Top 15 Types Of Birds In Oklahoma (With Pictures)

Peruse our guide on the top 15 bird species in Oklahoma, featuring stunning images and intriguing facts that will…

birds of oklahoma identified

Oklahoma hosts a variety of birds, notable for their ecological roles and distinct appearances. For instance, the American Robin is easily recognized by its rusty red breast and melodious song, thriving in diverse settings and playing an important role in seed dispersal. The Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers, distinguishable by their black and white plumage and essential in controlling insect populations, are common sights. The vibrant American Goldfinch, with males flaunting yellow bodies and black caps, is especially favored at feeders for their colorful display. House Sparrows, though common, impact native bird species by competing for nesting spots. Exploring further, vibrant visual examples can enhance comprehension of these species' significant roles in nature.

American Robin

common north american bird

The American Robin, characterized by its rusty red breast and melodious song, is a common and ecologically significant bird found throughout Oklahoma.

These birds, distinguishable by their dark heads and white, splotched throats, thrive in diverse habitats.

Their diet of invertebrates and fruit supports ecosystem balance, aiding in both seed dispersal and pest control, underscoring the importance of American Robins in local environments.

Downy Woodpecker

small black and white bird

Downy Woodpeckers, easily identified by their black and white plumage and short bills, are frequent visitors to Oklahoma backyards.

Males feature a red spot on their heads, distinguishing them from females.

Attracted to suet and seeds, these small woodpeckers use their chisel-like bills to forage for insects, playing an essential role in controlling local insect populations and maintaining the health of the Birds of Oklahoma.

Hairy Woodpecker

black and white bird

Similar to the Downy Woodpecker, the Hairy Woodpecker also features a striking black and white coloration but can be differentiated by its larger size and longer bill. These birds, often seen in various Oklahoma habitats, are identifiable by their striped heads and the distinct red patch on males.

Their sharp 'peek' calls and attraction to backyard feeders make Hairy Woodpeckers a favorite among birdwatchers.

American Goldfinch

bright yellow summer visitor

While males display a striking vibrant yellow with black caps and wings, female American Goldfinches feature a more subdued yellow and lack the black cap. Commonly found in Oklahoma, these birds are strict vegetarians, favoring Nyjer seed and sunflower kernels.

Their distinctive appearance and diet make American Goldfinches easy to identify and a favorite at bird feeders, offering insights into their unique behaviors.

House Sparrow

urban bird with adaptability

Shifting focus to another common bird in Oklahoma, the House Sparrow exhibits marked differences in appearance and habitat preferences compared to the American Goldfinch.

Males feature a distinct black bib, gray crown, and white cheeks, while females are brown with black streaks.

Thriving in urban areas, they often gather at bird feeders, feeding mostly on grains and competing with native species for nesting spots.

House Finch

small colorful backyard bird

The House Finch, characterized by the male's rosy red head and upper breast, is a common sight in Oklahoma's urban areas. Females display a brown, streaked appearance.

These birds, with their conical beaks, are adept at seed-eating, often gathering at bird feeders.

Their presence is notable among the diverse birds in Oklahoma, despite competition from invasive species like House Sparrows for nesting sites.

American Crow

black bird with caw

Across Oklahoma, the American Crow is a prevalent and remarkably intelligent bird, recognized by its striking black plumage and distinctive cawing calls.

These omnivorous American Crows thrive in diverse habitats, consuming insects, fruits, and carrion. They form large social flocks and play an essential role in ecosystems by scavenging and controlling pests, inhabiting urban, suburban, and rural areas alike.

Song Sparrow

melodic bird with stripes

Song Sparrows, commonly found throughout Oklahoma, captivate birdwatchers with their melodious singing and distinctive markings.

Adapting well to diverse environments, they thrive in brushy areas near water sources, feeding on a varied diet of insects, seeds, and berries.

Their adaptability and frequent presence make them a beloved subject for enthusiasts keen to enjoy their beautiful songs throughout the seasons in Oklahoma.

White-breasted Nuthatch

small bird distinctive markings

Continuing our exploration of Oklahoma's avian species, we now turn our attention to the White-breasted Nuthatch, a small bird renowned for its agile movements along tree trunks.

This bird, with its distinctive black cap and white face, is often seen climbing headfirst down tree trunks in oak and pine forests across Oklahoma.

It feeds on insects, seeds, and nuts, and is known for its loud 'yank yank' calls.

Red-winged Blackbird

vibrant bird with song

One of the most recognizable birds in Oklahoma's marshlands is the Red-winged Blackbird. They are known for their vivid red and yellow shoulder patches and are commonly spotted near wetlands. These birds are highly social and often form large flocks. The males are distinguished by their striking colors, while females sport streaked brown plumage for camouflage.

Their melodious 'conk-la-ree' song is a hallmark during the breeding season.

European Starling

invasive bird species introduced

Shifting focus from the native Red-winged Blackbird, the European Starling presents a contrasting example as an invasive species in Oklahoma. Introduced in the 1890s, these adaptable birds boast glossy black plumage with iridescent tones.

Known for complex vocalizations and mimicry, they thrive in diverse habitats, from urban settings to farmlands. However, their aggressive nature often impacts native bird populations by competing for resources and nesting sites.

Brown-headed Cowbird

nest parasite brood parasite

The Brown-headed Cowbird, a species known for its brood parasitism, is frequently observed across Oklahoma's open fields and forest edges. Males sport glossy black bodies with brown heads, while females have more subdued plumage.

These birds adapt their feeding habits to follow grazing animals, capitalizing on the insects and seeds stirred up by their movement, essential for their sustenance and survival.

House Wren

small brown bird species

In Oklahoma, the House Wren is easily recognized by its rapid, flutelike song and unique nesting choices. These small birds utilize unconventional spots like clothespin bags and old boots for raising their young.

Their presence is often noted due to their vocal nature, and they are particularly attracted to specially designed birdhouses, which cater to their distinctive nesting habits.

Mourning Dove

peaceful bird with mournful song

Why do mourning doves, with their distinctive low cooing sounds, seem to evoke such a sense of peace in Oklahoma's outdoor spaces?

These birds, mostly grayish with black spots and a long, thin tail, are common sights perched high in trees or visiting bird feeders.

Their gentle cooing contributes to a serene ambiance, making them beloved fixtures in Oklahoma's backyards.

What Types of Birds Can Be Found in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, you can find a variety of types of birds in Alabama, such as the scissor-tailed flycatcher, painted bunting, and northern mockingbird. With diverse habitats ranging from prairies to forests, Oklahoma is home to over 400 species of birds, offering plenty of opportunities for birdwatchers to spot these unique creatures.

Rock Pigeon

urban bird species common

From the serene cooing of Mourning Doves, attention now turns to the Rock Pigeon, another species with a distinctive call and a close association with urban Oklahoma environments.

This large bird features a plump body, small head, and thin bill. Rock Pigeons, deeply linked with human settlements for millennia, are known for their soft, throaty coos and attraction to scattered feed at urban bird feeders.