The Lazuli Bunting (Passerina amoena) is a small passerine bird in the Cardinalidae family, measuring approximately 5.5 inches in length and weighing around 0.5 ounces. Adult males exhibit a bright blue plumage on their head, back, and wings, with a rust-colored breast and white belly. Females, on the other hand, have a brownish-gray plumage with a blue patch on their wings, and a slightly paler breast and belly.
Lazuli Buntings breed in western North America, from southern Alaska to central Mexico, and are often found in open woodlands, riparian areas, and brushy habitats. During their breeding season, males can be heard singing from exposed perches, often atop trees or shrubs. Their song is a melodic and sweet warble with a buzzy quality at the end.
In the fall, these birds embark on a long migration, traveling as far south as western Panama. During their migration, Lazuli Buntings are known to form large flocks with other small songbirds. They typically arrive in their wintering grounds around October and begin their return journey in March or April.
In addition to their striking blue plumage, Lazuli Buntings can also be identified by their distinctive bill shape, which is conical and pointed. Another distinguishing characteristic is the white patches on their wings, visible when they are in flight.
Lazuli Buntings feed on insects, seeds, and fruits, and are known to visit backyard bird feeders. They are also known for their polygamous mating system, with males often mating with multiple females during the breeding season. Despite their small size, Lazuli Buntings are popular among birdwatchers and have been the subject of numerous scientific studies due to their interesting behavior and migratory patterns.