which type of bluebirds live in lawton oklahoma

3 min read 22-01-2025

which type of bluebirds live in lawton oklahoma

Meta Description: Discover the beautiful bluebirds that call Lawton, Oklahoma home! This comprehensive guide explores the Eastern Bluebird, Western Bluebird, and Mountain Bluebird, detailing their habitats, appearances, and behaviors. Perfect for birdwatchers of all levels! (158 characters)

Identifying Bluebirds in Lawton, Oklahoma

Lawton, Oklahoma, boasts a diverse avian population, and several bluebird species grace the area with their presence. While not all bluebirds are permanent residents, you're likely to spot at least one of these stunning birds:

1. The Eastern Bluebird ( Sialia sialis)

Appearance: Males are a vibrant, rich blue on their head, back, and wings, with a rusty-red breast. Females are a more subdued blue, with a browner back and a paler breast. Both have a distinctive blue flash on their wings. This is the bluebird most commonly associated with bluebird houses.
Habitat: Eastern Bluebirds prefer open areas with scattered trees and shrubs, such as grasslands, pastures, orchards, and even parks and yards with suitable nesting boxes. Lawton’s landscape offers plenty of these ideal habitats.
Behavior: They’re often seen perched on fence posts or wires, scanning the ground for insects. They’re cavity nesters, utilizing natural cavities in trees or, more commonly, readily provided nest boxes.

2. The Western Bluebird (Sialia mexicana)

Appearance: Western Bluebirds are slightly smaller than their Eastern cousins. Males have a bright blue back and head, rufous (reddish-brown) underparts, and a striking white eyebrow. Females display similar colors, but more muted.
Habitat: Western Bluebirds inhabit more open, arid areas, such as canyons, foothills, and open woodlands with scattered trees. While less common than Eastern Bluebirds in Lawton, they might be spotted along the edges of wooded areas or on the outskirts of town.
Behavior: Like Eastern Bluebirds, they actively hunt for insects on the ground. They also readily utilize bluebird boxes, though might prefer slightly different box designs.

3. The Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides)

Appearance: This species is the largest of the three, displaying a brilliant, deep blue coloration across its entire body, with no rusty or brown tones. Both males and females share this striking plumage.
Habitat: Mountain Bluebirds prefer open, high-elevation habitats. They are unlikely to be seen frequently in Lawton, but occasional sightings are possible, especially during migration. Their occurrence is more likely in the higher elevations surrounding the city, particularly during spring and fall migrations.
Behavior: They are adaptable foragers and might be observed hunting insects in open fields or feeding on berries.

Attracting Bluebirds to Your Lawton Yard

If you want to attract bluebirds to your property in Lawton, here are some tips:

Install Bluebird Houses: These should be mounted on posts approximately 4-5 feet above the ground, ideally in an open sunny location. You can purchase pre-made boxes, or build your own. Make sure to clean the houses out annually to remove parasites and old nesting materials.
Provide a Water Source: Birds need a reliable source of fresh water. This can be a birdbath, a shallow dish of water, or a dripping hose.
Plant Native Shrubs and Trees: These will provide nesting sites and foraging opportunities for bluebirds.
Avoid Using Pesticides: Pesticides harm insects that bluebirds rely on for food.

When and Where to Spot Bluebirds in Lawton

The best time to observe bluebirds in Lawton is during the breeding season (spring and summer). However, you might see migrating birds during the fall and spring. Check local parks, grasslands, and areas with scattered trees. Joining a local birdwatching group can provide excellent opportunities to see these lovely birds.

Conclusion

While the Eastern Bluebird is the most common in Lawton, Oklahoma, you might be lucky enough to encounter a Western or even a migrating Mountain Bluebird. By providing suitable habitat and nesting sites, you can increase your chances of welcoming these vibrant additions to your backyard. Remember to respect their natural habitat and enjoy observing these beautiful creatures from a distance.