The Fascinating World Of Birds That Lay Blue Eggs

As we have seen before, birds can be of different colors, sizes, and shapes, and so are their eggs. It is nice to find a nest with tender blue eggs among the rich palette of hues that can be observed in nature. These are genuinely one-of-a-kind that interest bird lovers, watchers, naturalists, and many passing by.

But what turns them that blue? Which birds lay blue eggs, and why are such hues chosen? Then, Let us discover what makes these so special by understanding their science and finding where the images of sapphire egg-laying species are derived.

The Science Behind Blue-Color

Specifically, the electric sapphire color we observe on some birds is not an added dye but biliverdin – a hue obtained naturally. This pigment is added to the surface of the eggshell as it is formed. The strength of the sapphire color can range from sky sapphire to deep greenish blue depending on the concentration of biliverdin and how these pigments blend.

How Do Pigments Affect Color?

• Biliverdin: It generates either a blue or green hue on the egg's surface.
• Protoporphyrin: It gives the coat a reddish-brown spot and speckles.
• Calcium carbonate: These form the white base layer of the shell.

Such pigments do more than give it the desired coloration; they may help shield the developing embryo from ultraviolet radiation or blend with the environment when the egg is laid naturally.

Birds Known For Laying Blue Eggs

Though most birds lay white or brown-shelled eggs, some birds produce the much-loved sapphire color. If you want to know which birds are the most typical ones that lay these different eggs, let's look closely at some of them.

1. American Robin
   Nevertheless, it is most likely that the most well-known bird linked to these brightly painted eggs is the American robin. The hue people often refer to as 'robin's egg blue' is easily seen in the hue of the nests. Birds such as the robins make their homes in trees or on ledges to build very compact homes where the shells are laid.
2. House Finch
   Some female house finches will lay shells that can look light sapphire occasionally, but many will not. They may also be spotted with brown specks. These birds are opportunistic and will build a nest in trees, windowsills, and ledges.
3. European Starling
   The Starling lays pale sapphire or slightly greenish eggs, usually in tree holes or crevices. These birds quickly adapt to environmental changes, living in the countryside and big cities.

Why Do Some Bird Species Lay Sapphire-Shelled Eggs?

Contrary to having just an ornamental benefit, they come in a specific color for a reason. Several theories have been proposed to explain why some species produce these reproductive cells:

• Camouflage and Protection
  Birds that breed in open or semi-open nests get better camouflage if they are sapphire rather than white; this means that few predators will attack them as they blend with the surroundings.
• UV Protection
  Among these pigments, biliverdin affords protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. Sometimes, it can be particularly beneficial for birds that build a nest in territories that receive more sunlight; this will subsequently assist in shielding the embryo inside the bird's body.
• Indicator of Health
  The brightness of color may indicate health in some bird species, especially in the female bird. A richer shade might mean that the mother bird is in good health, which will help attract better attention from a mate.

The Symbolism And Cultural Significance Of Hued Eggs

Apart from their bridge role, these have been given different meanings in different societies at various times. These creatures are commonly related to regeneration, the beginning, and the splendor of fertility. The color is soft and calm, and the image of such shells inspires confidence; therefore, ornaments are characteristic of fine art and home decoration.

Symbolic Interpretations:

• Fertility and Birth: Fertility is associated with the period in a year known as spring, which is usually regarded as the time for a new beginning.
• Calmness and Tranquility: The grey soothes people and can be found in prisons, buildings, and homes.
• Good Fortune: For some cultures, coming across a nest with blue shells is a good sign.

How To Attract The Birds That Lay Blue Eggs In Your Garden?

If you're hoping to see these stunning colors up close, there are a few strategies you can use to attract the birds that lay blue eggs in your yard:

• Install Birdhouses: Cavity nesters, including bluebirds, robins, and other types, will lay shells that are of a similar description. Since birdhouses must be equipped with the right opening, such avian visitors will fly to your garden in search of a nest.
• Provide Food Sources: The diet of different birds is not the same. For instance, while bluebirds are attracted to mealworms, Robins are on their parts like fruits and insects. Seeds with suet and dried mealworms will attract more birds to your yard since different birds feed on these foods.
• Plant Native Trees and Shrubs: Placing native plants for bird habitation can help them build a nest. There are places where shrubs such as elderberries and serviceberries are planted; they offer cover and are also an essential food source for birds, such as robins and finches.

Common Myths About Sapphire-Colored Eggs

Despite their beauty, there are several misconceptions surrounding this concept:

• Blue Shells are Healthier: The appearance of the egg, including its color, does not determine its quality and the embryo's health, even if it contains one. The pigmentation is influenced more by genes and external conditions.
• All Birds Lay These Eggs: Only certain species of lizard lay them. Most birds have shells of white to brown color that almost always have speckles on their surface.
• Blue Eggs are Extremely Rare: Though it may appear otherwise, these are typical. House sparrows, for instance, common robins and starlings, will often lay them.