The mountain bluebird is one of 10 different birds pictured on the Songbirds stamps.

 

The mountain bluebird has longer wings and a longer tail than other bluebird species in the thrush family. Unlike his eastern and western relatives, the male mountain bluebird is entirely blue, with no trace of rose-beige on his breast.

 

As its name suggests, the mountain bluebird prefers higher elevations and is often found in the elevated and open prairies, tundra edges, and hillsides in the mountain areas of the American West. The species will migrate short distances to lower elevations when food becomes scarce. Flocks can often be seen scouring lower fields during the winter months. While this bluebird will forage for berries and seeds, it typically hunts insects from above, either from a convenient perch or in flight, hovering over the landscape and then pouncing on its prey. 

 

Unlike many songbirds, the female mountain bluebird is not impressed by her male counterpart’s colorful sky-blue plumage. Nor is she persuaded by his melodious songs or talents in flight. Her main concern is his skill in securing a quality nest site. 

 

Vacant tree cavities and manmade bluebird boxes are ideal nesting spots. Other cavity-nesting birds present stiff competition for such prime real estate. The mountain bluebird will fight fiercely to obtain and defend its chosen nest site.

 

Illustrator Robert Giusti painted the Mountain Bluebird and other songbirds in this set perched on a branch or fence post. His artwork can be seen on other stamps including: Tufted Puffins (#4737), Birds of Prey (4608-12), and a Cardinal (2480).

49¢ Mountain Bluebird, issued to satisfy the first-class mail rate.

Issue Date: April 5, 2014
City: Dallas TX, at the Trinity River Audubon Center
Quantity: 40,000,000

Category: Commemorative
Printed By: Ashton Potter (USA) Ltd.
Printing Method: Lithographed
Perforations: Serpentine Die Cut 10 ¾
Self-adhesive