Smaller than other grosbeaks, and similar to Indigo Bunting, Blue Grosbeaks are recognized by their heavy bills and prominent wing bars. Adult Male: Dark metallic blue overall, with blackish tail and wings, and two chestnut wing bars. At close range, the back shows indistinct darker streaks. The lores and chin are black. Adult Female: Pale gray-brown overall, with just a hint of blue in the wings and tail, and two buffy brown wing bars. Immature: Similar to adult female, but warmer cinnamon brown overall. First Summer Male: Similar to juvenile, but with variable amounts of blue on the face and tail.

Length: 16 (cm) Wingspan: 27 (cm)

Voice:

Song is a steady, rich warbling. Call is a metallic chink.

Habitat:

Forest edge, brushy fields, riparian corridors, hedgerows, desert, pine forest.

Behavior:

Forages in heavy brush, but male often sings from a high exposed perch. Often flicks tail.

Feeding:

Feeds on insects and seeds.