ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Indigo Bunting

Indigo Bunting

indigo bunting

The indigo bunting is an abundant species; some estimates of the overall population have put the total at 40 million pairs. Their song is a long, complex series of warbling whistles; a helpful identification tip is that most of the notes are sung in pairs. Indigo buntings often sing from telephone wires or other conspicuous spots.

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Indigo Bunting

Passerina cyanea

At-a-Glance

• Peak Breeding Activity: June-August

• Incubation: 11-14 days

• Clutch Size: 3-4 eggs

• Young Fledge: 8-14 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: insects, spiders, seeds, and berries

Description
Male indigo buntings are turquoise blue all over, and in some light may even look black. The females are brown.

Habitat and Habits
This species inhabits all types of open country, woodland edges and openings and orchards. Indigo buntings are nonstop singers even throughout the heat of the summer.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Females build cup-shaped nests a few feet off the ground in shrubs or fields. The males do not help with incubation or feeding of the chicks.