49 Florida Birds

The birds of Florida have long been a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. With its diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical wetlands to pine forests, Florida is home to an impressive variety of birds.

From the iconic great egret to the elusive Florida scrub-jay, the birds of Florida offer a wealth of beauty, diversity, and entertainment.

Whether you're a bird watcher, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, the birds of Florida are sure to delight.

1. Songbirds

Songbirds are a special suborder of perching birds found all over the world. These beautiful creatures have intricate vocal organs that allow them to produce elaborate bird songs, making them stand out from other species.

With around 5,000 different types of songbird in existence, they come in various sizes and colors with complex feathers adding to their beauty.

Songbirds play an important role in eco-systems as they help disperse seeds by eating fruit and insects which act as agents for pollination.

Their presence also serves to attract more biodiversity into areas where these delicate animals live, creating vibrant habitats full of life.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Clade	Eupasseres
Suborder	Passeri Linnaeus, 1758

2. Herons

Herons are graceful and elegant birds belonging to the family Ardeidae, with 72 distinct species.

They have long legs and necks that are well-adapted for wading in shallow water like streams or ponds.

Herons can be found near freshwaters as well as along coastal areas worldwide.

Some of these species may also be referred to as egrets, bitterns or zigzag heron/bittern because they belong to certain genera such as Botaurus and Ixobrychus respectively.

These birds stand tall when searching for food by standing still in a shallow body of water while waiting patiently until prey appears before quickly capturing it with their sharp bills.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Suborder	Ardei
Family	Ardeidae Leach, 1820

3. Roseate spoonbill

The Roseate Spoonbill is a beautiful and majestic bird found in both North and South America.

It belongs to the ibis family, Threskiornithidae, and its vibrant pink colour comes from canthaxanthin pigment derived from their diet of crustaceans like shrimp.

Sadly plume hunting has almost driven this species close to extinction during the 18th and 19th centuries but fortunately it's making a comeback due to conservation efforts made by dedicated wildlife organisations.

Its large spoon-like bill helps them filter out food sources such as small fish or frogs from shallow water areas while they wade through mudflats with their long legs looking for something tasty.

With its unique appearance, graceful wingspan amd impressive flight capabilities, the Roseate Spoonbill is an incredibly photogenic animal that will captivate any viewers attention who happen to be lucky enough witness it in all its glory.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Threskiornithidae
Genus	Platalea
Species	P. ajaja

4. Bald eagle

The majestic Bald Eagle is a bird of prey found in North America and recognized as the national symbol of the United States.

With its distinctive white head, brown body and striking yellow beak, this sea eagle has two known subspecies that form a species pair with the White-tailed Eagle.

It inhabits much of Canada, Alaska all states in the US contiguous area and Northern Mexico near large bodies of water where they feed mainly on fish.

These birds have an impressive wingspan ranging from 1.8 to 2 meters depending on their size making them one of nature’s most magnificent creatures.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Genus	Haliaeetus
Species	H. leucocephalus

5. Northern cardinal

The Northern Cardinal is a beautiful bird, easily identified by its bright red plumage. It can be found in the eastern United States from Maine to Minnesota and south through Mexico and Belize.

Along with its striking colouration, it has a distinctive crest on its head and sharp black facial markings around the eyes.

Despite their small size (measuring 7-9 inches) they are very vocal birds - males sing persistently throughout springtime to attract mates or proclaim their territory.

They typically feed on insects, seeds and fruits but also enjoy suet at backyard bird feeders.

The female is less brightly coloured than her mate but still stands out among other songbirds due to her warm brownish-red feathers.

Cardinals pair for life so you may often see them together in your garden or neighbourhood park.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Cardinalidae
Genus	Cardinalis
Species	C. cardinalis

6. Northern mockingbird

The northern mockingbird is a common fixture in North American skies. It has greyish-brown upperparts and a paler underside with white wing patches, and its distinctive long tail makes it easy to spot.

This adaptable bird can often be seen singing from the tops of trees or fences, though it rarely strays into Europe.

The species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in his 1758 Systema Naturae as Turdus polyglottos - aptly named for their remarkable ability to mimic other birds' songs.

Northern mockingbirds typically live on insects, fruits, berries and seeds but they will also happily scavenge food scraps left out by humans.

With its beautiful song and striking plumage this beloved avian makes an important contribution to our environment.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Mimidae
Genus	Mimus
Species	M. polyglottos

7. Great egret

The Great Egret is a large, white bird found in many regions of the world. It has four subspecies that reside across Asia, Africa, Americas and southern Europe.

This species usually lives near bodies of water such as lakes and marshes. They are also now starting to spread into more northern areas of Europe due to climate change.

These birds have long yellow legs with an impressive wingspan for their size which allows them to soar majestically through the sky hunting for fish or amphibians in shallow waters below.

Their feathers have been used historically by Native Americans as part of traditional garments or ceremonies but this practice should be avoided today so these amazing creatures can thrive without harm from humans.

Scientific classification:

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

8. Florida scrub jay

The Florida scrub jay is an important native bird species, endemic to the state of Florida and found nowhere else in the world. It has been around for at least two million years, making it a unique part of Floridian wildlife.

These birds are known for their distinctive blue-gray coloration with lighter underparts and white streaks across their wings.

They also have long legs and short tails that help them move quickly through open areas like sandy prairies or pinelands.

Scrub Jays feed mainly on insects but will take advantage of any food sources they find including fruit, nuts, eggs, small reptiles or amphibians if available.

Due to its restricted range this species is keenly sought by birders who want a chance to spot one in its natural habitat.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Corvidae
Genus	Aphelocoma
Species	A. coerulescens

Also Featured In: Blue Birds You'll Found around Us, Birds that Live around Central Florida

9. Pelican

Pelicans are a large water bird and form part of the family Pelecanidae. They have long beaks, allowing them to scoop up prey from both land and sea with ease.

Their most distinctive feature is their huge throat pouch which they use to drain water before swallowing their food.

Most pelican species have predominantly pale plumage however exceptions such as the brown and Peruvian pelicans exhibit darker colouring.

The bill, face skin and pouch of all Pelican species become brightly coloured during breeding season in order to attract mates.

Pelicans can often live up to 25 years due to the fact that they eat mostly fish which provides them with enough nutrients for longevity.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Pelecanidae
Genus	Pelecanus Linnaeus, 1758

10. 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

11. American white ibis

The American white ibis is a medium-sized bird with an overall white plumage and long legs. It has a bright red-orange downward curved bill, and black wing tips that are usually only visible in flight.

This species of ibis can be found from Virginia south through most of the coastal New World tropics.

They have been known to inhabit marshes, swamps, ponds, lakeshores as well as mangrove forests near water sources where they feed on crustaceans such as crabs and shrimp among other aquatic animals like insects or snails.

The American white ibis plays an important role in its ecosystem by helping to control insect populations which helps maintain balance within these environments.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Threskiornithidae
Genus	Eudocimus
Species	E. albus

12. Cardinal

Cardinalidae is a family of passerine birds endemic to the New World that includes cardinals, grosbeaks and buntings.

This large group has great diversity in its members which range from tanager-like Piranga to warbler-like Granatellus.

They are usually distinguished by their bright plumage with reds, oranges and yellows being common among them.

Their strong bills enable them to feed on seeds, fruits and insects as well as other small prey items like lizards or frogs depending upon species.

Cardinals also have loud calls often used for territorial defense and courtship purposes while some can even imitate sounds made by other animals.

These adaptable birds inhabit a variety of habitats across North America making them an important part of many ecosystems there.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Emberizoidea
Family	Cardinalidae Ridgway, 1901

13. Wood stork

The Wood Stork is a large wading bird found in subtropical and tropical habitats throughout the Americas, including the Caribbean. It stands out from other storks due to its distinctive white head and neck feathers.

The wood stork has an impressive wingspan of up to 6 feet wide, making it one of the largest birds in North America.

Although usually seen near water sources such as swamps or wetlands looking for food like fish, crabs, frogs and even small reptiles they can sometimes be spotted far away from their natural habitat during migration season.

This species is also one of few that breeds annually in North America with nests typically built on platforms made by humans or animals near water bodies or ponds.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Ciconiiformes
Family	Ciconiidae
Genus	Mycteria
Species	M. americana

14. 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

15. Ibis

Ibis is a type of long-legged wading bird belonging to the family Threskiornithidae. They inhabit wetlands, forests and plains across many parts of the world.

The name ibis comes from Latin and Ancient Greek words for this group of birds which also can be found in scientific names like Bubulcus ibis - mistakenly identified as bovine animal in 1757.

Ibises have characteristically curved bills used to capture food items such as fishes, reptiles or frogs while they are searching through mud or shallow water with their feet.

Furthermore, these birds usually live in large flocks which helps them protect themselves against predators by keeping an eye out on each other’s safety during hunting times.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Threskiornithidae
Subfamily	Threskiornithinae Poche, 1904

16. 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

17. Sandhill crane

Sandhill Cranes are a large species of crane native to North America and northeastern Siberia. They are known for their distinctive calls, long legs, and long necks.

These birds typically inhabit wetland areas like the Platte River in Nebraska's Sandhills on the Great Plains.

In Central Florida, they often gather at the edges of bodies of water such as lakes or rivers.

During breeding season, sandhill cranes can be seen performing elaborate courtship dances that involve bowing and jumping in unison with their partner.

Their diet consists mainly of plant material including grains, roots, tubers and aquatic plants which they obtain by pecking or digging into mudflats using their bill or feet respectively.

With an average lifespan between 10-20 years these majestic creatures make great additions to any wetland habitat.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Gruiformes
Family	Gruidae
Genus	Antigone
Species	A. canadensis

18. Snail kite

The Snail Kite is a medium sized bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family, which also includes eagles, hawks and Old World vultures.

It's relative, the Slender-billed Kite was once part of this family but now belongs in Helicolestes.

The Snail Kite measures around 36 to 48 cm long with males being slightly smaller than females.

They can be identified by their yellow eyes, grey wings and reddish brown head feathers as well as their hooked bill used for catching food such as snails - hence its name.

These birds are mainly found near rivers or wetlands in tropical climates where they feed on apple snail shells filled with soft fleshy parts inside them.

This species is endangered due to habitat destruction caused by human development so conservation efforts need to be taken if we want these beautiful creatures around for many more years.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Genus	Rostrhamus Lesson, 1830
Species	R. sociabilis

Also Featured In: Everglades Birds, Wetlands Birds You Should Know

19. Eastern towhee

The Eastern Towhee is a large New World sparrow, native to brushy areas of eastern North America. These birds have distinct black and white markings, with chestnut brown underparts.

They nest either low in bushes or on the ground beneath shrubs. Northern towhees are known for migrating south during the winter months.

In recent decades, taxonomy debates have left some questioning whether this bird should remain its own species or be grouped together with the Spotted Towhee as one species -- Rufous-sided Towhee.

This lively songbird has a bubbly personality and can often be seen hopping around on branches looking for food such as insects, fruits and seeds.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Passerellidae
Genus	Pipilo
Species	P. erythrophthalmus

20. Painted bunting

The Painted Bunting is an eye-catching bird from the Cardinal family, native to North America. It was first described by Carl Linnaeus in his eighteenth-century Systema Naturae.

The males of this species are particularly striking; they have brightly coloured plumage which only appears after their second year of life and can be distinguished from female birds through close inspection.

These colourful songbirds are a delight for any avid birder, with their vibrant hues bringing joy to nature lovers everywhere.

They often inhabit woodland areas where there is plenty of seed and insects available for them to feed on - as well as some shrubbery so that they can hide away safely when needed.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Cardinalidae
Genus	Passerina
Species	P. ciris

21. American purple gallinule

The American purple gallinule is a stunning bird found in North and South America. This species belongs to the order Gruiformes, which contains cranes, rails and crakes.

The family Rallidae classifies it as a rail species with its scientific name being Porphyrio martinica.

It is also known locally as the yellow-legged gallinule due to its striking plumage of greenish blue feathers on wings, back and tail along with bright red legs and bill.

Its environment includes freshwater marshes, swamps or paddy fields where these birds feed mostly on plants like water lilies or small invertebrates such as insects or molluscs.

These beautiful creatures are threatened by habitat destruction especially for agricultural purposes but conservation efforts are helping them survive despite this threat.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Gruiformes
Family	Rallidae
Genus	Porphyrio
Species	P. martinicus

Also Featured In: Magenta Birds You Didn't Know, Caribbean Birds

22. 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

23. Snowy egret

The Snowy Egret is a small white heron native to North America. Its scientific name, Egretta thula, comes from Provençal French for the little egret and an incorrect reference to the Black-necked Swan by Chilean naturalist Juan Ignacio Molina in 1782.

This beautiful bird has black legs with yellow feet, and a long plume of feathers on its head that often appears as if it's wearing a crown.

It feeds primarily on insects and aquatic life like fish or frogs making it well adapted for both wetland habitats such as marshes or swamps plus coastal areas close to shorelines.

With their graceful movements they are truly delightful creatures to observe while out exploring nature.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Ardeidae
Genus	Egretta
Species	E. thula

24. Tufted titmouse

The Tufted Titmouse is a small, cheerful songbird found in North America. It's part of the tit and chickadee family (Paridae).

It has distinctive white feathers around its eyes, grey-brown wings and upper body, with a pale tan underside.

Its most notable feature is the black crest on top of its head that gives it an inquisitive look. The male also sports a pinkish breast which can be seen.

When singing from high perches during the spring months. This bird loves to eat sunflower seeds or suet at backyard feeders as well as insects in summertime.

You may even see them poking into crevices and bark looking for food.

They are quite social birds too, being often spotted in mixed flocks alongside other species such as nuthatches and woodpeckers all year round.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Paridae
Genus	Baeolophus
Species	B. bicolor

25. Sternidae

Sternidae are a subgroup of the family Laridae, consisting of eleven genera. They have slender bodies with long forked tails and narrow wings. Their bills are long and their legs relatively short.

Most species display pale grey or white plumage above, while underneath they show black markings on the head along with varying shades of browns elsewhere on their body.

These seabirds can be found in coastal areas near oceans, rivers and wetlands worldwide but especially in North America where they feed primarily on small fish which they capture by swooping down from the air to snatch them up from below the surface.

They also supplement this diet with crustaceans such as crabs when available.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Charadriiformes
Family	Laridae
Subfamily	Sterninae Bonaparte, 1838

Also Featured In: Birds You'll Find in the Sea, Water Birds Live around Us

26. 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

27. Spoonbills

Spoonbills are large wading birds belonging to the genus Platalea. Characterized by their long legs and distinctive spoon-shaped beaks, these birds can be found all over the world except Antarctica.

The name of this genus derives from Ancient Greek meaning "broad", referring to their bill's shape.

There are six species of Spoonbill recognized – though they usually form a single group, sometimes it is divided into three genera.

These graceful creatures feed mainly on small aquatic organisms such as insects and fish which they catch with an open-mouth technique while sweeping through shallow waters in search for food.

They typically breed near water bodies during springtime when there’s plenty of food available around them.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Threskiornithidae
Subfamily	Plataleinae
Genus	Platalea Linnaeus, 1758

28. 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

29. Woodpeckers

Woodpeckers are an incredibly diverse bird species, found all over the world except for Australia, New Guinea, New Zealand, Madagascar and the extreme polar regions.

They live in a variety of habitats including forests and woodlands but also rocky hillsides and deserts with no trees.

Their beaks are adapted to pecking at tree bark to find food such as insects or larvae hidden beneath it while they use their long tongues to catch them from deep inside crevices.

Woodpeckers have tough skulls that protect their brains from impact when they bang into things during drumming – a behaviour used by males for territorial signalling and reproduction purposes which is done using strong rapid beats against hollow objects like dead branches or metal poles.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Piciformes
Infraorder	Picides
Family	Picidae Leach, 1820

30. 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

31. Green heron

The Green Heron (Butorides virescens) is a small heron found throughout North and Central America.

It's scientific name comes from Middle English ‘butor’ meaning bittern, combined with the Latin term for its distinctive greenish color - 'virescens'.

For many years it was considered to be part of the same species as the Striated Heron (Butorides striata), commonly referred to as "green-backed herons".

The nominate subspecies inhabits wetlands across much of this range, where they can be spotted stalking about in shallow water looking for fish or frogs on which to feed.

They are fascinating wading birds that have even been known to use tools such as sticks or baited lines when fishing.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Ardeidae
Genus	Butorides
Species	B. virescens

32. Osprey

The Osprey is a majestic bird of prey with an incredibly wide habitat range. It has distinctive brown upperparts and greyish head and underparts, making it easily identifiable in the skies above many regions across the world.

With a wingspan of up to 180cm (71in) and body length reaching 60cm (24in), this large raptor specializes in hunting for fish, soaring high over rivers as well as coasts searching for its next meal.

Despite living near water sources, they can also be found inhabiting mountainsides or even woodlands, proving their incredible adaptability. An impressive species that truly deserves admiration.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Pandionidae
Genus	Pandion
Species	P. haliaetus

33. Icterids

Icterids are a family of small to medium-sized, often colorful New World passerine birds. They have black as their predominant plumage color with yellow, orange or red adding vibrancy and life.

Their sizes range greatly in shape and behavior making them unique amongst other bird species.

The name Icterid comes from the Latin word ‘ictericus’ which means jaundiced ones - referring to the prominent yellow coloring found on some of these birds' feathers.

These beautiful creatures can be seen flying around many different parts of South America where they live with their young for most part of the year before migrating northwards during fall season.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Superfamily	Emberizoidea
Family	Icteridae Vigors, 1825

34. 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

35. Gray catbird

The Gray Catbird is a medium-sized bird native to North and Central America. It is the only species in its genus, Dumetella, which makes it unique among other perching birds of the Mimidae family.

Its plumage features shades of gray with some brownish tones on top and lighter grey below.

The underside of its tail has white feathers that contrast against their otherwise monochromatic coloration; this feature gives them their name as they often flick their tails when alarmed or excited like cats do.

They are omnivorous but mainly feed on insects such as caterpillars, grasshoppers, and beetles while also eating fruits like berries or cherries during summer months.

Despite being commonly seen alone or in pairs these birds will flock together at times for protection from predators like hawks who are drawn to their dark colouration against green foliage making them harder to spot.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Mimidae
Genus	Dumetella C.T. Wood, 1837
Species	D. carolinensis

36. Mottled duck

The mottled duck is a medium-sized dabbling duck, native to the Gulf of Mexico coast. It has an appearance that lies somewhere between that of a female mallard and an American black duck.

While it’s closely related to these two species, it shouldn't be mistaken for either one - they are entirely distinct from each other.

They are also very commonly banded waterfowl in this region due to their abundance there.

This breed of ducks typically have tan or light brown feathers with white spots scattered around them, as well as bright orange bills and legs - making them quite attractive birds indeed.

All in all, the mottled duck makes for wonderful wildlife watching experience on any visit near its natural habitat.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Anseriformes
Family	Anatidae
Genus	Anas
Species	A. fulvigula

37. Carolina wren

The Carolina wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) is a medium-sized bird that can be found in the eastern United States, southern Ontario and northeast Mexico.

They typically live in dense shrubbery or thickets near open areas such as gardens, parks and woodland edges.

These birds are quite adaptable when it comes to nesting sites - they will build their nests anywhere from tree cavities to manmade boxes.

Their diet consists of insects, spiders and other invertebrates which they forage for on the ground or among vegetation.

The males have an unmistakable song made up of loud whistles interspersed with trills reminiscent of laughter; you'll often find these cheerful little birds singing away during early morning hours.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Troglodytidae
Genus	Thryothorus Vieillot, 1816[2]
Species	T. ludovicianus

38. 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

39. Boat-tailed grackle

The Boat-tailed Grackle (Quiscalus major) is a passerine bird of the family Icteridae that lives permanently on the coasts of the Southeastern United States.

They inhabit coastal saltwater marshes and, in Florida, also inland waters.

These birds have been seen establishing large populations in various US Gulf Coast cities as well as towns where they can be found scavenging for food or nesting near human habitations.

The boat-tailed grackle has an iridescent black body with long tail feathers which give it its namesake appearance while their eyes are yellowish to brown and their legs pale blue/gray.

In addition to living in marshlands these birds feed mostly on insects but will also eat some fruits, seeds and other small prey like frogs or lizards.

Their loud vocalizations make them stand out from other species making them quite recognizable when heard.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Icteridae
Genus	Quiscalus
Species	Q. major

Also Featured In: Common Blue Birds of Georgia,

40. 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

41. Cattle egret

The Cattle Egret is a heron of the family Ardeidae found around the world in tropical, subtropical and warm temperate areas. It has two subspecies: western cattle egret and eastern cattle egret.

They have white plumage with buff plumes on their head, neck and back. The beak is yellowish-orange with black tip while legs are orange or yellow coloured depending on species variation.

This bird usually feeds near large herds of animals such as cows, horses etc., where it finds plenty of insects to eat like grasshoppers, crickets etc..

Its presence benefits these animals by removing ectoparasites from them which leads to healthier livestock population.

It nests colonially in trees or shrubs located close to water bodies during breeding season which generally takes place between March-June every year.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Ardeidae
Genus	Bubulcus Bonaparte, 1855
Species	B. ibis

42. House wren

The House Wren is a small bird of the wren family found from Canada to South America. It's quite common in suburban areas and is one of the most widely distributed native birds in North and South America.

Its taxonomy can be complicated, with some subspecies groups considered separate species.

The House Wren has a brown back, grey head, white eyebrow stripes, light chestnut belly and buffy flanks.

They often inhabit old or abandoned buildings as well as shrublands near fields or open woods for nesting sites.

During breeding season they are highly territorial so make sure you create an inviting environment if you wish to invite them into your yard.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Troglodytidae
Genus	Troglodytes
Species	T. aedon

43. Common grackle

The Common Grackle is a large icterid bird commonly found in North America. It has an iridescent head and pale yellow eyes, which are framed by its long dark bill and long tail.

Males typically have more vivid colors on their heads than females do. These birds can be seen across much of the continent, in fields, forests, wetlands - even urban areas.

They form huge flocks to search for food such as grains or insects that they catch with their bills.

The grackles may also scavenge from human sources like garbage dumps or picnic tables if available. With its colorful plumage and distinct call it's easy to spot this species amongst other birds.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Icteridae
Genus	Quiscalus
Species	Q. quiscula

44. White-crowned pigeon

The White-crowned Pigeon is a species of bird belonging to the Columbidae family, widely found in the Caribbean. In the first half of the 18th century it was described as such.

This pigeon has been immortalized by artist John James Audubon through his watercolor painting featured in Birds of America published during early 19th century.

These birds primarily feed on fruits and seeds and have white crowns that make them easily recognizable even from afar.

The beauty of these birds makes them popular amongst birdwatchers all over the world who flock to observe their behavior while they eat or nest.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Columbiformes
Family	Columbidae
Genus	Patagioenas
Species	P. leucocephala

45. Sandpiper

The Sandpiper is a small shorebird, with long legs and a distinctive bill. It typically lives near the coast or other water sources, wading in shallow waters to search for food such as insects, crustaceans and mollusks.

Its wings are short but powerful which enable it to take flight quickly when startled by predators.

The Sandpiper has many different species that vary in size and coloration; some have stripes on their back while others may be pinkish-brown or gray in colour.

They can also change their feathers throughout the year according to seasonality of its habitat. 

Despite being vulnerable due to human activities like hunting and destruction of habitats, they remain common across many parts of the world thanks to successful conservation efforts from organizations dedicated towards protecting wildlife worldwide.

Scientific classification:

46. Reddish egret

The Reddish Egret is a medium-sized heron that breeds in Central America, The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Texas and Mexico.

It prefers mud flats as its habitat of choice due to its unique foraging behaviour which differs from other herons.

In the past it was hunted widely for its feathers used to make fashionable hats but thankfully this practice has now been stopped.

They have white or grey plumage with pink legs and bill giving them their name.

These birds feed mainly on fish which they catch by making quick darting movements in shallow water or running rapidly through shallows stirring up prey so they can snatch them easily with their bills.

Their long wings enable them to fly quickly when hunting and also during migration season when many travel southwards towards warmer climates.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Pelecaniformes
Family	Ardeidae
Genus	Egretta
Species	E. rufescens

47. Carolina chickadee

The Carolina Chickadee is a small passerine bird found in the tit family Paridae. It stands out for its distinct black and white, grey-brown feathers with an offwhite underside.

This species can be spotted by its call: "chick-a-dee". The American Ornithologists' Union has classified them into their own genus called Poecile as they differ from other tits due to both genetic data and morphology.

These birds are found all over North America, living in wooded areas near open fields or water sources.

They feed on insects such as caterpillars but also have been known to eat suet at backyard feeders during winter months when food is scarce.

Scientific classification:

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

48. Common starling

The Common Starling is a medium-sized passerine bird that belongs to the starling family. It has glossy black plumage with a metallic sheen, and in certain times of year it can be speckled with white.

The bill and legs are typically pink or black depending on the season, while its length measures about 8 inches long.

Its diet consists mainly of insects but also includes small fruits and seeds as well as some human food waste.

They live in large flocks which provides protection against predators, although they can become quite aggressive when defending their nesting sites during breeding seasons.

Overall, this species is highly adaptable and widely distributed across many parts of Europe making them one of the most successful birds in the region today.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Sturnidae
Genus	Sturnus
Species	S. vulgaris

49. Blue-gray gnatcatcher

The Blue-gray Gnatcatcher is a beautiful small songbird native to North America. It has a length of 10–13 cm (3.9–5.1 in), wingspan of 6.3 in (16 cm) and weighs only 5–7 g (0.18–0.25 oz).

Males have blue-gray upperparts with white underparts, slender dark bill, and long black tail edged in white; females are less vibrant but still eye catching.

Juveniles are brownish gray overall but may show some hints of the adult colouration around their tails or shoulders as they mature into adulthood.

Their diet consists mainly of insects which they catch while flitting through air like tiny darts.

This stunning species can be found anywhere from woodlands to urban parks so keep your eyes peeled for these delightful creatures on your next outdoor adventure.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Polioptilidae
Genus	Polioptila
Species	P. caerulea