Top 15 Types Of Birds In North America (With Pictures)

Learn about North America's top 15 birds, from majestic eagles to melodious robins, and discover stunning photos that capture their unique beauty.

north american bird diversity

North America boasts a rich diversity of bird species, distinguished by unique features and varied habitats. The Bald Eagle, known for its majestic 7-foot wingspan and role as the United States' symbol, prefers water-rich environments where it feeds mainly on fish. The American Robin, often heralded as the first sign of spring, showcases a distinctive red breast and is celebrated for its melodious songs. The Snowy Owl, with its impressive 5-foot wingspan and striking yellow eyes, thrives in the Arctic tundra. Meanwhile, the Peregrine Falcon, reaching speeds over 200 mph, is a remarkable sight across North American skies. These examples merely scratch the surface of what the continent's avian life has to offer.

Bald Eagle

symbol of american freedom

Why is the Bald Eagle, with its majestic wingspan of up to 7 feet, considered a symbol of the United States?

This bird epitomizes freedom and strength, traits highly valued in American culture.

Native to North America, the bald eagle is distinguished by its striking white head and tail.

Residing near water bodies, it primarily feeds on fish, symbolizing resilience and independence.

American Robin

symbol of north america

American Robins are often heralded as the first sign of spring. They are ubiquitous across most of the United States, adapting to a variety of habitats including gardens and parks. Year-round residents, they primarily feast on insects, worms, and bugs.

Their distinctive red breast and melodious songs make them one of the most recognizable and common backyard birds in North America.

Snowy Owl

majestic arctic bird species

Snowy Owls, majestic with a wingspan reaching up to 5 feet, are primarily found in the Arctic tundra. These large, white birds, notable for their striking yellow eyes, are powerful hunters. They adeptly prey on small mammals and birds, adapting skillfully to the harsh conditions of their environment.

Snowy Owls captivate birdwatchers with their beauty and elusive nature.

Peregrine Falcon

fastest bird of prey

Peregrine Falcons, renowned for their astonishing speeds exceeding 200 mph during dives, are a spectacular sight in North America's skies. These birds of prey are celebrated for their hunting skills and aerial agility.

Once on the brink of extinction, they have rebounded remarkably thanks to conservation efforts. Found across North America, they are a favorite among birdwatchers, especially during the territorial breeding season.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

vibrant bird with wings

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, notable for their diminutive size and vibrant plumage, are a mesmerizing feature of North America's avian landscape.

These small birds exhibit iridescent colors and can hover with rapid wingbeats of up to 53 times per second.

Known for their extensive migration, they impressively traverse the Gulf of Mexico annually, showcasing extraordinary endurance for such a small bird.

Northern Cardinal

vibrant red bird species

One of the most striking birds found across the eastern United States to Texas is the Northern Cardinal, renowned for its vivid red plumage and melodious song.

Males display bright red colors with a black face, while females are more subdued in gray tones.

These American birds thrive on black oil sunflower seeds, berries, and nuts, making them popular year-round residents in many backyards.

Canada Goose

iconic winter jacket brand

Moving from the vibrant Northern Cardinal, we now explore the Canada Goose, known for its iconic V-shaped flying formation and distinctive black neck and head.

Recognizable by their loud honking call, these geese are often seen near water bodies and migrate south in winter.

In some regions, their large populations and feeding habits have led to them being considered pests.

Red-tailed Hawk

majestic bird of prey

Red-tailed Hawks, with their expansive wingspan of up to 4 feet, are formidable predators in the skies of North America. These hawks excel in hunting, skillfully preying on rodents, snakes, and rabbits.

Adaptable to various habitats, they showcase remarkable hunting prowess, making them fascinating subjects for observation. Monogamous and long-lived, they offer intriguing insights into avian behavior and adaptation.

Sandhill Crane

migratory bird with red cap

Sandhill Cranes, distinguished by their striking red crowns, are among North America's most majestic avian species. These large birds boast a wingspan over 6 feet and stand 3-4 feet tall.

Known for their resonant, trumpeting calls and elaborate courtship dances, they captivate observers. As migratory birds, Sandhill Cranes travel extensively between their breeding grounds and winter habitats, showcasing their endurance and adaptability.

Great Blue Heron

majestic bird in nature

Great Blue Herons are known for their striking stature and poised hunting techniques. They are prevalent throughout North America's wetlands. These large birds are patient hunters, skillfully using their long, sharp beaks to catch fish and other aquatic prey.

Solitary by nature, Great Blue Herons can often be seen in groups during breeding season. They captivate birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts with their impressive size and elegant appearance.

Mallard Duck

mallard duck migration behavior

Mallard ducks, recognized by their vibrant iridescent green heads, are a widespread waterfowl species across North America. Known for their distinctive colorful head and loud quacking, they commonly nest near water bodies such as ponds, lakes, and rivers.

In winter, these ducks migrate south to warmer regions, showcasing their adaptability and importance in various ecosystems throughout the continent.

American Goldfinch

bright yellow black wings

The American Goldfinch is distinguished by its vivid yellow-and-black plumage during the warmer months. These small birds are a common sight across North America. They thrive on thistle seeds and other garden plant seeds.

During winter, their coloration becomes muted, yet they remain active. Often found in flocks, their melodic, twittering songs enhance their popularity among birdwatchers, making them a delightful presence throughout the year.

Blue Jay

bird with striking plumage

Blue Jays are recognized by their striking blue upperparts and a contrasting white lower body. They are a notable species across North America.

As omnivores, they are particularly fond of peanuts and are known for their vocal abilities, including mimicry.

Intelligent and adaptable, these birds are often seen at feeders, where they may store nuts for later consumption, showcasing their clever foraging strategies.

Mourning Dove

symbol of peace

Mourning Doves, easily identified by their gentle cooing and distinctive wing whistles, are prevalent throughout various North American habitats. These common birds have a light gray-brown color and a long, pointed tail.

They primarily feed on seeds and are frequently seen in urban areas, nesting in trees or shrubs. Their wings produce a unique whistling sound during flight, marking their presence year-round.

What Types of Birds Found in New Mexico Are Also Common in North America?

Several types of birds in New Mexico are also common across North America, including the American robin, the northern flicker, and the western meadowlark. These birds can be spotted in various habitats throughout the state and are known for their distinctive colors and calls.

Common Loon

graceful waterbird with call

Renowned for its striking black and white plumage, the Common Loon captivates with its eerie calls that resonate across northern lakes. Native to North America, particularly Canada, these iconic birds are adept divers, building floating nests and skillfully catching fish underwater.

The Common Loon, a symbol of wilderness, is also celebrated on the Canadian one-dollar coin, reflecting its cultural significance.