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Mountain Bluebird

Bird lovers know Colorado is the home of the blues — bluebirds, that is. Found all across the state, Mountain bluebirds are some of the first migrants to return every spring. Brilliant flashes of iridescence, small flocks of Mountain bluebirds travel by day, close to the ground. Watch for them along Highway 285, following a bluebird trail marked by nest boxes on fence posts.

But yes, all three distinct North American bluebird species come to Colorado: the Eastern and Western bluebirds join the Mountain bluebirds. A recent Christmas Bird Count in Boulder County found all three species in one spot — a sight that might spark a feeling ornithology cannot fully explain. In folklore and pop culture, the bluebird has long been a symbol of happiness, close to the ground, or even somewhere over the rainbow. With thanks to Ornithologist Ted Floyd, this is a Colorado Postcard.

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About Colorado Postcards

Colorado Postcards are snapshots of our colorful state in sound. They give brief insights into our people and places, our flora and fauna, and our past and present, from every corner of Colorado. See more postcards.


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