Welcome to the beautiful world of birds in the Western North! Western North is home to a wide variety of birds, from the colorful cardinals of the east to the majestic bald eagles of the West.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned birder, there’s something for everyone in this diverse region. From the lush wetlands of the eastern seaboard to the alpine forests of the Rocky Mountains, the birds of the Western North offer a glimpse into the beauty of nature.
With some knowledge and dedication, you can learn to identify the birds of the Western North and appreciate their unique behaviors. So grab your binoculars, and let’s explore the birds of the Western North.
24 Birds to Watch in Western North
Birds are an essential part of the West’s natural environment. From tiny warblers to majestic raptors, the skies of the West are filled with a variety of species. Birdwatching is a popular activity in the area, as West is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and unique birds.
Here are 24 Birds to Watch in Western North.
1. American Goldfinch
The American goldfinch is a small bird found in North America and part of the finch family. It is migratory, which means it follows a pattern of seasonal movement.
During the breeding season, typically in the summer, it migrates from mid-Alberta to North Carolina. During winter, it migrates from just south of the Canada-United States border to Mexico.
This allows the bird to find food and other resources in different climates throughout the year. The American goldfinch is a colorful bird with a bright yellow body and black and white wings. Its diet consists mainly of seeds from trees and weeds and some insects.
It builds its nest in trees, shrubs, and other plants, where it can find protection from predators. The American goldfinch is a famous bird, often seen in backyards and parks.
It is also common in gardens, as it feeds on the seeds from flowers and plants. This species is an integral part of the North American bird population, and its migratory pattern is essential to its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
2. Northern Cardinal
The northern cardinal, also known as the redbird, common cardinal, red cardinal, or simply cardinal, is a species of bird that belongs to the Cardinalis genus.
It is found mainly in the eastern and central parts of the United States and is one of the most recognizable birds in North America. In addition to its bright red plumage, the northern cardinal is also known for its distinctive crest and black face mask.
The bird is often seen in residential areas, woods, and open spaces. It feeds on various insects, seeds, fruits, and nuts. The northern cardinal is well-known for its loud, cheerful song, which can be heard in the early morning and late evening.
It is often seen perched atop trees or shrubs and is known to be territorial. The northern cardinal is a well-loved bird symbolizing beauty and abundance across much of the United States.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Cardinalis |
| Species | C. cardinalis |
3. American Robin
The American robin is a bird that belongs to the valid thrush genus and Turdidae family, which is part of the more prominent thrush family. It is called the American robin due to its reddish-orange breast, similar to the European robin.
Despite the similarities in color, the two birds are not related. The European robin is part of the Old World flycatcher family, while the American robin is part of the valid thrush genus and Turdidae family.
This shows how two birds can look similar but be from different species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
4. Dark-Eyed Junco
The dark-eyed junco is a small, gray sparrow native to North America. It is found in various habitats, from temperate forests to the Arctic tundra.
The junco is highly variable, exhibiting characteristics similar to those of the related fox sparrow, and its scientific classification is still uncertain. Its population is generally large and widespread, making it a common sight across much of North America.
The junco is a ground-dweller known for foraging in flocks for seeds, insects, and other food sources.
Though its numbers are currently healthy, climate change and other environmental factors have the potential to reduce its population significantly in the future.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Junco |
| Species | J. hyemalis |
5. Tufted Titmouse
The tufted titmouse is a small songbird species native to North America. It belongs to the tit and chickadee family, which consists of several related species of birds. The tufted titmouse is characterized by its small size and distinctive crest of black feathers on its head.
It is found throughout the eastern and central United States, from Canada to Florida. In the past, the black-crested titmouse was considered a subspecies of the tufted titmouse, but it is now regarded as a separate species.
Found in central and southern Texas, the black-crested titmouse is characterized by its black crest and distinctive song.
It is also more widespread than the tufted titmouse, with a population range that stretches from Mexico to the south and covers much of the southern United States. Both species are generally found in wooded areas, particularly in forests with oak trees.
They feed mainly on insects but consume berries, fruits, and seeds. In the winter, they form small flocks that roam the forest for food.
Overall, the tufted titmouse and black-crested titmouse are two closely related bird species that share similar characteristics but are still distinct. They are both familiar and widespread in North America and play an essential role in the local ecology.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Baeolophus |
| Species | B. bicolor |
6. House Finch
The House Finch is a species of bird in the Fringillidae family, commonly known as finches. They are native to the western regions of North America but have since been introduced to the eastern half of the continent and even Hawaii.
This species is one of three American rosefinches and is placed in the genus Haemorhous. House Finches are small birds with stocky builds, and they come in a variety of colors, from reds and oranges to browns and yellows.
They typically have spotted breast markings and a brown back and are often seen with their distinctive black, V-shaped bib. These birds are usually found in open areas, including grasslands and gardens, and feed on plants and insects.
House Finches are social birds and can often be seen in pairs or small groups, and they are known for their cheerful chirping.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
7. White-Breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is a bird species native to the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It belongs to the nuthatch family, Sittidae, characterized by its small size and ability to climb up and down trees.
This species of nuthatch is considered a medium-sized bird, measuring around 15.5 cm in length. It is easily identifiable by its white chest, gray back, and black cap. It has a black stripe above its eyes and a black line running down its throat.
Its bill is long and pointed, and its legs are stout and robust. Regarding behavior, the white-breasted nuthatch is mainly active during the day and is an acrobatic climber. It is also known for its vocalizations, consisting of various whistles, chirps, and trills.
It tends to forage in small groups and often hops up and down tree trunks for insects and other food. It also feeds on nuts, seeds, fruits, and berries. The white-breasted nuthatch is an integral part of the North American avian landscape.
It is a common resident of deciduous forests, woodlands, and parks. Its range extends from southern Canada to northern Mexico. It is a welcome sight in many backyards and is a popular subject for birdwatchers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
8. Mourning Dove
The mourning dove (also known as the American mourning dove, the rain dove, and colloquially as the turtle dove) is a species of bird from the dove family, Columbidae.
It can be found throughout much of North America and is easily identified by its distinctive soft, drawn-out call. The mourning dove has a long history and has been known by various other names, including the Carolina pigeon and Carolina turtledove.
It is named for its distinctive call, a low, mournful hooting sound. Its coloring is usually a mix of brown, gray, and white, and its wingspan can reach up to 18 inches. The mourning dove is a relatively small bird, measuring around 12 inches long.
Its diet consists mainly of seeds, fruits, and insects. It is a migratory bird whose range expands from Canada to Mexico, with some populations found in Central America and the Caribbean. The mourning dove is a famous game bird, and its meat is widely enjoyed.
In addition to being hunted, the mourning dove is a symbol of peace and love and is featured on the United States Postal Service’s “Peace Dove” stamp.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Zenaida |
| Species | Z. macroura |
9. Song Sparrow
The song sparrow is a small bird in the New World, such as in North America. It is a common bird and is one of the most abundant species of sparrows that inhabit the continent.
It is also very variable in its habitat, seen in many habitats, from forests to grasslands to agricultural and urban areas. It is also highly adaptable, adjusting to different climates and environmental changes.
This has enabled it to survive and thrive in a variety of locations. Its adaptability allows it to take advantage of changing food sources and survive in areas where other sparrows may not be able to survive.
Its ability to adapt to different environments is one of the reasons why it is such a successful species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Melospiza |
| Species | M. melodia |
10. Eastern Bluebird
The eastern bluebird is a species of small thrush found in North America. It migrates between different habitats, such as open woodlands, farmlands, and orchards.
The male of the species is easily recognizable due to its bright blue breeding plumage, which can be seen when it is perched on a wire or other open place. This feature has made the eastern bluebird a favorite amongst birders, who enjoy watching its colors.
During their migration, eastern bluebirds feed on insects such as beetles, caterpillars, and grasshoppers. They also enjoy eating berries, such as blackberries and mulberries.
The eastern bluebird is an essential species for birders, as it is often seen in the wild and serves as a valuable indicator of the health of the bird’s habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. sialis |
11. Northern Flicker
The northern flicker, also known as the familiar flicker, is a medium-sized bird from the woodpecker family. It is a widespread species, native to most parts of North America and some parts of Central America, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands.
This species is fascinating because it is one of the few woodpecker species that migrate.
This means that at certain times of the year, the northern flicker will migrate from its home to different areas to take advantage of other food sources and climatic conditions.
These birds can be seen in the southern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America in winter. During the summer months, they can be found in northern North America, including Canada.
The northern flicker is a beautiful bird with bright red-brown plumage and black and white spotted wings. It has a long, pointed bill, which it uses to feed on insects, fruits, and nuts. It also has a loud, distinctive call that can be heard miles around.
The northern flicker is a highly adaptable species, able to survive in both urban and rural environments. It is a common sight in many parks and gardens in North America, where it can be seen searching for food or drumming its bill on trees and logs.
Overall, the northern flicker is an impressive bird species, both for its beauty and adaptability. It is an important species that helps to keep the insect population in check, and its migration pattern is a testament to how resilient and versatile this species is.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Colaptes |
| Species | C. auratus |
12. Carolina Chickadee
The Carolina chickadee is a small bird that belongs to the tit family Paridae. The Carolina chickadee is a passerine bird, meaning it is a perching bird. It is found in the United States and can be identified by its black and white plumage and black cap.
The Carolina chickadee is a very social bird, often found in small flocks. They are very vocal birds, frequently describing their call as a “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” sound. They feed mainly on insects, seeds, berries and frequent backyard bird feeders.
The Carolina chickadee is a very animated and entertaining bird to watch, and they are a favorite among bird watchers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Poecile |
| Species | P. carolinensis |
13. Blue Jay
The blue jay is a Corvidae family bird native to eastern North America. It is typically found in the eastern and central United States, though some of its eastern populations may be migratory.
It has a permanent presence in Newfoundland, Canada, and can be found breeding across southern Canada. Blue jays are striking birds with bright blue feathers and a crest on their heads.
They are omnivorous, feeding on nuts, seeds, insects, and even small animals. They are commonly seen in urban and suburban areas and are noted for their loud, harsh calls.
Blue jays are also known for their intelligence, ability to remember the location of food caches, and ability to recognize individual humans. They have complex social structures and often form large flocks.
They are also known for their curiosity, often hovering around humans and inspecting objects and activities. The blue jay is an essential species for the environment, as they are known to disperse seeds from various plants into new areas.
They are also known to help control insect populations, aiding in the balance of the ecosystem. Overall, the blue jay is an essential species in the environment, both aesthetically pleasing and beneficial to the ecosystem.
It is a common sight across North America, and its loud calls and bright colors will surely draw attention.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
14. Red-Winged Blackbird
The Red-winged Blackbird is a type of bird belonging to the family Icteridae. This species can be found throughout most of North America and much of Central America. Generally, these birds are pretty small, measuring around 7-9 inches in length.
They have glossy black feathers with bright red and yellow patches on the wings and tail. The male birds also have a black and yellow band around their head. When it comes to behavior, the Red-winged Blackbird is quite vocal.
The males are primarily known for their loud and distinctive songs, which they use to attract mates and defend their territory. They are also exceptionally social birds, often seen gathered in large flocks during migration and winter months.
In terms of diet, these birds mainly feed on seeds, insects, and other small invertebrates. They can typically be seen foraging in open fields, wetlands, and marshes. They also visit bird feeders and take advantage of any food sources available.
Overall, the Red-winged Blackbird is a beautiful and unique species of bird. They are pretty standard in North America and Central America, and they make a great addition to any backyard birdwatching experience.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
15. Carolina Wren
The Carolina wren is commonly found across the eastern half of the United States of America, the extreme south of Ontario, Canada, and the extreme northeast of Mexico.
This species of wren is a resident, meaning that it does not migrate but stays in the same area throughout the year. The Carolina wren is a small bird, measuring only about 5 inches in length, with a wingspan of about 8 inches.
It has a distinctive reddish-brown back and a white belly, and its head is adorned with a white stripe. Its call is a loud and cheerful chirp often heard in the early morning.
It can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and gardens, and it is widespread in suburban and urban areas. The Carolina wren is a very social bird, often seen in pairs or small groups.
It feeds mainly on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates and will also take advantage of various bird feeders. This species of the wren is a welcome sight in many areas, and its cheerful song and presence are enjoyed by many.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Troglodytidae |
| Genus | Thryothorus |
| Species | T. ludovicianus |
16. American Crow
The American crow is a large bird from the Corvidae family. This species is most commonly found in many parts of North America. American crows are closely related to the carrion crow and the hooded crow, both found in Eurasia.
These birds occupy the same ecological niche, meaning they share similar habitats and dietary preferences. American crows feed on nuts, seeds, fruit, small invertebrates, and carrion.
They are highly adaptable and can occupy various habitats, from forests and open fields to city parks and suburban areas. American crows are omnivorous and have been known to scavenge for food at landfills, fields, and even urban streets.
They are also quite vocal, with various calls that can be heard throughout the day. American crows are brilliant and social birds, often forming large flocks to forage or roost together.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Corvus |
| Species | C. brachyrhynchos |
17. Downy Woodpecker
The downy woodpecker is a small species of woodpecker that is found in North America. Its length is 14 to 18 cm, making it the smallest woodpecker in this region.
Its habitat is mainly in forested areas of the United States and Canada. However, it does not inhabit the desert areas of the southwestern United States or the northern tundra regions of Canada.
This species of woodpecker is quite adaptable and can be found in various habitats, from urban areas to rural forests. It is commonly seen in parks, gardens, and backyards, as well as in open woodlands, deciduous and mixed forests, and agricultural areas.
It feeds on insects, seeds, and nuts and occasionally visits bird feeders. Downy woodpeckers are pretty social, often gathering in small groups to forage for food. They have a unique call that consists of a rapid series of chirps.
This sound is often used to communicate with other group members and to alert others of the presence of predators. These birds are also known for drumming, a loud tapping sound they make on hard surfaces such as trees or buildings with their beaks.
Downy woodpeckers are an essential part of North American ecology and are famous in many areas. They are a beautiful species of bird to observe, and their presence is a sign of a healthy, thriving ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dryobates |
| Species | D. pubescens |
18. Red-bellied woodpecker
The red-bellied woodpecker is a species of woodpecker found in the family Picidae. It is a medium-sized bird with a wide range, breeding in the eastern United States and extending to parts of Canada and Florida.
The red-bellied woodpecker has distinctive plumage, a bright red belly, and a black-and-white pattern on its back. The bird is known for its loud call and habit of drumming on trees to communicate with other woodpeckers.
It feeds mainly on nuts, seeds, insects, and fruits. The bird nests in cavities, often excavating its own in dead wood. It is a social species, frequently seen in small groups.
The red-bellied woodpecker is an important species, providing essential ecosystem services such as pest control and tree health. It is also a famous bird for birdwatchers, as it is relatively easy to spot due to its bright plumage.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. carolinus |
19. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
The ruby-throated hummingbird is an interesting bird species with an exciting migration pattern.
During the winter months, they can be found in Central America, Mexico, and Florida, but come spring, they will migrate to Canada and other parts of Eastern North America in search of breeding grounds.
This hummingbird species is known for its unique ability to fly long distances and their red throat feathers. They are a sight to behold as they make their way north and back, and their presence is a welcome addition to many of the areas they inhabit.
During the breeding season, the ruby-throated hummingbird will seek out areas with plenty of wildflowers and insects, as these are their primary food sources. They may also build their nests in trees or shrubs; the female will lay two eggs in each nest.
After the chicks hatch, the parents will feed them until they are old enough to fly away and journey south for the winter.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Archilochus |
| Species | A. colubris |
20. House Sparrow
The house sparrow is a widespread species of the Passeridae family. It is found in various habitats worldwide, from urban to rural settings.
The house sparrow is a small bird, typically measuring 16 cm in length and weighing between 24 and 39.5 g. Its colors vary depending on the sex of the bird.
Females and young house sparrows tend to have pale brown and grey feathers, while males have brighter black, white, and brown markings. This unique coloring helps the male house sparrow stand out from the crowd and attract a mate.
The house sparrow is a social bird, often seen in flocks in its natural environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passeridae |
| Genus | Passer |
| Species | P. domesticus |
21. Mallard
The mallard or wild duck is a species of dabbling duck found in many parts of the world. It is native to the Americas, Eurasia, and North African temperate and subtropical regions.
In recent years, the mallard duck has been introduced to many new areas, including New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa. The mallard is a medium-sized duck with primarily brown plumage.
It is easily recognizable by its yellow bill and white neck ring. The male mallard has a darker head and brighter plumage than the female. The mallard feeds mainly on aquatic plant material and eats insects, small crustaceans, and other invertebrates.
It is an incredibly efficient forager, able to dive and swim underwater for food. The mallard is a widespread species among duck hunters, as it is relatively easy to locate and can be found in various habitats.
It is also one of the most abundant species of ducks in the world, with a population estimated to be between 10 and 20 million individuals. The mallard is a social species, often found in large flocks.
Its courtship behavior involves the male displaying his feathers and quacking loudly to attract the female. The female will lay her eggs in a well-concealed nest, usually close to water.
The ducklings will hatch in about a month, and the young birds will be able to fly within two months. The mallard is a long-lived species, with some individuals living for up to twenty years.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
22. Black-capped Chickadee
The black-capped chickadee is a small, bird native to North America. Its scientific name is Parus atricapillus, and it is a member of the tit family (Paridae).
It is a non-migratory bird that lives in deciduous and mixed forests, particularly in the eastern and northern parts of the continent.
The black-capped chickadee is renowned for its friendly behavior and has been adopted as the state bird of Massachusetts and Maine in the United States and the provincial bird of New Brunswick in Canada.
This bird is easily identified by its distinctive black cap, white cheeks, and grayish-brown body. The chickadee is omnivorous and eats insects, nuts, and seeds. The black-capped chickadee is a very social bird, forming close-knit flocks during winter.
During the summer, the birds maintain their territory and sing loudly to attract a mate.
They are brilliant birds and can remember the location of thousands of food caches. In recent years, the black-capped chickadee population has been declining due to habitat destruction and the spread of disease.
Conservation efforts are ongoing to ensure these delightful birds thrive in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Poecile |
| Species | P. atricapillus |
23. Wood Thrush
The wood thrush is a species of bird native to North America and belongs to the family Turdidae. It is the only species within its genus, Hylocichla, and is closely related to other thrushes, such as the American robin.
The wood thrush is found across North America, extending from Canada to Mexico. During winter, some individuals migrate south to Central America and southern Mexico. This species is typically found in wooded habitats such as forests, parks, and gardens.
The wood thrush is known for its distinctive song, composed of flute-like notes, and is usually sung from a high perch.
This species is an essential indicator of the health of North American forests, and its population has declined in recent years due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Hylocichla |
| Species | H. mustelina |
24. Eastern Phoebe
The eastern phoebe (Sayornis) is a small passerine bird belonging to the family Tyrannidae. It is named after the French naturalist Charles Lucien Bonaparte, who first identified the species as Muscicapa saya.
The genus Sayornis is derived from the specific part of his name, Say’s phoebe, and the Ancient Greek ornis, meaning “bird.” The eastern phoebe is native to the east part of North America and is found in open woodlands, fields, and waterways.
It is a medium-sized passerine with a pale grey-brown back, a white throat, and contrasting dark brown wings. The eastern phoebe has a distinct call that is heard throughout its range. It is a social species, often seen in flocks in the winter.
It feeds mainly on insects, which it captures mid-air or picks off the ground. The eastern phoebe is an integral part of the ecosystem, providing an important food source for many species of raptors and other predators.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Sayornis |
| Species | S. phoebe |
Conclusion
Birds in Western North America are an essential part of the ecology and environment. They provide vital services such as pollination, pest control, seed dispersal, and food for other wildlife. They also offer recreation and aesthetic enjoyment to many people.
Despite their threats, birds in Western North America remain resilient and essential to their ecosystem and local communities.
