Welcome to the fantastic world of birds in Hidalgo! Located in southeastern Texas, Hidalgo is home to various bird species.
Hidalgo’s bird population is diverse and beautiful, from the iconic Roadrunner and the elegant Great Kiskadee to the vibrant Green Jay and the mysterious Long-eared Owl.
Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just curious about the feathered creatures in your backyard, you’ll be delighted to learn about the variety of birds that inhabit Hidalgo. Discover the fascinating behaviors, adaptations, and habitats of the birds that call Hidalgo home.
22 Birds to Watch in Hidalgo
If you are a bird lover, you will be amazed by the diversity and beauty of the birds that live in Hidalgo, Texas. Hidalgo is located in the southeastern part of the state, near the border with Mexico.
It has a variety of habitats, from grasslands and fields to forests and wetlands, that attract many different bird species. Whether you are a beginner or an expert birder, you will find something to enjoy in Hidalgo.
Here are 22 birds that you should watch out for when you visit this wonderful place.
1. White-winged Dove
The white-winged dove is found in various habitats from the Southwestern United States to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. It is more significant than other dove species, with a wingspan of up to 18 inches.
Its distinguishing feature is a white edge along its wings, which stands out against the brown body of the bird, giving it a unique look. Additionally, the white-winged dove has blue eyering and bright red eyes, adding to its distinctive appearance.
The habitat of the white-winged dove is varied, but it is most commonly seen near open areas like grasslands, fields, and agricultural lands. It feeds on seeds and other plant matter, which can be found in these areas.
It also feeds on insects, making it an essential part of the food chain in its range. The white-winged dove is a monogamous species, with pairs forming during the breeding season. Its nest is typically a shallow depression lined with grasses and other vegetation.
The white-winged dove is a species of conservation concern due to its declining numbers in some areas. It is particularly vulnerable to habitat loss, as it needs open areas with plenty of food sources to survive.
It is also threatened by human activities such as hunting and trapping. Conservation efforts are underway to help protect the species and its habitat and to ensure that it does not become endangered.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Zenaida |
| Species | Z. asiatica |
2. White-tipped Dove
The white-tipped dove is a large bird that is native to the tropics of the Americas. It is easily recognizable by its white-tipped tail feathers and its distinctive call. The scientific name for the white-tipped dove is Zenaida asiatica.
This name is derived from the French naturalists Jules and Edouard Verreaux, who studied and described the species in the 19th century.
Jules Verreaux was a naturalist and collector who expedited South America and Africa extensively, while Edouard Verreaux was a botanist and zoologist.
The Verreaux brothers contributed to the scientific community, particularly their work on tropical birds.
The white-tipped dove reminds the Verreaux brothers’ of crucial scientific work and dedication to understanding nature.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Leptotila |
| Species | L. verreauxi |
3. Buff-bellied Hummingbird
The buff-bellied hummingbird is a species of hummingbird found in Central and North America. It belongs to the Trochilini tribe of the Trochilinae subfamily, known as the “emeralds.”
This species can be found in Belize, Guatemala, Mexico, and the United States. The buff-bellied hummingbird is relatively tiny, measuring only 8-9 centimeters long, with a wingspan of 12–13 centimeters and a weight of only 3-5 grams.
It has a mainly green body with a brownish-gray back and buff-colored underside. Its head and throat are white, and its bill is black.
Its long, curved bill is adapted for nectar drinking and is used to feed on small insects. The buff-bellied hummingbird is a solitary species, usually found alone or in pairs.
It feeds mainly on nectar from flowers and eats small insects, including spiders, bees, and wasps.
It is an active species and moves quickly to feed on different flowers. The buff-bellied hummingbird is a migratory species and travels long distances between its breeding and wintering grounds.
It is found in Mexico and Central America during the winter, while it migrates to the United States during the breeding season.
It is a territorial species and defends its breeding territory against other males. The buff-bellied hummingbird is a vital pollinator and contributes to the propagation of many plant species.
Its diet also helps control small insect populations, which can be pests. This species is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Amazilia |
| Species | A. yucatanensis |
4. Groove-billed Ani
The groove-billed ani is a tropical bird belonging to the cuckoo family. It is known for its long tail and curved beak.
This bird is a resident species throughout its range, covering a large area from southern Texas, central Mexico, and The Bahamas to northern Colombia, Venezuela, coastal Ecuador, and Peru. It is an adaptable bird and can thrive in various climates.
It is often found in tropical and subtropical forests, grasslands, and mangroves. In addition, the birds are also known to be quite vocal, and they communicate with each other through various vocalizations.
They can also be found in urban areas, where they use any available food source. These birds are pretty adaptable and can survive in various climates.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae |
| Genus | Crotophaga |
| Species | C. sulcirostris |
5. Plain Chachalaca
The plain chachalaca is a large bird belonging to the Cracidae family, including guans and curassows. It is found in many tropical and subtropical environments, ranging from the Rio Grande Valley in southern Texas to northern Costa Rica.
This bird is a highly adaptable species and can survive in habitats such as mesquite thickets. The birds can find food and shelter in these thickets, making them an ideal home for the plain chachalaca.
Additionally, the plain chachalaca is essential for its role in the ecosystem. It helps to spread seeds and disperse them into new areas, promoting the growth of plants and vegetation.
This bird also plays a vital role in keeping the balance of the environment by controlling the population of other species, such as insects and other small animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes |
| Family | Cracidae |
| Genus | Ortalis |
| Species | O. vetula |
6. Pauraque
The Pauraque is a species of nightjar, a type of nocturnal bird that belongs to the genus Nyctidromus. It can be found in subtropical and tropical regions of the Americas.
It is mainly a resident species, staying in the same area all year round, except for those who live in northernmost areas and may migrate seasonally. The Pauraque is sometimes known as the Common Pauraque to distinguish it from other nightjar species.
It is a solitary bird, active mainly at night, and is known to hide during the day by blending in with the ground. Its diet consists of various insects, which it captures mid-air during its nocturnal hunts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Nyctidromus |
| Species | N. albicollis |
7. Black-bellied Whistling Duck
The black-bellied whistling duck is a species of whistling duck formerly known as the black-bellied tree duck.
This duck species was mainly found breeding in the southernmost parts of the United States, Mexico, and tropical Central to south-central South America before 2000.
Since then, the black-bellied whistling duck has become a more widespread species, and its population can now be found year-round in much of the United States. This duck species has adapted to various climates and habitats, making it a successful species.
It is a medium-sized duck, measuring up to 20 inches long and weighing 2-3 pounds. The duck’s body is primarily brown, with a black belly and white patches on its wings.
It is an active species, often seen in groups, and its diet consists of aquatic insect larvae, mollusks, and small fish. The black-bellied whistling duck is a vocal species whose call sounds like a series of whistles and honks.
The call of this duck is often used to locate its mate or group. This duck species is a popular choice for waterfowl hunters, as it is considered a challenging target.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Dendrocygna |
| Species | D. autumnalis |
8. Broad-billed Hummingbird
The broad-billed hummingbird is a small bird found in Mexico and the southwestern United States. This hummingbird species displays sexual dimorphism, meaning that males and females have different physical characteristics.
The juveniles of the species more closely resemble the female adult than the male, with both males and females having bright and vivid plumage.
One of the most distinctive traits of the broad-billed hummingbird is its broad and bright red bill, which helps to distinguish this species from other hummingbirds. The bright color of the bill also serves as a valuable tool for attracting potential mates.
This hummingbird species is a famous sight for birdwatchers in the southwestern United States and Mexico, and its bright colors make it a beautiful addition to the landscape.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Cynanthus |
| Species | C. latirostris |
9. Clay-colored Thrush
The clay-colored thrush is a type of bird belonging to the thrush family. It is native to Middle America and has the distinction of being the national bird of Costa Rica. In that country, it is known as the yigüirro and is a widely recognized and beloved species.
Other names for the thrush include “clay-colored robin,” indicating its distinctive coloring. The plumage of the adult thrush is a sandy brown, with darker shades on the wings and tail.
Its underparts are more buffy-colored, and the face is pale, with two distinct white eyebrow stripes. The clay-colored thrush is a social bird, often seen in small flocks, and is known to migrate long distances.
It is omnivorous, consuming various fruits, insects, lizards, and other small animals. Its song is a loud, clear “chook-chook-chook,” often heard near dawn and dusk.
The clay-colored thrush is a beautiful and unique species and a great example of the rich biodiversity of Central and South America.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. grayi |
10. Great Kiskadee
The Great Kiskadee is a passerine bird from the tyrant flycatcher family Tyrannidae. It is the only member of the genus Pitangus and has different names in different countries. In Brazil, it is known as bem-te-vi, Paraguay as pirogue, and Argentina as believe.
It is found in open woodland areas with tall trees, such as cultivated land, and near human settlements. It nests and breeds in these areas and can often be seen perched on tree branches, scanning the ground for prey.
The Great Kiskadee is an active and aggressive hunter, attacking giant insects and small vertebrates such as frogs, lizards, and even small birds. It has a loud, distinctive call, described as an audible ‘kis-ka-dee.’’
The Great Kiskadee plays an essential role in its ecosystem as a predator, keeping insect populations in check and helping to maintain a healthy balance of species in its habitat.
Its bright colors also add a splash of color to the landscape and are popular with birdwatchers and other nature enthusiasts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Pitangus |
| Species | P. sulphuratus |
11. Long-billed Thrasher
The long-billed Thrasher is a medium-sized songbird native to South Texas and eastern Mexico. It is closely related to the brown Thrasher and shares a similar appearance, including a long, curved bill, dark brown upperparts, and a buff-colored underbelly.
It has a loud, melodious song often heard throughout its range. It also shares many of the same calls and behaviors as its relative, such as a habit of foraging on the ground for insects and other invertebrates.
The long-billed Thrasher is a monogamous species that nests in shrubs and trees, laying two to five eggs in a cup-shaped nest. It has many habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and wooded areas.
It is a common sight in many areas and is an integral part of local bird communities.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Toxostoma |
| Species | T. longirostre |
12. Inca Dove
The Inca dove, or Mexican dove, is a small bird native to the Americas. It was first identified by the French naturalist and surgeon René Lesson in 1847. The Inca dove is a small species, measuring only 16.5 to 23 centimeters in length and weighing 30 to 58 grams.
It has an average wingspan of 28.5 centimeters and a maximum wingspan of 32 centimeters. This tiny bird is a fairly common sight in many parts of the New World. Its diet consists mainly of seeds and grains, though it may occasionally feed on insects.
It is typically a solitary bird but can sometimes be found in small flocks. They can be seen in various habitats, from deserts to forests, but they are most common in open areas with sparse vegetation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columbina |
| Species | C. inca |
13. Least Grebe
The least grebe is an aquatic bird belonging to the family of grebes. It is the smallest grebes and can be found in various areas throughout the New World.
It is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is also present in Argentina and the Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas, and the Greater Antilles.
The least grebe inhabits many habitats, from freshwater lakes and ponds to salt marshes, swamps, and coastal lagoons. It is an excellent swimmer and can be seen diving for its food.
It feeds mainly on small aquatic animals like fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. Its plumage is predominantly gray-brown, with white underparts. The least grebe is highly social and often seen in large groups.
It is an essential species in its range and is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Podicipediformes |
| Family | Podicipedidae |
| Genus | Tachybaptus |
| Species | T. dominicus |
14. Audubon’s Oriole
Audubon’s oriole is a type of passerine found in southeastern Texas and the Mexican coast. Passerines are birds that belong to the order Passeriformes, which includes over 5,000 species of birds.
Audubon’s oriole is more commonly known as the black-headed oriole, resulting from its unique plumage.
It is the only species of oriole to have a black hood and yellow body. The species is divided into four subspecies: the western Audubon’s oriole, the eastern Audubon’s oriole, the northern Audubon’s oriole, and the southern Audubon’s oriole.
These subspecies have different physical characteristics, such as size, color, and tail shape.
They also have two allopatric breeding ranges; the western range is in the United States, while the eastern range is in Mexico. Within its range, Audubon’s oriole inhabits both forests and thickets. Its diet consists primarily of insects, fruits, and nectar.
It is also known to collect food from bird feeders. Audubon’s oriole is a social species, often found in pairs or small groups. It is an essential pollinator in its range, helping to spread pollen from flower to flower.
In conclusion, Audubon’s oriole is a unique passerine species with a black hood and yellow body. It is divided into four subspecies and has two allopatric breeding ranges.
It inhabits forests and thickets in southeastern Texas and the Mexican coast and plays a vital role in its environment as a pollinator.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Icterus |
| Species | I. graduacauda |
15. Golden-fronted Woodpecker
The golden-fronted woodpecker is a species of bird belonging to the subfamily Picinae of the woodpecker family Picidae. This woodpecker species is found in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
The golden-fronted woodpecker has distinctive physical features, including a yellow forehead and a black-and-white striped face. It also has a red cap and a white neck. The wings and back are black with white spots, while the belly is white. The tail is black with white bars.
Golden-fronted woodpeckers usually inhabit woodlands but may also be found in urban areas. They feed mainly on insects, fruits, nuts, and seeds. They use their long, strong beaks to peck and dig for food.
In the wild, they are often seen foraging on tree trunks and branches. Golden-fronted woodpeckers are social birds often seen in pairs or small groups.
These birds are an essential part of their natural environment, helping to disperse seeds and control insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. aurifrons |
16. Green Jay
The green jay is an easily recognizable species of New World jay. This bird is found primarily in Central America and is notable for its distinctive green coloration.
An adult green jay measures 27 cm long and combines blue and black on its head, with green wings and mantle, a bluish-green tail, a black bill, yellow or brown eye rings, and dark legs.
The green jay is a relatively vocal bird, with its loud, raucous calls being widely heard in the forests and jungles of Central America. It is a social bird, often seen in flocks, and known to feed on insects, fruits, and small vertebrates.
The green jay is also known for its intelligence, as it has been observed using tools to forage for food. The green jay is a colorful and lively bird that will bring a splash of color to any backyard.
The green jay is a welcome sight in any tropical or subtropical region with its vibrant coloring and lively calls.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocorax |
| Species | C. luxuosus |
17. Mexican Violetear
The Mexican violetear is a species of hummingbird found in parts of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. It is a medium-sized bird, about 7 to 8 cm long, and is a metallic green. It is typically found in forested areas, often at higher elevations.
Previously, the Mexican violetear and the lesser violetear were considered the same species and were referred to as the green violetear.
The two species have since been split into separate species but still share many of the same characteristics, such as size, color, and habitat.
The Mexican violetear is the larger of the two species and is found in more northern areas, while the lesser violetear is found further south. Both species are important pollinators for the area and are essential to the local ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Colibri |
| Species | C. thalassinus |
18. Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are a unique and special bird type found only in the Americas. They are part of the biological family Trochilidae, and there are over 360 species and 113 genera of hummingbirds.
They can be found from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, but most species are in Central and South America. Hummingbirds are tiny and incredibly fast, flapping their wings up to 80 times per second.
They are known for their beautiful, colorful feathers and long, slender beaks. They primarily feed on nectar from flowers and insects and can be seen hovering around gardens and parks.
Hummingbirds are an essential part of the ecosystem, as they help to pollinate plants and spread the seeds of various flowers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
19. Green kingfisher
The Green Kingfisher is a small, colorful bird species belonging to the Alcedinidae family, further divided into the subfamily Cerylinae.
This species is in a vast range, from southern Texas in the United States to Central America and every mainland South American country except Chile. This particular species is even found on the islands of Trinidad and Tobago.
The Green Kingfisher is a striking species, with its bright green feathers and orange-red eyes. It is a medium-sized bird with a length of about 20 centimeters.
This species is found near bodies of water and is known as a “water kingfisher” because it feeds primarily on small fish and aquatic invertebrates, which it fishes from the water’s surface.
The Green Kingfisher is a very social bird, often seen in small flocks, known for its loud, distinctive call. It is also known to be territorial and will defend its territory fiercely from other species.
This species is considered a common species and is not threatened with extinction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Genus | Chloroceryle |
| Species | C. americana |
20. Olive Sparrow
The olive sparrow is a species of American sparrow that is part of the Passerellidae family. It is found in several countries in Central and North America, including Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and southern Texas.
It is a small bird, measuring 14–15.5 centimeters long. Its distinct olive back, which is the only one of its kind, makes it stand out from other species of sparrows. This sparrow species inhabits regions with dense vegetation, such as forests, thickets, and shrubs.
It can also be found in lightly wooded areas near human settlements. Its diet consists of various insects, seeds, and berries in its natural habitat.
The olive sparrow is quite vocal and can be heard singing its unique song throughout the day. The olive sparrow is considered to be of least Concern on the IUCN Red List, meaning it is not endangered.
However, its numbers are decreasing due to habitat destruction and fragmentation due to human activities. Therefore, conservation efforts are necessary to ensure its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Arremonops |
| Species | A. rufivirgatus |
21. American White Pelican
The American white pelican is a majestic aquatic bird belonging to the order Pelecaniformes. It has a large wingspan, allowing it to soar gracefully over the water.
This bird can be found in interior North America during the breeding season, and during the winter, it migrates south and toward the coasts, as far as Costa Rica. The American white pelican is a beautiful bird with a wingspan of up to nine feet and white plumage.
Its long beak and large pouch allow it to capture large amounts of food, which it stores in its pouch and then feeds to its young. During the summer, these birds can be found breeding and nesting in the interior of North America.
In the winter, the American white pelican migrates south and to the coasts, with some birds traveling as far as Costa Rica. This bird is an iconic part of the North American landscape, and its beauty, grace, and majestic wingspan make it a sight to behold.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. erythrorhynchos |
22. Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The ruby-throated hummingbird is a species of bird native to North America. It is usually found in the eastern parts of the continent but also migrates to Central America, Mexico, and Florida for the winter.
During the summer, it migrates back up north to Canada and other areas of Eastern North America to breed. This bird is small, with an average length of only three to four inches.
It is easily identified by its distinctive ruby-red throat and the long, pointed bill. The ruby-throated hummingbird is an essential pollinator for many plants, as it feeds on nectar from various flowering plants.
It also feeds on small insects and spiders, which provide a valuable protein source. The ruby-throated hummingbird is an essential species in the North American ecosystem, and its presence often indicates a healthy and diverse environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Archilochus |
| Species | A. colubris |
Conclusion
Birds are an essential part of the Hidalgo ecosystem and its culture. They have a significant presence in the area, providing a source of food, beauty, and music for the locals.
Birds also play an essential role in controlling insects, providing valuable fertilizer, and helping to pollinate plants.
Therefore, protecting and conserving these vital species is essential to maintain the delicate balance of the Hidalgo environment.