Range
The western bluebird is widespread throughout the state, but more commonly found in the foothills of western Oregon during the breeding season.
Description
They average 6 to 7.5 inches in length, with an average wingspan of 13.5 inches, and weigh about 1 ounce. Males are a very bright purplish-blue with a rust-colored chest and gray belly. Females are similar but not as bright.
Diet and habitat
They feed on insects, including beetles, ants, moth larvae and grasshoppers during the summer and fruits and seeds during the winter. They require either natural tree cavities or vacant woodpecker holes for nesting, and use a variety of materials to build nests, such as grass, straw, conifer needles, fur and bark.
Predators and threats
They are preyed upon by cats and raccoons. The introduction of European starlings and house sparrows created competition with this bluebird for nest sites in western Oregon.
Reproduction
It begins breeding in May and can produce up to two broods per year, with clutch sizes of two to eight eggs. The female incubates the clutch for about two weeks, and the chicks are able to leave the nest at about 17 days old. At this time, the male continues feeding the young while the female prepares for the second brood of the season.