Blue eggs are one of nature’s most charming surprises, and several bird species are known for laying them. From backyard favorites like the American Robin to shy shrub dwellers like the Gray Catbird, these birds produce stunning blue or bluish-green eggs during the breeding season. This guide introduces 9 fascinating birds that lay blue eggs, offering insight into their appearance, nesting behavior, and where you’re most likely to find them.
1. American Robin
The American Robin is one of the most recognized songbirds in North America, and it’s famously known for laying beautiful sky-blue eggs during spring and summer.
Identification and Appearance
- Rusty-orange breast, gray back, and dark head
- White throat with dark streaks and white undertail coverts
- Medium-sized with a rounded body and upright stance
- Males are slightly brighter in color than females
Egg Color and Nesting Traits
American Robins lay eggs that are a distinctive bright sky blue, usually without any spots. The eggs measure about 2.8–3 cm long and are smooth and glossy.
When and Where They Nest
They typically nest from early spring to late summer. Robins build nests in trees, shrubs, or even on ledges near human homes. A clutch usually contains 3–5 blue eggs, and the female incubates them for about 12–14 days.
2. Eastern Bluebird
Eastern Bluebirds are charming, brightly colored songbirds that are also known for laying blue eggs. Their gentle calls and vibrant feathers make them a favorite among birdwatchers.
Identification and Appearance
- Male: Bright blue back, wings, and head with a rusty-red chest
- Female: Duller blue with a more subdued orange chest
- Compact body with a short tail and round head
Egg Color and Nesting Traits
Eastern Bluebirds lay pale blue eggs, although white eggs occasionally occur. The eggs are smooth and unmarked, usually 1.8–2.1 cm long.
When and Where They Nest
They nest in tree cavities or nest boxes, typically from March to August. Clutches contain 3–7 eggs, and the female handles most of the incubation, which lasts around 12–14 days.
3. Starling
European Starlings are common, highly adaptive birds that lay striking blue or bluish-green eggs. Despite their plain appearance, their eggs are surprisingly colorful.
Identification and Appearance
- Iridescent black plumage with green and purple sheen
- Short tail and long, pointed yellow beak (in breeding season)
- Speckled white markings in winter
Egg Color and Nesting Traits
Starlings lay light blue to bluish-green eggs, slightly larger than a robin’s. The eggs are smooth and oval, usually laid in clutches of 4–6.
When and Where They Nest
They nest from early spring to summer, often in cavities, vents, or man-made structures. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs for about 12 days.
4. Dunnock
The Dunnock, also known as the hedge sparrow, is a small, shy bird found throughout Europe. Despite its modest looks, it lays surprisingly vivid blue eggs.
Identification and Appearance
- Brown-streaked back with a grayish head and chest
- Thin, pointed bill and slender frame
- Often mistaken for a sparrow but more delicate in movement
Egg Color and Nesting Traits
Dunnocks lay bright blue eggs, smooth and unspotted. A typical clutch includes 4–5 eggs.
When and Where They Nest
They nest low in hedges, shrubs, or dense vegetation. Nesting season runs from March to July, and females incubate the eggs for 12–13 days.
5. House Finch
House Finches are lively songbirds often seen at feeders, and they sometimes lay light blue eggs depending on environmental factors.
Identification and Appearance
- Male: Red head, chest, and rump with streaky brown back
- Female: Plain brown and heavily streaked all over
- Small body with a slightly curved bill
Egg Color and Nesting Traits
House Finches commonly lay pale blue to bluish-white eggs, occasionally speckled. Eggs are small and smooth, about 1.5–1.8 cm long.
When and Where They Nest
They nest in sheltered places like hanging planters, eaves, or trees. The female lays 2–6 eggs and incubates them for about 12–14 days.
6. Blue Jay
The Blue Jay is a striking and intelligent bird known for its bright blue feathers and harsh calls. It also lays beautifully tinted eggs ranging from pale blue to greenish hues.
Identification and Appearance
- Vibrant blue upperparts with a white chest and face
- Black necklace-like collar across the throat
- Prominent crest and strong black bill
- Bold wing and tail patterns with black and white accents
Egg Color and Nesting Traits
Blue Jays lay pale blue to blue-green eggs, often speckled with brown or gray. Clutches typically include 3–7 eggs, which are smooth and oval-shaped.
When and Where They Nest
They nest in tree branches or dense shrubs from March to July. Both parents build the nest, but the female incubates the eggs for about 17–18 days.
7. Song Thrush
The Song Thrush is a melodious European bird known for its spotted chest and flute-like song. It lays bright, glossy blue eggs that are easily recognizable.
Identification and Appearance
- Warm brown upperparts with cream-colored underparts
- Dark, bold spots on the chest and flanks
- Medium-sized thrush with a straight, slim bill
Egg Color and Nesting Traits
Song Thrushes lay bright blue eggs with occasional black speckling. The eggs are shiny and slightly elongated, laid in clutches of 3–5.
When and Where They Nest
They nest in dense shrubs, hedges, and low trees. The nesting season runs from March to August, and females incubate the eggs for around 12–14 days.
8. Common Myna
The Common Myna is a bold, adaptable bird found in urban and rural areas across Asia and other regions. Its nesting habits include laying colorful pale blue eggs in sheltered spots.
Identification and Appearance
- Chocolate-brown body with black head and yellow eye patch
- Bright yellow legs and beak
- White patches visible on wings during flight
- Loud, varied vocalizations
Egg Color and Nesting Traits
Common Mynas lay pale blue eggs, usually unspotted and smooth. Clutches contain 4–6 eggs.
When and Where They Nest
They nest from spring to early summer in tree cavities, building crevices, and man-made structures. Both parents take part in incubation, which lasts about 13–15 days.
9. Gray Catbird
The Gray Catbird is a sleek, secretive songbird named for its cat-like call. It’s also known for laying bluish-green eggs, often in dense shrubbery.
Identification and Appearance
- Slate-gray plumage all over
- Black cap and a subtle reddish patch under the tail
- Medium-sized body with a thin, slightly curved bill
- Soft, mewing vocalizations and mimicry of other birds
Egg Color and Nesting Traits
Gray Catbirds lay blue to blue-green eggs, smooth and unmarked. Clutches usually have 3–5 eggs.
When and Where They Nest
They build nests in dense shrubs, thickets, or low trees. Nesting occurs from late spring through summer, and the female incubates the eggs for 12–14 days.
Summary
These 9 birds — including the American Robin, Blue Jay, Eastern Bluebird, and Song Thrush — are known for laying blue or bluish-green eggs. Some, like the House Finch and Common Myna, nest in human structures, while others prefer forest edges or dense shrubs. Egg colors range from pale pastel blue to deep glossy turquoise, adding visual beauty to their nests. Whether common or elusive, these birds showcase the diversity and elegance of egg coloration in the avian world.
