Louisiana, a state rich in diverse ecosystems and wildlife, is home to many stunning avian species. Amongst these, the presence of big birds adds a unique charm to the state’s already vibrant natural environment.
These larger-than-life creatures capture the imagination and offer an unparalleled experience for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
With their majestic wingspans and distinctive characteristics, big birds in Louisiana epitomize the beauty and splendour of the region’s avian population.
In this exploration, we will delve into the fascinating world of these extraordinary birds, exploring their diverse species, habitats, and significance in Louisiana’s ecosystem.
Whether it’s the iconic American bald eagle soaring through the sky or the elegant great blue heron silently wading in Louisiana’s countless waterways, these big birds provide an awe-inspiring sight that is bound to leave a lasting impression.
26 Big Birds in Louisiana
It seems like you’re looking for information about a specific type of bird in Louisiana. There are several species of big birds that can be found in Louisiana, and I’ll mention a few notable ones:
1. Pelican (Pelecanus spp.)
Pelicans are large waterbirds belonging to the genus Pelecanus. They are known for their distinctive long bills and large throat pouches, which they use for catching fish.
These birds are found worldwide, and there are eight different species of pelicans, including the American white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) and the brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis).
They are characterized by their graceful flight and impressive wing spans, reaching up to 9 feet. Pelicans are predominantly fish-eaters and are often seen gliding over water bodies, skimming the surface for their prey before scooping it up with their pouches.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
2. Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)
The Great Horned Owl, scientifically known as Bubo virginianus, is one of the most widespread and formidable owl species in North and South America. These birds are known for their striking appearance, with tufted “horns” of feathers atop their heads.
Great Horned Owls are powerful predators with strong talons and keen night vision. They can hunt various prey, from small mammals to birds, and are known for their hooting calls during nighttime.
Their adaptability and silent flight make them highly successful hunters, allowing them to thrive in various habitats, from dense forests to urban areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Genus | Bubo |
| Species | B. virginianus |
3. Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus)
The Pileated Woodpecker, scientifically known as Dryocopus pileatus, is a magnificent woodpecker native to North America.
This striking bird is known for its distinctive appearance, featuring a striking red crest and a mostly black body with white stripes on its face.
Pileated Woodpeckers are the largest woodpecker species in North America, with a wingspan of up to 30 inches. They are often found in mature forests, where they excavate large rectangular holes in trees in search of insects and their larvae.
Their loud, distinctive drumming and calls can be heard echoing through the woods, making them a well-known presence in many North American forests.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dryocopus |
| Species | D. pileatus |
4. Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis)
The Brown Pelican, scientifically known as Pelecanus occidentalis, is a coastal bird species found in the Americas. Known for their large size and long bills, these pelicans are primarily brown with a white neck and head during their breeding season.
They are known for their remarkable plunge-diving hunting technique, where they spot fish from the air and dive headfirst into the water to catch their prey.
Brown Pelicans are found along coastlines, estuaries, and other aquatic habitats and are highly adapted to marine life. They are social birds often seen flying in V formations or resting on the water’s surface.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. occidentalis |
5. Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura)
The Turkey Vulture, scientifically known as Cathartes aura, is a distinctive bird of prey found throughout the Americas.
These scavengers are easily recognized by their bald, red heads and dark brown-black plumage. Turkey Vultures are primarily carrion feeders, using their exceptional sense of smell to locate decaying animal carcasses.
They are often seen soaring gracefully in the sky on thermals, riding air currents with their broad wingspan. Despite their somewhat unappealing diet, these vultures play a crucial ecological role in cleaning up the environment by removing carrion and helping prevent disease spread.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Cathartidae |
| Genus | Cathartes |
| Species | C. aura |
6. Great Egret (Ardea alba)
The Great Egret, scientifically known as Ardea alba, is a magnificent wader bird found in various wetland habitats across the Americas.
These elegant birds are characterized by their tall, slender stature, pure white plumage, and long, graceful necks. They are skilled hunters, stalking their prey in shallow waters and striking with precision to catch fish, frogs, and other aquatic organisms.
During the breeding season, their plumage is adorned with long, delicate plumes known as “aigrettes,” which were once highly sought after for the millinery trade and led to their population decline.
Conservation efforts have since helped protect these beautiful birds, which continue to thrive in wetland ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. alba |
7. American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos):
The American White Pelican, scientifically known as Pelecanus erythrorhynchos, is a large waterbird found in North America.
Unlike the Brown Pelican, American White Pelicans have a striking white plumage with black wingtips and a distinctive orange bill during the breeding season.
They are known for their graceful flight and ability to soar for long distances. American White Pelicans are cooperative feeders, often working together in groups to corral fish in shallow waters before scooping them up with their large bills.
They primarily inhabit freshwater lakes, rivers, and marshes, and their charismatic presence is a common sight in many North American wetland areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Pelecanidae |
| Genus | Pelecanus |
| Species | P. erythrorhynchos |
8. Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias)
The Great Blue Heron, scientifically known as Ardea herodias, is a majestic wading bird found throughout North and Central America.
These tall, long-legged herons are known for their striking blue-grey plumage, dagger-like bills, and the distinctive “S”-shaped curve of their necks in flight.
Great Blue Herons are skilled hunters, often seen standing motionless in shallow waters, patiently waiting to ambush fish, frogs, and other small aquatic prey.
Their wingspan can reach up to 6 feet, making them a formidable presence in wetland habitats. Their haunting calls and elegant demeanour make them a beloved and iconic species of heron in the Americas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. herodias |
9. Crested Caracara (Caracara cheriway)
The Crested Caracara, scientifically known as Caracara Cheriway, is a distinctive bird of prey in North and Central America.
These striking raptors are known for their unique appearance, featuring a black crest, white neck, and bold facial markings.
Crested Caracaras are opportunistic feeders, and their diet includes a wide range of food items, from carrion and insects to small mammals and reptiles.
They are often seen scavenging on the ground and are known for their fearless nature, sometimes even stealing food from other predators.
These caracaras are known for their adaptability and can be found in various habitats, from open grasslands to wooded areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Genus | Caracara |
| Species | C. plancus |
10. Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis):
The Sandhill Crane, scientifically known as Antigone canadensis, is a large wading bird found in North America. These elegant cranes are known for their greyish plumage, distinctive red foreheads, and long necks.
Sandhill Cranes are known for their intricate courtship dances, which involve elaborate displays of leaps, bows, and calls. They are highly migratory birds, travelling great distances between their breeding and wintering grounds.
During migration, they can be seen in large flocks, creating an impressive spectacle in the sky. These cranes are primarily herbivorous, foraging for grains, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates in wetland habitats, grasslands, and agricultural fields.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Antigone |
| Species | A. canadensis |
11. Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus)
The Black Vulture, scientifically known as Coragyps atratus, is a scavenging bird of prey found in the Americas. These birds are easily recognized by their black plumage and bare, wrinkled heads.
Black Vultures are often seen soaring in the sky, riding thermals and searching for carrion to feed on. They have a keen sense of smell, which helps them locate decaying animal carcasses.
Although they primarily feed on carrion, they also consume some plant matter and occasionally prey on weak or injured animals.
Black Vultures are highly social birds, and they can be observed in groups, known as kettles, as they soar overhead.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Cathartidae |
| Genus | Coragyps |
| Species | C. atratus |
12. Whooping Crane (Grus americana)
The Whooping Crane, scientifically known as Grus americana, is one of North America’s most endangered bird species. These striking birds are known for their tall stature, white plumage, and distinctive black wingtips.
Whooping Cranes are named for their loud, trumpeting calls. They are North America’s tallest bird, with a height of around five feet.
Sadly, their population plummeted to near extinction in the mid-20th century, but dedicated conservation efforts have helped increase their numbers.
These cranes are migratory, travelling between breeding grounds in North America and wintering areas on the Gulf Coast of Texas.
Protecting their habitats and continued conservation work is essential for the survival of this iconic species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Grus |
| Species | G. americana |
13. Canada Goose (Branta canadensis)
The Canada Goose, scientifically known as Branta canadensis, is a familiar and widespread waterfowl species native to North America.
Recognizable by their distinctive black necks and white cheek patches, Canada Geese are known for their V-shaped formations during migration.
These adaptable birds can be found in various habitats, from urban parks to wetlands and grassy meadows. They are primarily herbivores, feeding on aquatic plants, grasses, and grains.
Canada Geese are also known for their loud honking calls, which can be heard as they communicate within their flocks.
They symbolise wildlife conservation success, having rebounded from near-extinction in the early 20th century through conservation efforts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. canadensis |
14. Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)
The Mute Swan, scientifically known as Cygnus olor, is a graceful waterfowl species native to Europe and Asia. These swans are characterized by their striking white plumage, long necks, and distinctive orange bills with a black knob at the base.
Despite the name “mute,” they are not completely silent and produce various vocalizations. Mute Swans are often found in freshwater habitats such as lakes, rivers, and ponds.
They are herbivorous, grazing on aquatic vegetation and sometimes dabbling for submerged plants. Mute Swans are known for their elegant and regal appearance, making them a popular and iconic bird species in both urban and natural settings.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Cygnus |
| Species | C. olor |
15. Wood Stork (Mycteria americana)
The Wood Stork, scientifically known as Mycteria americana, is a large wading bird native to the southeastern United States, Central America, and South America.
These distinctive birds are known for their bald, featherless heads and long, down-curved bills.
Wood Storks primarily inhabit wetlands and marshes, where they forage for aquatic prey such as fish, frogs, and crustaceans.
They are social birds, often seen nesting in colonies in trees, with multiple pairs building their nests close to one another.
Wood Storks have faced challenges due to habitat loss and have been listed as a threatened species in some regions, emphasizing the importance of wetland conservation.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Ciconiiformes |
| Family | Ciconiidae |
| Genus | Mycteria |
| Species | M. americana |
16. Red-Tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)
The Red-Tailed Hawk, scientifically known as Buteo jamaicensis, is one of North America’s most widespread and recognizable raptors.
These birds of prey are named for their distinctive rust-red tails, which are especially noticeable in flight. Red-tailed hawks are skilled hunters, preying on various small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
They are often seen soaring high in the sky or perched on utility poles and trees while scanning for potential prey. These hawks are adaptable and can be found in various habitats, from open grasslands to forests.
They are crucial in controlling rodent populations and are respected by birdwatchers and naturalists.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. jamaicensis |
17. Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni)
Swainson’s Hawk, scientifically known as Buteo swainsoni, is a migratory raptor found in North and South America. These hawks exhibit various plumage variations, including light and dark morphs.
They are known for their distinctive white throat and underparts, contrasting with a dark belly band. Swainson’s Hawks are long-distance migrants, travelling between their breeding grounds in North America and wintering areas in South America.
During migration, they can be seen in large flocks called “kettles.” Their diet primarily consists of small mammals, insects, and reptiles.
Swainson’s Hawks are celebrated for their impressive long-distance migrations, which showcase their adaptability and survival skills during their incredible journeys.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. swainsoni |
18. Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus)
The Northern Gannet, scientifically known as Morus bassanus, is a seabird native to the North Atlantic Ocean. These large, striking birds are known for their brilliant white plumage, contrasting with black wingtips.
Northern Gannets are highly skilled divers, plunging from great heights into the sea to catch fish. Their long, slender bills and strong wings make them formidable predators in the marine environment.
They are often seen in large colonies on rocky cliffs, where they nest and raise their chicks. These colonies are a remarkable sight, filled with the sounds of gannets calling and soaring gracefully above the waves.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Sulidae |
| Genus | Morus |
| Species | M. bassanus |
19. Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga)
The Anhinga, scientifically known as Anhinga anhinga, is a unique bird found in the Americas, often referred to as the “snakebird” due to its long neck and snake-like appearance when swimming.
These waterbirds are skilled hunters, often seen swimming with only their neck and head above water, searching for fish and other aquatic prey.
Anhingas have pointed bills, which they use to spear their catch. They are known for their striking plumage, with males displaying black feathers with silvery-white wing patches and females featuring a brown neck and body.
These birds are commonly found in freshwater habitats such as swamps, marshes, and slow-moving rivers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Anhingidae |
| Genus | Anhinga |
| Species | A. anhinga |
20. Coot (Fulica americana)
The American Coot, scientifically known as Fulica americana, is a common waterbird in North America. These birds are easily recognizable by their dark grey-black plumage, white bills, and distinctive lobed toes.
American Coots are skilled swimmers and divers, feeding on aquatic plants, invertebrates, and small fish. They are often seen in large flocks on ponds, lakes, and marshes, where they forage and interact socially.
Despite their name, American Coots are not actually related to ducks but belong to the rail family. Their adaptability to a wide range of wetland habitats and distinctive calls make them familiar with North American wetlands.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Fulica |
21. Rough-Legged Buzzard (Buteo lagopus)
The Rough-Legged Buzzard, scientifically known as Buteo lagopus, is a large raptor native to North America, Europe, and Asia. These birds of prey are known for their feathered legs, which distinguish them from other hawks and eagles.
Rough-legged buzzards typically inhabit open, northern landscapes, such as tundra, grasslands, and marshes. They are superb hunters, specializing in small mammals like voles and lemmings, which they locate from the air and capture with their sharp talons.
These buzzards are known for their migratory behaviour, with many individuals wintering in more temperate regions. Their adaptability to harsh, northern climates and their distinctive plumage make them an interesting species for bird enthusiasts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. lagopus |
22. Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis)
The Ferruginous Hawk, scientifically known as Buteo regalis, is a large and powerful bird of prey found in North America. These hawks are known for their striking rusty or rufous plumage on their legs and wings, which gives them their name.
Ferruginous Hawks are often seen in open grasslands and prairies, where they hunt for various prey, including ground squirrels, rabbits, and other small mammals.
They have keen eyesight and can spot their quarry from great heights before swooping down for a successful capture.
Conservation efforts are critical to protect the habitat of these hawks, as they are sensitive to habitat loss and changes in prey availability.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. regalis |
23. Barred Owl (Strix varia)
The Barred Owl, scientifically known as Strix varia, is a widespread and nocturnal owl species found in North America. Known for their distinctive “who-cooks-for-you” hooting call, Barred Owls are often associated with forested habitats, swamps, and wooded areas.
They have mottled brown and white plumage, featuring horizontal barring on their chest and vertical streaks on their belly. Barred Owls are skilled hunters, primarily feeding on small mammals, birds, and amphibians.
They are known for adapting to various environments and have even successfully colonized urban areas. Despite their nocturnal habits, they are occasionally seen during daylight hours, making them a favourite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Genus | Strix |
| Species | S. varia |
24. Snow Goose (Anser caerulescens)
The Snow Goose, scientifically known as Anser caerulescens, is a striking waterfowl species found in North America. These geese are named for their predominantly white plumage, which is accentuated by black wingtips.
They have two colour variations: the white morph and the blue morph, with the latter featuring a dark greyish-blue plumage.
Snow Geese are known for their long migrations, travelling thousands of miles between their breeding grounds in the Arctic and wintering areas in the southern United States and Mexico.
They are herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses and aquatic plants in wetland habitats. Snow Geese often gather in large flocks, creating impressive aerial displays during their migration.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anser |
| Species | A. caerulescens |
25. White-Tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus)
The White-Tailed Kite, scientifically known as Elanus leucurus, is a striking raptor found in the Americas. These birds of prey are known for their beautiful white plumage, contrasted by a striking grey head and black shoulder patches.
White-Tailed Kites often hover gracefully over open grasslands, marshes, and agricultural fields as they search for prey. Their diet primarily consists of small mammals, especially rodents, which they capture with their sharp talons.
They are known for their unique hunting behaviour, where they hover in the air, suspended by rapid wing beats, before diving down to make a precise strike. White-Tailed Kites are a stunning and agile species, making them a favourite among birdwatchers.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Elanus |
| Species | E. leucurus |
26. Double-Crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus)
The Double-Crested Cormorant, scientifically known as Phalacrocorax auritus, is a large aquatic bird found in North America.
These cormorants are known for their sleek black plumage, webbed feet, and distinctive orange throat pouches, which become more prominent during the breeding season.
They are exceptional divers and swimmers, equipped with dense bones that help them submerge easily underwater. Double-crested cormorants primarily feed on fish, which they catch by diving and pursuing their prey underwater.
They are often seen perched on rocks, tree branches, and other structures with their wings outstretched, a behaviour that helps them dry their feathers after a swim. These birds are commonly found in a variety of freshwater and coastal habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Clade | Dinosauria |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Nannopterum |
| Species | N. auritum |
Conclusion
Big birds in Louisiana encompass diverse species, adding vibrancy and uniqueness to the state’s ecosystem.
From the majestic whooping crane to the feisty roseate spoonbill, these large avian creatures play vital roles in preserving wetlands, pollinating plants, and managing insect populations.
Despite facing various environmental challenges, efforts to protect and conserve these big birds are ongoing, with organizations and individuals collaborating to ensure their survival.
By appreciating and safeguarding these magnificent creatures, we can contribute to preserving biodiversity and maintaining the rich ecological balance that Louisiana is known for..