Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis), Bonito Prairie, White Mountain Apache Reservation, Apache County

These Eastern Bluebirds were found and photographed by Eric Hough on 21 November 2017

Apparently the first documented record for Apache County. These birds are presumably of the migratory nominate form, as the breeding form ('Azure Bluebird') of southeastern Arizona is believed to be non-migratory. The nominate eastern form is a casual winter visitor to the state, mainly in the eastern part.

The rufous on sides of neck extending down to the flanks and the bright white belly are characteristic of Eastern Bluebird.

21 November 2017, photo by Eric Hough

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