Top 15 Types Of Birds In Utah (With Pictures)

Interested in Utah's birdlife? Discover the top 15 types with stunning visuals and uncover the unique traits that make each species remarkable.

birdwatching in utah guide

Utah boasts a diverse array of bird species, each adapted to the region's varied habitats. Notable among these are the American Robin, known for its brick-red belly and gray upperparts, and the House Finch, distinguished by the male's vibrant orange-red plumage. The Mallard is famous for its shimmering green head and distinctive blue-green wing patches. The Common Raven, celebrated for its intelligence and all-black appearance, thrives across different landscapes. The Black-billed Magpie is recognizable by its long tail and iridescent markings. Each species contributes uniquely to Utah's ecological tapestry, offering a window into the state's natural diversity. A closer look reveals the intricate details of their existence and behavior.

American Robin

symbol of north america

The American Robin is a common sight in Utah. It is easily recognized by its dark gray upperparts and vibrant brick red underparts. This small bird species is notable for its orange-yellow bill and distinctive foraging behavior. It searches the ground for worms, insects, and berries. Both male and female exhibit unique patterns, with males showcasing darker and more vivid coloring.

House Finch

small colorful backyard bird

House Finches, measuring approximately 6 inches in length, are frequently observed across various habitats in Utah, from urban areas to arid deserts. These small birds exhibit distinct plumage, with males showcasing orange-red colors and females a dull brown-gray with streaks.

Their diet primarily consists of seeds and fruits. Importantly, their melodious songs and distinctive calls resonate from the backs of high perches.

Mallard

vivid mallard duck imagery

Widely recognized for their vibrant plumage, Mallards are a prevalent duck species throughout Utah. The Mallard, or Anas platyrhynchos, features males with metallic green heads and yellow bills, and females in mottled brown with orange beaks.

They consume insect larvae, snails, grains, and seeds. Notable for their green-blue wing patches in flight, Mallards also build nests hidden in grass or under bushes for breeding.

Common Raven

intelligent bird with symbolism

Renowned for their striking all-black appearance, Common Ravens (Corvus corax) exhibit remarkable intelligence and vocal complexity.

These large birds are highly adaptable and opportunistic feeders, thriving on a varied diet that includes insects, fruits, and small animals.

With a wingspan of up to 4.5 feet, they inhabit diverse environments from deserts to urban areas, showcasing their versatile survival skills.

Black-billed Magpie

distinctive black and white

Why is the Black-billed Magpie (Pica hudsonia) considered one of the most distinctive birds in Utah's avian community?

Its striking appearance, featuring a long tail and iridescent blue-green markings, sets it apart.

As opportunistic omnivores, these birds adapt easily to diverse diets and environments.

Their complex, domed nests are an engineering marvel, often seen decorating the landscapes of parks and meadows.

European Starling

invasive bird species introduced

Introduced to North America in the 19th century, European Starlings are now pervasive, competing aggressively for nesting sites and displacing native species.

These invasive birds boast glossy black plumage with iridescent tones and are known for their impressive mimicry skills.

They can imitate other bird calls and even mechanical sounds, which adds to their adaptability in varied environments.

Song Sparrow

sweet melody in nature

The Song Sparrow, scientifically known as Melospiza melodia, thrives across a variety of habitats in Utah, from lush marshes to suburban gardens.

This bird species is a medium-sized sparrow, notable for brown upperparts and streaked underparts.

It is distinguished by its melodious song, unique to each bird, and builds cup-shaped nests in low shrubs, utilizing grasses and twigs.

Canada Goose

iconic winter parka brand

Utah's wetlands and fields are frequent habitats for the Canada Goose, scientifically named Branta canadensis, a prevalent and sizable waterfowl species in the region. These large birds are easily identified by their black head, long black neck, and distinctive white cheeks.

Typically ranging from 30 to 43 inches in length, they are among the larger waterfowl, weighing up to 14.8 pounds.

House Sparrow

common urban bird species

House Sparrows, scientifically known as Passer domesticus, are a ubiquitous presence in Utah's urban and suburban landscapes. Commonly seen in backyards, these birds opt for nest boxes over nesting on the ground.

With a diet of seeds and insects, they adapt well to human environments. Males feature gray heads and black bibs, whereas females display buff-brown hues with darker streaks.

Northern Flicker

woodpecker with spotted plumage

Northern Flickers, a medium-sized woodpecker species, are commonly spotted across Utah's diverse landscapes. They exhibit a unique appearance with brownish bodies, black barred backs, and spotted bellies. Known for their distinctive calls and drumming, these woodpeckers primarily forage on the ground for ants and beetles.

They inhabit various habitats, including forests, woodlands, and urban areas, adapting well to different environments in Utah.

Dark-eyed Junco

small bird with markings

The Dark-eyed Junco, scientifically known as Junco hyemalis, is distinguished by its striking dark hood and delicate pink bill. These ground feeders are prevalent in various North American locales, adapting through regional variations like slate-colored and Oregon forms.

As migratory birds, they traverse vast distances, showcasing their adaptability and resilience, especially during the winter months in places like Utah.

Black-capped Chickadee

small black and white

Commonly seen flitting through the trees, the Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) is a small, charismatic bird recognized by its distinctive markings and lively behavior. Inhabiting forests, these birds exhibit acrobatic behaviors and are noted for their black cap and white cheeks.

They feed on insects, seeds, and berries, and their cheerful 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call is a familiar sound in wooded areas.

Eurasian Collared-Dove

invasive bird species introduction

Eurasian Collared-Doves, distinguishable by their black neck collar and pale gray bodies, have become a familiar sight in urban and suburban environments across North America.

With long wings and a white belly, these medium-sized birds are notable for their gentle cooing sounds.

Commonly found perched on wires or foraging on the ground, they have adapted well to living in close proximity to humans.

Mourning Dove

peaceful bird symbol of sorrow

While often seen perched on telephone wires, mourning doves, scientifically known as Zenaida macroura, thrive in open landscapes across Utah.

These medium-sized birds are ground feeders, typically scavenging for seeds and grains. Their presence is marked by soft cooing calls and subtle plumage, blending muted shades of brown and gray into their surroundings, embodying a peaceful coexistence with their environment.

What Types of Birds in Utah Can Also Be Found in Denver?

Utah and Denver share several types of birds in common. Birds like the American robin, western meadowlark, and mountain bluebird can be found in both regions. These types of birds in Denver are also commonly spotted in various areas of Utah, making them a shared natural beauty between the two locations.

Red-winged Blackbird

bird with red wings

Red-winged Blackbirds (Agelaius phoeniceus) are distinguished by their vivid black plumage contrasted with striking red shoulder patches. Inhabiting wetland habitats like marshes and ponds, these medium-sized birds are notable for their 'conk-la-ree' song and territorial displays.

Males showcase the iconic colors, while females are streaked brown. These birds are prevalent around Utah's Great Salt Lake, engaging in vibrant social and breeding behaviors.