Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat

Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.

Indigo Bunting

Scientific name: Passerina cyanea


Indigo Bunting

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Family: CARDINALIDAE

Group: Birds

Shyness: Suspicious

Safe distance: 5 m

Breeding season / Courtship: 01.05–30.06

Gestation / Incubation: 12–13 jours

Births: 01.06–15.07


Habitat:
fields, forest edges, thickets

Description:
The Indigo Bunting, Passerina cyanea, is a small songbird native to North America, renowned for the male's vibrant blue plumage during the breeding season. Females and juveniles display a dull brown plumage, aiding in camouflage. These birds migrate south in winter, reaching as far as Central America. They favor open habitats like fields, forest edges, and thickets. Their diet mainly consists of seeds, insects, and berries. The Indigo Bunting's song is melodious and complex, often used to mark territory and attract mates.

Recommended lens:
>=400mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the Indigo Bunting, choose sunny mornings when natural light highlights the male's vibrant blue. Use a 400mm lens or longer to capture precise details from a distance. Be patient and discreet, as these birds are suspicious. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera, especially with a heavy telephoto lens. Try capturing the Indigo Bunting while singing to add a dynamic dimension to your photos.

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