Blue Mockingbird
Melanotis caerulescens

At a Glance

Only distantly related to our Northern Mockingbird, this slaty-blue Mexican specialty is an elusive skulker of dense thickets. It has strayed north very rarely into southern Arizona, where some individuals have been known to linger for several months.
Category
Perching Birds
Conservation
Low Concern
Habitat
Desert and Arid Habitats, Shrublands, Savannas, and Thickets
Behavior
Direct Flight, Rapid Wingbeats

Range & Identification

Description

9 1/2-11" (24-27 cm). Dark slaty or gray-blue all over, with a hint of blurry streaks. Note black mask, red eyes.
Size
About the size of a Robin
Wing Shape
Broad
Tail Shape
Long, Rounded, Wedge-shaped

Songs and Calls

Complex song of varied notes, many melodic, but occasional harsh notes. Wide variety of calls. Does not mimic other birds’ songs.

Climate Vulnerability

Conservation Status