The State Bird of New York is the Eastern Bluebird

The state bird of New York is the eastern bluebird (Sialia sialis), a small, vibrantly colored songbird known for its sky-blue upperparts and rust-red breast. Officially designated as New York’s state bird in 1970, the eastern bluebird was chosen to symbolize hope, resilience, and the natural beauty of the Empire State. This selection followed a grassroots campaign led by schoolchildren and supported by ornithological societies, reflecting both ecological awareness and civic engagement. The decision to name the eastern bluebird as the official avian emblem underscores its deep cultural roots and year-round presence in rural and suburban landscapes across New York.

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

The journey to establish the eastern bluebird as New York’s state bird began in the late 1960s when educators and conservationists recognized the need to foster environmental literacy among youth. At the time, New York did not have an official state bird, unlike many other U.S. states. A statewide initiative involving elementary and middle school students was launched, encouraging classrooms to research native bird species and vote on a preferred candidate. Among the contenders were the northern cardinal, American goldfinch, and black-capped chickadee—birds admired for their plumage and song.

However, the eastern bluebird emerged as the favorite due to its association with springtime, renewal, and pastoral imagery. Its gentle demeanor and preference for nesting in human-provided birdhouses also made it a familiar and beloved backyard visitor. In 1969, after collecting votes from thousands of students, the results were submitted to the New York State Legislature. The following year, on May 14, 1970, Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller signed Chapter 558 of the Laws of 1970, formally adopting the eastern bluebird as the official state bird of New York.

Biological Profile of the Eastern Bluebird

To fully appreciate why the eastern bluebird holds such symbolic value, it's important to understand its biology and behavior. Sialia sialis belongs to the thrush family (Turdidae), which includes robins and solitaires. Males are easily identified by their brilliant azure-blue head, back, and wings, contrasted with a warm cinnamon-brown throat and chest. Females are more subdued in coloration, with grayish-blue feathers and pale underparts, but still display hints of the signature blue and rust tones.

Eastern bluebirds typically measure between 6.3 and 8.3 inches (16–21 cm) in length, with a wingspan of about 9.8 to 12.6 inches (25–32 cm). They weigh approximately 1.0 to 1.1 ounces (28–32 grams), making them lightweight yet agile flyers. These birds are insectivorous during the warmer months, feeding on beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, and caterpillars. In fall and winter, they supplement their diet with wild berries and soft fruits, including those from dogwood, sumac, and hackberry trees.

One of the most distinctive behaviors of the eastern bluebird is its reliance on cavity nesting. Unlike many birds that build open nests in shrubs or trees, bluebirds seek out natural tree hollows or abandoned woodpecker holes. Due to habitat loss and competition from invasive species like house sparrows and European starlings, bluebird populations declined sharply in the mid-20th century. However, widespread installation of nest boxes has played a crucial role in their recovery—a conservation success story that resonates deeply with New Yorkers committed to wildlife stewardship.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Beyond its biological attributes, the eastern bluebird carries rich cultural symbolism. For generations, this bird has been associated with joy, optimism, and the arrival of better times. The phrase “bluebird of happiness” originates from Maurice Maeterlinck’s 1908 play *L’Oiseau bleu* (*The Blue Bird*), where the bird represents hope and inner peace. In Native American traditions, particularly among Algonquian-speaking peoples indigenous to the Northeast, bluebirds were seen as messengers of the sun and bringers of light after long winters.

In modern times, the eastern bluebird continues to inspire art, literature, and music. It appears on garden decor, greeting cards, and children’s books, often depicted perched on a fence or peering out from a wooden nest box. Its melodic warble—a series of soft, liquid notes—is frequently used in nature soundscapes to evoke serenity. By choosing the eastern bluebird as its state symbol, New York honors not only a native species but also the enduring human connection to nature and the emotional resonance birds can hold in everyday life.

Where and When to See Eastern Bluebirds in New York

For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, spotting an eastern bluebird in New York is both rewarding and accessible. While some individuals migrate south during harsh winters, many remain in the state year-round, especially in milder regions like Long Island, the Hudson Valley, and western New York. They are most commonly found in open habitats such as meadows, pastures, orchards, golf courses, and cemeteries—areas with short grass and scattered trees or fence posts ideal for perching and hunting insects.

Spring and early summer are the best times to observe eastern bluebirds, as they become highly active during breeding season (April through August). Look for them near nest boxes mounted on poles along field edges. Many parks and wildlife refuges in New York maintain bluebird trails—designated routes with monitored nesting boxes. Notable locations include Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge in the Finger Lakes region, Minnewaska State Park Preserve in the Shawangunks, and Hempstead Lake State Park on Long Island.

During winter, flocks of bluebirds may congregate in areas with abundant berry-producing plants. Binoculars and a field guide can help distinguish them from similar species like the mountain bluebird or western bluebird, which do not occur naturally in New York. Apps like eBird and Merlin Bird ID allow users to log sightings and contribute to citizen science efforts tracking population trends.

Supporting Bluebird Conservation in New York

While the eastern bluebird population has rebounded significantly since the 1970s, ongoing conservation efforts remain essential. Habitat fragmentation, pesticide use, and climate change continue to pose threats. Individuals can support bluebirds by installing properly designed nest boxes in suitable locations. Recommended dimensions include a 1.5-inch diameter entrance hole (to exclude larger competitors), ventilation slots near the top, drainage holes in the floor, and ease of cleaning.

Nest boxes should be placed 4 to 6 feet above ground, facing open fields, and spaced at least 100 yards apart to reduce territorial conflict. Monitoring nests (without disturbing occupants) helps researchers track reproductive success and identify potential issues like parasitism or predation. Volunteers can join local chapters of organizations such as Audubon New York or the New York State Ornithological Association to participate in surveys and habitat restoration projects.

Feature	Eastern Bluebird	Common Competitors
Size	6.3–8.3 in (16–21 cm)	House Sparrow: 5.9–6.7 in; Starling: 7.9–9.1 in
Coloration	Male: Blue upperparts, red breast; Female: Gray-blue with pale orange	Sparrow: Brown-streaked; Starling: Iridescent black with spots
Nesting Behavior	Cavity nester, uses natural holes or nest boxes	Sparrow: Aggressive cavity usurper; Starling: Dominant competitor
Diet	Insects and berries	Sparrow: Seeds and scraps; Starling: Omnivorous, opportunistic
Status in NY	Year-round resident, common breeder	Non-native, invasive

Common Misconceptions About New York’s State Bird

Despite its official status, several misconceptions persist about the eastern bluebird. One common error is confusing it with the California quail or the mountain bluebird, neither of which are native to New York. Another myth is that bluebirds live exclusively in southern states; in fact, healthy populations thrive throughout New York, even in colder upstate regions.

Some believe that feeding bluebirds bread or seed mixes benefits them, but these foods lack nutritional value and can harm their health. Instead, providing mealworms, suet blends formulated for insect-eaters, or planting native berry bushes offers meaningful support. Lastly, while the robin is sometimes mistaken as New York’s state bird due to its prominence in spring, it has no official designation—the true honor belongs to the eastern bluebird.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the eastern bluebird become the state bird of New York?

The eastern bluebird was officially adopted as New York’s state bird on May 14, 1970, through legislative action signed by Governor Nelson Rockefeller.

Why was the eastern bluebird chosen as New York’s state bird?

It was selected for its widespread presence, cultural symbolism of hope and renewal, and because it was championed by schoolchildren in a statewide educational campaign.

Do eastern bluebirds live in New York year-round?

Yes, many eastern bluebirds remain in New York throughout the winter, particularly in sheltered areas with access to food sources like berries.

How can I attract eastern bluebirds to my yard in New York?

You can attract them by installing appropriate nest boxes in open areas, maintaining short grass for foraging, and offering mealworms or native fruit-bearing plants.

Are there any state reptiles or flowers in New York?

Yes, New York’s state flower is the rose (adopted in 1955), and the bay scallop is the state shellfish, though it does not have an official state reptile.