48 Birds Of Montana

Montana is an incredible state known for its majestic mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and pristine wilderness areas. While these natural wonders are stunning, one of the state's lesser-known gems is its rich wildlife, including an impressive array of birds.

From bald eagles to sandhill cranes, Montana is home to hundreds of bird species that can be found in its diverse habitats.

In this article, we'll explore the birds of Montana, including their unique characteristics and habitats.

1. 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

2. 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

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

4. 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

5. Western meadowlark

The western meadowlark is a medium-sized icterid bird native to North America. It has a distinct yellow breast with black and white patches, making it easy to spot in open grasslands.

Its diet consists of mostly bugs but also includes seeds and berries. The western meadowlark's call is unique - its sound described as flute-like or watery, differentiating it from the similar eastern meadowlark species.

When nesting season arrives, they build their nests on the ground near shrubs or low trees in areas like fields and pastures.

This beautiful songbird adds life to our open lands with its melodious tunes.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Icteridae
Genus	Sturnella
Species	S. neglecta

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. 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

12. Mourning dove

The Mourning Dove is a breathtakingly beautiful bird. It has stunning gray and brown feathers with white tipped wings, giving it an elegant appearance. Its long tail also adds to its graceful look in flight.

A symbol of peace and serenity, they are abundant across North America and can be found in gardens or open fields throughout the year.

As well as being popular game birds for hunters, they feed on grains such as wheat and millet providing important food sources for wildlife species including foxes, coyotes, skunks and raccoons.

These doves have a distinctive cooing sound that can often be heard echoing through woodlands during summer evenings making them one of nature's greatest treasures.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Columbiformes
Family	Columbidae
Genus	Zenaida
Species	Z. macroura

13. 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

14. Eurasian collared dove

The Eurasian collared dove is a species of bird native to Europe and Asia, with its range expanding through introduction in Japan, North America, and islands in the Caribbean.

It has become so widespread that it is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The scientific name for this bird was proposed by Hungarian naturalist Imre Frivaldsz - Columba decaocto.

This beautiful creature typically measures between 33-37 cm from tip to tail feathers, displaying an overall greyish brown plumage; they also have distinctive black half collar around their neck which gives them their common name.

These birds are mainly found inhabiting open woodlands or agricultural lands near human settlements where there's plenty of food available such as grain fields or gardens where fruits can be eaten off trees.

With a vast global population trend increasing steadily each year these birds make great additions to many backyards throughout the world.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Columbiformes
Family	Columbidae
Genus	Streptopelia
Species	S. decaocto

15. 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

16. Bullock's oriole

Bullock's oriole is a small, sexually dimorphic New World blackbird that was once thought to be the same species as Baltimore Oriole. It was named after William Bullock, an English amateur naturalist.

Male birds are more brightly colored and slightly larger than females. These birds typically have yellow heads and wings with dark brown or black bodies with white bars on their backs and tails.

They can often been seen perched high up in trees foraging for insects among foliage or singing from branches during mating season.

Their diet consists of mostly fruits such as oranges, apples, plums; they also eat some seeds like millet along with grasshoppers and other insects when available.

The Bullock's oriole is found throughout western North America in areas of woodland scrubland which provide it shelter from predators while providing plenty food sources to sustain itself year round.

Scientific classification:

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

17. 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

18. Song sparrow

The Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) is a small, yet abundant bird found in North America.

They have brown upperparts with dark streaks and are white underneath, complete with a distinct dark brown spot on the breast.

Their cap is also brown and long roughed feathers can be seen sprouting from their neck area.

This sparrow species is highly variable and adaptable to many different environments including dry brush land, wetlands or open fields.

It has been noted that adult song sparrows will sing even during winter months when other birds remain quiet.

These energetic little animals make for great backyard companions as they flit about singing their lovely melodies.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Passerellidae
Genus	Melospiza
Species	M. melodia

19. 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

20. Cassin's finch

Cassin's finch is a species of bird belonging to the Fringillidae family. It has brown wings and tail, with a longer bill than that of the purple finch.

Adult males are raspberry red on their head, breast, back and rump with streaked backs and undertail feathers.

The adult female Cassin’s Finch is duller in colouration than male but still shows pinkish tones around its face and neck area as well as subtle streaks across its body.

This species can be found mainly in western North America from Alaska down to California where they inhabit coniferous forests along mountain slopes or near riversides at elevations between 500-3000 meters above sea level.

They feed mainly on grasshoppers, caterpillars and other insects which they pick up while foraging through vegetation or by flying out onto open ground surfaces.

Scientific classification:

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

21. Red-tailed hawk

The Red-tailed Hawk is a majestic bird of prey with its distinctive red tail. It can be found throughout North America, from Alaska in the north to Panama and the West Indies in the south.

This species belongs to Buteo genus, which makes it one of most common raptors on earth.

These hawks mainly hunt small mammals such as rabbits or squirrels but also feed on reptiles and birds during migration season.

Unlike other predator birds, they prefer open areas for hunting like fields or grasslands rather than dense forests.

They build their nests high up on trees where they stay all year long unless disturbed by humans or animals nearby.

Their presence has become an iconic part of American culture due to their frequent sightings around homes and parks alike making them beloved creatures among people everywhere.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Genus	Buteo
Species	B. jamaicensis

22. 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

23. Mountain chickadee

The Mountain Chickadee is a small songbird in the tit family Paridae. It's distinct features include its black cap and bib, white cheeks, gray back and buffy underparts.

This bird was named after an American naturalist called William Gambel.

Recent studies have suggested that this species should be separated from other tits due to differences in their mitochondrial DNA cytochrome B sequence data as well as physical characteristics such as morphology.

They inhabit coniferous forests of North America between Alaska's Aleutian Islands all the way down to northern Mexico.

The diet of these birds consist mainly on insects but they are also known to eat seeds and berries at times.

These active little birds often join mixed-species foraging flocks during wintertime with other chickadees, nuthatches or kinglets which helps them survive colder climates by pooling resources together when food sources become sparse.

Scientific classification:

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

24. 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

25. 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

26. 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

27. Belted kingfisher

The belted kingfisher is a large, eye-catching bird native to North America. It belongs to the family Alcedinidae and has been divided into three subfamilies by recent research.

The species was first described in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus in his Systema Naturae.

This water Kingfisher stands out for its size as well as its striking plumage; males are bright blue on top with white below and females have rusty brown backs and wings with a thick black breast band across their chest.

They also possess an impressive call which can be heard from quite far away.

Belted kingfishers feed mainly on small fish but will sometimes also eat crustaceans, insects or even amphibians if they come across them while hunting around rivers or streams.

All in all, this is truly one remarkable bird that deserves our admiration.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Coraciiformes
Family	Alcedinidae
Subfamily	Cerylinae
Genus	Megaceryle
Species	M. alcyon

28. Western tanager

The Western Tanager (Piranga ludoviciana) is a medium-sized songbird belonging to the cardinal family, Cardinalidae. It was illustrated and formally described by American ornithologist Alexander Wilson in 1811.

The species has distinctive plumage including yellow feathers on its wings and tail, red shoulders, black head with white forehead patch and grayish underparts.

Its vocalizations are also very similar to other members of the cardinal family - they have a high pitched 'tsee' note followed by several sweeter notes that come together as parts of complex songs.

They primarily feed on fruit but will also take insects when available for extra protein during breeding season.

These beautiful birds can be found throughout western North America from Alaska down through Mexico making them an iconic part of many landscapes.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Cardinalidae
Genus	Piranga
Species	P. ludoviciana

29. 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

30. 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

31. Eastern kingbird

The Eastern kingbird is an impressive large grey bird, with a white underbelly and pointed wings. It can be seen perched atop trees or bushes in open areas while foraging for insects.

This species of tyrant flycatcher breeds across much of North America during the spring and summer months before migrating southwards come wintertime.

During this time, they have been known to travel as far south as Central and South America.

These birds are particularly territorial when nesting; having been observed chasing off even larger animals such as hawks away from their nests. A truly remarkable sight to behold.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Tyrannidae
Genus	Tyrannus
Species	T. tyrannus

32. Black-headed grosbeak

The Black-headed Grosbeak is a medium-sized bird that belongs to the Cardinalidae family. It has black head and upperparts, while its underparts are bright yellow.

This striking contrast makes it easy to distinguish from other birds. The grosbeak typically measures 19 cm in length and weighs around 47 grams.

During summer months, they migrate northward up into southwestern British Columbia for nesting grounds where they can find plenty of seeds as food sources.

They also hybridize with Rose-breasted Grosbeaks on the Great Plains in America, creating even more colorful plumage variations amongst these species.

All in all, this beautiful songbird will make an excellent addition to any backyard or garden if you're lucky enough to spot one.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Cardinalidae
Genus	Pheucticus
Species	P. melanocephalus

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33. 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

34. 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

35. Common yellowthroat

The Common Yellowthroat is a small, New World Warbler found throughout North America. It has distinctive yellow and black plumage that earned it the nickname "Yellow Bandit" in the Midwest United States.

This species is highly adaptable and can be found inhabiting wetlands, grasslands, shrub-land habitats, as well as suburban areas.

The genus of this bird's scientific name translates to mean 'ground' and 'small bird', which are fitting characteristics for such an elusive yet common little creature.

Its diet consists predominantly of insects but may also include other invertebrates like spiders or worms.

Overall the Common Yellowthroat makes an excellent addition to any backyard with its cheerful song.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Parulidae
Genus	Geothlypis
Species	G. trichas

36. American tree sparrow

The American tree sparrow, also known as the winter sparrow, is a medium-sized New World bird. It has an attractive rusty cap and grey underparts with a small dark spot on its chest.

Its back is rust colored and striped with lighter shades of brown while its wings have various shades of browns.

These birds are usually found in open areas such as grasslands or marshland during spring migration and can form large flocks when seeking food sources like seeds, insects or berries.

They nest in shrubs or trees near water sources but rarely do so far away from human settlements due to their dependence on supplementary foods provided by humans.

The American Tree Sparrow is a delightful sight for any nature enthusiast.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Passerellidae
Genus	Spizelloides Slager & Klicka, 2014
Species	S. arborea

37. Broad-tailed hummingbird

The Broad-tailed hummingbird is a beautiful medium sized bird found in highland regions from western United States and Western Canada to Mexico and Guatemala.

It has an overall length of 4 inches (10 cm) with wingspan of 5.25 inches (13.3 cm). Its weight ranges around 3.6 grams(0.13 oz), females slightly larger than males on average .

This tiny marvel boasts vibrant green upperparts, pinkish underparts , white throat patch, forked tail tipped with black feathering and colourful glossy gorget feathers that vary across the sexes; male’s being iridescent red while female's are buffy orange or yellow colouration.

The broad tailed hummingbird feed mainly on nectar but also consume small insects to supplement their diet providing them much needed protein content necessary for growth and development during migration season ahead.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Apodiformes
Family	Trochilidae
Genus	Selasphorus
Species	S. platycercus

38. 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

39. Broad-winged hawk

The Broad-winged Hawk is a medium-sized raptor of the Buteo genus. It has distinct subspecies which are distributed throughout eastern North America, ranging from British Columbia to Texas and migrating south during winter months to places like Mexico and Brazil.

Other subspecies are year round residents in Caribbean Islands. Like most birds of prey, female Broad-winged Hawks tend to be larger than males - they can have wingspans up to 48 inches.

These hawks feed mainly on small mammals such as mice or voles but also eat insects, reptiles and amphibians too.

They nest high in trees typically near open fields where food sources abound; their nests are often made with sticks lined with grasses or other materials for insulation purposes.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Genus	Buteo
Species	B. platypterus

40. White-tailed ptarmigan

The white-tailed ptarmigan is a small, hardy bird found in high altitudes of Alaska, Canada and the western US. It belongs to the grouse family and has cryptic plumage that changes with each season.

In summer it sports grey, brown and white speckles while during winter its feathers become entirely white for camouflage against snow.

This adaption allows it to survive even at temperatures below freezing point.

Its diet consists mostly of plants such as willow buds or twigs but also includes insects like ants which provide additional nutrients when food sources are scarce during winter months.

An interesting behaviour trait is their tendency to walk away from predators instead of flying - they can fly but prefer not too.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Galliformes
Family	Phasianidae
Genus	Lagopus
Species	L. leucura

Also Featured In: British Columbian Birds, Tundra Birds

41. Calliope hummingbird

The Calliope hummingbird is the tiniest bird native to North America, stretching from California up through British Columbia.

During winter it will travel all the way down as far south as Mexico and Central America before returning north for breeding season.

It was previously thought to be the only member of its genus Stellula but recently has been reclassified under Selasphorus due to genetic similarities with other birds in that group.

Its bright colors are an unmistakable sight and they love sipping on nectar from flowers or sugar water feeders placed outside windows.

They’re a popular delight among both wildlife photographers and amateur bird enthusiasts alike.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Apodiformes
Family	Trochilidae
Genus	Selasphorus
Species	S. calliope

42. Mountain bluebird

The Mountain Bluebird is a beautiful sight to behold. It has bright turquoise-blue wings and tail, with a light underbelly, grey crown and breast, black eyes and thin bills.

During the fall season its plumage changes slightly - females have duller blue wings and tail, as well as a grey throat and back.

As they migrate across western North America during springtime these birds can be found in mountainous districts where they feed on insects such as grasshoppers or crickets collected from meadows or fields of grain.

They also enjoy eating berries when available. Through their stunning colours this species adds vibrancy to any landscape it traverses through – truly an incredible creature of nature.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Turdidae
Genus	Sialia
Species	S. currucoides

43. Bluebirds

Bluebirds are a North American species of small to medium-sized birds belonging to the thrush family. They have stunning blue and rose beige plumage, with males having brighter colors than females.

These beautiful birds mainly feed on insects, but they can also eat some fruits or seeds from time to time. Bluebirds reside in open fields, meadows and backyards across much of North America.

Their cheerful songs bring joy as they fly through their habitats looking for food during the day before returning home at nightfall.

The sight of these beautiful creatures is often associated with happiness and hope - making them beloved by many people.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Passeriformes
Family	Turdidae
Subfamily	Myadestinae
Genus	Sialia Swainson, 1827

44. Ruffed grouse

The Ruffed Grouse is a medium-sized bird native to forests from the Appalachian Mountains across Canada to Alaska.

It has an impressive range and is widely distributed throughout North America, making it one of the most abundant game birds in the region.

Unlike many other grouse species, this bird does not migrate and remains in its chosen habitat year round. The Ruffed Grouse has unique features that set it apart from similar birds.

Its feathers are ruffled like fur giving it a soft look; and its tail can be spread out into an umbrella shape when threatened or startled by predators.

This beautiful creature makes for great hunting opportunities with plenty of success stories among seasoned hunters – but only if they know what they’re doing.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Galliformes
Family	Phasianidae
Tribe	Tetraonini
Genus	Bonasa Stephens, 1819
Species	B. umbellus

45. Steller's jay

Steller's jay is a beautiful and colorful bird native to western North America and the mountains of Central America.

It has a distinctive long crest that sets it apart from other birds, with its blue feathers streaked with black, white, gray, and brown markings.

This species is closely related to the blue jays found in eastern North America but can be distinguished by their longer crests.

They are known for being highly vocal birds who like to make loud calls throughout forests they inhabit as well as stealing food from unsuspecting mammals or raiding bird feeders when given the chance.

Steller's Jays have adapted well to human presence in areas they populate making them great backyard visitors if you're lucky enough.

Scientific classification:

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

46. Gyrfalcon

Gyrfalcon is the largest of all falcon species and a majestic bird of prey. It breeds in Arctic coasts, tundra areas, islands of northern North America and Eurosiberian regions.

Gyrfalcons are mainly resident birds but some may wander away from their breeding grounds during winter season or after mating period ends.

These beautiful raptors can be seen in white, dark gray/black and brown colors depending upon subspecies they belong to.

They have powerful wings that help them fly at high speeds while hunting for food like ptarmigans, ducks etc.,They also possess sharp vision which helps them spot small mammals even when they are miles away.

Though gyrfalkons’ population has decreased due to human interference on their habitats yet these magnificent creatures still remain an important part of our ecosystem providing us with ample opportunities to get close to nature's beauty.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Falconiformes
Family	Falconidae
Genus	Falco
Subgenus	Hierofalco
Species	F. rusticolus

47. Boreal owl

The Boreal Owl is a small, nocturnal bird of the Strigidae family commonly found in North America and Europe.

It's also known as Tengmalm’s owl after Swedish naturalist Peter Gustaf Tengmalm or Richardson’s owl after Sir John Richardson.

The boreal owl has an elusive nature which makes it difficult to observe due to its shyness towards human activity during daylight hours.

Its feathers are dark brown with white spots on the wings, face and throat while its underbelly is light grey/brown with darker streaks along the sides.

They have long talons used for catching prey such as mice, voles and other small rodents making them effective hunters at night-time when they become more active seeking food sources away from humans.

Their habitat consists of coniferous forests where they can find shelter among large trees that offer nesting sites high up off of ground level keeping them safe from predators like foxes and coyotes who roam around looking for easy meals near the forest floor.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Strigiformes
Family	Strigidae
Genus	Aegolius
Species	A. funereus

48. Ferruginous hawk

The Ferruginous Hawk is a large bird of prey belonging to the Buteo family, and colloquially known as the 'Ferrugineous Rough-Leg'.

Its name has been derived from Latin terms with 'buteo' meaning buzzard and 'regalis' meaning royal.

The hawk's feathers are rust coloured or ferruginous in appearance, hence its common name.

It preys on small mammals like pocket gophers, ground squirrels and jackrabbits; reptiles such as snakes also form part of their diet.

They inhabit open plains and shrublands where there is plenty of food available for them to hunt.

When threatened they may fly away quickly but if cornered can become aggressive so caution must be taken when observing them closely.

Scientific classification:

Kingdom	Animalia
Phylum	Chordata
Class	Aves
Order	Accipitriformes
Family	Accipitridae
Genus	Buteo
Species	B. regalis