Indigo Bunting
Passerina cyanea
The Indigo Bunting is a rare vagrant to Britain, with only a few recorded sightings, typically during the autumn migration period, and can be spotted in open woodland and farmland areas. It is more commonly found in North America, but occasional individuals may appear in the UK, particularly in the southern counties.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Indigo Bunting in the field.
The Indigo Bunting can be identified by its bright blue plumage, small size, and distinctive song, with the male's iridescent blue feathers being a key distinguishing feature. Its conical-shaped bill and short, notched tail are also notable characteristics.
The Indigo Bunting is smaller than a Starling, measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length, and is one of the smallest members of the cardinal family.
The male Indigo Bunting has a vibrant, iridescent blue plumage, which can appear almost purple in certain lighting conditions, with a slight sheen to its feathers, and this bright colouration is present year-round.
The female Indigo Bunting has a duller, brownish-grey plumage, with a faint blue sheen on the wings and tail, and is generally less colourful than the male, although it shares a similar overall shape and size.
The Indigo Bunting's song is a series of short, musical phrases, often described as a bright, cheerful melody, while its call is a sharp, metallic "tik" or "chip" sound.
The Indigo Bunting is a seed-eating bird that forages for food on or near the ground, often in open areas with low vegetation, and is known for its migratory behaviour, with individuals making long journeys between their breeding and wintering grounds.
The Indigo Bunting can be confused with other small, finch-like birds, such as the Lazuli Bunting, but can be distinguished by its brighter, more vibrant blue plumage and distinctive song, as well as its smaller size and more conical-shaped bill.
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