Yellow birds are some of the most iconic and recognizable members of the avian world. With their bright, cheerful plumage and unique behaviors, they have been beloved among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts for centuries.
They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from the tiny American Goldfinch to the majestic Bald Eagle, and each species has its own unique characteristics and behaviors.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the fascinating world of yellow birds, exploring their lives, behaviors, and habitats.
1. 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 |
2. 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 |
3. 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 |
4. 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 |
5. 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 |
6. Yellowthroats
Yellowthroats are a genus of New World warblers with localised ranges in Mexico, Central America and South America. They have distinctive yellow-green upperparts, yellow breast and mainly black bill.
Male common yellowthroat has an olive-green back and wings with two white wing bars; the female is browner than male but both sexes show a prominent dark bandit mask across the eyes.
The masked Yellowthroat has greyish upper parts with bright orange throat patch on its chestnut underbelly; it also shows faint spots around its neck region to add distinction from other species within this group.
These birds feed mostly on insects which they catch by flying low over vegetation or water edges making use of their agility while searching for food items like spiders, beetles etc..Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Geothlypis Cabanis, 1847 |
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7. Yellow-Breasted Chat
The Yellow-breasted Chat is a large songbird found in North America, and is the only member of its family Icteriidae.
It was once part of the New World Warbler family but has since been moved to its own group due to taxonomic uncertainty.
This bird stands out as it was previously thought to be the largest species within Parulida.
Its plumage features shades of yellow, olive green and browns; males have darker heads while females are slightly paler overall.
The chat’s diet consists mostly of insects such as caterpillars and beetles which they forage from low vegetation or glean off leaves on tree branches during summer months when their populations peak.
They also feed heavily on fruits like elderberry, grapes and wild cherries during migration periods throughout spring/fall season providing much needed energy for long journeys southwards or northwards depending upon geography location each year.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Emberizoidea |
| Family | Icteriidae Baird, 1858 |
| Genus | Icteria Vieillot, 1808 |
| Species | I. virens |
8. 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 |
9. Common Blackbird
The Common Blackbird is a species of true thrush with the scientific name Turdus merula. Found in Europe, Asiatic Russia and North Africa it has also been introduced to Australia and New Zealand.
The male bird has glossy black plumage while the female’s coloration is more brownish gray.
It is known for its melodious song that can be heard throughout much of the year; typically they are seen alone or in pairs but occasionally form large flocks when food sources become available or during migration periods.
Its diet consists mainly of insects, worms, berries and other fruits as well as some human-provided foods such as bread crumbs or garbage scraps when available.
With its wide distribution range along with ease of adaptation to different habitats this species will likely remain one our most common birds around us.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. merula |
10. Wilson’s Warbler
Wilson’s warbler is a small, brightly coloured bird found across North America. It has greenish upperparts and yellow underparts, with rounded wings and a long tail.
The male has an easily identifiable black crown patch which may or may not be present in the female depending on the subspecies.
They breed from Canada down to central parts of Mexico and then winter south through much of Central America.
These birds are usually seen flitting around low vegetation as they search for insects to eat – their main food source.
Their cheerful song can often be heard during spring migration when they travel back up north to breed again after spending winter further south.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Cardellina |
| Species | C. pusilla |
11. Nashville Warbler
The Nashville Warbler is a small bird found in North and Central America. It has gray head, green back and yellowish-white underparts.
During breeding season it can be seen in parts of the northern and western United States, southern Canada as well as Mexico; while during winter it migrates to places like California, Texas or further south into Central America.
Its diet consists mainly of insects which they find by foraging on trees or shrubs near open woodlands with dense vegetation.
They are fairly active birds that move around often when searching for food, making them easy to spot if you know where to look.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Leiothlypis |
| Species | L. ruficapilla |
12. Pine Warbler
The Pine Warbler is a small bird from the New World warbler family, with an olive-brown upperparts and white belly.
Its distinguishing features include two white wing bars, dark legs, thin pointed bills and yellowish ‘spectacles’ around its eyes.
Adult males have bright yellow throats and breasts on top of their olive upperparts; females and immatures are less vibrant in colour but retain similar characteristics.
These birds can be found near pine forests throughout North America during summer months before migrating to warmer climates for winter.
They feed mainly on insects such as caterpillars, spiders and flies while also consuming fruits like blueberries when food becomes scarce in colder times of year.
All in all, these tiny songbirds provide us with much beauty through their unique plumage patterns whilst serving important roles within their ecosystems.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. pinus |
13. Magnolia Warbler
The Magnolia Warbler is a small and beautiful bird native to North America. It belongs to the wood warbler family of Parulidae and its name derives from type locality Fort Adams, Mississippi where it was first discovered by Alexander Wilson.
This species has an overall length ranging between 4 – 5 inches with wingspan measuring up to 6-7 inches long.
Its plumage consists of yellow chest which turns into olive green on top while its underside takes white hue and throat remains black in coloration along with two white wingbars present on either sides.
In terms of diet, they feed mainly on insects like caterpillars, moths etc., but also feeds upon fruits or seeds occasionally during winter season as well as migratory period too.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. magnolia |
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14. Evening Grosbeak
The Evening Grosbeak (Hesperiphona vespertina) is a beautiful passerine bird in the finch family Fringillidae native to North America.
It has an impressive wingspan of up to 20 inches and its plumage is mostly black, yellow or grey with distinctive white patches on each side of its head.
Its diet consists mainly of seeds and other plant matter as well as small insects, fruit and berries when available.
The male’s song is loud and melodic which can be heard from some distance away during breeding season making it a popular species for avid backyard birders.
The Evening Grosbeak typically nests high in coniferous trees where they build cup-shaped structures lined with feathers or grass that provide protection against predators.
Overall this species makes an excellent addition to any backyard aviary.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Carduelinae |
| Genus | Hesperiphona |
| Species | H. vespertina |
15. Eastern Meadowlark
The Eastern meadowlark is a medium-sized blackbird, found from eastern North America to northern South America.
It used to be considered the same species as the Western meadowlark but has since been separated into its own distinct species.
The bird is mainly brown with yellow underparts and an orange patch on its throat; it also has white wing bars which can be seen in flight.
Its song consists of a series of musical whistles followed by gurgling notes at the end, earning them their nickname “rainmaker” birds because they are believed to bring rain if heard singing during dry weather.
These beautiful birds feed mostly on insects, seeds and other plant material while nesting amongst grasses or low shrubs near open fields where there’s plenty of food available for them.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Sturnella |
| Species | S. magna |
16. 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 |
17. Blue-Winged Warbler
The Blue-winged Warbler is a common species of New World warbler, measuring 11.5 cm (4.5 in) long and weighing 8.5 g (0.30 oz).
It breeds mainly in eastern North America from southern Ontario to the US east coast, with its range gradually expanding northwards as it replaces its closely related cousin – the Golden-winged Warbler – in these parts of the world.
The name “Blue-winged” refers to its distinctive blue wings which contrast sharply against an olive green body plumage and white underparts scattered with yellow spots or streaks on either side of the breast region.
Males often have brighter colors than females do during breeding season, while nonbreeding birds tend to be duller overall regardless of sex difference.
Its diet consists mostly insect prey items such as caterpillars, beetles & moths that are gleaned off foliage or caught midflight by this active forager.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Vermivora |
| Species | V. cyanoptera |
18. Prairie Warbler
The Prairie Warbler is a small, colorful songbird of the New World warbler family. It has yellow underparts with dark streaks on its flanks and olive overparts with rusty streaks on its back.
Its head features a bright yellow line above the eye, contrasted by a darker line through it and finished off with an additional bright yellow spot below.
Black legs, long tails, two pale wing bars and thin pointed bills complete this bird’s look.
In flight they are known to have erratic movements while singing their distinctive loud “tseet” call as they pass overhead in migration or migrate between summer breeding grounds and wintering areas further south each year.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. discolor |
19. Cape May Warbler
The Cape May Warbler is a species of New World warbler that breeds in northern North America, ranging from southern Canada to the Great Lakes region and New England.
During wintertime it migrates to the West Indies. This bird is an uncommon vagrant to western Europe with two records so far in Britain as of 2013.
It gets its name from being first discovered near Cape May, New Jersey back in 1811 by Alexander Wilson who noted its yellow breast plumage and black streaking on his specimen’s sides.
The males are more brightly colored than females but both sexes have white eye rings which help distinguish them among other warblers during migration season.
They mainly feed on insects and can often be seen foraging at high levels up amongst trees or shrubs where they tend their nests containing 3-5 eggs each breeding season between April – June.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. tigrina |
20. Northern Parula
The Northern Parula is a small, migratory warbler native to North America. It measures between 4.3 and 4.9 inches in length and has a wingspan of 6.3-7.1 inches wide.
Its plumage consists mainly of yellowish green upper parts with an orange patch on its chest as well as blue crowns for males during the breeding season.
Females have duller colors than their male counterparts overall but are still quite striking from afar.
This species breeds primarily in eastern Canada down through Florida, though some northern populations may migrate southward come wintertime while others stick around year round depending on the weather conditions they face each year – truly amazing adaptability set them apart from other birds in this region.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. americana |
21. Hooded Warbler
The Hooded Warbler is a species of New World warblers that breed in eastern North America and migrate to Central America and the West Indies for winter.
It has distinctive yellow, hood-like markings on its head which distinguish it from other similar looking birds.
Recent genetic research suggests that this bird was originally classified as Wilsonia citrina, making it one of the oldest known species discovered by scientists today.
The Hooded Warbler can be found near moist woodlands where they feed mainly on insects such as caterpillars and grasshoppers.
They have also been observed eating fruits including wild cherries during migration periods when food sources are scarce.
This unique little bird plays an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems throughout their range; however climate change may pose serious threats to their survival if not addressed soon enough.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. citrina |
22. 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 |
23. Siskins And New World Goldfinches
Siskins and New World goldfinches are small passerine birds found in North and South America. They belong to the genus Spinus, which is derived from an Ancient Greek word for a now-unidentifiable bird.
These species were previously included in the Carduelis genus, but have since been moved back into their own distinct classification.
Siskin males often feature bright yellow facial markings as well as white markings on their wings, while female siskins usually display duller colors with brownish streaks or patches throughout their plumage.
Goldfinch males typically show vivid yellow bodies with black face masks, wings and tails; females tend to be pale gray-brown overall with light brown streaking on breast feathers.
Both sexes of both species have short pointed bills used for feeding primarily on seeds and insects during summer months when food availability is high .Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Carduelinae |
| Genus | Spinus Koch, 1816 |
24. Canada Warbler
The Canada warbler is a small songbird of the Parulidae family, native to North America. It has olive-green upper parts with yellow underparts and white wing bars, making it easily identifiable.
During summer months they are found in Canada and northeastern United States while during winter their range extends to northern South America.
Mathurin Jacques Brisson was the first to describe this species in 1760 after he collected a specimen from Canada; which resulted in its French name Le gobe-mouche du Canada (Canada’s flycatcher).
Its diet consists mainly of insects such as beetles and mosquitoes, but also includes berries occassionally.
With an estimated population of 5 million individuals they remain common across much of their range although numbers have been declining due to habitat loss caused by human development activities like logging or agricultural expansion.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Cardellina |
| Species | C. canadensis |
25. 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 |
26. Yellow-Throated Warbler
The Yellow-throated Warbler (Setophaga dominica) is a small migratory songbird found in temperate North America. It belongs to the Parulidae family of New World warblers.
Males have grey upperparts and wings with double white wing bars, yellow throats, and white underparts streaked with black on the flanks.
Females are less brightly colored, having olive green or brownish gray back and wings with two faint wingbars instead of one bright one visible in males.
These birds feed mainly on insects during their breeding season but will also eat fruits at other times of year while they migrate southwards for wintering grounds where they will search for nectar from flowers as well as fruit sources such as berries and wild grapes.
They can be seen actively searching through trees for food items near bird feeders during migration time periods making them an interesting species to observe.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. dominica |
27. Western Kingbird
The Western kingbird is a large tyrant flycatcher native to western North America. It has striking plumage, with gray and yellow feathers tinged with crimson during courtship or when defending territory from intruders.
As is characteristic of its kind, the Western Kingbird exhibits highly territorial behavior towards other birds in its area.
They are found as far south as Mexico, inhabiting open habitats near bodies of water such as rivers and lakes.
While their primary diet consists of insects like bees and flies that they catch mid-flight, it also includes fruit for variety during winter months.
The species have recently seen an increase in population due to conservation efforts which aim to protect these beautiful creatures.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Tyrannus |
| Species | T. verticalis |
28. American Redstart
The American Redstart is a beautiful New World Warbler, first documented by Carl Linnaeus in 1758.
It has an elegant black and orange plumage that sets it apart from other birds.
The genus name Setophaga comes from the Ancient Greek words ‘sēs’ meaning moth and ‘phagos’, which means eating – referencing its insect-eating habits.
Its song is one of joy, with short repeating phrases making up their melodic tune.
They are mostly found hopping around trees on their long legs during breeding season but migrate to Central America for winter months when food sources become scarce in North America.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. ruticilla |
29. Mourning Warbler
The Mourning Warbler is a small songbird that belongs to the New World warbler family.
Originating in eastern and central North America, as well as some Central American countries, these birds migrate with the seasons and prefer dense second growth forests.
They are easily identified by their bright yellow-green plumage which has a distinct black mask extending from its beak down to its neck, giving it an almost melancholic look – hence the name ‘Mourning’ Warbler.
This species of bird loves singing and can often be heard chirping away during mating season or just mid flight.
With large eyes surrounded by white spectacles they also have strong legs allowing them to perch on trees for long periods at time while hunting insects among leaves and branches.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Geothlypis |
| Species | G. philadelphia |
30. Kentucky Warbler
The Kentucky Warbler is a beautiful bird, with its olive-green back and brilliant yellow underside.
Its short tail and sluggish behavior make it distinct from other warblers, as they prefer to stay on or near the ground rather than fly around like others of their species.
These birds are native to North America and can be seen in deciduous woodlands during summer months searching for insects among leaf litter.
They have a small hint of black at their throats which stands out against their vibrant coloring making them stand out even more.
During breeding season males sing loudly from high perches in order to court females who will then build nests hidden away close by the ground nearby sources of water such as streams or ponds where food supplies are plentiful for raising young chicks.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Geothlypis |
| Species | G. formosa |
31. Lesser Goldfinch
The Lesser Goldfinch is a tiny species of bird found in the Americas. It belongs to the same clade as American goldfinches and Lawrence’s goldfinches, which can be identified by their males having black or rarely green foreheads.
The face appears red or yellow on these birds unlike other species in its genus Spinus sensu stricto.
They are small songbirds with short bills, brown wings and tails with white edges, grey-brown backs and olive heads.
These birds inhabit open woodlands and fields where they feed mainly on seeds from weeds such as thistle, pigweed and ragweed but also consume insects at times during breeding season for additional nutrition.
In addition to being an important part of North America’s avian ecology, these birds have been popularized through recent artwork depicting them in various poses among flowers.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Carduelinae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. psaltria |
32. Yellow-Throated Vireo
The Yellow-throated Vireo is a small songbird found in North America. It has an olive head and upperparts with a yellow throat and white belly, along with dark wings and tail feathers.
The vireo’s scientific name comes from the Latin words “flavus” meaning yellow, and “frons” meaning forehead – alluding to its distinctive colouring.
These birds feed mainly on insects which they catch by hovering over vegetation or flying out to seize them midair.
During breeding season males are known for their loud singing as they defend their territories against rival suitors.
Nonbreeding individuals may congregate in large flocks while migrating southward during autumn months, making quite a spectacle of themselves.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Vireonidae |
| Genus | Vireo |
| Species | V. flavifrons |
33. Passerine
Passerines are a vast order of birds, comprising more than half the species in existence. Many familiar garden and woodland species fall into this category such as sparrows, blackbirds, finches and warblers.
They can be recognised by their arrangement of toes; three pointing forward with one back which helps them perch on branches or wires.
Passerines range from tiny wrens to large crows and have adapted to inhabit many environments around the world including forests, mountainsides and deserts.
They feed mainly on insects but some also consume fruit and seeds depending on their diet preferences.
Their diversity is truly remarkable from vibrant coloured tropical parrots to drab winter thrushes – making passerine birds an integral part of our natural heritage.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Psittacopasserae |
| Order | Passeriformes Linnaeus, 1758 |
34. Baltimore Oriole
The Baltimore Oriole is a small, blackbird-like bird found in eastern North America. It’s named for the resemblance of its male colors to those on Lord Baltimore’s coat-of-arms from 17th century.
These birds migrate and breed during springtime and are quite common in their habitats.
Studies have shown that this species interbreeds with western Bullock’s orioles, leading both to be classified as a single species – Icterus galbula.
The males typically have orange feathers along the chest, back, wings and tail while females display tan or yellowish shades instead of bright orange ones like males do.
Both sexes share white wing bars and dark brown eyes which makes them easily distinguishable among other birds.
They can often be seen flitting around trees feeding off nectar buds or insects such as grasshoppers & caterpillars they catch while flying around.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Icterus |
| Species | I. galbula |
35. Summer Tanager
The Summer Tanager is a stunningly beautiful member of the cardinal family. Native to North and South America, this medium-sized songbird features striking red plumage on its back with yellow underparts.
It has a pointed black bill and long tail feathers that can be seen fluttering through the air when it flies.
The species’ vocalizations are quite similar to those of other members of its genus as well, which often include short whistles and chirps in addition to longer songs made up of various phrases or syllables.
With their vibrant colors and melodic voices, these birds make an eye-catching sight any time they appear.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Piranga |
| Species | P. rubra |
36. Palm Warbler
The palm warbler is a small songbird found in the New World, belonging to the warbler family.
It has two distinct subspecies that differ mainly in their plumage – eastern palm warblers have yellower underparts and bolder rufous streaks on their breast and flanks than western ones.
These birds are light olive above with whitish bellies and yellow throats.
They also have distinctive white-tipped tail feathers which they often flick while foraging or singing during breeding season, when males establish territories through song duels.
The diet of these birds consists mostly of insects such as beetles, moths, ants and caterpillars collected from trees or ground vegetation like grasses or sedges.
Palm Warblers migrate long distances between its wintering grounds near Central America to northeastern North American states where it breeds each summer before returning south again come fall.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. palmarum |
37. Tanagers
The Tanagers are a beautiful and diverse family of birds native to the Neotropical region. They boast an impressive array of colors, including blues, greens, yellows and reds.
The most common type is the fruit-eating tanager that can be found in tropical forests across Latin America. With nearly 240 species worldwide, they represent almost 4% of all avian species.
These vibrant birds have adapted well to their environment due to their strong bills used for cracking open hard fruits as well as sharp claws for gripping branches while feeding or perching.
As with many other bird families there is natural variation among populations making each one unique in its own way; something that makes them even more special.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Superfamily | Emberizoidea |
| Family | Thraupidae Cabanis, 1847 |
38. Dickcissel
The Dickcissel is a small migratory bird belonging to the Cardinalidae family. It breeds in grasslands of the Midwestern US, and winters in Central America, northern Colombia and Venezuela.
Being the only member of its genus Spiza, it stands out from other birds with its distinctive song that sounds like “dick-sis-sel”.
With a light brown body and black streaks on its wings as well as chestnut colored shoulders and crowns, these birds are quite attractive to watch.
They also have short bills which they use while foraging through tall prairie vegetation or searching around fence posts for insects.
Although not endangered yet, their population has declined due to loss of habitat caused by human development so conservation efforts should be taken up soon.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Spiza Bonaparte, 1824 |
| Species | S. americana |
39. Scarlet Tanager
The Scarlet Tanager is a beautiful medium-sized bird found in parts of North and South America. It belongs to the Cardinal family, and has striking red plumage with black wings and tail feathers.
Its song is similar to other cardinals yet also unique in its own way – it’s recognizable by its high whistles that become lower towards the end.
The species feeds mainly on insects as well as berries from trees or shrubs during breeding season, when they may form loose flocks over open woodlands foraging for food.
They are highly territorial birds during nesting season which happens between April and June each year; both males and females fiercely defend their nests against intruders such as cats or squirrels.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Piranga |
| Species | P. olivacea |
40. Orange-Crowned Warbler
The Orange-crowned Warbler is a small songbird from the New World warbler family. It was formally described in 1822 by Thomas Say, who gave it its scientific name Sylvia celatus – Latin for ‘cloaked’.
This species has an olive green back and wings with yellowish underparts. The males have bright orange crowns during breeding season, which give this bird its namesake.
They can be found mainly in North America but they also migrate to Central America during winter months.
Their diet consists of insects such as butterflies, moths, grasshoppers and beetles; they may also consume fruits occasionally when available.
These birds are relatively quiet except for their mating calls which include whistles or buzzing sounds that last a few seconds long each time.
The Orange-crowned Warbler is one of the most wide spread passerines today due to their hardiness and adaptability; however there remains threat of habitat destruction that could affect many populations negatively if not addressed soon enough.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Leiothlypis |
| Species | L. celata |
41. Orchard Oriole
The Orchard Oriole is a small species of icterid bird, with the subspecies I. s. fuertesi sometimes considered its own separate species known as the Ochre or Fuertes’ Oriole.
The adult male of the nominate subspecies has chestnut upperparts and black wings and tail, while females are more yellowish-green in coloration on their back and wings.
Its bill is pointed, black in color with some blue-gray at the base of its lower mandible.
This beautiful bird can also be found across North America during migration season; they inhabit woodlands near streams or rivers to breed before migrating south for winter months.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Icterus |
| Species | I. spurius |
42. European Goldfinch
The European Goldfinch is a small passerine bird belonging to the finch family. It inhabits Europe, North Africa, western and central Asia but has been introduced in other places such as Australia, New Zealand and Uruguay.
The breeding male of this species can be easily identified by its red face with black markings around the eyes and black-and-white head.
Its back and flanks are buff or yellowish in color while it has white underparts which contrast well with its dark wings edged in white feathers.
This bird feeds on grains from plants like millet or sunflower seeds along with insects occasionally when available during summer months for food source.
In winter they flock together near sources of water where they find their food among weeds growing there at that time of year.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Carduelinae |
| Genus | Carduelis |
| Species | C. carduelis |
43. Scott’s Oriole
The Scott’s oriole is a medium-sized icterid found in the Southwestern United States, Mexico and Baja California Sur. Named by American soldier and naturalist John Charles Frémont for his friend Robert F.
Scott, this beautiful bird has bright yellow underparts with an orange back and black wings.
Its song consists of long series of whistles that are often likened to the sound of a flute or piccolo.
They feed mainly on insects but can also eat some fruits such as dates and figs from trees like mesquite, palo verde, live oak, sycamore and cottonwood.
This species is common south from Sacramento in California making it easy to spot if you’re lucky enough to be near its habitat.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Icterus |
| Species | I. parisorum |
44. White-Eyed Vireo
The White-eyed vireo is a small songbird in the family Vireonidae, native to parts of eastern United States from New England to northern Missouri, Texas and Florida.
It also occurs in Mexico, Central America, Cuba and Caribbean islands such as Bahamas.
These birds are migratory on their North American range but become resident further south towards Gulf Coast.
They inhabit wooded areas with thick shrubbery or foliage which offer plenty of insects for them to feed upon.
Their call consists of sharp ‘chick’ notes while they sing a sweet melodious warble during breeding season making them popular among birdwatchers all over the world.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Vireonidae |
| Genus | Vireo |
| Species | V. griseus |
45. Townsend’s Warbler
Townsend’s warbler is a stunning bird of the New World Warbler family. It was first described in 1837 by American naturalist John Kirk Townsend, with its type locality being Fort Vancouver on the Columbia River in Washington.
Its appearance and behavior are what make it so special – this small songbird has bright yellow plumage on its head, throat and chest that stands out brilliantly against an olive-green back and wings.
During nesting season they have been known to construct their nests using lichens or mosses woven into intricate cup shapes secured tightly to thin branches.
This species also engages in social behaviors such as chasing other birds away from territories, flocking together when migrating south for winter months, or gathering around water sources like ponds or streams.
Despite their beauty though they remain elusive creatures; often hiding deep within dense foliage making it difficult to observe them up close.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. townsendi |
Also Featured In: Birds in Pacific Northwest, Common Yellow Birds of Idaho
46. New World Orioles
New World orioles are a group of birds belonging to the blackbird family. They share many features with Old World orioles, including size, diet and behaviour; however they differ in their striking plumage.
Males have bright yellow or orange bodies with contrasting black wings and white markings on the head and breast.
Females and immature birds tend to be duller colours such as browns and greys. These colourful songbirds feed primarily on fruit, insects, nectar from flowers or sap from trees – sometimes even raiding other nests for eggs.
Their cheerful chirps can often be heard throughout parks during summertime months.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Icterus Brisson, 1760 |
47. Black-Throated Green Warbler
The Black-throated Green Warbler is a beautiful and dainty songbird in the New World warbler family.
It has an olive green crown, yellow face with dark markings, white wing bars and pale underparts streaked with black on the sides.
Adult males have a striking black throat and upper breast while females show paler coloration on their throats but retain some black patterning across their chest area.
They are quite small birds measuring around 14 cm in length from bill to tail tip that make them easy to miss if they aren’t singing.
Their diet consists mainly of insects which they catch by flitting through trees or shrubs as well as foraging among foliage making this species great help in controlling bug populations.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. virens |
48. MacGillivray’s Warbler
MacGillivray’s warbler is a species of New World warbler named in honor of Scottish ornithologist William MacGillivray. This bird is quite sluggish and prefers to spend most of its time on the ground, except when singing.
Its discovery was credited to John Kirk Townsend by John James Audubon. The MacGillivray’s warbler has olive-green upper parts with two yellow wing bars and white tail spots.
It also contains more grayish brown hues along its crown, neck, wings and back than other similar species like Nashville Warblers or Common Yellowthroats.
These birds are found commonly in western North America during summer months from mid-May through late August before migrating southward for wintering grounds near Mexico region into Central America during fall season until early springtime return migration northwards again later that year.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Geothlypis |
| Species | G. tolmiei |