Despite their name, mountain bluebirds inhabit regions across the Canadian Prairies.
Recognized for their vibrant blue feathers, they are a common sight for many residents of Alberta. However, the challenges they have encountered over the years raise significant concerns.
As reported by The State of Canada’s Birds, a collaborative effort between Birds Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada, mountain bluebird populations in Canada have plummeted by 60 percent since 1970.
Currently, there are approximately 650,000 mountain bluebirds in Canada, accounting for about 12 percent of the migratory population in North America, marking the lowest population figure recorded thus far.
The findings, gathered through citizen science and professional research initiatives, indicate that while mountain bluebird numbers in the Canadian Prairies surged from the early 1980s to the mid-1990s, they have since experienced a considerable decline.
North America hosts three species of bluebirds, with the mountain bluebird being the only one that is native to Alberta. (Amir Said/CBC)
Jody Allair from Birds Canada mentioned that while the specific factors behind the decrease in mountain bluebird populations are not fully understood, potential causes could include climate change, habitat destruction, and a decrease in insect numbers—the primary food source for these birds—attributable to pesticide and herbicide application.
“It has been a steady decline, and particularly from the early 2000s, it has been consistently dropping,” he noted.
This decline prompted the Badlands Trail Society to initiate conservation efforts for mountain bluebirds in Alberta.
The organization manages 48 bluebird nest boxes located throughout the Drumheller Valley and its vicinity.
Cheryl Taylor, a founding member of the Badlands Trail Society, is seen next to one of their bluebird nest boxes. (Amir Said/CBC)
Cheryl Taylor, one of the founders, explained that the boxes are intended to provide the bluebirds with “a little bit of assistance.”
“Mountain bluebirds have been a part of the Drumheller Valley for as long as I can recall,” she remarked.
Mountain bluebirds can frequently be seen in the prairies of Alberta, despite their name. (Amir Said/CBC)
This nest box initiative, launched with the assistance of fellow member and veteran bluebird conservationist Claude Rioux, is situated on Nature Conservancy of Canada land west of Drumheller.
The site offers an ideal prairie habitat, abundant food, and minimal human encroachment, making it “an excellent location” for bluebirds.
Taylor stated that the group is aiding the species not only by providing safe nesting opportunities in areas where natural cavities are scarce but also by fostering awareness.
“I believe that increased familiarity with birds will lead people to be more proactive in protecting the habitats necessary for their survival,” she added.
“Birds serve as indicator species, so if they are struggling, it signifies that we may also be facing difficulties.”
Only adult male mountain bluebirds display the vibrant blue coloration that defines the species, while females and juvenile males have more subdued feathers. (Armaan Saha)
The Badlands project is among numerous bluebird nest box initiatives found throughout the bird’s natural habitat in Western Canada.
According to Allair, the public’s keen interest in bluebird conservation is an encouraging sign.
“Engaging the public in conservation efforts is invaluable,” Allair stated.
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“True change happens when people become involved, develop an understanding, and cultivate a passion for birds, which can transform their entire outlook on the importance of safeguarding our natural environment.”
Allair noted that the enthusiasm for bluebirds could also extend to conservation concerns affecting other species, especially those facing even more severe threats.
- Grassland birds in crisis on the Canadian Prairies, conservationists warn
- ‘This is our life support system’: Habitat loss in Manitoba’s grasslands a significant threat, experts warn
While the mountain bluebird is not experiencing a decline as severe as some other bird species, Allair believes it is an ideal species to educate the public on Canadian bird conservation.
“One of the advantages mountain bluebirds have is their appeal to the public,” he stated. “They are arguably the most stunning bird in our country.”
A mountain bluebird captured on camera near Drumheller. (Jody Allair)
“If a mountain bluebird doesn’t excite you about birds, I’m not sure what will,” Allair remarked. “It is one of the most visually striking birds in the world, hands down.”
Allair encouraged Canadians to support bird conservation efforts in various ways, such as keeping cats indoors, implementing measures to reduce window collisions, and safeguarding insect populations by avoiding pesticides and herbicides.
