El Dorado Hills is home to many different species of birds, from the colorful songbirds that flit through the trees to the majestic raptors that soar high above.
Whether you are an avid birder or just someone who enjoys viewing and listening to nature, El Dorado Hills has something for everyone. With its diverse habitats, from rolling foothills to wetlands, El Dorado Hills is a great place to find a variety of birds.
You can spot everything from the bright red Northern Cardinal to the soaring Bald Eagle, and from the chirping House Wren to the stately Great Blue Heron.
Whether you are an experienced birdwatcher or just getting into the hobby, El Dorado Hills provides a great opportunity to observe and learn more about birds.
1. Red-Tailed Hawk
The red-tailed hawk is an impressive bird of prey that is found in many parts of North America. It breeds from the interior of Alaska and northern Canada, all the way down to Panama and the West Indies.
This species is one of the most common of its genus Buteo in North America and around the world. This bird of prey has a distinct red tail, which is one of its defining features.
It is also recognized for its large size and broad wingspan, which can range from one and a half to two and a half feet. The red-tailed hawk can be found in many habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands. It feeds on small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.
It is a powerful predator that is able to spot its prey from high in the sky. The red-tailed hawk is an impressive and important species of bird. Its presence throughout North America and its significant population numbers make it a species worth protecting and studying.
This species has adapted to many different environments and can be seen across the continent, making it an important part of North American ecosystems.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. jamaicensis |
2. American Kestrel
The American kestrel, commonly known as the sparrow hawk, is the smallest and most widely-distributed falcon species in North America. It has a wide range of sizes depending on the subspecies and the sex of the bird.
The smallest kestrels are usually about the same size and weight as a blue jay, while the largest can reach the size of a mourning dove. This makes the American kestrel quite a diverse bird in terms of size, making it easy to identify in the wild.
With their bright colors and distinct markings, the American kestrel is a beautiful and unique species of bird.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Genus | Falco |
| Species | F. sparverius |
3. Sandhill Crane
The sandhill crane is a species of large crane found across North America and in parts of northeastern Siberia. This species is aptly named, as it is often seen in habitats similar to the Platte River on the edge of the Nebraska Sandhills in the American Great Plains.
The Sandhills are an area of grass-covered sand dunes that stretch across the western parts of the state. The region is home to vast numbers of sandhill cranes, which feed on the abundance of insects and grains found in the area.
The species is also known for its impressive size, standing up to four feet tall with a wingspan that can reach up to seven feet. In addition to its size, the sandhill crane is also known for its distinctive call, which can be heard for miles.
It is a sound that has become synonymous with the American Great Plains and the species’ presence there.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Gruidae |
| Genus | Antigone |
| Species | A. canadensis |
4. Northern Flicker
The northern flicker, also known as the common flicker, is a species of medium-sized bird that belongs to the woodpecker family. It is native to a large portion of North America, with its range extending into Central America, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands.
It is an especially unique woodpecker species, as many of its counterparts do not migrate. The northern flicker is easily distinguishable due to its distinctive color pattern.
The upper parts of its body are mainly a light brown or grayish color, while its underparts are a pale yellow color with black spots.
It has a black tail with white edges and a red bar on the back of its head. The northern flicker feeds mostly on insects and other invertebrates, which it finds by probing the ground with its long, pointed bill. It is also known to feed on fruits, nuts, and seeds.
It typically prefers to live in open woodlands, but can also be found in gardens, parks, and suburban backyards. The northern flicker is a vocal species, and its call has been described as a loud, ringing “wick-a-doo” sound.
It is also known to make a variety of other vocalizations, including a rattling sound.
During mating season, the male northern flicker will perform a display known as “drumming”, in which it will rapidly tap its bill on a dead tree trunk to attract a mate. The northern flicker is an important species for its role in controlling insect populations, and it is also a popular bird to observe in the wild.
Its range has been expanding in recent years, likely due to its adaptability to human-altered environments.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Colaptes |
| Species | C. auratus |
5. Double-Crested Cormorant
The double-crested cormorant is a species of water bird that belongs to the cormorant family. Native to North America, its range extends from the Aleutian Islands in Alaska all the way down to Florida and Mexico.
It is a highly adaptable bird and can be found near rivers, lakes, and in coastal areas. The double-crested cormorant typically grows to between 28 and 36 inches in length and has a wingspan of up to five feet.
It is a large, dark-colored water bird with a long neck and a hooked bill. It has a distinctive double crest of feathers on its head, which gives it its name. The double-crested cormorant is an expert swimmer and diver, and it spends much of its time in the water.
It is an opportunistic feeder, and it feeds mainly on fish and other aquatic animals. It dives underwater to catch its prey, using its powerful feet and webbed toes to propel itself. The double-crested cormorant is a highly social bird and usually nests in large colonies.
It builds its nest from sticks and other materials and lines it with soft feathers. It usually lays three to five eggs per clutch. The double-crested cormorant is an important species as part of the aquatic food web.
Its presence helps to regulate fish populations, and it also serves as an important indicator of the health of aquatic ecosystems. For this reason, it is important to protect and conserve this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
| Genus | Nannopterum |
| Species | N. auritum |
6. Dark-Eyed Junco
The dark-eyed junco is a species of junco, a group of small birds in the sparrow family native to North America. This species is found in temperate regions of North America, as well as extending its range into the Arctic during the summer months.
The dark-eyed junco is highly variable in its physical features, similar to the fox sparrow, which makes it difficult to categorize and study. Despite this, more research is being done to better understand the systematics of the dark-eyed junco.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Junco |
| Species | J. hyemalis |
7. Mallard
The mallard or wild duck is a species of dabbling duck, which are ducks that feed by tipping forward and submerging their heads and necks while still keeping their body afloat.
This species of duck breeds in a wide variety of temperate and subtropical climates, including the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa.
It has even been introduced to several other regions outside of its native range, including New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa.
This demonstrates the mallard’s wide adaptability and range, as well as its potential to be an invasive species. In some cases, its introduction to an area has had negative consequences, such as disrupting the local ecosystem or introducing disease.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
8. Black-Crowned Night Heron
The black-crowned night heron, also known as the black-capped night heron, is a medium-sized heron that is found in a wide variety of places throughout the world. This species can be found in many parts of Europe, Asia, North America, and South America.
It is commonly referred to as “night-heron” in Eurasia. This species is easily recognizable due to its black crown and grey wings. It has a stout body and a long, pointed yellow beak. It is usually found in wetlands, such as marshes, swamps, and ponds.
It feeds mainly on small fish, frogs, and crustaceans. The black-crowned night heron is a solitary bird that is mainly active at night. During the day, it can be seen perched in trees or shrubs. It nests in colonies, usually near water, such as in trees or on cliffs.
It also uses man-made structures, such as docks and buildings, as nesting sites. The black-crowned night heron is an important part of the ecosystem, as it helps to control the population of small fish and other aquatic animals.
It also serves as an indicator of the health of wetlands, as its presence indicates that the environment is suitable for its survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Nycticorax |
| Species | N. nycticorax |
9. Common Nighthawk
The common nighthawk, also known as the bullbat, is a species of bird found in the Americas. It is considered to be medium-sized and is most active during crepuscular or nocturnal hours.
This species belongs to the nightjar family, making it a relative of the whip-poor-will and the chuck-will’s-widow. The presence of a nighthawk can be identified by its distinct vocalizations, which are often heard during the night.
These sounds typically consist of a loud “peent” or “bob-white” call, as well as a low, trilling song. Nighthawks are also known for their impressive aerial displays, which include sudden dives and turns.
This species is generally solitary but may be seen with other nighthawks or flocks of smaller birds. They tend to rest on the ground or on low-lying branches during the day and may be difficult to spot due to their cryptic plumage.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Caprimulgiformes |
| Family | Caprimulgidae |
| Genus | Chordeiles |
| Species | C. minor |
10. Mourning Dove
The mourning dove is a species of dove within the family Columbidae. It is native to the Americas and is also known by other names, such as the American mourning dove, the rain dove, and the turtle dove.
In the past, this species of dove was also referred to as the Carolina pigeon and Carolina turtledove. The mourning dove is a medium-sized bird, with a wingspan of about 13 inches. It has a distinctive call that is a two-note whistle, often described as “woohoo”.
The bird is grayish-brown in color, with a white underbelly and a black tail. The mourning dove has a long and pointed tail, as well as a black bill and yellow legs. The mourning dove prefers open habitats including grasslands, agricultural areas, and suburban or urban areas.
It feeds mainly on seeds and grains, foraging on the ground for food. The mourning dove also consumes insects, snails, and berries. The mourning dove is a popular symbol in many cultures, often associated with peace, love, and mourning.
It is also a popular game bird, with hunting of the species allowed in some states in the United States. The mourning dove is not considered a threatened species, and its population is stable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Zenaida |
| Species | Z. macroura |
11. Snowy Egret
The snowy egret is a small white heron. It belongs to the genus Aigrette, which is derived from Provençal French and is a diminutive of the word ‘aigron’, which means ‘heron’ in English.
The species name thula was given to the snowy egret in error by Chilean naturalist Juan Ignacio Molina in 1782. The name was derived from the Araucano term for the black-necked swan. Despite the mistake, the name has been kept and is used to refer to the snowy egret.
The snowy egret is a graceful bird, with a long, slender neck and a white plume of feathers at the back of its head. Its wings are long and pointed, and it stands out in the crowd due to its bright white color.
It is a popular bird to watch due to its beauty and grace and is commonly found near wetlands, lakes, rivers, and coastal areas.
The snowy egret is an important part of its ecosystem, as it helps to control the populations of insects and other small creatures that can become pests.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. thula |
12. Red-Breasted Sapsucker
The red-breasted sapsucker is a unique species of woodpecker found in the forests of the west coast of North America. This woodpecker is a medium-sized bird, with a body length ranging from 16 to 19 cm.
Its upperparts are black with white spotting, and its underparts are a bright red color. It has a black head with a white forehead and a white throat.
Its bill is short and slightly down-curved. This species of woodpecker feeds primarily on sap from trees, as well as insects and fruit. It drills holes in the bark of trees with its beak in order to reach the sap. It then uses its long, bristly tongue to lap up the sap.
This species is also known to eat small insects, such as ants and beetles, and other fruits. The red-breasted sapsucker is a fairly common bird, found in most coniferous forests in western North America.
It nests in hollowed-out tree trunks or in snags and is often seen in small flocks of three to five birds. The red-breasted sapsucker is an important species in North American ecology, as it plays a key role in the dispersal of seeds.
Its distinctive holes in the bark of trees help to spread the seeds of a variety of trees and plants. This helps the local environment by increasing the diversity of its flora and fauna.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Sphyrapicus |
| Species | S. ruber |
13. Black Phoebe
The black phoebe is a species of passerine bird in the tyrant-flycatcher family. This bird is native to the western parts of North America, ranging from southwest Oregon and California to Central and South America.
It is a year-round resident in most of its range, but northern populations may be partially migratory. This means that some members of the northern populations may migrate to other areas during certain times of the year.
The black phoebe is unique amongst its genus in that it migrates less than other birds in its family. This is likely due to its large range and the availability of food sources in different parts of its range throughout the year.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Sayornis |
| Species | S. nigricans |
14. Western Bluebird
The western bluebird is a species of small songbird native to North America. It is a member of the thrush family and is found in western parts of the continent, including the western United States, Mexico, and parts of Canada.
They tend to live in open woodlands, mountains, and canyons, but can also be found in suburban areas. Western bluebirds are colorful birds, sporting a bright blue back and head, orange-red breast, and white belly.
They have short, rounded wings and long tails that they use for balance when they perch.
They typically measure around 6-7 inches in length and weigh up to one ounce. Western bluebirds are mainly insectivores but will supplement their diets with seeds and berries when food is scarce. They are known for their beautiful song, which is a series of musical whistles.
They often sing from high perches in order to attract mates. Western bluebirds are monogamous and will remain together for the duration of the breeding season. Nests are often found in small cavities of dead trees and stumps, with the female laying 3-7 eggs.
Both parents will take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the young. The western bluebird is an important species in North America and is listed as a species of least concern.
As with many species, habitat loss is a major threat, and so conservation efforts are important to ensure that the species remains secure.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. mexicana |
15. Red-Shouldered Hawk
The red-shouldered hawk is a type of buteo, which is a medium-sized raptor. This hawk’s breeding range covers nearly the entirety of eastern North America and stretches along the coast of California and northern to northeastern-central Mexico.
It is a permanent resident across most of its range, though those birds in the northern part of the range may migrate, generally heading south to central Mexico.
This type of hawk is highly adaptable and can be found in habitats ranging from woodland and forest edges to marshes and swamps. It has the ability to soar high in the sky and is often seen gliding gracefully while hunting for its prey.
The red-shouldered hawk is an important part of the ecosystem and plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy balance in its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. lineatus |
16. Canada Goose
The Canada goose is a majestic bird that is easily recognizable due to its distinct features. It has a black head and neck, white cheeks and chin, and a brown body. This species of goose is native to North America, inhabiting the Arctic and temperate regions.
It is known to migrate across the Atlantic to northern Europe, where it can sometimes be found. The Canada goose is a large bird, with a wingspan that can reach up to two feet in length.
Its size and loud honking call can make it a nuisance in some areas, where they congregate in large flocks. They are omnivorous and feed on both vegetation and small animals such as insects, fish, and rodents. Canadian geese are social creatures and live in large flocks.
They mate for life and form strong bonds with their offspring. The male will help the female to build a nest and protect the eggs during incubation.
Once the eggs have hatched, the parents will stay with and care for their young until they are old enough to fly and fend for themselves. The Canada goose is an important part of North American wildlife and has become an iconic symbol of the continent.
It is a beautiful and fascinating species that is worth protecting.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Branta |
| Species | B. canadensis |
17. Downy Woodpecker
The Downy Woodpecker is a small species of woodpecker native to North America. It measures between 14 and 18 centimeters in length, making it the smallest of its kind on the continent.
This bird is found throughout the United States and Canada, with the exception of deserts in the southwestern United States and the northern tundra. It prefers to inhabit forested areas, where it can feed on the insects it finds in trees.
It is a popular backyard bird, often seen in yards with trees or shrubs. Its diet consists mainly of insects and larvae, which it finds in the crevices of tree bark. The Downy Woodpecker also enjoys eating nuts, fruits, and berries when they are available.
It is an important part of the ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and disperse seeds throughout its range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dryobates |
| Species | D. pubescens |
18. Northern Mockingbird
The northern mockingbird is a species of mockingbird found mainly in North America. It is usually a permanent resident, but some northern birds may migrate south during the winter months when the weather becomes too harsh.
This species of bird has rarely been observed in Europe, making it a rare sight in that region. The northern mockingbird is known for its beautiful singing and its ability to mimic the calls of other birds. It is a medium-sized bird, with a long tail and grayish-brown feathers.
Its diet consists mainly of fruits, insects, and small invertebrates. The northern mockingbird plays an important role in the ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations and disperse seeds. It also provides a source of entertainment with its song.
Unfortunately, this species is threatened by habitat loss due to urbanization and other human activities.
As a result, its numbers have decreased in recent years. In order to protect the northern mockingbird, efforts should be made to create and protect suitable habitats, as well as to reduce the impact of human activities on the environment.
It is also important to spread awareness about the species and its ecological importance. By taking these steps, we can help ensure that the northern mockingbird remains a part of our ecosystem for many years to come.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Mimus |
| Species | M. polyglottos |
19. Hooded Merganser
The hooded merganser is an aquatic bird belonging to the Anatinae subfamily of ducks. It is the only living species in the genus Lophodytes, which is derived from the Greek terms for ‘crest’ and ‘diver’.
This species is a fish-eating duck, and its name is a reference to its distinctive characteristic of having a crest adorning its head. The crest is a feature of this species that helps it to be more visible when it dives for its prey.
The hooded merganser is a fascinating species of duck that is well adapted to its aquatic habitat and has a unique appearance that helps it to stand out.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Lophodytes |
| Species | L. cucullatus |
20. Band-Tailed Pigeon
The band-tailed pigeon is a species of bird native to the Americas. It is a medium-sized bird, and is closely related to two other species of Patagioenas pigeons: the Chilean pigeon and the ring-tailed pigeon.
These three species form a clade, which is a group of organisms that share a common ancestor and have similar characteristics.
The band-tailed pigeon is distinguished from its relatives by its tail, which has a distinct band of feathers, and its neck feathers, which have a beautiful iridescent sheen.
This iridescence is created by light reflecting off of the feathers in different ways, creating a shimmering effect. The Chilean and ring-tailed pigeons also have this iridescent plumage, which helps to identify them as part of the same clade as the band-tailed pigeon.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Patagioenas |
| Species | P. fasciata |
21. Common Merganser
The common merganser, also known as the goosander, is a species of seaduck that inhabits rivers and lakes in forested areas of Europe, Asia, and North America. Its diet consists mostly of fish, and it builds its nests in holes in trees.
The common merganser is a large duck, with a long, slender bill and a glossy green-black head. Its body is mainly white with chestnut-brown wings and tail. The male has a distinctive, bright red-orange bill, while the female has a dull yellow-orange bill.
The common merganser is an important part of its local ecosystem, as it helps to keep fish populations in check. It is also an important source of food for other animals, such as ospreys and eagles.
The common merganser is a social species, often seen in groups on lakes or rivers. During the breeding season, they form large colonies, where they can be seen displaying and courting. The common merganser is a beautiful duck and a welcome sight on any lake or river.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Mergus |
| Species | M. merganser |
22. Steller’s Jay
Steller’s jay is a species of bird that is native to western North America and the mountainous regions of Central America. It is closely related to the blue jay found in eastern North America and is part of the same genus, Cyanocitta.
This species is of particular note because it is the only crested jay species that is native to the western side of the Rocky Mountains. As such, it is quite distinct from other species of jays found in North America.
The Steller’s jay is a large songbird, measuring up to 11 inches in length, with a wingspan of up to 17 inches. It is a vivid bird, sporting a bright blue crest and back, with a white throat and belly, and a black head and wings.
It is quite vocal, and its call is described as a loud, harsh “jay-jay-jay” sound. The Steller’s jay is omnivorous, feeding on nuts, berries, insects, and even small reptiles. It inhabits coniferous forests, and is found from Alaska to northern Mexico.
It is quite common in many areas and is a familiar sight in many parks and nature reserves.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. stelleri |
23. Canyon Wren
The canyon wren is a small, North American bird of the wren family Troglodytidae. It is a resident species, meaning it does not migrate from one place to another. Its habitat consists of rocky cliffs, outcrops, and canyons found in arid regions.
This species has adapted to its environment by having a brown back and wings and a white belly, allowing it to blend in with its surroundings. Its song is a loud, high-pitched trill that lasts for several seconds and is often heard in the early morning and late afternoon.
The canyon wren is an important part of its ecosystem, as its diet consists of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates which it helps to control. Additionally, its presence often indicates a healthy habitat and it can be an indicator of a region’s biodiversity.
The canyon wren is an important part of the North American avian community and its conservation is essential for its continued survival.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Troglodytidae |
| Genus | Catherpes |
| Species | C. mexicanus |
24. Yellow-Rumped Warbler
The yellow-rumped warbler is a species of bird that is found throughout North America. They are commonly seen in most of the continent, from Alaska in the north to Guatemala in the south.
It is a migratory bird, meaning it will move from one area to another depending on the season. During the winter months, it can be found in the southern United States and some parts of Mexico. During the summer, they head north as far as Alaska.
The yellow-rumped warbler is a medium-sized bird, with a length of about 4 to 6 inches. It has a black, white, and gray striped head, chest, and back, with a yellow under-tail and rump. The yellow-rumped warbler has a sharp, distinctive song that is easily recognizable.
This species of warbler is an omnivore, meaning it eats both plants and animals. It feeds on insects, spiders, and other small animals, as well as berries, fruits, and seeds.
This makes it a great addition to any backyard habitat, as it helps to control the insect population while also eating from bird feeders. The yellow-rumped warbler is a great species to look out for when bird-watching.
Its distinctive song and bright colors make it a fun bird to observe and learn more about. It is a regular North American species, so if you are lucky, you may be able to spot one in your own backyard.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. coronata |
Conclusion
Birds in El Dorado Hills are a diverse and vibrant part of the local ecosystem. They provide beauty and a unique source of sound to the area, and the variety of birds that can be seen in the area is truly remarkable.
With the help of local organizations and dedicated individuals, the birds of El Dorado Hills can continue to thrive for years to come.