Birds are a common sight in the western parts of the world, from the majestic bald eagle soaring through the sky to the tiny hummingbirds flitting through the gardens.
With over 700 species of birds living in the diverse Western landscape, birdwatchers of all levels can find something exciting to observe.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced birder, there’s something for everyone to appreciate in the fantastic variety of birds that call the Western region home.
24 Birds to Watch in Western
The Western regions! From the rugged coastlines to the sprawling forests and majestic mountains to the expansive deserts, the Western territories offer a diverse and captivating landscape for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Here are 24 Birds to Watch in Western.
1. American Goldfinch
The American goldfinch is a small North American bird that belongs to the finch family. This bird is migratory, which means it moves to different areas depending on the season.
The American goldfinch ranges from mid-Alberta to North Carolina during the breeding season. When winter comes, it moves southward from just south of the Canada–United States border to Mexico.
This bird’s migration ability allows it to find the necessary resources to survive the changing seasons. Additionally, it can see different climates to nest and reproduce in, ensuring that the species can continue to thrive in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
2. Dark-eyed Junco
The dark-eyed junco is a species of junco, a group of small, grayish sparrows native to the New World. This species is found across much of temperate North America, and during the summer months, they can be seen as far north as the Arctic.
The dark-eyed junco is a very variable species, meaning that individual birds of the same species can vary significantly in their appearances. This trait is shared with the fox sparrow, another related species.
Despite the similarities between these two species, their systematics have yet to be fully understood.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Junco |
| Species | J. hyemalis |
3. American Robin
The American robin is a migratory bird from the valid thrush genus and Turdidae family of birds. Its distinctive reddish-orange breast is why it was named after the European robin.
Despite the similar appearance, the two species are unrelated; the European robin is part of the Old World flycatcher family. The American robin is a common sight in North America and is recognizable due to its distinctive appearance.
It features a grayish-brown back, a reddish-orange breast, and a white belly. Its wings are also unique as they are two-toned; the upper part is dark, and the lower part is a lighter gray. It has a black head and a yellow bill.
The average American robin is around 9.4 inches in length. The American robin is a migratory bird that travels south in the winter and returns to the north in the spring. It is a social bird and can often be seen in groups, gathering on lawns, in fields, and parks.
It is also a famous songbird, a melodious song often heard in the early morning. The American robin is an integral part of the ecosystem as it helps to spread seeds, control insect populations, and act as a food source for other animals.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, worms, and berries, and it will also occasionally eat fruits and nuts. The American robin is a migratory bird of the valid thrush genus and Turdidae family.
It was named after the European robin due to its reddish-orange breast, though the two species are not closely related. It is a common sight across North America and is an integral part of the ecosystem, helping to spread seeds and control insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
4. Red-winged Blackbird
The red-winged blackbird is a type of bird belonging to the Icteridae family. It is found throughout North America and Central America, making it a widespread species.
Its scientific name is Agelaius phoeniceus, a passerine, meaning it is a perching bird and a member of the order Passeriformes. The red-winged blackbird is well-known for its distinct red-shoulder patches, which are especially visible when in flight.
The remaining bird is black, with yellow edges on its wings and tail. The red-winged blackbird can be found in various habitats but prefers wetland areas, often nesting in cattails, reeds, and other marsh vegetation.
It is a vocal bird with a loud and distinctive call that can be heard in the early morning and late afternoon. In addition to its characteristic call, the red-winged blackbird is also known for its aggressive behavior, particularly when defending its territories.
It is an essential species in its ecosystems, providing food for a variety of other species while also aiding in the dispersal of seeds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
5. House Finch
The house finch is a type of bird that belongs to the Fringillidae family. It is native to western North America but can also be found in the eastern half of the continent and Hawaii. It is one of three species that are classified in the Haemorhous genus.
The house finch is easily recognizable by its red-orange feathers, which are incredibly vibrant during the breeding season. This species is known to feed on various foods, including seeds, fruits, and insects, and can often be found near human habitations.
The house finch is an integral part of the natural ecosystem, as it helps control insect populations, disperse seeds, and enrich the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
6. Downy Woodpecker
The Downy Woodpecker is a small species of woodpecker that is found in North America. The adult Downy Woodpecker typically measures between 14 and 18 cm in length, making it the smallest woodpecker species in North America.
The Downy Woodpecker is typically found in forested areas across the United States and Canada, except in desert regions in the southwest of the United States and the northern tundra regions.
They are known for their distinctive black and white feathers and characteristic knocking sound, which they use to create holes in trees for food and nesting.
The Downy Woodpecker is an important species to many ecosystems, as they feed on insects, which helps to keep the insect population in check. They also act as pollinators, helping to spread seeds and pollen from flowers and other plants.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dryobates |
| Species | D. pubescens |
7. European Starling
The common starling, scientifically known as Sturnus vulgaris, is a bird species commonly found in Europe, Asia, and parts of North America. It is a member of the Sturnidae family, also known as the starling family.
Common starling has many different names depending on the region, such as European starling in North America and starling in Great Britain and Ireland.
The common starling is a medium-sized passerine bird, meaning it is a bird that perches and walks rather than hops.
It has a slim body with short legs and a long pointed beak, which it uses to forage for food.
Its feathers are mainly black with a glossy green and purple sheen, with white spots on its wings and tail. The common starling is quite gregarious and often forms large flocks, with some flocks numbering in the thousands.
It is also an adaptable species found in various habitats, from woodlands to grasslands and even urban areas.
Its diet consists mainly of insects and seeds, which it forages for on the ground. Common starling is an essential species in many ecosystems, as it helps control the populations of various pests and insects.
It is also famous with birdwatchers, as it is often seen in large flocks and is relatively easy to identify.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
| Genus | Sturnus |
| Species | S. vulgaris |
8. Mourning Dove
The mourning dove is a species of bird belonging to the dove family, scientifically known as Columbidae. It is native to the Americas and is commonly known by several names, such as the American mourning dove, the rain dove, and colloquially as the turtle dove.
In the past, it was also referred to as the Carolina pigeon and Carolina turtledove. The mourning dove is a medium-sized bird with a wingspan of around 33-37 cm and a body length of about 25-29 cm. It has a distinctive pattern of black and white wings with a grayish-brown body.
The species has a white tip on the tail and a long pointed tail, which are features that help distinguish it from other birds.
Its call is a low, drawn-out, rising and falling ‘coo,’ which is why it is named. The mourning dove is found in open habitats, such as fields, meadows, and grasslands, but it will also inhabit urban areas if there is enough open space.
It prefers to feed on the ground and eats various seeds, grains, and insects.
It usually builds its nest in small trees and shrubs and lays two white eggs in the nest. The mourning dove is expected in the United States and Mexico but can also be found as far south as Costa Rica and Guatemala.
Its range is expanding, as it has been introduced to Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. It is considered a common bird, and its population is stable and increasing in most areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Zenaida |
| Species | Z. macroura |
9. House Sparrow
The house sparrow is a small bird belonging to the sparrow family Passeridae. It can be found in most parts of the world, and it has a typical length of 16 cm and a mass of 24–39.5 g.
It is easily distinguishable between males and females, as the males have brighter black, white, and brown markings, while the females and young birds are more pale brown and grey.
House sparrows are pretty common and often seen in urban areas, where they can be seen foraging for food and nesting. They are primarily ground feeders but can also be seen in trees and shrubs. They also feed on insects, seeds, and other plant material.
House sparrows have a short but strong beak well suited for cracking open seeds and other food items. They have a loud, chirpy call often heard in urban areas and parks.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passeridae |
| Genus | Passer |
| Species | P. domesticus |
10. Northern Flicker
The Northern Flicker, also known as the Common Flicker, is a woodpecker species native to most of North America, parts of Central America, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands. It is a medium-sized bird with a body length of up to 12 inches and a wingspan of up to 20 inches.
Its upperparts are a mottled grayish-brown, and its belly is yellowish. Its head and neck have a distinctive black-and-white striped pattern.
The Northern Flicker is one of the few species of woodpecker that migrates, meaning that it moves to different locations depending on the seasons.
During the winter months, it can be found in the southern United States or Mexico, while in the summer, it is more commonly seen in the northern parts of its range.
It is an omnivore, meaning it eats plant and animal matter, and can often be seen foraging on the ground for ants or other insects. The Northern Flicker is a common sight in many backyards and parks and can be recognized by its loud, rolling call.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Colaptes |
| Species | C. auratus |
11. Red-tailed Hawk
The red-tailed hawk is an impressive bird of prey found throughout North America. This includes some of the most northern regions in Alaska and Canada, down to the southernmost parts of Panama and the West Indies.
This hawk is a member of the Buteo genus and is one of the most common birds in North America and worldwide. The red-tailed hawk is a large bird easily recognizable due to its distinctive red tail.
It has a wingspan of up to four feet and usually has a grayish body with white patches on its wings and tail feathers. It is an adept hunter generally seen soaring in the sky, looking for its next meal.
It feeds on small rodents, reptiles, and even other birds, which it captures either in the air or on the ground. The red-tailed hawk is also a very vocal bird that produces many calls.
Its most recognizable call is a high-pitched “kee-year” that can be heard from far away.
Additionally, the red-tailed hawk is a very social bird that hunts in pairs or small groups. The red-tailed hawk is an impressive bird species found in many parts of North America.
It is a skilled hunter that is easily recognizable due to its distinct red tail and is also known for its vocalizations. Furthermore, this bird is a very social species, often hunting in pairs or small groups.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. jamaicensis |
12. White-breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is a species of bird in the nuthatch family Sittidae. It is a small- to medium-sized bird, measuring 15.5 cm long. It has a white chest and a dark gray back, with a bluish sheen on its wings. Its tail is long and slightly curved.
Its bill is short and pointed. It is a very agile bird often seen climbing up and down tree trunks and branches for food. Its diet consists mainly of insects, seeds, and nuts. It is a common sight in many parts of North America, especially in wooded areas.
It is a friendly bird and can often be seen in flocks. The white-breasted nuthatch is an integral part of the ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and dispersing seeds and nuts.
It is also a species of conservation concern due to its declining numbers in some areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
13. Northern Cardinal
The northern cardinal is a beautiful bird that has become a famous symbol of the North American landscape. It is colloquially known by various names, including the redbird, common cardinal, red cardinal, and just cardinal.
This bird is part of the genus Cardinalis, which belongs to the family Cardinalidae. This family of birds is known for its bright red color and distinctive black face mask.
The northern cardinal is the most widely distributed cardinal species, ranging from southern Canada to Central America. Its diet consists mainly of seeds, fruits, and insects.
It is also known for its loud, melodious song, often heard during spring and summer. The northern cardinal is a beloved bird that symbolizes beauty and cheerfulness in many parts of the world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Cardinalis |
| Species | C. cardinalis |
14. Black-capped Chickadee
The black-capped chickadee is a small bird species native to North America. It is a part of the tit family, known as the Paridae, and is a type of passerine bird, meaning it perches on branches.
It is nonmigratory, meaning it does not travel long distances and prefers to remain in deciduous and mixed forests.
This bird species is exceptional, as it is the state bird of Massachusetts and Maine in the United States and the provincial bird of New Brunswick in Canada. This is a testament to its beauty and importance to the environment.
The black-capped chickadee is a unique bird, with its black head and bib, white cheeks, and grayish-brown body. It is easily recognizable and can be seen flitting through trees, singing its distinctive song.
It is a social bird often seen in small groups, foraging for food or nesting. It feeds on a variety of insects as well as seeds and berries.
The black-capped chickadee is an integral part of the ecosystem, as it provides a food source for many other species, such as mammals and birds of prey. It is also an excellent pollinator, helping to spread the pollen from plants to different plants and aiding in their reproduction.
It is a vital part of the natural world and is essential for a healthy environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Poecile |
| Species | P. atricapillus |
15. Blue Jay
The blue jay is a type of bird that belongs to the Corvidae family and is native to eastern North America. It is found in most eastern and central United States, while some populations may migrate seasonally.
Blue jays are permanently present in Newfoundland, Canada, and also breed across southern Canada. Blue jays are known to be very territorial and will defend their territory from other birds.
They are known to be very vocal birds, with a wide range of calls, and are often seen in pairs or small groups. Blue jays feed on various food items such as nuts, berries, insects, and even eggs and nestlings of other birds.
They are also known to store food for the winter months. Blue jays are colorful birds with bright blue feathers and white chests, making them a widespread species in the birding world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
16. American Crow
The American crow is a species of bird belonging to the Corvidae family. It is a large passerine, a general term for various medium-sized birds, including sparrows, thrushes, and warblers. It is native to much of North America and is a widespread bird.
The American crow is closely related to the carrion crow and the hooded crow, found in Eurasia. All three species occupy the same ecological niche, which means they have similar habitats, behaviors, and diets.
The American crow is typically found in open fields, woodlands, and near human habitation. They are omnivores and feed on various foods, including insects, fruits, grains, and carrion.
American crows form large communal roosts in winter and can be very noisy in the evenings. They are brilliant and have been observed using tools to feed on hard-to-reach food sources.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Corvus |
| Species | C. brachyrhynchos |
17. Audubon’s Warbler
The yellow-rumped warbler is a species of songbird native to North America. It is one of the most widely distributed birds in the continent, being found in various habitats, from boreal forests to tropical rainforests.
These birds are easily identified by their bright yellow-colored rump, visible when they take flight. They are also known for their loud, melodic songs. During the summer, they can be seen flitting around in woodlands, fields, and even suburban areas.
In the winter, they migrate south to warmer climates, where they can be found in large flocks. The yellow-rumped warbler is an integral part of the North American avifauna, and it is often used as an indicator species to assess the environment’s health.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. coronata |
18. Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The ruby-throated hummingbird is a species of hummingbird that is native to North America. It is most commonly seen in summertime throughout Canada and other parts of Eastern North America, where it migrates to breed.
However, the ruby-throated hummingbird generally spends its time in Central America, Mexico, and Florida in wintertime. This seasonal migration is integral to the ruby-throated hummingbird’s yearly cycle.
It allows them to take advantage of warmer climates in the wintertime and the plentiful sources of nectar available in the summertime for breeding.
In the winter, they may feed on small insects and small fruits, such as berries, while in the summer, they feed primarily on nectar from flowers. The ruby-throated hummingbird is an impressive species.
It can flap its wings up to 80 times per second, allowing it to hover mid-air while feeding on nectar. It is also the smallest bird species in North America, weighing only up to a few grams. It is a beautiful species, with its shining ruby-red throat and emerald-green back.
The ruby-throated hummingbird is an integral part of the North American ecosystem. Its migratory behavior helps pollinate plants as it travels, and its presence helps bring life and beauty to the environments it visits.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Archilochus |
| Species | A. colubris |
19. Tufted Titmouse
The tufted titmouse is a small songbird belonging to the tit and chickadee family, which is native to North America. It is known for its distinctive tufted crest and its gray-blue body.
The tufted titmouse is found mainly in the eastern and central United States, but its range extends from southeastern Canada to northern Central America.
The black-crested titmouse was previously considered a subspecies of the tufted titmouse but is now classified as a separate species, Baeolophus atricristatus.
This species is found in central and southern Texas and further south in Mexico. It is similar in appearance to the tufted titmouse, but its crest is black instead of gray-blue. Both species are highly active and social birds, often seen in mixed flocks with other species.
They mainly feed on insects and small invertebrates but consume small fruits and berries. The tufted titmouse is known for its melodious song, often heard in suburban and urban areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Baeolophus |
| Species | B. bicolor |
20. Rock Pigeon
The rock dove, also referred to as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a member of the Columbidae bird family. This is the species from which the domestic pigeon descended.
Over time, these domestic pigeons have escaped, increasing feral pigeon populations in many parts of the world. These feral pigeons are now found in many urban areas, where they feed on discarded food and are a familiar sight.
They are often referred to simply as “pigeons” instead of their wild counterparts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
21. Mallard
The mallard or wild duck is found in many parts of the world. It is a dabbling duck, meaning it feeds by tipping its head underwater and upending its body to reach for food on the bottom of shallow water.
It breeds in temperate and subtropical areas across the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa.
In addition, it has been introduced to several other countries and regions, including New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa.
This is likely due to humans transporting them to these areas for hunting or domestication. It has adapted well to new habitats and is common in these areas. The mallard is known for its colorful feathers, bright green head, and yellow bill.
It is also known for its distinctive call, which can be heard in many parks and wetlands. This species is essential to the local ecology, as its presence helps maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems.
It also provides food for many predators, including foxes, raccoons, and hawks.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
22. Chipping Sparrow
The chipping sparrow is a bird belonging to the Passerellidae family, a group of small birds native to the New World. It is a small passerine bird whose range covers most of North America. It is widespread and generally relatively tame.
The chipping sparrow has two subspecies – the eastern chipping sparrow and the western chipping sparrow.
The two subspecies can be distinguished by their geographical location, with the eastern subspecies found in the eastern parts of the North American range and the western subspecies found in the western parts of the range.
The chipping sparrow is a small bird about 4-6 inches long.
It has a brownish-gray upper body, whitish breasts, and white throat. It is also characterized by its black cap and white stripe running above its eyes. The chipping sparrow typically feeds on the ground, on seeds, and insects.
It also takes advantage of bird feeders, often visiting them in flocks. The chipping sparrow is a famous bird in North America and is frequently seen in parks and gardens. It is known for its distinct song, composed of short, sharp chip notes.
This song is often heard during the breeding season when the chipping sparrow is looking for a mate.
The chipping sparrow is also known for its adaptability and can survive in various habitats, from woodlands to suburban areas. The chipping sparrow is a ubiquitous bird in North America.
It is known for its distinctive song, adaptability, and generally tame nature. There are two subspecies of the chipping sparrow, the eastern chipping sparrow and the western chipping sparrow, which differ in their locations.
The chipping sparrow is a famous bird, often seen in parks and gardens, and is a welcome addition to any backyard.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Spizella |
| Species | S. passerina |
23. Cedar Waxwing
The cedar waxwing is a beautiful bird with a unique look. It belongs to the Bombycillidae family, commonly known as waxwing. This bird is easily distinguishable by its size and color. It is medium-sized and has brown, gray, and yellow plumage.
It is aptly named due to its wax-like wing tips. These tips are made up of bright yellow and deep red. When held in the sunlight, the wings give off a beautiful glossy shine. This species is found worldwide, including in North America, Europe, and Asia.
They prefer to stay in open woodlands, where they can find enough food and shelter. Cedar waxwings are omnivorous and feed on various things, including insects, berries, and flowers.
They are also known to be friendly and approachable birds, allowing humans to get close to observe them. The cedar waxwing is a unique and fascinating species worth learning about. Its bright colors and glossy wings make it a beautiful sight in the wild.
It is also an important species, as its presence in the environment helps keep the food chain balanced.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Bombycillidae |
| Genus | Bombycilla |
| Species | B. cedrorum |
24. Eastern Bluebird
The Eastern Bluebird is a small species of thrush found in North America. It is a migratory bird, often seen in open woodlands, farmlands, and orchards.
It is particularly beloved by birdwatchers for its striking bright-blue breeding plumage, which can be seen when the bird is perched on a wire or an open perch. The male of the species is more brightly colored than the female.
The Eastern Bluebird has a white breast with a rusty-red belly and throat, a light blue back, and a vibrant blue head and wings. Its song is a cheerful trill, often heard in the early mornings. It is a famous backyard bird, easily attracted to bird feeders and birdbaths.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. sialis |
Conclusion
Birds are integral to the Western ecosystem, providing essential resources to people and the environment.
They also serve as indicators of environmental health, and their presence or absence can tell us a great deal about the health of our planet.
As human activities continue to threaten birds’ habitats, we must try to protect and conserve their populations. This will ensure that these fantastic species thrive in Western ecosystems for years.