Welcome to Florida! Home to some of the most diverse ecosystems in the United States, Florida is home to many species of birds. Among them is the red bird. Redbirds are known for their bright red feathers and unique songs.
These birds can be found throughout the state, from woodlands to wetlands. They are a famous bird to watch for birders, as they can be found in many different areas. As a result, they are an essential part of Florida’s ecology.
This article will explore the different types of red birds in Florida, their habitats, and how to attract them to your backyard.
25 Birds That Are Red in Florida
Florida is a state that attracts many birds, both residents and migrants, because of its warm climate and diverse habitats. Among the hundreds of bird species that can be seen in Florida, some stand out for their red coloration.
Here are 25 red birds in Florida.
1. Northern Cardinal
The northern cardinal, known by many different names, is a bird species found in the genus Cardinalis. It is most commonly referred to as the redbird, or just cardinal, due to its bright red plumage.
This bird is the standard or red cardinal, referencing its vibrant red coloring. The northern cardinal is a medium-sized songbird that is native to North America. It has a thick crest atop its head, a black face mask, and a sturdy, conical bill.
This species feeds on various foods, including seeds, fruits, and insects. It prefers to inhabit open woodlands, thickets, suburban gardens, and parks.
The northern cardinal is a famous backyard bird often seen atop branches or on fences. Its beautiful song is frequently heard in the early morning or late evening.
The northern cardinal is a vibrant and cheerful bird species that adds color to any environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Cardinalis |
| Species | C. cardinalis |
2. Cardinalidae
Cardinalidae is a family of birds that are exclusive to the Americas. This family includes species such as cardinals, grosbeaks, and buntings, which are all brightly colored and have heavy, conical bills.
In addition to these birds, the family also includes other genera, such as the tanager-like Piranga and the warbler-like Granatellus. Piranga species are mainly found in the Americas and have colorful plumage, with some species having yellow or orange patches.
Granatelli species, on the other hand, are found mainly in the southern United States and Central and South America, and they typically have a white or yellow belly and a brownish back.
Both genera are known for their loud, cheery songs, making them a welcome addition to any backyard.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
3. Cardinals
Cardinalis is a genus of birds in the family Cardinalidae, which includes a wide variety of birds such as buntings, grosbeaks, bobs, cardinals, and other members of the finch family.
These birds are a famous sight in the backyard, as they often feed on birdseed and other food sources from bird feeders. The three species in the Cardinalis genus range from the Great Lakes region of North America to northern South America.
These three species are the Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), the Pyrrhuloxia (Cardinalis sinuatus), and the Vermilion Cardinal (Cardinalis phoeniceus).
The Northern Cardinal is probably the most recognizable of the three species, with its bright red feathers and a black face mask. The Pyrrhuloxia is similar to the Northern Cardinal but has gray feathers, a reddish wash, and yellow-tinted wings.
The Vermilion Cardinal has bright orange-red feathers and a black face mask. All three species of Cardinalis are found in various habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, farmlands, and urban areas.
They often form large flocks and can be seen foraging for food on the ground or in low vegetation. The Cardinalis genus is an integral part of the avian community and the ecology of the Great Lakes region and northern South America.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Cardinalis |
4. House Finch
The house finch is a bird that falls under the finch family Fringillidae. It is native to western portions of North America and has since been introduced to the eastern half of the continent and even Hawaii.
This particular species of finch is classified as Haemorhous, its genus, and one of the three American rosefinches. It is unique among the finch family due to its muted red and brown coloring and its ability to adapt to a wide variety of habitats.
The birds are social creatures, gathering in flocks and living in large colonies. They often feed on seeds, grains, and fruits found in gardens, feeding stations, and other areas. They are standard and can be found in many parts of North America.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
5. Scarlet Tanager
The scarlet tanager is a medium-sized songbird native to North America. It was previously classified as a member of the tanager family, but recent taxonomic studies have placed it and other members of its genus within the cardinal family.
As a result, the scarlet tanager and the well-known northern cardinal are now considered part of the cardinal family. The scarlet tanager is a beautiful bird, with its bright red plumage and black wings and tail.
Its diet consists of insects, fruits, and a variety of seeds. These birds are often heard singing their pleasant melodies during the summer months.
During the cold winter months, they migrate to warmer climates in Central and South America. The scarlet tanager is an integral part of the North American ecosystem.
The birds are important in controlling insect populations by eating various insects, including mosquitos.
They also act as pollinators, helping to spread seeds throughout the forests. The scarlet tanager is a valuable species important to North American ecosystems.
It is an integral part of the cardinal family, and its recent classification has further highlighted its importance.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Piranga |
| Species | P. olivacea |
6. Finches
The true finches are a group of birds that belong to the family Fringillidae. They are small to medium-sized passerine birds, perching or songbirds with solid feet adapted for clinging to branches.
Their bills are usually stout and conical, which helps them crack open seeds and nuts.
True finches are often brightly colored, and their plumage may range from red to yellow to brown. True finches can be found in various habitats, from forests to urban areas, and typically remain in the same area throughout the year.
They are non-migratory, meaning they do not travel long distances for food or shelter. Instead, they remain in the same area for feeding, breeding, and sheltering.
True finches are an essential part of many ecosystems, providing food for other animals and contributing to the balance of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
7. Summer Tanager
The summer tanager is a medium-sized American songbird initially placed in the tanager family. However, recent studies have led to its reclassification into the cardinal family and other members of its genus.
This reclassification is based on the similar plumage and vocalizations that the summer tanager shares with other members of the cardinal family.
The summer tanager’s plumage has a pattern similar to other cardinals, with a reddish-orange head, back, wings, and a yellowish underbelly. Its vocalizations are also very similar to other members of the cardinal family, with a string of clear, whistled notes.
This starkly contrasts the more complex vocalizations of its former family, the tanagers. These shared characteristics have led to the summer tanager being reclassified into the cardinal family.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Piranga |
| Species | P. rubra |
8. Red-Headed Woodpecker
The red-headed woodpecker is a mid-sized bird species found in North America’s temperate regions. This colorful bird has striking black and white patterning, easily recognizable by its bright red head.
It can be found in various habitats but prefers to breed in open country, such as grasslands and fields, across southern Canada and the east-central United States. This bird is a cavity nester and can be seen hammering its bill into trees to create a suitable nesting site.
It also feeds on insects, nuts, and fruit, which it finds amongst the trees and wooded areas it inhabits. The red-headed woodpecker is a fascinating species and an essential part of the North American landscape.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. erythrocephalus |
9. Painted Bunting
The painted bunting is a stunning bird species in the cardinal family, Cardinalidae. Found in North America, the male of the species stands out from the female due to its brightly colored plumage.
This beautiful plumage is only visible once the painted bunting reaches its second year. During its first year, the male and female of the species can only be distinguished from one another through careful inspection.
The painted bunting is an awe-inspiring bird, and its bright colors make it an exciting addition to the avian world.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. ciris |
10. Red-bellied woodpecker
The red-bellied woodpecker is a bird belonging to the Picidae family. It is of medium size, with a distinct red belly. It lives and breeds primarily in the eastern United States, from Florida to Canada.
This species is also found in parts of the Caribbean, including Cuba, Jamaica, and Hispaniola. The red-bellied woodpecker is an adaptable species found in various habitats, from deciduous and coniferous forests to agricultural areas.
It feeds mainly on insects, especially ants and beetles, but eats fruits, nuts, and seeds. The red-bellied woodpecker is a cavity nester, creating a hole in a tree for its nest.
It is a vocal species, making loud, rapid tapping sounds while drumming on trees and poles or other objects. It is also known to create a variety of soft, squeaking calls.
The red-bellied woodpecker is a common bird in its range and is not considered a conservation concern.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. carolinus |
11. Woodpeckers
Woodpeckers are birds that belong to the family Picidae. Picidae, a part of the order Piciformes, consists of four genera: Picidae, Piculets, Wrynecks, and Sapsuckers.
These birds can be found worldwide, except for Australia, New Guinea, New Zealand, Madagascar, and the icy polar regions. The Picidae family is known for their unique ability to peck at tree bark with their strong beaks to find food.
They also have unique “Zygodactyl” feet that allow them to cling to the side of a tree while pecking. Woodpeckers also have a distinctive call, often used to attract mates and communicate with other woodpeckers.
Woodpeckers are essential members of the ecosystem as they are often seen feeding on various insects, such as ants and beetles. By doing this, they help to control insect populations and to keep them from becoming too large.
In addition, woodpeckers also help disperse the seeds of various plants, which helps promote healthy forest growth. All in all, the family Picidae is an integral part of the bird population worldwide.
From their unique calls to their essential role in the environment, woodpeckers have earned their place in nature and will remain a necessary part of the world’s ecosystem for many years.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
12. Vermilion Flycatcher
The vermilion flycatcher is a small bird that belongs to the tyrant flycatcher family. It can be found in South and Central America and parts of the southern United States.
It stands out from its relatives in the Tyrannidae family due to its bright vermilion-red coloration. This makes it a striking exception among the mostly drab birds in the family.
The vermilion flycatcher’s bright coloring is a way to attract a mate, as the males have the most colorful plumage. It also helps the bird to be more visible in its environment, as it is easier to spot among the foliage of trees and shrubs.
The vermilion flycatcher is a relatively small bird, usually measuring 4-6 inches long. Its wingspan is approximately 8-10 inches, weighing about 0.3 ounces. It has a white belly and black face, with the rest of its body a vermilion-red.
Its beak is black with a yellow tip, and its eyes are dark brown. The vermilion flycatcher is an active and agile flyer, and it uses its sharp beak to catch small insects like flies, moths, and beetles. It also eats fruit and occasionally some tiny birds.
The vermilion flycatcher is an integral part of its local ecosystem, as it helps to keep the insect population in check.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Pyrocephalus |
| Species | P. obscurus |
13. Ruby-throated hummingbird
The ruby-throated hummingbird is a beautiful species of bird known for its unique ruby-colored throat. This hummingbird species generally spends winter in Central America, Mexico, and Florida.
As the summer months approach, the ruby-throated hummingbirds begin migrating to Canada and other parts of Eastern North America. This species travels thousands of miles to reach its breeding grounds in the summer.
Once they have arrived at their destination, they spend the summer breeding and building nests. This hummingbird species is an essential part of the local ecosystems in which they reside.
They play an essential role in pollination, as they are attracted to the bright colors of flowers and drink their nectar. They also help to spread seeds as they travel from place to place.
The ruby-throated hummingbird is a remarkable species of bird that has made an incredible journey over thousands of miles. They are an essential part of the local ecosystem and have successfully adapted to different environments.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Archilochus |
| Species | A. colubris |
14. Rosefinches
The rosefinch is a bird that belongs to the finch family Fringillidae and is part of the genus Carpodacus. It is a passerine bird with a long, slender bill and is known for its vibrant red plumage.
Rosefinches are commonly known as “rosefinches” due to their rose-like coloration.
The most common species of rosefinch is the “common rosefinch,” often referred to as the “rosefinch.” This particular species is known for its red feathers, which range from a deep crimson to a pale pink.
Other species of rosefinches also feature shades of red, though the common rosefinch is usually the most recognizable. Rosefinches are found across much of Europe, Asia, and northern Africa and feed mainly on seeds and insects.
They are often seen near gardens and parks and are considered exceptionally social birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Carpodacus |
15. Rose-Breasted Grosbeak
The rose-breasted grosbeak is a magnificent bird native to North and Central America. It is part of the cardinal family and is colloquially called “cut-throat” due to its striking coloration. This bird is large and predominantly feeds on seeds.
It is primarily a foliage gleaner; it forages in the foliage of trees and bushes to find food. Male rose-breasted grosbeaks are particularly distinctive, with blackheads, wings, backs, and tails and a bright rose-colored patch on their white breast.
This patch of color is believed to be used for courtship displays and territorial defense. The rose-breasted grosbeak is a sight to behold, and its presence is a welcome addition to any garden.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Pheucticus |
| Species | P. ludovicianus |
16. Roseate Spoonbill
The roseate spoonbill is a type of wading bird that belongs to the ibis and spoonbill family, known as Threskiornithidae. It is found in both South and North America, breeds and resides year-round.
The bird is easily identifiable by its unique pink coloration, resulting from its diet.
The pink hue of the roseate spoonbill is created by the carotenoid pigment called canthaxanthin, which is the same pigment responsible for the vibrant pink color of the American flamingo.
The roseate spoonbill can be found in coastal areas, particularly in wetlands and shallow lagoons, where it feeds on small aquatic creatures. Its diet of crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic insects gives the bird its distinctive pink hue.
The spoonbill also has an extremely long bill used to hunt for food in shallow water. The roseate spoonbill is an integral part of the natural ecosystem, playing a role in controlling the populations of small aquatic animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Platalea |
| Species | P. ajaja |
17. Common Redpoll
The common redpoll, also known as mealy redpoll, is a species of bird belonging to the finch family. This bird species is known to breed more southwards than its Arctic redpoll counterpart.
The common redpoll requires habitats with thickets and shrubs that are more easily found in southward areas than those further north.
Common redpolls can be distinguished from their Arctic redpoll counterparts by their smaller size and darker plumage. The common redpolls also have a grayish-brown back and bright red and yellow markings on their head and wings.
They are known to live in open woodlands, forests, and grasslands, as well as agricultural areas. They are highly sociable birds that often flock together and feed on seeds, grains, and insects.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Acanthis |
| Species | A. flammea |
18. Scarlet Flycatcher
The scarlet flycatcher, also known as the austral vermilion flycatcher, is a bird species widely distributed in South America.
It belongs to the vermilion flycatcher family and is predominantly found in southeastern Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay.
The scarlet flycatcher has a distinctive bright red coloration, often contrasting against its natural habitat’s green and brown hues. Its bill is slightly curved, and its wings are short and pointed.
The scarlet flycatcher is mainly an insectivore, consuming a variety of small flying insects such as flies, beetles, and moths. This species is usually found in various open habitats, such as grasslands, meadows, and savannas.
They are also found near rivers, streams, and waterways. They often hunt from exposed perches, such as tree branches or wires, where they can quickly swoop to catch their prey.
The scarlet flycatcher is typically a solitary bird, although they may congregate in small flocks during the breeding season. They nest in tree cavities or crevices of rock walls, building cup-shaped nests made of dry grasses and other plant material.
The female typically lays two to three eggs, which both parents incubate. The scarlet flycatcher is an essential species in the South American ecosystem. It helps control insect populations and serves as a vital food source for many larger birds of prey.
Unfortunately, its population is decreasing due to habitat destruction and degradation. Conservation efforts are underway to protect this beautiful species.
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Pyrocephalus |
| Species | P. rubinus |
19. Pileated Woodpecker
The pileated woodpecker is a large species of woodpecker native to North America.
It is mainly black and is typically found in deciduous forests in the eastern part of North America, the Great Lakes region, the boreal forests of Canada, and some parts of the Pacific Coast.
As an insectivore, this woodpecker species feeds on insects such as ants, beetles, and termites. It has a long, pointed bill, used to excavate large holes in dead, decaying trees to hunt for food.
The pileated woodpecker also uses its bill to create drumming sounds to attract mates and defend its territory. The woodpecker is known for its loud, distinctive call and symbolizes the American wilderness.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dryocopus |
| Species | D. pileatus |
20. Red-Winged Blackbird
The red-winged blackbird is a type of bird belonging to the family Icteridae. This species is found in many habitats, stretching from North America to Central America. These birds are passerines, meaning they are members of the perching bird group.
They have a unique black plumage with bright red and yellow stripes on their wings, giving them a distinctive name and appearance. Their diet includes plant and animal matter, such as insects, seeds, and fruits.
Red-winged blackbirds are common in urban and rural areas and can often be seen perched on telephone poles and other high perches. They are also known to be quite loud and vocal when in their breeding season.
Red-winged blackbirds are an essential part of many ecosystems, helping to control insect populations and providing food for other species.
21. Red-Whiskered Bulbul
The red-whiskered bulbul is a bird that is a part of the bulbul family and is native to Asia. It is a frugivore, meaning it mainly eats fruit and is found chiefly in tropical areas of the continent.
In addition to its natural habitat, it has been introduced to other tropical areas where it has established itself. The species is easily recognizable due to its unique crest of feathers, a distinguishing feature of the bulbul family.
This bird is a popular pet often kept as an exotic pet. In its natural environment, the red-whiskered bulbul is a vital seed disperser, as it will eat the fruit of certain plants and then disperse the seeds in its droppings or through regurgitation.
This helps to spread the plants, which is beneficial to the environment. This bird is also essential for pest control in its natural habitat, as it feeds on insects and other small creatures.
In many areas, the red-whiskered bulbul is an attractive bird often seen in parks and gardens. Its song is also popular among birdwatchers, as its musical call can be heard in the mornings and evenings.
It is also a symbol of good luck in some cultures, and its presence is seen as a sign of prosperity. Overall, the red-whiskered bulbul is an exciting and essential bird that plays a vital role in its natural environment.
It is also an attractive pet, and its presence is often seen as a sign of good luck.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Pycnonotidae |
| Genus | Pycnonotus |
| Species | P. jocosus |
22. Pyrrhuloxia
The Pyrrhuloxia, or desert cardinal, is a unique songbird species native to the American Southwest and northern Mexico. It is slightly smaller than the north of Cardinal, with a short, stout bill, striking red crest, and wings.
This bird is closely related to the northern cardinal and the vermilion cardinal, both of which are in the same genus. The Pyrrhuloxia is easily identifiable in the wild due to its bright coloration and unique features, making it a famous bird for birdwatchers.
This species lives in various habitats, from deserts to mesquite woodlands and urban areas. The Pyrrhuloxia is a vocal species, often singing multiple songs to attract mates and ward off predators.
They are also exceptionally social, often forming large flocks during migration. OveTherrhuloxia is a fascinating species that is vital in the American Southwest.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Cardinalis |
| Species | C. sinuatus |
23. Red-Winged Blackbirds
Agelaius is a blackbird genus belonging to the New World family Icteridae. This genus was established by Louis Jean Pierre Vieillot in 1816 and contains five species. The name Agelaius comes from the Greek agelaios, which translates to “gregarious”.
This is likely a reference to the social behavior of the blackbirds in this genus, as they are known to congregate in large flocks. The species of blackbirds in the Agelaius genus inhabit a wide range of habitats, from open grasslands to woodlands and marshes.
In addition to being highly social, these birds are also quite vocal, with a vast repertoire of calls and songs. They often feed on insects and seeds, and their diet is supplemented with fruit and berries in the summer months.
Agelaius blackbirds are an essential part of the ecosystem, as they help control insect populations and disperse seeds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
24. Red-And-Green Macaw
The red-and-green macaw, also known as the green-winged macaw, is a large, brightly colored bird belonging to the genus Ara. Its body is primarily red, with green wings and a long tail.
This macaw species is the largest and can be found all over the forests and woodlands of northern and central South America. It is a majestic bird with a wingspan of up to three feet and a length of almost two feet.
This species is known for its intelligence and social behavior and is highly sought after in the pet trade. The red-and-green macaw is a very active bird, and in the wild, it spends most of its time foraging for fruits, nuts, and seeds.
It also enjoys playing with other macaws and often does so in large groups. It is also known to be quite vocal, and its call can be heard for miles. The red-and-green macaw is an integral part of the South American ecosystem, helping to disperse seeds and pollinate flowers.
It is also an important spiritual symbol for many Native American tribes and is often featured in art and folklore. Unfortunately, the red-and-green macaw is threatened by habitat loss and illegal capture and trade, and its population is declining.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Psittaciformes |
| Family | Psittacidae |
| Genus | Ara |
| Species | A. chloropterus |
25. Scarlet Ibis
The scarlet ibis is a bird species belonging to the Threskiornithidae family. It is mainly found in tropical South America and parts of the Caribbean.
This species is quite similar to the other twenty-seven species of ibis, but its most striking feature is its brilliant red color. This makes it easily distinguishable from the different species. The scarlet ibis is a medium-sized bird with a long, thin neck and long legs.
Its head is dark, with a blackish-brown crown, and its body and wings are a brilliant, intense scarlet red. Its wings and tail feathers are black, and its beak is black and curved. It has a long, pointed tail and a short, curved bill.
The scarlet ibis feeds mainly on small fish and invertebrates. It is a solitary species that roosts in the branches of trees during the day and can be seen flying in flocks at night.
The scarlet ibis is an essential species in its native range, not only for its beauty but also for its role in the ecosystem. It helps control insect and small fish populations and provides a food source for other animals.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Threskiornithidae |
| Genus | Eudocimus |
| Species | E. ruber |
Conclusion
Redbirds are a common sight in Florida and can be found in various habitats. They are a beautiful part of the landscape and offer a lot of entertainment and enjoyment to residents and visitors alike.
Redbirds are essential to the local ecosystem and contribute to the environment’s overall health. With proper habitat management, Floridians can ensure that red birds will continue to grace our skies for many years.