sacred space

A Space for Birds: The Sounds of Rocky Mountain National Park: Part 2

Posted on By : Shelly

In my last post, I talked about the importance of National Parks, and introduced you to Rocky Mountain National park and some of the birds that you can find within its borders. This week, I talk more specifically about one of my favorite birds: The Mountain Bluebird.

Enjoy!

Since 1915, over 280 bird species have been identified within the borders of Rocky Mountain National Park, including the borders of nearby Arapaho National Recreation Area, Estes Park, and Granby.

And their sounds are glorious!  From the sharp squawking of the Stellar’s Jay, to the muffled screeching of an Eagle in flight, Rocky Mountain National Park offers a haven for bird-lovers everywhere.

A favorite of many (it being the Colorado state bird and all) is the Mountain Bluebird:  Sialia currucoides. This brilliantly blue-colored member of the Thrush family (think Robin), is a vibrant addition to the park’s abundant wildlife. Look for this sweet little bird next time you come to the park. The male is a vibrant blue with a white belly; he turns more of a brownish-blue in the winter, so keep your eyes peeled. His female partner will be more of a brown-blue, with a reddish tint to her chest. And if you’re lucky enough to spot a juvenile, they will have spots on their chest.

Mountain Bluebirds love open areas with short grass and few shrubs, typically on the edge of the forest. So you’ll find these medium-sized birds throughout the park, streaking through Moraine Park, and even near Sheeps Lake, or across from the Lawn Lake trail head. 

I love to sit at a picnic table in the park and quietly sip my coffee. With a bit of patience, and without fail, my Mountain Bluebird friends always find their way to me. It’s such a moment of grace to watch these vibrantly-colored winged-creatures fly and flit about. I hope that someday, you too can see them in their natural habitat.

Call to Action: Hang a birdfeeder and get ready for Spring! Discover what birds live in your neck of the woods!