50 Common Birds In Alberta

Alberta is known to attract bird watchers from all over the world who come to experience the diverse range of bird species that make their home in the province.

From the majestic great horned owl to the vibrant yellow warbler, Alberta offers visitors the opportunity to observe a fascinating array of birds. The province’s diverse landscapes, which range from prairie grasslands to rugged mountains, provide a variety of habitats in that birds thrive in.

With over 400 species of birds present in the province, Alberta offers an exciting opportunity for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore and appreciate the beauty of these creatures.

This article will highlight some of the most noteworthy birds in Alberta and give readers a glimpse into the fascinating world of these feathered creatures.

1. Phasianidae

The Phasianidae family of birds is one that contains many popular gamebirds, with a total of 185 species divided across 54 genera.

These heavy ground-living birds include pheasants, partridges, junglefowl, chickens, and turkeys among others like Old World quail and peafowl.

This large family was formerly split into two subfamilies known as the Phasianinae and Perdicinae but this classification has since been changed to reflect more current scientific findings on them.

All these different types of birds have certain things in common such as their strong legs for scratching through leaves or soil looking for food items including insects, seeds, and other vegetation which makes up most of their diet.

They also all tend to be quite colorful in order to attract mates during breeding season when males will often display vibrant feathers or do dances around females in an attempt at courtship ritual displays.

The majority are monogamous creatures too although some may form short-term pair bonds before going off alone again once mating has taken place – either way.

There tends to be very little parental care given by adults after eggs have hatched so chicks need to fend for themselves right away.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Galliformes
Superfamily	Phasianoidea
Family	Phasianidae Horsfield, 1821

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2. Thrush

Thrushes are small to medium-sized birds belonging to the Turdidae family, and found all over the world. They live on or near the ground and feed on insects, other invertebrates and fruit.

Their feathers range from greyish browns to deep blues in colour with spotted wings that help them blend into their natural habitats such as forests, woodlands and shrubs.

Thrushes have distinctive songs which they sing during spring mating season; many species also perform complex flight displays for courtship rituals.

These birds may be solitary creatures but can often be seen foraging together in groups or pairs when searching for food sources like worms, snails or berries.

A healthy thrush population is an indication of a balanced environment since they require clean water sources as well as plenty of vegetation cover – making them important indicators of ecosystem health worldwide.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Suborder	Passeri
Family	Turdidae Rafinesque, 1815

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3. American Robin

The American robin is a migratory bird, belonging to the true thrush genus and Turdidae family.

It was named after its European counterpart due to the similar reddish-orange breast they both possess; however, they are not related closely.

This species can be seen through most of North America during winter months, as well as in parts of Mexico and Central America where it also breeds.

They have plump bodies with gray upperparts and white underparts that vary from yellow on their throats down to orange toward their bellies.

Robins feed on fruits such as berries or insects like worms which makes them an important part of ecosystems by helping disperse seeds naturally throughout these areas.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Turdidae
Genus	Turdus
Species	T. migratorius

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4. American Goldfinch

The American goldfinch is a small North American bird in the finch family. Males are vibrant yellow with black wings and tail, while females are duller in colouration.

It migrates from mid-Alberta to North Carolina during breeding season, south of Canada–United States border to Mexico for its wintering grounds.

The only finch which undergoes complete molt every year, it displays sexual dichromatism where males have brighter colours than their female counterparts.

They feed mainly on seeds but also eat insects such as aphids and caterpillars when raising youngs; they often occur near thistles or other plants that produce viable seed heads.

Their call consists of an array of chirps and trills making them quite conspicuous.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Fringillidae
Subfamily	Carduelinae
Genus	Spinus
Species	S. tristis

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5. Black-Capped Chickadee

The black-capped chickadee is a small and cheerful songbird found in deciduous and mixed forests across North America. It has an iconic black cap, white cheeks, gray back and wings with whitish bars on them.

The underparts are usually light colored or greyish brown. This species is well adapted to cold winters as it can reduce its body temperature by up to 8°C while roosting at night; this helps save energy during the colder months of the year.

It feeds mainly on insects but also eats seeds, fruits and suet from bird feeders when available.

Black-capped chickadees are popular birds among backyard visitors due to their sociable nature – they often establish lifelong partnerships with one another for breeding purposes.

Furthermore, they have been designated as state birds of Massachusetts and Maine in USA plus New Brunswick in Canada – a testament to how beloved these little avian friends truly are.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Paridae
Genus	Poecile
Species	P. atricapillus

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6. Wrens

Wrens are a family of small brown passerine birds found mainly in the Americas. They are considered one of the most abundant bird species, with 88 known varieties divided into 19 genera.

The Eurasian wren is the only type that inhabits Europe and other parts of the Old World, where it’s commonly referred to simply as “wren.”

This species has been given its name due to similar-looking unrelated birds living elsewhere such as New Zealand wrasses.

Wrens have tiny bodies with thin bills and long tails which they often hold upright for hours at a time while singing their loud cheery songs from treetops or low shrubs.

Their diet consists mostly of insects but can also include fruits and seeds depending on availability in their habitat range.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Certhioidea
Family	Troglodytidae Swainson, 1832

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7. Baltimore Oriole

The Baltimore Oriole is a small, blackbird-like bird found in eastern North America. It’s named for the resemblance of its male colors to those on Lord Baltimore’s coat-of-arms from 17th century.

These birds migrate and breed during springtime and are quite common in their habitats.

Studies have shown that this species interbreeds with western Bullock’s orioles, leading both to be classified as a single species – Icterus galbula.

The males typically have orange feathers along the chest, back, wings and tail while females display tan or yellowish shades instead of bright orange ones like males do.

Both sexes share white wing bars and dark brown eyes which makes them easily distinguishable among other birds.

They can often be seen flitting around trees feeding off nectar buds or insects such as grasshoppers & caterpillars they catch while flying around.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Icteridae
Genus	Icterus
Species	I. galbula

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8. Blue Jay

The Blue Jay is a beautiful bird that resides in eastern and central United States, as well as Newfoundland Canada.

They have an unmistakable blue colored plumage with white markings on their heads and wings.

These birds are highly adaptable to different habitats ranging from deciduous forests to urban areas.

As part of the Corvidae family, they are known for being intelligent problem solvers who will often use tools or mimic vocalizations of other species like hawks when defending their territories.

Their diet consists mostly of insects, seeds and nuts but can also include small vertebrates such as frogs or lizards if food resources become scarce.

Overall these birds provide much needed color to our environment while playing important roles in maintaining healthy ecosystems through pollination services and seed dispersal activities.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Corvidae
Genus	Cyanocitta
Species	C. cristata

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9. New World Warblers

New World warblers are an incredibly diverse family of small birds found only in the Americas. They range in size from tiny hummingbirds to large thrushes, and come in a variety of vibrant colors.

All have thin bills made for eating insects which form their main diet. Most species live predominantly arboreal lives, meaning they spend most of their time among trees or bushes searching for food.

However some members such as ovenbirds and waterthrushes prefer more terrestrial habitats like forest floors where they can scavenge for bugs on the ground instead.

Warblers provide a great source of entertainment with their beautiful songs often filling up woodlands during mornings and evenings throughout springtime.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Emberizoidea
Family	Parulidae Wetmore et al., 1947

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10. Downy Woodpecker

The downy woodpecker is a small species of woodpecker found in North America. Growing up to 7 inches long, it can be identified by its white belly and spotted wings.

It inhabits forests throughout the United States and Canada, with the exception of deserts in the southwest and northern tundra.

This bird nests in tree cavities and feeds mostly on insects but will supplement its diet with fruit or nuts when available.

The Downy Woodpecker has an unmistakable call that sounds like a loud ‘pik-er’, similar to other members of its family such as the Hairy Woodpecker.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Piciformes
Family	Picidae
Genus	Dryobates
Species	D. pubescens

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11. American Crow

The American crow is a large bird of the Corvidae family, native to most parts of North America.

It is similar in size and structure to its European counterpart, the carrion crow, as well as Eurasia’s hooded crow.

The three species occupy the same ecological niche, but are distinguishable by their differences in appearance.

American crows have black feathers covering their entire body with wingspan averaging between 17-21 inches wide for males and 16-19 inches for females.

They feed on insects such as grasshoppers, beetles and caterpillars; they also eat grains from fields or abandoned farms during winter months when food sources become scarcer.

In addition to feeding habits American crows can be identified by their distinct call which resembles a “caw” sound that travels long distances over open terrain making them popular among birdwatchers.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Corvidae
Genus	Corvus
Species	C. brachyrhynchos

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12. House Finch

The House Finch is a species of finch native to western North America and has been introduced in the eastern half of the continent as well as Hawaii.

It’s an average-sized finch with adults measuring 12.5 – 15 cm (5 – 6 inches) long and having wingspans between 20 – 25 cm (8 – 10 inches).

The upperparts are brown, while its underparts range from pale grayish white to yellow depending on subspecies.

Its face is streaked or spotted with reddish coloration; males typically have brighter plumage than females due to sexual dimorphism.

They’re mostly found near human habitations such as farms and gardens where they feed on grains, fruits, insects etc., making them very popular among birders who want something colorful for their backyard.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Fringillidae
Subfamily	Carduelinae
Genus	Haemorhous
Species	H. mexicanus

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13. Dark-Eyed Junco

The Dark-eyed Junco is a species of small, grayish sparrows that are found across much of temperate North America and in the Arctic during summer.

It was formally described by Carl Linnaeus in 1766, who named it after its distinctive dark eyes.

This bird has a very variable appearance due to the many different subspecies it contains, making its systematics difficult to unravel.

The plumage varies from white or light gray on their underparts with slate grey backs and wings; black heads with white outer tail feathers; brown head stripes; yellow bills; pink legs and feet; as well as various shades between all these colours.

They also have considerable sexual dimorphism where males tend to be more colourful than females but share similar characteristics such as short tails and rounded bodies – both sexes being around 16 cm long when fully grown.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Passerellidae
Genus	Junco
Species	J. hyemalis

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14. White-Breasted Nuthatch

The White-breasted Nuthatch is a medium-sized bird belonging to the nuthatch family Sittidae. It measures around 15.5 cm in length and its colour varies throughout its range.

Males have a light blue-grey upperpart, with black crown and nape whereas females have a dark grey crown instead of black one.

The underparts are whitish, with reddish tinge on sides and flanks while the bill is short and stout with pale base near eyes which can be yellow or white depending upon geographic location..

This species feeds mainly on insects but will also eat seeds, nuts and berries when available.

They prefer open woodlands where they often climb trees searching for food along trunks as well as branches underneath bark crevices creating their nest there too.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Sittidae
Genus	Sitta
Species	S. carolinensis

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15. Red-Winged Blackbird

The red-winged blackbird is a beautiful bird found in most of North America and Central America.

Its distinct features include a glossy black body, with white shoulder patches and bright red wing coverts year round.

It prefers wetland habitats such as marshes, ponds, lakeshores and agricultural fields. During breeding season they inhabit grassy areas near water then move south for the winter months.

For food they mainly eat insects but also consume wild fruit or grains.

They are very social birds often seen in large flocks during migration times when their unmistakable “conk-la-ree” call can be heard echoing across the sky.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Icteridae
Genus	Agelaius
Species	A. phoeniceus

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16. Chipping Sparrow

The Chipping Sparrow is a small passerine bird found across most of North America. It has two subspecies, the eastern and western chipping sparrows which migrate seasonally to overwinter in warmer climates.

The birds are grey above with white underparts, have a rufous cap with black stripes and large eyes surrounded by light brown feathers.

They feed mainly on seeds but can also be seen eating insects during breeding season when raising their young chicks.

These intrepid little birds live in open grasslands such as prairies or meadows where they build cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs to raise their young family.

Their cheerful song often sounds like ‘chips’ hence its name; Chipping Sparrow.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Passerellidae
Genus	Spizella
Species	S. passerina

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17. American Wigeon

The American Wigeon, also known as the Baldpate, is a species of dabbling duck found throughout North America.

It closely resembles its Eurasian counterpart and was formally described in 1789 by German naturalist Johann Friedrich Gmelin.

This medium-sized bird has an overall grey body with white feathers on its face and belly that give it a distinctive bald appearance.

Its wings are brownish black with green speculum markings on them while the tail is dark brown or black at the base and gradually lightens near tips to become chestnut colored.

The male wigeons have purple patches on their heads during breeding season along with yellow eyes which helps differentiate them from females who have duller colors around their faces instead of bright ones like males possess.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Mareca
Species	M. americana

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18. Brown-Headed Cowbird

The Brown-headed Cowbird is a small, obligate brood parasitic icterid native to temperate and subtropical North America. It has a brown head with glossy black plumage on the body, wings and tail feathers.

During summer months it can be found in prairies, grasslands as well as open wooded areas but during winter they migrate southwards towards the United States of Mexico for warmer climate.

They are mainly insectivorous birds which feed on insects like caterpillars or beetles but also consume some grains too.

The female bird lays its eggs in nests of other species who then incubates them until hatching time thus leaving their own chicks uncared for by themselves.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Icteridae
Genus	Molothrus
Species	M. ater

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19. Yellow-Rumped Warbler

The Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) is a migratory bird species that can be found throughout North America.

It has an extensive range, from the Pacific and Atlantic coats of the US to Canada and Central America, with a concentration in northern areas during breeding season.

These birds migrate southwards for wintering grounds where they find plentiful food sources such as insects and berries.

They are easily identified by their yellow patches on either side of their tails, along with white underparts, gray back feathers and two distinct crown stripes.

One black or greyish-brown above the eyes extending towards its neck banded in yellow or light brown colouration.

Furthermore, these warblers have strong legs which allow them to cling onto branches while hunting for prey making them adept at maneuvering through tree cover quickly.

All together this makes the Yellow-rumped Warbler an attractive backyard visitor year round.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Parulidae
Genus	Setophaga
Species	S. coronata

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20. Canada Goose

The Canada goose is a majestic bird with a black head and neck, white cheeks, chin and brown body. It’s native to North America but occasionally migrates to northern Europe across the Atlantic.

The species has been introduced in the United Kingdom, Ireland and Finland as well. Canada geese are strong flyers that travel in flocks for protection from predators; they also form monogamous pairs for life.

They feed on grasses or grains near ponds or wetlands where they make their nests of down which incubate eggs during summertime before hatching them out into goslings later on.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Branta
Species	B. canadensis

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21. Great Horned Owl

The Great Horned Owl is an impressive bird native to the Americas. It is well-known for its wide range and adaptability, as it can be found in many different habitats across the continent.

Its diet consists primarily of rabbits, hares, rats and mice; however, they are also known to consume skunks, geese and other birds too.

With their powerful talons capable of crushing prey with ease, these owls have earned themselves a fearsome reputation due to their incredible strength.

Their iconic horn-like tufts on either side of its head add another layer of intimidation which helps them stand out from other owls in the area.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Bubo
Species	B. virginianus

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22. Finches

Finches are a diverse group of passerine birds found around the world, excluding Australia and polar regions. They vary in size from small to medium-sized, with stout conical bills adapted for eating seeds and nuts.

Many species have brightly coloured plumage; this helps them stand out against their natural habitats which can range from deserts to forests.

Finches occupy these areas all year round without migrating elsewhere – making them particularly well suited for local environments.

As part of the Fringillidae family they possess unique characteristics that make them popular amongst birdwatchers everywhere.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Passeroidea
Family	Fringillidae Leach, 1820

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23. Accipitridae

Accipitridae birds are a diverse family of raptors ranging in size from small to large. They have powerful hooked beaks which they use for hunting and tearing apart their prey, such as insects, medium-sized mammals and carrion.

Some species even feed on fruit. These birds can be found all over the world, making them an incredibly successful group of predators.

Accipitridae are adaptable hunters with keen eyesight that helps them spot potential meals from far away distances.

Their sharp talons assist them in grasping onto their victims while feeding or defending themselves against enemies.

Not only do these avian creatures provide us with visual beauty but also help keep our ecosystems healthy by keeping pest populations under control.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae Vieillot, 1816

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24. Loggerhead Shrike

The Loggerhead Shrike is a carnivorous bird found only in North America. It belongs to the family Laniidae and is known as the “butcherbird” because of its habit of catching prey, such as amphibians, insects, lizards and small mammals.

The shrike has a black mask around its eyes and grey wings with white patches on them.

Its back is black with white spots that resemble stars or snowflakes; some individuals may have brown feathers instead of black ones.

This species feeds mainly by perching from elevated locations like bushes or trees where it can spot potential meals below it before diving down for capture.

Interestingly enough, these birds are also known to store their food by impaling it onto thorns which they use later when hungry.

With less than 2 million estimated population left in wild today this species needs our help so we should do whatever we can to protect them better.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Laniidae
Genus	Lanius
Species	L. ludovicianus

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25. Grebes

Grebes are a type of diving bird found in freshwater habitats around the world. They belong to the order Podicipediformes and have 22 species that exist across six genera.

Some species can also be found in marine environments during their migration or winter season, and some even live flightless lives on stable lakes.

Grebes vary greatly between regions; for example, they range from 4-32 inches long with anywhere from 8-30 ounces of weight depending on which species it is.

Their plumage may be black, browns/grays or whites but usually consist of bright colors such as yellows, blues and greens while underwater they use these feathers to help them streamline through the water quickly.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Clade	Neoaves
Clade	Mirandornithes
Order	Podicipediformes Fürbringer, 1888
Family	Podicipedidae Bonaparte, 1831

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26. Northern Goshawk

The Northern Goshawk is a medium-large bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family. It has been known as one of the true hawks, with “Accipiter” meaning hawk in Latin and “gentilis” referring to its noble characteristics.

They are found worldwide, most commonly in wooded areas such as forests or thickets where they hunt small birds and mammals.

The males have spotted grey upperparts while females tend to be fully brown above with some lighter barring on their underparts.

These raptors rely heavily on speed and agility when hunting from either perches or during aerial dives at high speeds for their prey which makes them formidable predators that can reach up to 40 mph.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Genus	Accipiter
Species	A. gentilis

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27. Common Goldeneye

The Common Goldeneye is a medium-sized sea duck from the genus Bucephala. It has an iconic golden eye and bulbous head, which gave it its scientific name – Boukephalos (bullheaded).

This species can be found in many areas of North America, Europe and Asia. They are usually seen swimming alone or in pairs near large bodies of open water such as lakes and rivers.

In addition to their distinctive eyes, they have white wing patches on either side with black spots along the edges – helping them stand out among other ducks.

The diet of these birds includes aquatic insects, mollusks and crustaceans.

During mating season males often perform elaborate courtship displays including head bobbing while producing loud calls that can travel quite far distances across the landscape.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Bucephala
Species	B. clangula

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28. Red-Breasted Nuthatch

The Red-breasted Nuthatch is a beautiful and vocal songbird that can be found in coniferous forests across Canada, Alaska, the northeastern United States and western US.

This small bird has blue-grey upperparts with cinnamon underparts, a white throat and face with black eye stripe, straight grey bill and black crown.

Its call sounds like a tin trumpet; it’s high-pitched yet nasal.

During mating season they form monogamous pairs to build their nest near tree trunks or branches at low heights off the ground where they lay 2 – 8 eggs at once.

They are very active little birds who love clinging to trees while searching for insect larvae or seeds within the bark of trees which helps control pest populations.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Sittidae
Genus	Sitta
Species	S. canadensis

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29. Snowy Owl

The Snowy Owl is an impressive bird of prey native to both the North American and Palearctic Arctic regions.

It has a unique white plumage that helps it blend in with its snowy tundra habitat, as well as several adaptations that make it suitable for life in cold climates.

These include thick feathers which insulate their bodies from frigid temperatures, large eyes adapted for hunting during long winter nights, and talons designed for gripping slippery surfaces such as ice or snow.

This majestic owl will soar high above its territory searching for food before gliding back down again to perch atop rocks or trees.

The Snowy Owl truly stands out amongst other birds of prey – an iconic symbol of the beauty and mystery of the north.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Bubo
Species	B. scandiacus

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30. Great Blue Heron

The Great Blue Heron is a majestic wading bird found in many parts of North America, Central America, the Caribbean and even as far away as the Galapagos Islands.

It has an impressive wingspan which can reach up to six feet wide. Its feathers are mainly bluish-gray with brownish streaks on both its neck and chest while its head displays white plumes.

The adult herons can also be identified by their yellow bill and legs.

They live near bodies of water such as lakes, marshes or rivers where they feed on fish using a spear like motion with their sharp bills.

An all-white population exists only in south Florida and the Florida Keys making it quite unique.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Ardeidae
Genus	Ardea
Species	A. herodias

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31. Pine Grosbeak

Pine grosbeak is a beautiful bird found across Alaska, western US, Canada and Fennoscandia to Siberia. It belongs to the family of true finch and it is the only species in its genus Pinicola.

This frugivorous bird has bright red feathers on its head and wings with yellowish white underparts that make it very attractive.

During winter season they feed mostly on small fruits like rowans, blueberries etc., while during summer months their diet consists mainly of insects.

They are shy birds but can be seen perched at high branches or singing from the topmost trees if you look carefully enough.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Fringillidae
Subfamily	Carduelinae
Genus	Pinicola Vieillot, 1808
Species	P. enucleator

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32. Trumpeter Swan

The majestic Trumpeter Swan is the largest native waterfowl in North America, with a wingspan of up to 8 feet.

Found throughout Canada and parts of the United States, this beautiful bird can live for up to 20 years.

It has black legs and bill that are tipped yellow as well as snow-white feathers that help it stand out in its natural habitat.

The trumpeter swan’s diet consists mainly of aquatic vegetation such as roots, tubers, stems, leaves and seeds which they find by wading into shallow waters or grazing on land.

These birds form strong family bonds; both parents raise their young together until they reach adulthood at four years old.

Through conservation efforts these incredible creatures have been brought back from near extinction giving us all something special to appreciate.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Cygnus
Species	C. buccinator

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33. Yellow-Breasted Chat

The Yellow-breasted Chat is a large songbird found in North America, and is the only member of its family Icteriidae.

It was once part of the New World Warbler family but has since been moved to its own group due to taxonomic uncertainty.

This bird stands out as it was previously thought to be the largest species within Parulida.

Its plumage features shades of yellow, olive green and browns; males have darker heads while females are slightly paler overall.

The chat’s diet consists mostly of insects such as caterpillars and beetles which they forage from low vegetation or glean off leaves on tree branches during summer months when their populations peak.

They also feed heavily on fruits like elderberry, grapes and wild cherries during migration periods throughout spring/fall season providing much needed energy for long journeys southwards or northwards depending upon geography location each year.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Emberizoidea
Family	Icteriidae Baird, 1858
Genus	Icteria Vieillot, 1808
Species	I. virens

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34. Purple Finch

The Purple Finch is a species of finch from North America, belonging to the Fringillidae family.

It’s also known as an “American Rosefinch” due to its resemblance in color and size to some European rosefinches.

Their plumage ranges from pinkish-purple on their heads and wings, with a light brown underside.

They are small birds that measure about 5-6 inches long with short thin beaks for eating seeds and insects.

In addition, they have thick round bodies which help them stay warm during cold winters in the northern parts of their range.

The Purple Finch has adapted well over time making it easier for them to survive even though there are increasing threats posed by humans such as deforestation or habitat destruction caused by development projects near their habitats.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Fringillidae
Subfamily	Carduelinae
Genus	Haemorhous
Species	H. purpureus

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35. Snow Bunting

The snow bunting is a small and colourful passerine bird found in the Arctic regions of the northern hemisphere.

With its bright white feathers, black markings on its wings and tail, it stands out amongst other birds that inhabit these cold climates.

This species has adapted well to surviving in this harsh environment; they nest under boulders or rocks so their eggs are shielded from predators and blizzards alike.

They feed mainly on insects during summer months but switch to seeds when winter arrives as they seek food sources which will not freeze over with ice.

The snow bunting is an important part of the local ecosystem due to providing sustenance for larger animals such as foxes and owls who rely upon them for survival throughout wintertime.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Calcariidae
Genus	Plectrophenax
Species	P. nivalis

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36. Prairie Falcon

The Prairie Falcon is a distinct species of medium-large sized falcon found in western North America. It has an average length of 40cm, wingspan of 1 meter and weighs around 720g.

Females tend to be larger than males typical for all falcons.

Although separate from the Peregrine Falcon, they share many similarities such as similar coloring on their back and shoulders with dark spots on light brown feathers which helps them blend into the environment while hunting prey like small birds or rodents over open areas like grasslands or deserts.

They are also known to fly extremely fast reaching speeds up to 80 miles per hour.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Falconiformes
Family	Falconidae
Genus	Falco
Species	F. mexicanus

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37. Common Redpoll

The Common Redpoll is a species of bird belonging to the finch family. It has an orange-red crown, white breast and grey back with two black stripes running down either side.

Its wings are barred in browns and its tail feathers have a grayish tinge at their tips. The redpoll breeds mainly south from Arctic regions in habitats that contain shrubs or thickets.

First classified by Linnaeus in 1758 under the binomial name Fringilla flammea, it’s genus Acanthis originates from Ancient Greek akantha meaning “thorn” or “prickle”.

This small yet colourful bird feeds mainly on seeds such as thistles during summer months but switches over to birch catkins when winter arrives – making them a common sight throughout much of North America and Eurasia.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Fringillidae
Subfamily	Carduelinae
Genus	Acanthis
Species	A. flammea

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38. Red Crossbill

The Red Crossbill is a small passerine bird belonging to the finch family. It has distinctively crossed mandibles, which it uses to extract seeds from conifer cones and other fruits.

This species can be identified by its vivid colouring; males are red or orange in hue whilst females tend to have more green or yellow feathers.

Furthermore, there is considerable variation between individuals of this species when it comes to their beaks size and shape as well as their calls—which range from short trills through chirps and harsh cackles up until loud rattling sounds at times.

They’re an interesting sight in many parts of Europe, particularly during winter months where they often feed on pine cone seeds that drop down onto lower branches of trees.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Fringillidae
Subfamily	Carduelinae
Genus	Loxia
Species	L. curvirostra

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39. Pine Siskin

The Pine Siskin is a small bird from the finch family, primarily found in North America. It has an irregular migratory range and was first described by American ornithologist Alexander Wilson in 1810.

The species gets its name pinus, which means “pine-tree” in Latin, due to its frequent presence near coniferous trees.

Pine siskins are known for their yellow wing bars and streaked chests as well as their perky mannerisms when perched on branches or flying around looking for food during colder months.

They feed mostly on seeds of weeds, grasses and other plants but can also be seen consuming insects at times during summertime nesting season.

Its loud calls often alert nearby birds of potential danger while they nest high up among pine tree limbs where predators cannot reach them easily.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Fringillidae
Subfamily	Carduelinae
Genus	Spinus
Species	S. pinus

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40. Evening Grosbeak

The Evening Grosbeak (Hesperiphona vespertina) is a beautiful passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae native to North America.

It has an impressive wingspan of up to 20 inches and its plumage is mostly black, yellow or grey with distinctive white patches on each side of its head.

Its diet consists mainly of seeds and other plant matter as well as small insects, fruit and berries when available.

The male’s song is loud and melodic which can be heard from some distance away during breeding season making it a popular species for avid backyard birders.

The Evening Grosbeak typically nests high in coniferous trees where they build cup-shaped structures lined with feathers or grass that provide protection against predators.

Overall this species makes an excellent addition to any backyard aviary.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Fringillidae
Subfamily	Carduelinae
Genus	Hesperiphona
Species	H. vespertina

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41. Two-Barred Crossbill

The Two-barred crossbill is a small passerine bird belonging to the finch family Fringillidae.

It gets its scientific name, Loxia leucoptera, from Ancient Greek – with ‘Loxia’ meaning ‘crosswise’ and ‘leucoptera’ translating to “white-winged” in reference to its white wings.

The species has two subspecies: the white-winged crossbill (Loxia leucoptera leucoptera) that can be found in North America and the two bar crossbill (Loxia leucocephala) which inhabits Europe, Asia as well as parts of northern Africa.

These birds feed mainly on conifer seeds but have also been seen consuming insects such as beetles or caterpillars during breeding season when food resources are scarce for their young ones.

They construct nests made out of twigs near trunks of spruce trees where they lay 2–6 eggs at one time.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Fringillidae
Subfamily	Carduelinae
Genus	Loxia
Species	L. leucoptera

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42. Great Grey Owl

The Great Grey Owl is the world’s largest species of owl and is found across the Northern Hemisphere. It has many other names such as Phantom of The North, Cinereous Owl, Spectral Owl and Lapland Owl.

This majestic bird stands at an impressive length of about 24 inches with a wingspan that can reach up to five feet.

Its unique plumage allows it to blend in well with its natural environment which makes spotting this elusive creature quite difficult.

Despite being generally silent during most times, they are known for their deep hooting calls when mating or roosting season arrives.

These magnificent birds feed on small mammals like mice, voles and hares but have also been seen hunting larger prey such as ducks and grouse depending upon availability in their area.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Strix
Species	S. nebulosa

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43. Clay-Colored Sparrow

The Clay-colored sparrow is a small, light brown bird found in North America. It has pale underparts with darker streaks on its back and a white line above the eyes that contrasts against its dark crown.

Its wings have wing bars and it also has a distinctive light brown cheek patch. Its short bill is typically pale in colour which adds to its unique appearance.

This friendly little bird often feeds near houses or gardens where they can easily find food sources such as seeds and insects while making cheerful chirps during their search for sustenance.

They are an important part of the local ecosystem since they help keep insect numbers down, allowing farmers to have better harvests without needing pesticides.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Passerellidae
Genus	Spizella
Species	S. pallida

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44. Tree Swallow

The Tree Swallow is a migratory bird of the Hirundinidae family, first described by French ornithologist Louis Vieillot in 1807. It has glossy blue-green upperparts, and white underparts with iridescent violet on its throat and breast.

Its wings are blackish above with pale grey below, while its tail feathers are blackish-blue with white edges.

During breeding season they build cup shaped nests out of grasses or twigs which are lined with animal hair or fur found near their nesting sites.

They feed mainly on insects such as flies and beetles that they catch while flying over fields or water surfaces during summer months when food is abundant for them to survive migration back southward in winter time.

The tree swallow is an important part of our environment both aesthetically and ecologically due to it’s insectivorous diet helping keep pest populations low in certain areas where agricultural crops may otherwise be damaged without these birds around.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Hirundinidae
Genus	Tachycineta
Species	T. bicolor

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45. Black-Billed Magpie

The black-billed magpie is an iconic bird of the western half of North America and one of only four songbirds with a tail that makes up over half its body length.

With its glossy black feathers offset by white patches, they can be seen in open woodlands or near agricultural areas.

Their diet consists mainly of insects, carrion and grains but they often scavenge human food as well.

They are highly social birds who live in large groups and communicate through loud calls, snaps and rattles when defending their territory from other airborne predators like hawks or eagles.

Magpies have proven to be hardy survivors despite habitat loss due to urbanization so there’s hope these remarkable birds will remain part our landscape for many years to come.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Corvidae
Genus	Pica
Species	P. hudsonia

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46. American Yellow Warbler

The American Yellow Warbler (Setophaga petechia) is a species of New World warbler found across North America, the Caribbean and into northern South America.

Its genus name Setophaga comes from Ancient Greek words meaning “moth” and “eating”, while its specific name Petechia originates from Italian for small red spots.

This bird has striking yellow plumage with reddish-brown streaks on their chest that can be seen during mating season when they are most colourful.

They live in open woodlands near wetlands or bodies of water where they can find food such as insects like spiders, beetles and caterpillars which make up much of their diet.

The male will sing to attract a mate during breeding season before setting up home in twig nests built by both sexes together high in trees or shrubs.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Parulidae
Genus	Setophaga
Species	S. petechia

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47. Yellow-Headed Blackbird

The yellow-headed blackbird is a medium-sized bird with striking features – its head and neck are bright yellow, while the rest of its body is black.

It has large eyes, a pointed bill and long wings that help it to soar through the air.

The species gets its name from Greek words meaning ‘yellow’ (xanthous) and ‘head’ (cephalus).

This species can be found in wetlands across North America during summer months where they feed on insects and other invertebrates such as snails, earthworms, spiders and crustaceans.

During winter months they migrate southward for food or when temperatures drop too low for their comfort.

They also form flocks which makes them more visible than solitary birds like hawks or owls. Yellow-headed Blackbirds make beautiful sounds that echo around wetland areas; these melodic calls bring joy to many nature lovers.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Icteridae
Genus	Xanthocephalus Bonaparte, 1850
Species	X. xanthocephalus

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48. Wood Duck

The wood duck, also known as the Carolina Duck, is a species of perching duck native to North America. It is renowned for its beautiful plumage and vibrant colors.

On average, an adult wood duck stands at 19-21 inches in length with a wingspan ranging from 26 to 29 inches. Its weight typically falls between 454–800 grams depending on gender and seasonality.

This medium-sized bird can be seen swimming or perched atop branches near bodies of water like lakes, ponds and rivers – where it feeds mostly on aquatic plants and insects.

The female builds nests inside cavities in trees close to these waters while the male protects her eggs during incubation period until they hatch into adorable little chicks.

Wood ducks are beloved by many due their stunning looks which make them popular subjects among photographers too.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Aix
Species	A. sponsa

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49. Common Merganser

The Common merganser, also known as the goosander in Eurasia, is a notable seaduck found in river and lake habitats of forested regions across Europe, Asia, and North America.

This large bird primarily feeds on fish and is known for nesting in tree holes. It was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758 in the 10th edition of his Systema Naturae.

With its distinctive appearance and adaptability, the Common merganser is a fascinating species that has captured the attention of bird watchers and ornithologists alike.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Mergus
Species	M. merganser

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50. Northern Flicker

The Northern flicker is a woodpecker species found in North America, Central America, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands. This medium-sized bird is known for its unique migration behavior.

Over 100 common names are used to refer to the Northern flicker, one of them being “yellowhammer”. It is a beautiful bird with distinctive markings and a colorful plumage.

The Northern flicker is an important species in its ecosystem and plays a key role in maintaining a healthy balance in the environment.

Despite being a woodpecker, the Northern flicker has a diverse diet that includes insects, fruits, and seeds.

It is fascinating to observe this bird as it pecks at trees in search of food, communicates with its unique vocalizations and performs its incredible aerial displays.

The Northern flicker is truly a remarkable bird species that is worthy of our admiration and protection.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Piciformes
Family	Picidae
Genus	Colaptes
Species	C. auratus

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