Description:

The Blue Grosbeak derives its name from its color and large beak. The bird primarily feeds on insects and seeds gleaned from the ground, but occasionally consumes some fruit.


Appearance:

General: 6 to 7.5 inches in length.

Adult Male: Dark blue plumage. Black stripes on back. Blackish wings with two large chestnut-brown wing bars. Black around base of large, short, conical bill. Blackish tail.

Adult Female: Buff-brown plumage with underside being paler and marked with faint, dark streaks. Blackish wings with two buff wing bars. Blackish tail. Large, short, dark conical bill.

Immature: Similar to adult female.


Habitat:

Brushy pastures and thickets.


Nesting:

3-4 pale blue eggs. The eggs have a 11-12 day incubation period. Fledging occurs in 9-10 days. The nest is a loose cup made from grass, weed stems, and leaves concealed in a clump of weeds. Their nests are commonly parasitized by the Brown-headed Cowbird.


Observed Locations:

• Mission Trails Regional Park, San Diego