Top 15 Types Of Birds In America (With Pictures)

Take flight through America's top 15 birds, from the brilliant Goldfinch to the swift Hummingbird—discover what makes each one unique!

birds of america illustrated

America's avian landscape is rich and diverse, embracing species that range from the vibrant American Goldfinch, with its striking yellow-and-black plumage, to the resourceful Blue Jay, known for its bright blue feathers and intelligence. The Mourning Dove, with its gentle cooing, and the American Robin, a harbinger of spring, are familiar sights. Additionally, the diminutive Ruby-Throated Hummingbird captivates onlookers with its dazzling, fast-paced flight and emerald feathers. Each bird not only enhances the aesthetic richness of habitats but also contributes ecological benefits, such as pest control and pollination. Discovering these birds offers insight into America's natural heritage, inviting further exploration into their intriguing lives.

American Goldfinch

small yellow north american bird

The American Goldfinch, easily recognizable by its vibrant yellow-and-black plumage in the warmer months, is a common sight across many American backyards.

This small bird adapts its diet primarily to thistle seeds and other garden plants.

Observing their seasonal color transformation provides a fascinating glimpse into the adaptive nature of American Goldfinches, enhancing both the aesthetic and educational value of suburban and rural environments.

Mourning Dove

gentle bird s comforting call

While the American Goldfinch brightens landscapes with its vivid hues, Mourning Doves offer a more subdued beauty through their gentle demeanor and distinctive cooing.

Common birds in many areas, Mourning Doves are larger than some songbirds and primarily eat seeds. Their sweet cooing and unique whistling wing sounds during flight make them a notable species in backyards and beyond.

Blue Jay

vibrant bird in nature

Renowned for their striking blue upperparts and contrasting white underparts, Blue Jays are a prominent feature in various North American landscapes.

These omnivores are attracted to peanuts and exhibit high intelligence and playfulness.

With unique vocalizations and behaviors, they winter in eastern America and migrate to southern Canada.

Observing these birds, sometimes labeled as 'bully birds, offers a fascinating glimpse into avian complexity.

American Robin

red breasted bird species

American Robins, often seen hunting for worms in spring and summer, are versatile birds that adapt their diet and behavior with the changing seasons.

As a spring harbinger, they mark the arrival of warmer weather. In winter, they gather in large flocks, shifting to a diet primarily of fruits.

These birds are year-round residents in most of the U.S., showcasing their adaptability.

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird

vibrant bird with wings

Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds captivate observers with their vibrant golden-green plumage and extraordinary flying abilities.

These small birds, known for their fast wing movements, excel in hovering due to their long downcurved beaks.

Specializing in nectar feeding from flowers and sugar-water feeders, they migrate to Central America during winter.

Their unique physical and behavioral traits make them a fascinating subject for bird enthusiasts.

Northern Cardinal

vibrant red songbird species

The Northern Cardinal is a prominent bird species found across the eastern United States to Texas. Males are vibrant red, while females display a more subdued grayish tone. These birds are particularly fond of black oil sunflower seeds, enhancing their presence in diverse habitats, from woodlands to backyard feeders.

Their striking red plumage and black facial markings make them easily identifiable. Northern Cardinals are known for their melodious songs that resonate in the areas they inhabit.

Song Sparrow

beautiful singing bird species

Moving from the vibrant Northern Cardinal, we now explore the Song Sparrow, a prevalent species across various regions of North America.

These common backyard birds adapt their appearance by region, making them easily identifiable for beginners. Known for their melodious songs and distinctive calls, Song Sparrows primarily feast on seeds and insects, drawn to tray and hopper feeders, essential for any birder's identification guide.

Black-Capped Chickadee

small bird with cap

Among the most sociable and recognizable birds, Black-Capped Chickadees are known for their delightful 'chickadee-dee-dee' call and friendly nature. These small birds are a common sight, often found hoarding food in fall or enthusiastically eating sunflower seeds from feeders—and even directly from your hand.

They are part of the diverse chickadee species that enrich North America's avian population.

Tufted Titmouse

small gray songbird species

Often spotted at backyard feeders, the Tufted Titmouse delights with its acrobatic antics and vibrant orange-tinged gray plumage. These common small birds are entertaining to observe as they skillfully hold seeds with their feet to open them.

Known for their distinctive chickadee-dee-dee call, offering sunflower seeds can effectively attract Tufted Titmice, making them a delightful addition to any backyard.

Downy Woodpecker

small black and white

The Downy Woodpecker, recognizable by its distinctive black-and-white plumage and red markings, is a frequent visitor to backyard suet feeders. These small woodpeckers are commonly found in the eastern U.S. and are distinguished by their shorter beaks compared to Hairy Woodpeckers.

Attracting them is easy with the right suet and seed feeders, making them a delightful addition to any birdwatcher's backyard.

Northern Mockingbird

mimics sounds with precision

Why is the Northern Mockingbird celebrated as one of America's most essential songbirds?

Northern Mockingbirds are master singers, capable of mimicking over 100 different songs and calls. Their varied repertoire includes intricate imitations of other birds and environmental noises.

These birds, feeding primarily on insects and berries, also play a pivotal role in controlling insect populations, enhancing their value in diverse ecosystems.

White-Breasted Nuthatch

bird with black cap

White-Breasted Nuthatches exhibit a distinctive upside-down foraging technique that sets them apart from other North American bird species. Their acrobatic behavior is notable, especially when they hop along tree trunks searching for food. Renowned for their feeding habits, they often store large seeds like peanuts and acorns in tree crevices.

These practices make them a fascinating sight in backyard settings across the continent.

Red-Bellied Woodpecker

vibrant red headed woodpecker

Despite its name, the Red-Bellied Woodpecker is more commonly noted for the striking red markings on its head and nape than its subtly colored abdomen. Predominant in the eastern U.S., these woodpeckers are drawn to backyard feeders offering suet and seeds.

Proper understanding of suitable bird feeders is essential to attract this colorful and common woodpecker species for observation.

Eastern Bluebird

small colorful bird species

The Eastern Bluebird, distinguished by its vivid black back and wings, thrives in the semi-open landscapes of the middle eastern United States.

Approximately two-thirds the size of an American Robin, they possess large eyes and a round head. Their preference for mealworms makes tray feeders an ideal choice.

With a distinctive rusty throat and breast, they add vibrant color and life to any backyard setting.

What Birds Found in Brooklyn are also Common in America?

If you’re interested in learning about the types of birds in Brooklyn with pictures, you’ll be happy to know that many species commonly found here are also prevalent throughout America. From the iconic American robin to the colorful northern cardinal, Brooklyn is home to a variety of bird species.

Baltimore Oriole

bird with black orange plumage

Renowned for their striking bright orange plumage, Baltimore Orioles spend their winters in Central America before returning to grace various regions across the United States.

Drawn to oranges and grape jelly, these birds are a vibrant presence. Their beautiful coloration makes efforts to attract them worthwhile, distinguishing them from their western counterparts, the Bullock's Orioles.