This species is longer-tailed and longer-winged than other bluebirds, with an extremely long primary projection. The bill is all dark and thin. Males are an intense cerulean blue on the upperparts, paler blue below. The lower belly and undertail coverts are white. Females are pale gray overall, with some blue on the wings and tail. Some females have orange on the breast, resembling female Western Bluebird. Juveniles are similar to adult female, but with mottled underparts and occasional white spots on the back.

Length: 16 (cm) Wingspan: 28 (cm)

Voice:

Song is a series of soft, muffled, descending whistles.

Habitat:

Breeds in savannah, sagebrush flats, alpine tundra edge, woodland/prairie edge. Winters in more open habitats than other bluebirds, including grassland and agricultural fields.

Behavior:

Often hovers when hunting. During migration, often found sitting on fence and phone wires miles from the nearest stand of trees.

Feeding:

Eats primarily insects in summer, fruit in winter.