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Birds with blue wings are a spectacular sight in nature. Their vibrant plumage and unique characteristics make them a favorite among birdwatchers.
Here’s a list of the top 10 birds with blue wings you can spot in the wild, along with some fascinating facts about each!
Table of Contents
ToggleBlue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)
The Blue Jay is a common bird in North America, easily recognizable by its bright blue wings and crest. Known for their intelligence and complex social behaviors, Blue Jays are also excellent mimics.
- Size: 9-12 inches (23-30 cm)
- Wingspan: 13-17 inches (34-43 cm)
- Habitat: Forests, woodlands, and urban areas
- Diet: Nuts, seeds, insects, and occasionally small vertebrates
Blue-winged Teal (Spatula discors)
This small dabbling duck is known for the striking blue patches on its wings, which are especially noticeable during flight. They are migratory birds, traveling from North America to South America during the winter.
- Size: 14-16 inches (36-41 cm)
- Wingspan: 23-31 inches (58-79 cm)
- Habitat: Wetlands, ponds, and marshes
- Diet: Aquatic plants, seeds, and invertebrates
Steller’s Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri)
Steller’s Jay is a striking bird with a combination of blue wings and a black head. Found primarily in western North America, this bird is known for its loud calls and inquisitive nature.
- Size: 11-13 inches (28-34 cm)
- Wingspan: 17 inches (43 cm)
- Habitat: Coniferous forests and mountainous areas
- Diet: Nuts, seeds, fruits, and insects
Red-winged Starling (Onychognathus morio)
Despite its name, the Red-winged Starling also features blue wing feathers, particularly visible in the sunlight. These birds are native to sub-Saharan Africa and are known for their glossy plumage.
- Size: 10-12 inches (25-30 cm)
- Wingspan: 17-20 inches (43-51 cm)
- Habitat: Rocky areas, urban environments
- Diet: Fruits, seeds, and insects
Indian Roller (Coracias benghalensis)
The Indian Roller is renowned for its vibrant blue wings, which are most vivid during flight. It is commonly seen perched on wires and trees in the Indian subcontinent.
- Size: 12-13 inches (30-34 cm)
- Wingspan: 20-23 inches (50-58 cm)
- Habitat: Open grasslands, forests, and urban areas
- Diet: Insects, small reptiles, and amphibians
Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus)
The Hyacinth Macaw is the largest flying parrot, with stunning cobalt-blue wings. Native to South America, these birds are known for their strong beaks and social behavior.
- Size: 39-42 inches (100-107 cm)
- Wingspan: 48-52 inches (122-132 cm)
- Habitat: Tropical rainforests and savannas
- Diet: Nuts, seeds, and fruits
Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea)
This medium-sized songbird features deep blue wings and is found in the southern United States and Central America. Males are particularly vibrant during the breeding season.
- Size: 6-7 inches (15-18 cm)
- Wingspan: 11 inches (28 cm)
- Habitat: Shrublands, forest edges, and grasslands
- Diet: Insects, seeds, and grains
Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor)
Tree Swallows have iridescent blue wings that shimmer in the sunlight. These agile fliers are commonly found across North America and are known for their acrobatic flight patterns.
- Size: 5-6 inches (13-15 cm)
- Wingspan: 11-13 inches (28-33 cm)
- Habitat: Open fields, wetlands, and near water bodies
- Diet: Insects and berries
Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides)
The Mountain Bluebird is a small thrush with brilliant sky-blue wings. They are found in western North America, particularly in open country and mountainous regions.
- Size: 6-8 inches (16-20 cm)
- Wingspan: 11-14 inches (28-36 cm)
- Habitat: Grasslands, meadows, and mountainous areas
- Diet: Insects and berries
Blue-winged Warbler (Vermivora cyanoptera)
The Blue-winged Warbler is a small, brightly colored bird with striking blue wings. Found in eastern North America, they prefer shrubby habitats and are known for their buzzing songs.
- Size: 4.5-5.1 inches (11.5-13 cm)
- Wingspan: 6-8 inches (15