Top 15 Types Of Birds In Portland Oregon (With Pictures)

The top 15 birds of Portland, Oregon, showcase stunning diversity and beauty, from herons to hummingbirds—discover who else makes the list!

bird watching in portland

Portland, Oregon, boasts a variety of bird species that enhance the local biodiversity. The Great Blue Heron, notable for its majestic stature and grayish-blue coloration, frequents wetlands. The vibrant Anna's Hummingbird, with its iridescent pink head, performs acrobatic flights. The Red-tailed Hawk, a prevalent raptor, displays a striking reddish tail and hunts skillfully. The Song Sparrow's melodious tunes resonate in Portland's moist areas. Finally, the American Robin, easily recognized by its rusty red breast, plays an important role in ecosystems. These birds represent just a few of the diverse species that enrich Portland's natural landscape and further exploration reveals more avian treasures.

Great Blue Heron

elegant wading bird species

Did you know that the Great Blue Heron, a tall and large bird, is easily identified by its long neck and the distinctive wide black stripe over its eye?

This bird's grayish-blue coloration and sleek plumes enhance its elegance, especially noticeable as it wades through wetlands to hunt.

Their presence is essential in maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems by controlling fish populations.

Anna's Hummingbird

vibrant iridescent green feathers

Anna's Hummingbird, characterized by its iridescent pinkish-red head and dark green back, is a common sight in Portland, Oregon.

These hummingbirds are renowned for their acrobatic flight displays and the distinct buzzing sound produced by their rapid wing beats.

While males flaunt vibrant pinkish-red heads, females display a subtler green cap, blending effortlessly with their surroundings.

Red-tailed Hawk

majestic bird of prey

The Red-tailed Hawk, a prevalent raptor in Portland, Oregon, is easily recognized by its characteristic reddish tail. This common bird of prey showcases impressive dark brown plumage and a wingspan of 43-55 inches.

Known as skilled hunters, they mainly feed on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, often observed soaring or perched while scanning for prey in their distinctive, high vantage points.

Song Sparrow

melodic bird with stripes

Shifting focus to smaller avian residents, Song Sparrows offer a stark contrast to the imposing Red-tailed Hawk with their melodious tunes and modest appearance. Commonly found in Portland's wet areas, these sparrows flaunt brown streaks, a gray crown, and a distinctive song.

Despite their small size, their varied diet of insects, seeds, and berries showcases their adaptability to Oregon's diverse habitats.

American Robin

symbol of north america

Renowned for their rusty red breast and melodious songs, American Robins are a familiar sight in various habitats across Portland.

This medium-sized songbird flaunts a striking appearance with a dark brown head and back, white throat, and distinct splotches on its belly.

Comfortable around humans, they play a crucial role in the ecosystem by dispersing seeds and controlling insect populations with their vibrant presence.

Canada Goose

cold weather bird species

Canada Geese, easily recognizable by their long black necks and distinctive white cheek patches, are a common sight in Portland's various green spaces. These large wading birds frequent parks and golf courses, blending seamlessly into both urban and suburban areas.

Noted for their white markings and V-shaped flying formations, Canada Geese thrive amidst human activity, making them a quintessential part of the local avian landscape.

Mallard Duck

lone mallard on water

Mallard Ducks, distinguished by their vibrant and contrasting plumage, are a familiar sight in Portland's numerous waterways and wetlands.

The male features a bright green head and a yellow bill, while the female sports a mottled brown appearance.

Frequenting various wetland habitats, these ducks are known for their distinctive quacking sound, making them one of the most recognizable species in Oregon.

Northern Flicker

woodpecker with red mustache

The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized woodpecker easily recognized by its black bib and spotted belly. Uniquely different from other woodpeckers, they exhibit distinctive foraging behavior, often searching for ants and beetles on the ground.

Their distinctive call, a loud 'wick-a-wick-a-wick', resonates throughout Portland's open woodlands and suburban areas. This bird's presence adds a dynamic charm to the local avian population.

American Crow

intelligent black bird species

Shifting focus from the ground-foraging Northern Flicker, we now explore another remarkable bird, the American Crow, known for its glossy black plumage and complex behaviors.

American Crows in Portland, Oregon, are highly adaptable and intelligent, thriving in various habitats. Their black feathers exhibit a glossy sheen, and they contribute ecologically by scavenging.

These birds display strong social bonds, often seen in familial groups.

California Scrub-Jay

blue and charismatic bird

Several California Scrub-Jays inhabit Portland's scrubland and oak woodlands. Known for their blue heads and distinctive calls, these medium-sized, crestless birds are a common sight. They are often found foraging on the ground, displaying bold behavior and adaptability. The white throat and blue necklace markings further distinguish this intelligent species among the Common Birds of Portland, Oregon.

Steller's Jay

vibrant blue crest bird

Steller's Jay, a medium-sized bird adorned with vibrant blue feathers and a striking black crest, is a common sight in Portland's coniferous forests, suburban areas, and parks.

Known for their intelligent and bold behavior, these opportunistic feeders thrive on a diet that includes insects, fruits, seeds, and scraps provided by humans, showcasing their adaptability and resourcefulness in diverse environments.

Western Tanager

colorful bird species

The Western Tanager, distinguished by its vivid red head, yellow body, and black wings, is a visually striking presence in Portland's bird population.

As summer residents, they inhabit coniferous forests and mixed woodlands, feeding on insects, fruits, and berries.

Their presence is particularly notable during migration, enhancing the local biodiversity with their colorful appearance and varied diet.

Black-capped Chickadee

small songbird with cap

Renowned for their distinctive 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call, Black-capped Chickadees are a familiar sight in Portland's diverse avian landscape. This small bird, easily identified by its black cap and bib against white cheeks, thrives in local forests and parks.

Known for their acrobatic antics and curious nature, they engage in caching food—storing seeds and insects for later consumption.

Cedar Waxwing

elegant bird with crest

Shifting focus to another striking species, Cedar Waxwings boast a unique elegance with their smooth, silky feathers and distinctive markings. These medium-sized birds are adorned with a sleek plumage, a black mask, and a crest. Their high-pitched calls and synchronized movements in flocks are mesmerizing.

Primarily feeding on fruit, Cedar Waxwings can be attracted to backyard feeders with offerings of various berries.

Are the Same Types of Birds Found in Portland, Oregon also Found in New Hampshire?

Yes, many types of birds in New Hampshire can also be found in Portland, Oregon. Some common species like robins, sparrows, and blue jays are found in both regions. However, there may be slight variations in the specific types of birds found in each area due to differences in climate and habitat.

Bald Eagle

symbol of american pride

Bald Eagles, with their up to 7.5 feet wingspan, epitomize aerial majesty in Portland's skies. This majestic bird of prey, recognized by its distinctive white head and dark brown body, primarily feeds on fish.

Found near rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, Bald Eagles exhibit impressive hunting skills. Their powerful talons are essential tools for catching prey, demonstrating their prowess in the wild.