Watercolor portrait of Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea)

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea
Breeds across the southern two-thirds of… Brushy fields, hedgerows, regenerating c… Uncommon Sweet rambling warble

Learn to identify the Blue Grosbeak by ear. Master the "chur-chur chidi-chidi chee-chee-chew" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“chur-chur chidi-chidi chee-chee-chew”

What the Blue Grosbeak sounds like

A chunky, long-tailed member of the cardinal family, the Blue Grosbeak combines a massive silver bill with rich coloration and chestnut wing bars. Males are sheathed in deep cobalt-blue that glows in sunlight, while females wear warm cinnamon-brown with softer wing bars. Despite its vivid looks, the species favors dense, brushy cover and is often heard before it is seen.

“chur-chur chidi-chidi chee-chee-chew”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A rich, musical series of warbling phrases delivered from an elevated perch; phrases often end in sharper ‘chink’ notes. Often written as “chur-chur chidi-chidi chee-chee-chew”.
Don't confuse with:The Indigo Bunting — smaller and more delicate

Where you'll hear it

Brushy fields, hedgerows, regenerating clear-cuts, woodland edges, riparian thickets, overgrown prairie and desert washes.

Arrives on U.S. breeding grounds from late April through May; nesting peaks June–July; southbound migration August–October; winters November–March in the tropics where it frequents forest edges and agricultural lands.

Similar species

Indigo Bunting

Smaller and more delicate

Lazuli Bunting

Has white belly and breast band

Female Brown-headed Cowbird

Uniform plain brown without wing bars

Blue Grosbeak song FAQ

What does a Blue Grosbeak sound like?
A rich, musical series of warbling phrases delivered from an elevated perch; phrases often end in sharper ‘chink’ notes. Listen for the "chur-chur chidi-chidi chee-chee-chew" phrase.
How do I tell a Blue Grosbeak from a Indigo Bunting by sound?
Indigo Bunting: Smaller and more delicate; No chestnut wing bars; Bill noticeably slimmer.
When is the best time to hear a Blue Grosbeak?
Arrives on U.S. breeding grounds from late April through May; nesting peaks June–July; southbound migration August–October; winters November–March in the tropics where it frequents forest edges and agricultural lands.