Top 15 Types Of Birds In Iowa (With Pictures)

Learn about Iowa's top 15 bird species, including vivid images and intriguing facts that will captivate any birdwatching enthusiast.

birds in iowa identified

Iowa boasts a remarkable variety of birds, notable for their unique features and behaviors. Among them, the Northern Cardinal shines with its vivid red plumage and black mask. The Blue Jay, recognized by its bright blue coloration and intelligence, thrives across local woodlands and parks. Equally familiar, the American Robin features a rusty red breast and offers melodic songs. The acrobatic Black-capped Chickadee, with its cheeky black cap and cheerful call, navigates effortlessly through branches. Additionally, the Downy Woodpecker is distinguished by its tree-trunk foraging and sharp calls. Each species contributes uniquely to the vibrant birdwatching scene in Iowa, inviting further exploration of their diverse habitats and behaviors.

Northern Cardinal

vibrant red bird species

The Northern Cardinal, often spotted in Iowa's woodlands, gardens, and backyards, is renowned for its vivid red plumage and melodious song. Recognizable by its black mask and distinctive crest, this bird thrives on a diet of seeds and fruits.

Its presence is a delight to birdwatchers and adds a splash of color and cheer to the Iowa landscape throughout the year.

Blue Jay

beautiful bird with crest

Blue Jays, with their distinctive blue, black, and white plumage and prominent crest, are a common sight in Iowa's diverse habitats.

These striking birds are not only intelligent and vocal, often mimicking sounds, but also omnivores, feeding on a varied diet that includes nuts, seeds, insects, and small vertebrates.

They thrive year-round in Iowan woodlands, parks, and backyards.

American Robin

common north american bird

Frequently spotted throughout Iowa, the American Robin is distinguished by its rusty red breast and melodious singing. This common bird species showcases a dark head and a distinctive white throat.

Both male and female American Robins are present in Iowa, with females slightly paler. Year-round residents, they are familiar sights, thriving in various habitats and feeding on invertebrates and fruit.

Black-capped Chickadee

adorable bird with tufted

Renowned for their acrobatic antics, Black-capped Chickadees in Iowa sport a distinctive black cap and bib, fascinating bird enthusiasts throughout the state.

Commonly seen in forests, these small birds expertly navigate branches, often hanging upside down in their quest for insects, seeds, and berries.

Their versatility in foraging and their cheerful call endear them to birdwatchers, enhancing Iowa's rich avian tapestry.

Downy Woodpecker

small black and white

While the Black-capped Chickadee captivates with its agility, the Downy Woodpecker draws attention through its distinctive foraging behavior on tree trunks in Iowa.

Sporting white bellies and black backs with white streaks, males feature a red spot on their head. These birds frequent feeders, attracted by suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts.

Their presence is often announced by a sharp 'peek' call.

Canada Goose

symbol of canadian identity

The Canada Goose, a prevalent bird species in Iowa, is easily recognized by its black head and neck contrasted with a white chinstrap. With a wingspan of 50-70 inches, these adaptable birds are common in various habitats across the state.

Remarkably, they form V-shaped flying formations during migration, a spectacular sight complemented by their loud honking calls.

American Crow

intelligent and adaptable bird

Shifting focus to another prevalent bird in Iowa, the American Crow stands out with its all-black plumage and remarkable intelligence. This large bird is known for its adaptability, thriving in varied environments from rural to urban settings.

American Crows maintain a varied diet, including insects and fruits, and display social behaviors, often seen in groups, underscoring their complex social structures and intelligence.

Red-bellied Woodpecker

vibrant bird with stripes

Renowned for their striking appearance, Red-bellied Woodpeckers feature prominently among Iowa's bird species.

Males flaunt bright red plumage on their heads, while females display it on the back of their necks.

These woodpeckers frequently visit bird feeders in Iowa, savoring peanuts and suet.

Their distinct churr-churr-churr call signals their presence, making them a delightful sight for bird enthusiasts in the region.

White-breasted Nuthatch

bird with black cap

White-breasted Nuthatches, characterized by their black caps and white faces, are a common sight in Iowa's mature forests and woodlands.

This small songbird is noted for its unique habit of walking headfirst down tree trunks.

They feed on insects, seeds, and nuts, and are often seen at bird feeders.

Their presence is marked by a distinctive nasal yank-yank call.

American Goldfinch

bright yellow summer bird

The American Goldfinch is distinguished by its striking yellow plumage during the breeding season. It is a beloved symbol of Iowa, holding the title of state bird. Admired for its vibrant colors and cheerful, undulating flight pattern, this strict vegetarian thrives on seeds.

Iowa's birding community cherishes watching these finches shift from vivid breeding plumage to subtle winter colors, enhancing their seasonal experience.

House Sparrow

common urban bird species

Originally from Europe, the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) has become a common sight across Iowa, thriving year-round in both urban and rural settings. These birds, known as common feeders in urban areas and agricultural lands, are opportunistic feeders.

Their diet includes grains, seeds, and even human food scraps, allowing them to adapt well to human-altered environments.

Red-winged Blackbird

distinctive red and black

Red-winged Blackbirds, recognizable by their striking red and yellow shoulder patches, are a prevalent species throughout Iowa's marshes, wetlands, and agricultural fields. These medium-sized birds feature males with glossy black plumage and bright red patches, often seen foraging in large flocks.

Their distinctive 'conk-la-ree' song is a hallmark of Iowa's wetland habitats, contributing to the vibrant local ecosystem.

Mourning Dove

symbol of peace

Shifting focus to another avian inhabitant of Iowa, the Mourning Dove exhibits a gray-brown plumage with distinct, pointed wings and a long tail, marking its presence across various open and urban landscapes.

Renowned for their gentle demeanor and peaceful presence, these birds thrive on a diet of seeds, playing an essential role in seed dispersal while enhancing the tranquility of their surroundings with their soft coos.

European Starling

invasive bird species introduction

European Starlings, an invasive species in Iowa, were introduced from Europe in the 19th century. Known for their disruptive flocking behavior, these birds gather in large, noisy groups.

As skilled mimics and aggressive competitors, they challenge native bird populations for resources. Their adaptability is notable, thriving on a varied diet of insects, fruits, and seeds, which further cements their presence in diverse environments.

What Birds Are Commonly Found in Iowa and Idaho?

In Iowa, common birds include the Northern Cardinal, American Goldfinch, and Eastern Bluebird. In Idaho, birdwatchers can spot the Mountain Bluebird, Calliope Hummingbird, and Western Tanager. For more information, look up “types of birds in Idaho with pictures” to add variety to your birdwatching experience.

Dark-eyed Junco

small bird with plumage

Moving from the invasive European Starling, we now explore the Dark-eyed Junco, a native Iowa songbird characterized by its distinctive dark hood and white belly.

This small songbird thrives as a ground feeder, searching for seeds and insects.

Commonly breeding in coniferous forests, they grace Iowa with their presence in winter, filling the air with their melodious trilling song.