYS bird goes beyond memorizing a name—it connects us to ecology, history, and cultural values. The Eastern Bluebird represents not only a beautiful species but also a success story in conservation and public engagement. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious resident, recognizing and protecting this iconic bird enriches our connection to New York’s natural world.