Birdwatching is a beloved pastime across the United States, where each state boasts a unique bird that residents and visitors frequently observe.
This guide delves into the most commonly sighted birds in each state, offering a glimpse into the diverse avian life that can be found from coast to coast.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just curious about the feathered friends in your area, this list will provide valuable insights into the birds that grace the skies overhead.
1. Alabama – Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal, with its striking red plumage, is a favorite among Alabama residents. This songbird is easily recognizable by its vivid color and melodic whistles. Male cardinals are especially eye-catching, while females boast a more subdued hue with hints of red.
These birds are often seen flitting through gardens, adding a splash of color to the greenery. They thrive in a variety of habitats, from woodlands to backyard feeders, making them a delightful sight for birdwatchers across the state.
2. Alaska – Black-Capped Chickadee
The Black-capped Chickadee is a small but energetic bird commonly found in Alaska. Known for its distinctive black cap and bib, this bird stands out against the snowy backdrop of its habitat. Its cheerful call brightens the coldest of Alaskan days, endearing it to locals and visitors alike.
Chickadees are known for their curiosity and can often be seen flitting around feeders and branches. Their adaptability to harsh climates makes them a common sight, even in the chilliest months, bringing life to the winter landscape.
3. Arizona – Mourning Dove
In Arizona, the gentle cooing of the Mourning Dove is a familiar sound. This bird’s soft brown feathers and long tail distinguish it from others in the region. Mourning Doves are often seen perched on telephone wires or foraging on the ground for seeds.
Their presence is a serene addition to the desert landscape. They are well-adapted to the hot climate of Arizona, making them a common sight throughout the year. Their soothing calls pair well with the tranquil desert environment.
4. Arkansas – Northern Mockingbird
Arkansas is home to the Northern Mockingbird, a bird renowned for its vocal abilities. This gray and white bird can mimic the songs of other birds, often stringing together a medley of tunes. Mockingbirds are territorial and can be seen defending their space with spirited chases.
They are adaptable, thriving in various environments from forests to urban areas. Their presence is marked not just by their song, but by their graceful flight and energetic behavior. Birdwatchers appreciate their lively antics and musical talents.
5. California – California Scrub-Jay
The California Scrub-Jay is a vibrant blue bird that captures attention with its striking appearance and bold personality. Found throughout California, this bird is a common sight in suburban areas.
Scrub-Jays are known for their intelligence and inquisitive nature, often seen hopping around searching for acorns and insects. Their loud calls are a staple of the Californian soundscape.
These birds thrive in oak woodlands and gardens, making them a favorite among bird enthusiasts. Their lively behavior and vivid color make them easy to spot.
6. Colorado – American Robin
In Colorado, the American Robin heralds the arrival of spring with its cheerful song. This bird’s orange breast and round body make it easily identifiable. Robins are known for their habit of hunting worms in lawns, a common sight as gardens begin to bloom.
Their presence marks the changing seasons, bringing color and life to the landscape. They thrive in diverse environments, from forests to urban settings, and are beloved for their melodious tunes and lively demeanor. Birdwatchers eagerly await their return each year.
7. Connecticut – American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch, with its vibrant yellow plumage, is a cherished sight in Connecticut. This small bird is known for its cheerful song and acrobatic flight. Goldfinches are often seen flitting between flowers and feeders, their bright feathers a striking contrast against the greenery.
Their diet consists mainly of seeds, making them frequent visitors to gardens. These birds are social, often found in flocks, adding a lively dynamic to the local bird community. Their presence is a reminder of the beauty found in nature’s simplicity.
8. Delaware – Carolina Wren
In Delaware, the Carolina Wren is a familiar and cherished bird. Known for its loud and melodious song, this small brown bird is a frequent visitor to gardens and woodlands. The wren’s distinctive white eyebrow and upright tail make it easily identifiable as it hops energetically through the underbrush.
Despite its small size, its voice is powerful, often resonating through the trees. Wrens are adaptable, finding homes in both rural and urban environments. Their cheerful presence is a delight to birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
9. Florida – Northern Mockingbird
Florida hosts the Northern Mockingbird, a bird famed for its impressive vocal range. With its gray and white feathers, this bird is often seen perched in gardens and orchards. Its ability to mimic other birds’ songs and even mechanical sounds makes it a fascinating presence.
Mockingbirds are bold and often seen defending their territory vigorously. Their adaptability to various habitats, from cities to rural areas, ensures they are a common sight. Their song brings joy and intrigue to those who pause to listen.
10. Georgia – Brown Thrasher
The Brown Thrasher is a notable bird in Georgia, recognized for its rich, varied song. This bird’s reddish-brown plumage and long tail distinguish it from others. Thrashers are skilled songsters, often staying hidden in dense foliage, but their melodies give away their presence.
They forage on the ground, turning over leaves in search of insects. Their elusive nature makes them a rewarding sight for diligent birdwatchers. With their complex songs and secretive habits, they add a touch of mystery to Georgia’s avian community.
11. Hawaii – Common Myna
In Hawaii, the Common Myna is a widespread and familiar bird. Known for its brown body and bright yellow eye patches, this bird is often seen in urban areas. Mynas are social creatures, frequently found in pairs or flocks.
Their varied calls and ability to mimic sounds make them an interesting presence in the avian community. They are adaptable, thriving in diverse environments from city streets to rural landscapes. Their curious nature and vocal array add a lively element to Hawaii’s birdlife.
12. Idaho – American Goldfinch
Idaho’s most commonly sighted bird is the American Goldfinch, known for its striking yellow plumage. This small bird is a delight to watch as it flits through meadows and gardens. Goldfinches are drawn to areas rich in seeds, often visiting feeders and fields in search of food.
Their acrobatic flight and cheerful song make them a favorite among bird lovers. They form lively flocks, creating a dynamic and vibrant scene wherever they go. Their bright presence is a reminder of the joy and beauty of nature.
13. Illinois – Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal, with its bright red plumage, is a beloved bird in Illinois. This bird is easily recognized by its striking color and distinctive crest. Cardinals are known for their melodic songs, often heard echoing through backyards and forests.
They are frequent visitors to feeders, especially appreciated in winter when their color stands out against the snow. With their bold appearance and cheerful tunes, cardinals bring warmth and beauty to the coldest days. Their presence is a cherished aspect of the local landscape.
14. Indiana – American Robin
In Indiana, the American Robin is a welcome harbinger of spring. Identifiable by its orange breast and cheerful song, this bird is a common sight in gardens and parks. Robins are often seen hunting for worms, their presence marking the return of warmer weather.
Their melodious tunes fill the air, adding joy to the season. They thrive in a variety of habitats, from woodlands to suburban areas, and are loved for their vibrant color and lively spirit. Birdwatchers eagerly look forward to their annual return.
15. Iowa – American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch, with its dazzling yellow feathers, is a beloved bird in Iowa. This small, vibrant bird can often be seen in open fields and gardens. Goldfinches are known for their cheerful demeanor and acrobatic flight patterns, making them a joy to observe.
They feed primarily on seeds, often visiting feeders and wildflowers. Their presence in lively flocks adds to the charm of the landscape, bringing color and activity to the fields. Bird enthusiasts appreciate their bright appearance and lively antics.
16. Kansas – Western Meadowlark
Kansas is home to the Western Meadowlark, a bird known for its beautiful, flute-like song. With its bright yellow belly and distinctive black V on its chest, this bird is a prairie icon. Meadowlarks are often seen perched on fence posts, singing to the wide-open landscape.
Their songs add a musical backdrop to the expansive Kansas prairies. They are ground-nesters, thriving in grasslands where they blend seamlessly into their surroundings. Their presence is a symbol of the natural beauty and tranquility of the prairie.
17. Kentucky – Northern Cardinal
In Kentucky, the Northern Cardinal is a cherished resident, easily recognized by its vibrant red feathers. This bird’s striking appearance makes it a favorite among locals. Cardinals are known for their clear, melodic songs, often bringing music to gardens and forests.
They are frequent visitors to feeders, adding color to the landscape, particularly in winter. Their bold presence and cheerful melodies enrich the local bird community, making them a joy for birdwatchers to spot and hear. Their beauty and song are celebrated across the state.
18. Louisiana – Northern Mockingbird
The Northern Mockingbird is a familiar sight in Louisiana, renowned for its extraordinary vocal repertoire. With gray and white plumage, it blends well into its surroundings. These birds are often seen singing from high perches, mimicking other birds and sounds.
Their adaptability allows them to thrive in various settings, from rural areas to urban gardens. Mockingbirds are territorial, often seen chasing away intruders. Their lively presence and diverse songs make them a beloved part of Louisiana’s wildlife, admired by both locals and visitors.
19. Maine – Black-Capped Chickadee
Maine’s Black-capped Chickadee is a small bird with a big personality, known for its distinctive black cap and bib. This bird is a common sight in the state’s forests. Their cheerful calls brighten even the coldest days, endearing them to residents and birdwatchers.
Chickadees are curious and often seen flitting between feeders and trees. Their adaptability to harsh winters ensures they remain a frequent presence, bringing life and joy to the wintry landscape. Their lively antics and friendly demeanor make them a favorite.
20. Maryland – Northern Cardinal
In Maryland, the Northern Cardinal is a striking sight with its vivid red plumage. This bird’s bold color and crest make it easily recognizable in gardens and parks. Cardinals are known for their melodic songs, a delightful sound that fills the air year-round.
They are frequent visitors to backyard feeders, particularly during the winter months. Their bright presence enlivens the landscape, bringing warmth and beauty even on the coldest days. Birdwatchers and nature lovers cherish their vibrant colors and cheerful tunes.
21. Massachusetts – Black-Capped Chickadee
The Black-capped Chickadee is a beloved bird in Massachusetts, known for its small size and distinctive black cap and bib. This bird is a hardy resident of the state’s forests. With a cheerful song, chickadees bring joy to even the chilliest winter days.
They are often seen flitting between branches and feeders, their curiosity and energy endearing them to bird enthusiasts. Their adaptability to the cold makes them a frequent sight, brightening the winter landscape with their lively presence.
22. Michigan – American Robin
In Michigan, the American Robin is a harbinger of spring, known for its bright orange breast and cheerful song. This bird is a common sight in gardens and forests. Robins are often seen hunting for worms, their presence signaling the return of warmer weather.
Their melodious tunes fill the air, adding vibrant life to the landscape. They thrive in varied environments, from woodlands to urban areas, and are loved for their bright color and lively spirit. Birdwatchers eagerly await their arrival each spring.
23. Minnesota – Black-Capped Chickadee
Minnesota’s Black-capped Chickadee is a small bird with a big personality, easily recognized by its black cap and bib. This bird is a common sight in the state’s wintry landscapes. Known for their cheerful calls, chickadees bring joy to even the coldest days.
They are curious birds, often seen flitting between feeders and trees, endearing them to residents. Their adaptability to harsh winters ensures they remain a frequent presence, bringing life and joy to the snowy scene. Their lively antics and friendly demeanor make them a favorite.
24. Mississippi – Northern Mockingbird
In Mississippi, the Northern Mockingbird is a familiar resident, celebrated for its impressive vocal range. This bird is known for its gray and white plumage and musical prowess. Mockingbirds are often seen singing from high perches, mimicking the calls of other birds and various sounds.
They thrive in diverse environments, from urban gardens to rural landscapes. Their territorial nature adds a lively dynamic to the local bird community. Birdwatchers appreciate their diverse songs and spirited presence, making them a beloved part of Mississippi’s wildlife.
25. Missouri – Eastern Bluebird
The Eastern Bluebird is a treasured bird in Missouri, known for its vivid blue plumage and warm orange breast. This bird is a symbol of happiness and renewal. Bluebirds are often seen perched on fences or flitting through meadows, adding a splash of color to the landscape.
Their cheerful song is a welcome sound in the springtime. They thrive in open fields and orchards, making them a delight for birdwatchers. Their vibrant presence and melodious tunes bring joy to those who encounter them.
26. Montana – American Robin
In Montana, the American Robin is a sign of spring, noted for its bright orange breast and cheerful demeanor. This bird is a common sight in the state’s sprawling meadows and forests. Robins are often seen hunting for worms, their presence a herald of warmer days.
Their melodic songs fill the air, adding a vibrant touch to the natural backdrop. Thriving in diverse habitats, from rural landscapes to urban parks, robins are loved for their lively spirit and bright color. Birdwatchers eagerly await their seasonal return.
27. Nebraska – Western Meadowlark
Nebraska’s Western Meadowlark is a bird of the prairies, known for its beautiful, flute-like song. This bird sports a bright yellow belly and a distinctive black V on its chest. Often seen perched on fence posts, meadowlarks sing to the wide-open spaces, their songs an emblem of the prairie landscape.
They are ground-nesters, blending seamlessly into the grasslands. Their presence is a symbol of the natural beauty and tranquility of the prairie, cherished by locals and birdwatchers alike for their melodious tunes and graceful flight.
28. Nevada – Mourning Dove
In Nevada, the gentle cooing of the Mourning Dove is a common sound. This bird’s soft gray feathers and long tail make it uniquely elegant in appearance. Mourning Doves are often seen perched on wires or foraging on the ground for seeds.
Their presence adds a serene element to the desert landscape. They are well-suited to the arid climate of Nevada, making them a familiar sight throughout the year. Their calming calls pair perfectly with the tranquil desert environment, offering a peaceful experience for observers.
29. New Hampshire – Black-Capped Chickadee
New Hampshire’s Black-capped Chickadee is a small bird with a striking black cap and bib, easily spotted in the state’s wintry woodlands. Known for their cheerful song, chickadees bring joy to the coldest days. They are curious birds, often seen flitting between feeders and branches, endearing them to bird enthusiasts.
Their adaptability to harsh winters ensures they remain a frequent presence, bringing life and joy to the snowy landscape. Their lively antics and friendly demeanor make them a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
30. New Jersey – American Robin
The American Robin is a cherished bird in New Jersey, known for its bright orange breast and cheerful song. This bird is a common sight in gardens and forests. Robins are often seen hunting for worms, signaling the arrival of spring.
Their melodious tunes fill the air, adding vibrant life to the landscape. They thrive in varied environments, from woodlands to urban areas, and are loved for their bright color and lively spirit. Birdwatchers eagerly anticipate their presence each year.
31. New Mexico – Mourning Dove
The Mourning Dove is a familiar bird in New Mexico, known for its gentle cooing and soft beige feathers. This bird is often seen perched on wires or foraging for seeds. Mourning Doves add a peaceful presence to the desert landscape, their calls echoing through the warm air.
They are well-adapted to the arid climate of the region. Their elegant appearance and soothing sounds make them a cherished sight throughout the year. Birdwatchers appreciate their serene demeanor and graceful flight, adding charm to the local avian community.
32. New York – American Robin
In New York, the American Robin is a sign of spring’s arrival, known for its bright orange breast and cheerful song. This bird is a common sight in parks and gardens. Robins hunt for worms, signaling the return of warmer days.
Their melodious tunes fill the air, bringing vibrant life to the urban landscape. They thrive in varied environments, from city parks to suburban yards, and are loved for their lively spirit and bright color. Birdwatchers eagerly anticipate their seasonal return each year.
33. North Carolina – Northern Cardinal
In North Carolina, the Northern Cardinal is a cherished bird, known for its vivid red plumage and distinctive crest. This bird is a common sight in gardens and woodlands. Cardinals are celebrated for their melodic songs, which bring music to the landscape throughout the year.
They are frequent visitors to feeders, adding a splash of color to the scenery. Their bold appearance and cheerful tunes make them a beloved presence for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Their beauty and song are a highlight of North Carolina’s avian life.
34. North Dakota – Western Meadowlark
The Western Meadowlark is an iconic bird of North Dakota, known for its flute-like song and bright yellow belly. This bird is often seen in the state’s expansive prairies. Meadowlarks are ground-nesters, blending seamlessly into grasslands, their songs echoing across the open spaces.
Their presence is a symbol of the natural beauty of the prairie. They are cherished by locals and birdwatchers, admired for their melodious tunes and graceful flight. Their vibrant presence brings life and color to the prairie landscape.
35. Ohio – Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a familiar and beloved bird in Ohio, known for its bright red feathers and distinctive crest. This bird is a common sight in gardens and forests. Cardinals are noted for their clear, melodic songs, which resonate throughout the year.
They are frequent visitors to backyard feeders, providing a splash of color, especially in winter. Their vibrant presence enlivens the landscape, bringing warmth and beauty to the coldest days. Birdwatchers and nature lovers cherish their striking appearance and cheerful melodies.
36. Oklahoma – Scissor-Tailed Flycatcher
Oklahoma’s Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is a striking bird, easily recognized by its long, forked tail. This bird is a common sight in open fields and prairies. Flycatchers are acrobatic fliers, often seen darting through the air in pursuit of insects.
Their graceful flight and striking appearance make them a favorite among bird enthusiasts. They are symbols of elegance and agility, embodying the spirit of the open landscape. Their presence is a reminder of the beauty and dynamism found in nature’s winged wonders.
37. Oregon – American Robin
The American Robin is a familiar bird in Oregon, known for its bright orange breast and cheerful song. This bird is a common sight in forests and gardens. Robins hunt for worms, signaling the onset of spring. Their melodious tunes fill the air, bringing vibrant life to the lush landscape.
They thrive in varied environments, from dense forests to urban parks, and are loved for their lively spirit and bright color. Birdwatchers eagerly anticipate their presence, celebrating their annual arrival.
38. Pennsylvania – Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a cherished bird in Pennsylvania, known for its vivid red plumage and distinctive crest. This bird is a frequent visitor to gardens and forests. Cardinals are celebrated for their melodic songs, offering music to the landscape year-round.
They are often seen at feeders, adding color to even the coldest winter days. Their striking appearance and cheerful tunes make them a beloved presence for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. Their beauty and song are highlights of Pennsylvania’s avian life.
39. Rhode Island – American Robin
The American Robin is a beloved bird in Rhode Island, noted for its bright orange breast and cheerful song. This bird is a common sight in gardens and parks. Robins are often seen hunting for worms, indicating the arrival of spring.
Their melodious tunes fill the air, adding vibrant life to the landscape. They thrive in varied environments, from woodlands to urban areas, and are loved for their lively spirit and bright color. Birdwatchers eagerly anticipate their presence each year, celebrating their seasonal return.
40. South Carolina – Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a cherished resident of South Carolina, known for its vivid red plumage and distinctive crest. This bird is a common sight in gardens and woodlands. Cardinals are celebrated for their clear, melodic songs, bringing music to the landscape throughout the year.
They are frequent visitors to feeders, adding color to the scenery. Their bold appearance and cheerful tunes make them a beloved presence for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Their beauty and song are highlights of South Carolina’s avian life, admired by all who see and hear them.
41. South Dakota – Western Meadowlark
The Western Meadowlark is a cherished bird in South Dakota, recognized for its flute-like song and bright yellow belly. This bird is often seen in the state’s prairies. Meadowlarks are ground-nesters, their melodious tunes echoing across the open landscape.
Their presence is a symbol of the natural beauty of the prairie. They are adored by locals and birdwatchers, and appreciated for their melodious songs and graceful flight. Their vibrant presence brings life and color to the prairie, embodying the spirit of the open land.
42. Tennessee – Northern Mockingbird
Tennessee’s Northern Mockingbird is well-loved for its remarkable vocal range, known for mimicking the songs of other birds. Its gray and white feathers blend well into its surroundings. Mockingbirds are often seen singing from high perches, their diverse repertoire delighting all who listen.
They thrive in varied environments, from rural landscapes to urban gardens. Their territorial nature adds a lively dynamic to the local bird community. Birdwatchers appreciate their spirited presence and musical abilities, making them a cherished part of Tennessee’s wildlife.
43. Texas – Northern Mockingbird
In Texas, the Northern Mockingbird is a beloved resident, celebrated for its impressive vocal abilities. Known for its gray and white plumage, this bird is often seen in gardens and woodlands.
Mockingbirds mimic a wide range of sounds, from other birds to mechanical noises, making them fascinating to observe. Their songs bring life to the landscape, enchanting all who listen. They are adaptable, thriving in diverse settings across the state.
44. Utah – American Robin
In Utah, the American Robin is a sign of spring’s arrival, known for its bright orange breast and cheerful song. This bird is a common sight in gardens and parks. Robins hunt for worms, marking the return of warmer days.
Their melodious tunes fill the air, adding vibrant life to the urban and rural landscapes. They thrive in varied environments, from city parks to open fields, and are loved for their lively spirit and bright color. Birdwatchers eagerly anticipate their presence each spring, celebrating their return.
45. Vermont – Black-Capped Chickadee
Vermont’s Black-capped Chickadee is a small bird with a striking black cap and bib, easily spotted in the state’s snowy woodlands. Known for their cheerful song, chickadees bring joy to the coldest days.
They are curious birds, often seen flitting between feeders and branches, endearing them to bird enthusiasts. Their adaptability to harsh winters ensures they remain a frequent presence, bringing life and joy to the snowy landscape.
46. Virginia – Northern Cardinal
In Virginia, the Northern Cardinal is a striking sight with its vivid red plumage and distinctive crest. This bird is a common presence in gardens and woodlands. Cardinals are celebrated for their melodic songs, a comforting sound throughout the year.
They are frequent visitors to feeders, especially during the winter months. Their bold appearance and cheerful tunes make them a beloved presence for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Their beauty and song are highlights of Virginia’s avian life, admired by all who see and hear them.
47. Washington – American Robin
The American Robin is a familiar bird in Washington, known for its bright orange breast and cheerful song. This bird is a common sight in forests and gardens. Robins hunt for worms, signaling the onset of spring.
Their melodious tunes fill the air, bringing vibrant life to the lush landscape. They thrive in varied environments, from dense forests to urban parks, and are loved for their lively spirit and bright color. Birdwatchers eagerly anticipate their presence, celebrating their annual arrival.
48. West Virginia – Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a beloved bird in West Virginia, known for its bright red plumage and distinctive crest. This bird is a frequent visitor to gardens and forests. Cardinals are noted for their melodic songs, offering music and joy throughout the year.
They are often seen at feeders, adding color to even the grayest days. Their vibrant presence enlivens the landscape, bringing warmth and beauty to the local bird community. Birdwatchers and nature lovers cherish their striking appearance and cheerful melodies.
49. Wisconsin – American Robin
In Wisconsin, the American Robin is a welcome sign of spring, known for its bright orange breast and cheerful song. This bird is a common sight in gardens and forests. Robins are often seen hunting for worms, their presence marking the return of warmer weather.
Their melodious tunes fill the air, adding vibrant life to the landscape. They thrive in diverse environments, from woodlands to urban settings, and are loved for their vibrant color and lively spirit. Birdwatchers eagerly await their return each year, celebrating their seasonal presence.
50. Wyoming – Western Meadowlark
Wyoming’s Western Meadowlark is a bird of the open plains, known for its beautiful song and bright yellow belly. This bird is a symbol of the state’s natural beauty. Often seen perched on fences, meadowlarks sing to the vast landscape, their tunes a familiar sound across the prairies.
Their ground-nesting habits allow them to blend into the grasslands. Their presence is cherished by birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, admired for their melodious songs and graceful flight. They embody the spirit of the prairie, bringing life and color to the wide-open spaces.