35 Most Common Birds in Colorado: A Birdwatcher’s Guide

Ever Sat In Your Backyard Or Gone For A Hike And Thought “wow, I Wish I Knew What That Bird Was?” You’re Not Alone many Coloradans Spot Feathered Visitors Every Day But Struggle To Tell Them Apart. That Curiosity (and A Little Frustration) Is Often What Sparks The Search For Common Birds In Colorado And I’ve Been There Too.
The Good News Is You Don’t Need To Be An Expert To Start Recognizing Them. From The Bright Flash Of A Blue Jay To The Cheer ful Song Of A Robin These Are The Birds Most Likely To Cross Your Path. In This Guide We’ll Walk Through The Most Common Birds In Colorado Making It Easier For You To Enjoy Bird watching With Confidence And Excitement.

 American Robin

The American Robin Is One Of The Most Recogniz able Birds In Colorado. With Its Rusty Orange Breast And Cheerful Song It is Often Seen Hopping Across Lawns Or Perched In Trees At Dawn Robins Thrive In Towns Parks And Forests Adapting Easily To Human Presence. In Spring Their Early Morning Melodies Are Often The First Sign That Winter Is Ending In The Rockies.

They Feed Mainly On Earthworms Insects And Berries And They’re Not Shy About Raiding Backyard Fruit Trees. While Many Migrate South In Winter Some Robins Stay Year Round In Colorado Especially In Milder Areas. Their Adaptability Makes Them One Of The State’s Most Beloved Species Enjoyed By Casual Observers And Birders Alike.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Orange Red Breast Gray Brown Back
Song	Early Morning Song bird Especially In Spring
Diet	Worms  Insects  And Fruits
Habitat	Yards  Parks  And Forests
Fun Fact	Some Stay Year Round In Colorado

American Goldfinch

The American Goldfinch Is A Small Cheer ful Bird That Adds A Splash Of Color To Colorado Summers. Males Turn A Vibrant Lemon Yellow With Black Caps During The Breeding Season While Females And Winter Males Are A More Muted Olive Brown. You’ll Often Spot Them In Weedy Fields Along Roadsides Or Flocking To Feeders Filled With Sun flower Or Thistle Seed.

Their Flight Style Is Distinctive With An Undulating Bouncy Pattern That Makes Them Easy To Identify Even From A Distance. Goldfinches Are Also Late Nesters Waiting Until Midsummer When Seeds Are Abundant. Their Lively Calls And Social Nature Make Them Favorites At Back yard Feeders.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Bright Yellow Males In Summer Olive In Winter
Wings	Black Wings With White Bars
Flight	Distinct Bouncy Flight Pattern
Breeding	Nests Later Than Most Song birds
Diet	Loves Thistle And Sun flower Seeds

American Crow

American Crows Are Large All-black Birds Known For Their Intelligence And Adapt ability. In Colorado They’re Found Every where From Farms To City Streets Often In Groups. Their Loud “caw” Is Unmistak able And Often Heard Before You See Them. They’re Resource ful And Will Eat Almost Anything From Insects And Seeds To Roadkill And Garbage.

Crows Are Among The Most Intelligent Bird Species Capable Of Using Tools And Solving Problems. They’re Also Highly Social Often Roosting In Large Numbers During Fall And Winter. In Colorado They’re Permanent Residents Braving All Four Seasons With Ease.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Large Black Bird With Loud Cawing Call
Behavior	Extremely Intelligent And Adapt able
Diet	Insects Seeds  Carrion And Human Scraps
Range	Common Year Round Across Colorado
Social Habits	Often Roosts In Large Flocks

Brown-headed Cowbird

The Brown Headed Cowbird Has A Unique And Controversial Lifestyle. Instead Of Building Its Own Nest The Female Lays Her Eggs In The Nests Of Other Birds. The Unsuspecting Host Then Raises The Cowbird Chick Often At The Expense Of Its Own Young. In Colorado This Species Is Widespread In Open Fields Farmlands And Suburban Areas.

Males Are Glossy Black With Rich Brown Heads While Females Are Plain Brown Overall. Their Diet Consists Mainly Of Seeds And Insects And They’re Often Seen Foraging On The Ground Near Livestock Where They Originally Earned Their Name. While Some Bird Lovers Dislike Their Parasitic Nesting They Remain A Fascinating Part Of Colorado’s Bird Community.

Fact	Details
Appearance (Male)	Black Body With Brown Head
Appearance (Female)	Dull Brown All Over
Special Behavior	Famous For “Nest Parasitism”
Habitat	Common In Open Fields And Farmlands
Diet	Seeds And Insects

Black-capped Chickadee

The Black C apped Chickadee Is A Tiny Bird With A Big Personality. Its Black Cap And Bib White Cheeks And Fluffy Gray Body Make It Easy To Spot. Known For Its “chick-a-dee-dee” Call This Curious Little Bird Is A Year Round Resident In Colorado. It Frequently Visits Back yard Feeders Especially For Sun flower Seeds And Suet.

Chickadees Are Incredibly Bold Some times Even Landing On People’s Hands If Food Is Offered. They’re Cavity Nesters Often Using Old Wood pecker Holes Or Nest Boxes. Despite Their Small Size They’re Tough Survivors Of Harsh Colorado Winters Storing Food To Eat Later When Resources Are Scarce.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Tiny Bird With Black Cap And Bib
CALL
Range	Year-Round Colorado Resident
Diet	Visits Feeders Often For Sun flower Seeds
Nesting	Nests In Cavities Or Boxes

Bullock’s Oriole

 

Bullock’s Orioles Are Among The Most Striking Birds In Colorado During The Summer Months. Males Boast Brilliant Orange Bodies With Black Crowns And White Wing Patches While Females Are More Yellowish With Gray Tones. They’re Most Often Seen In Riparian Habitats Such As Cotton wood Groves Along Rivers.

These Orioles Are Skilled Nest Builders Weaving Long Hanging Pouches From Plant Fibers And Grasses. They Feed On Insects Nectar And Fruit And They Can Be Attracted To Back yards With Oranges Or Jelly Feeders. Their Rich Whistles Add A Tropical Touch To Colorado Summers.

Fact	Details
Appearance (Male)	Bright Orange And Black
Appearance (Female)	More Yellow
Nesting	Builds Intricate Hanging Nests
Diet	Insects Nectar  And Fruit
Habitat	Common In Cotton wood Groves Near Rivers
Range	Summer  Only Resident In Colorado

Black-billed Magpie

The Black Billed Magpie Is One Of The Most Eye Catching Birds In Colorado Thanks To Its Bold Black And White Plumage And Long Iridescent Tail. These Birds Are Highly Social And Often Seen In Pairs Or Small Groups Chattering Noisily From Fence Posts Treetops Or Even Side walks. They’re Scavengers And Opportunistic Feeders Consuming Every thing From Insects And Seeds To Carrion And Food Scraps. In Agricultural Areas They Often Follow Livestock Picking Through Manure For Insects.

Magpies Are Also Famous For Their Intelligence Displaying Problem Solving Skills And Even The Ability To Recognize Themselves In Mirrors. They’re Adaptable To Nearly Every Environment From Open Range lands To Suburban Neighborhoods, Making Them One Of The Most Commonly Spotted Species In The State. Their Raucous Calls May Not Be Musical But They’re Unmistakable Adding A Lively Presence To The Colorado Land scape.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Black And White Plumage With Long Iridescent Tail
Behavior	Highly Intelligent And Social
Diet	Insects  Seeds Carrion  And Scraps
Habitat	Found In Both Rural And Urban Areas
Call	Distinct  Chattering Calls

Bushtit

 

The Bushtit Is One Of Colorado’s Tiniest Birds But What It Lacks In Size It Makes Up For In Numbers And Activity. These Soft Gray Birds Are Almost Always Seen In Lively Flocks Moving Quickly From Shrub To Shrub In Search Of Insects And Spiders. They Rarely Sit Still Constantly Chattering In High Pitched Notes That Sound Like Whispers In The Wind. If You Spot One Chances Are There Are Dozens More Nearby.

Bushtits Build Remark able Hanging Nests Woven From Spider Silk Moss And Plant Fibers Often Stretching Over A Foot Long. Despite Their Fragile Appearance They Survive Colorado’s Winters By Roosting In Groups To Share Warmth. They’re Most Common In Oak Wood lands Brushy Areas And Suburban Yards With Dense Shrub Cover Where Their Social Antics Are Delight ful To Watch.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Tiny Gray Birds That Travel In Flocks
Diet	Feed Mainly On Insects And Spiders
Nesting	Build Elaborate Hanging Nests
Behavior	Roost In Groups During Winter
Habitat	Found In Scrub Woodlands And Back yards

Blue Jay

The Blue Jay Is A Striking Bird With Brilliant Blue Feathers A Bold Crest And A Loud Personality To Match. In Colorado They’re Mostly Seen In The Eastern Parts Of The State Often In Oak Woodlands Or Suburban Neighbor hoods. Their “jay Jay” Calls Are Loud And Distinctive Some times Mimicking Hawks To Scare Away Other Birds. Known For Their Intelligence They Can Remember The Locations Of Hundreds Of Acorns They’ve Buried For Later Use.

Although Some People Consider Them Bullies At Feeders Blue Jays Play An Important Role In Spreading Oak Trees By Caching Acorns. They Eat A Wide Range Of Foods Including Nuts Seeds Insects And Occasionally Eggs Or Nestlings. With Their Flashy Looks And Bold Behaviors They’re Both Loved And Disliked But They’re Never Ignored.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Bright Blue Plumage With Crest And Black Necklace
Call	Loud Calls, Often Mimic Hawks
Diet	Acorns Seeds Insects And More
Behavior	Helps Spread Oak Trees By Caching Acorns
Habitat	Common In Eastern Colorado Suburbs And Wood lands

Common Grackle

The Common Grackle Is A Glossy Blackbird That Often Appears Purple Blue Or Green In The Right Light. With Its Long Tail Pale Yellow Eyes And Harsh Call It Stands Out EaMountain Chickadeesily In Flocks. Grackles Are Common In Fields Parks And Towns Across Colorado Especially In Summer When They Gather In Large Numbers. They’re Often Spotted Striding Across Lawns With A Confident Gait.

Highly Adaptable They Eat Almost Anything grains Insects Small Animals And Even Scraps From Trash Bins. Their Large Flocks Can Some times Cause Problems For Farmers By Raiding Crops But They’re Also Skilled At Controlling Insect Populations. In Winter Grackles May Join Mixed Flocks With Other Black birds And Starlings Creating Impressive Roosts Of Thousands Of Birds.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Glossy Black Bird With Iridescent Sheen
Eyes & Tail	Pale Yellow Eyes And Long Tail
Call	Harsh Squeaky Calls
Diet	Grains Insects Small Animals And Scraps
Behavior	Often Seen In Large Flocks In Towns And Fields

Common Raven

The Common Raven Is One Of The Largest Birds In Colorado Bigger Than A Crow With A Wingspan Of Up To Four Feet. They Have Thick Shaggy Throat Feathers And A Heavy Bill Making Them Easy To Distinguish. Ravens Are Intelligent Play ful And Cap able Of Mimicking Sounds. Their Deep Croaking Calls Echo Across Canyons Mountains And Even Urban Areas.

These Birds Are Often Seen Soaring Grace fully Over Highways Cliffs And Forests. In Colorado They’re Found Year Round Particularly In The Mountains And High Plains. They Eat Nearly Anything Carrion Insects Seeds Small Animals And Human Food. Ravens Also Form Strong Pair Bonds And Are Often Seen Traveling In Pairs Symbolizing Mystery And Intelligence In Many Cultures.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Large Black Bird Bigger Than A Crow
Features	Shaggy Throat Feathers And Thick Bill
Call	Deep Croaking Calls
Behavior	Extremely Intelligent Can Mimic Sounds
Range	Found Year Round In Mountains And Plains

Canada Jay

The Canada Jay Some times Called The “gray Jay” Or “camp Robber,” Is A Friendly Bird Of Colorado’s High Mountain Forests. With Its Soft Gray Plumage, Lighter Face And Fluffy Feathers It Looks Almost Gentle Compared To Louder Corvid Relatives. These Birds Are Well Known Among Hikers And Campers Because They’re Bold Enough To Snatch Food From Picnic Tables Or Even Directly From Hands.

They’re Masters Of Winter Survival Storing Food By Sticking It To Tree Bark With Their Sticky Saliva. This Hidden Stash Helps Them Endure Freezing Alpine Winters When Other Birds Migrate Away. Canada Jays Live In Family Groups Raising Young Early In The Year Even While Snow Is Still Thick On The Ground. Their Presence Adds Charm And Curiosity To Colorado’s Mountain Trails.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Soft Gray Bird With Pale Face And Fluffy Feathers
Nickname	“Camp Robber” For Stealing Food
Behavior	Stores Food On Tree Bark Using Sticky Saliva
Breeding	Breeds Early In Snowy Conditions
Range	Common In Colorado’s Mountain Forests

Cooper’s Hawk

Cooper’s Hawk Is One Of Colorado’s Most Skilled Bird Predators. With Its Sharp Yellow Eyes Rounded Wings And Long Tail It’s Perfectly Designed For Chasing Birds Through Trees At High Speed. Adults Have Blue Gray Backs And Reddish Barred Chests While Juveniles Are Brown With Streaked Under parts. They’re Commonly Spotted In Forests Parks And Even Backyards.

These Hawks Often Appear Near Bird Feeders Not For The Seeds But For The Smaller Birds That Gather There. They’re Stealthy Hunters Flying Low And Fast To Surprise Their Prey. Though They Can Cause Alarm For Bird watchers They Play An Important Role In Controlling Populations Of Pigeons Doves And Songbirds. Seeing One Up Close Reveals Just How Fierce And Powerful These Raptors Truly Are.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Medium Sized Hawk With Rounded Wings And Long Tail
Plumage	Adults: Blue Gray Back Reddish Chest Juveniles Streaked Brown
Hunting Skill	Skilled At Chasing Birds Through Trees
Behavior	Often Hunts Near Backyard Feeders
Range	Year Round Predator In Colorado

Downy Woodpecker

The Downy Woodpecker Is The Smallest Woodpecker In Colorado But It’s One Of The Most Common Visitors To Back yards And Feeders. With Its Black And White Plumage And Small Red Patch On The Back Of The Male’s Head It’s Easy To Spot Clinging To Tree Trunks Or Suet Cages. Downy Wood peckers Are Acrobatic Often Hanging Upside Down While Probing For Insects. Their High Pitched “pik” Call And Rapid Drumming On Branches Are Telltale Signs Of Their Presence.

Despite Their Small Size They’re Hardy Birds That Thrive In Forests, Orchards Parks And Residential Areas. They Feed On Insects, Seeds And Berries Often Joining Mixed Flocks Of Chickadees And Nuthatches In Winter. Because They Readily Adapt To Human Spaces They’re Often One Of The First Woodpeckers New Bird watchers Learn To Identify. Their Curious And Busy Behavior Makes Them Fun To Watch Year Round.

Fact	Details
Size	Smallest Woodpecker In Colorado
Appearance	Black  And White Plumage Males With Red Nape Patch
Diet	Eats Insects Seeds And Berries
Behavior	Frequent Visitor To Suet Feeders
Call	High Pitched “Pik” Call And Fast Drumming

 Dark-eyed Junco

The Dark Eyed Junco Is A Familiar Winter Bird In Colorado Often Nicknamed The “snowbird” Because Of Its Arrival In Cold Months. These Sparrow Sized Birds Have Slate Gray Or Brown Plumage With White Outer Tail Feathers That Flash As They Fly. They’re Ground Feeders Commonly Seen Hopping Beneath Feeders To Pick Up Spilled Seeds. Their Presence Often Signals The Onset Of Winter In The Rockies.

Juncos Migrate Into Lower Elevations During The Colder Months, But Many Nest In Colorado’s Mountains During Summer. They Build Cup Shaped Nests On The Ground Hidden Among Grasses Or Rocks. Their Simple Trilling Songs Are Sweet And Easy To Recognize. For Backyard Birders Their Sudden Appearance In Flocks Is A Seasonal Highlight.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Small Gray Or Brown Sparrow Like Bird
Tail	White Outer Tail Feathers Flash In Flight
Range	Common Winter Visitor Across Colorado
Diet	Seeds  Especially Millet And Sun flower
Nesting	Nests On The Ground In Mountain Forests

European Starling

The European Starling Is An Introduced Species That Has Become One Of The Most Abundant Birds In Colorado. Adults Have Glossy Black Plumage That Shines Purple And Green In Sunlight While In Winter They Appear Speckled With White. Starlings Are Strong Fliers And Excellent Mimics Often Copying The Calls Of Other Birds. Their Large Flocks Can Be SpectacularB Moving In Synchronized Patterns Known As Murmurations.

Though Admired For Their Beauty In Flight Starlings Are Often Considered Pests Because They Compete Aggressively With Native Birds For Nest Sites And Food. They Thrive In Cities Farms And Open Countryside Feeding On Insects Fruits And Grains. Their Adapt Ability Ensures They’re Here To Stay But Their Overwhelming Numbers Can Sometimes Crowd Out More Delicate Species.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Glossy Black Plumage With Iridescence
Winter Look	White Speckles In Winter
Behavior	Known For Mimicry And Synchronized Flocking
Diet	Insects Fruits And Grains
Range	Abundant Across Urban And Rural Colorado

Eurasian Collared-Dove

The Eurasian Collared Dove Is A Relatively New Arrival In North America But Has Quickly Spread Across Colorado. Recogniz able By Its Pale Gray Body Squared Tail And The Distinctive Black “collar” Around The Back Of Its Neck It Is Now A Frequent Sight In Towns And Farmlands. These Doves Are Often Seen Perched On Wires Or Rooftops Cooing Their Repetitive “coo-coo-coo” Song. Their Adapt ability To Suburban And Agricultural Settings Has Allowed Their Population To Grow Rapidly.

They Thrive On Seeds And Grains Making Them Regular Visitors To Back yard Feeders And Farm Silos. Unlike Native Mourning Doves They’re Larger And Less Shy Often Gathering In Small Flocks. Their Spread Is Remark able As They Only Arrived In North America In The 1980s And Now Are Common Across Most Of The Continent. In Colorado, They Can Be Found Year Round Often Mingling With Other Doves And Pigeons.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Pale Gray Dove With Black Collar On Neck
Tail & Call	Squared Tail And Repetitive Cooing Call
Diet	Eats Seeds And Grains Visits Feeders Often
Habitat	Found In Towns Farms And Suburbs
Range	Year Round Resident Across Colorado

Gray Catbird

The Gray Catbird Is A Sleek Medium Sized Songbird Named For Its Unusual Mewing Call That Resembles A Cat. With Soft Gray Plumage A Black Cap And A Rusty Patch Beneath The Tail It’s A Subtle But Elegant Bird. Catbirds Are Secretive Often Hiding In Thickets Hedges And Shrubby Edges Where They Forage For Insects And Berries. Their Song Is A Mix Of Whistles Squeaks And Imitations Of Other Birds.

Though Less Flashy Than Some Species Gray Catbirds Bring Character To Backyards And Parks. They Are Especially Notice able In Spring And Summer When Their Vocal Performances Fill Quiet Mornings. Their Habit Of Mimicking Other Birds Makes Them Fun To Listen To For Patient Birders. In Colorado They’re Typically Found In Riparian Areas And Shrub lands During The Breeding Season.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Gray Body Black Cap And Rusty Undertail Patch
Call	Famous For Cat Like “Mewing” Call
Diet	Eats Insects And Berries
Behavior	Secretive Often Hides In Shrubs
Range	Summer Resident In Colorado

 Hairy Woodpecker

The Hairy Wood Pecker Is A Close Relative Of The Downy Wood pecker But Larger In Size With A Longer Bill. Its Black And White Plumage Is Nearly Identical To The Downy’s Making The Two Tricky To Tell Apart. The Key Difference Lies In The Hairy’s Bigger Size And Proportionately Longer Chisel Like Beak. Males Sport A Small Red Patch On The Back Of Their Head.

Hairy Wood Peckers Live In Mature Forests Woodlots And Even Back Yards With Large Trees. They Feed On Insects Hidden Beneath Bark Especially Beetle Larvae As Well As Seeds And Suet From Feeders. Their Sharp Drumming On Tree Trunks Resonates Loudly Often Giving Away Their Presence. Though Less Common Than Downy Woodpeckers They’re Still Widespread Across Colorado.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Larger Look Alike Of The Downy Woodpecker
Plumage	Black And White Plumage  Males With Red Nape Patch
Bill	Long, Chisel-Shaped Bill
Diet	Eats Insects Larvae, And Suet
Habitat	Found In Forests And Wooded Areas Across Colorado

House Wren

The House Wren Is A Small But Energetic Bird With A Bubbly Gurgling Song That Seems Far Too Loud For Its Size These Little Brown Birds Are Often Seen Darting Through Shrubs And Brush Piles Flicking Their Tails As They Search For Insects And Spiders. They’re One Of The Most Common Summer Residents In Colorado Nesting Readily In Birdhouses Or Cavities.

Wrens Are Known For Their Feisty Personalities Often Defending Their Territory Aggressively Despite Their Small Size. They’re Migratory Spending Winters Further South Before Returning To Colorado In Spring. Their Habit Of Filling Multiple Cavities With Twigs (sometimes Just To Keep Competitors Away) Shows Their Busy Determined Nature. Hearing Their Cheerful Song Is A Sure Sign Of Summer.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Small Brown Bird With Loud Bubbly Song
Diet	Eats Insects And Spiders
Nesting	Nests In Cavities And Birdhouses
Range	Migrates South In Winter
Behavior	Very Territorial Despite Small Size

House Finch

The House Finch Is A Color Ful And Widespread Bird Across Colorado. Males Are Easily Recognized By Their Red Head And Chest Which Contrasts With Their Streaky Brown Body. Females Lack The Red Coloration But Share The Streaked Appearance. These Birds Are Extremely Common At Feeders Where They Happily Eat Sunflower Seeds And Millet.

Originally Native To The Western U.s. House Finches Have Expanded Across The Country. Their Cheerful Warbling Songs Can Be Heard In Neighbor Hoods Parks And Farmlands. While They Sometimes Compete With Other Small Birds For Feeder Space They Add A Splash Of Color And Music To Everyday Bird Watching. Their Adapt Ability Ensures They’re Present Year Round In Colorado.

Fact	Details
Appearance (Male)	Red Head And Chest
Appearance (Female)	Streaky Brown
Diet	Eats Sunflower Seeds Millet And Buds
Song	Cheerful Warbling Song
Habitat	Common In Cities Towns And Backyards
Range	Year Round Colorado Resident

Lesser Goldfinch

The Lesser Goldfinch Is Another Small Finch Found In Colorado Particularly In The State’s Southern And Western Regions. Males Are Striking With Their Bright Yellow Bodies And Black Caps While Females Are Olive-green And More Subdued. They Often Form Flocks Feeding On Sun flower And Thistle Seeds In Open Fields And Backyard Feeders.

These Lively Little Birds Are Social And Vocal Constantly Chattering As They Move In Groups. Their Flight Is Bouncy Similar To The American Goldfinch And They Bring A Burst Of Color To Late Summer Landscapes. In Some Areas Of Colorado They Are Year Round Residents But Their Numbers Increase During Breeding Season. They’re Often Seen Alongside Other Finches In Mixed Flocks.

Fact	Details
Appearance (Male)	Yellow With Black Cap
Appearance (Female)	Olive Green
Size & Shape	Small Finch With Bouncy Flight
Diet	Eats Thistle And Sunflower Seeds
Behavior	Found In Flocks Often At Feeders
Range	More Common In Southern And Western Colorado

Mourning Dove

The Mourning Dove Is One Of The Most Widespread And Easily Recognized Birds In Colorado. With Its Slender Gray Tan Body Small Head And Long Pointed Tail It Has A Graceful Appearance. Its Soft Mourn Ful “coo-oo-oo” Call Gives The Bird Its Name And Is A Familiar Sound In Towns And Countryside Alike. These Doves Are Often Seen Perched On Wires Fences Or Quietly Feeding On The Ground.

Mourning Doves Feed Mainly On Seeds And Grains Often Gathering In Large Numbers Near Fields And Feeders They’re Strong Fliers Cap Able Of Reaching High Speeds And Their Wings Make A Sharp Whistling Sound When They Take Off. In Colorado They’re Year Round Residents Nesting In Trees And Shrubs During The Warmer Months Their Gentle Presence Makes Them One Of The Most Beloved Back Yard Birds.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Gray  Tan Body With Long Pointed Tail
Call	Famous For Soft  Mournful “Coo” Call
Diet	Eats Seeds And Grains On The Ground
Flight	Wings Make Whistling Sound When Flying
Range	Year Round Colorado Resident

Mountain Chickadee

The Mountain Chickadee Is A Delight Ful Year Round Resident Of Colorado’s Forests Similar To The Black Capped Chickadee It Has A Black Cap And Bib But It Is Distinguished By A Bold White Stripe Above Its Eye These Tiny Birds Are Curious And Friendly Often Coming Close To People And Eagerly Visiting Feeders Stocked With Sunflower Seeds Or Suet.

Living At High Elevations Mountain Chickadees Are Remarkably Tough Braving Long Snowy Winters. They Store Food In Tree Crevices To Help Them Survive When Insects And Seeds Are Scarce. Their Raspy “chick-a-dee” Call Is Slightly Harsher Than That Of The Black Capped Chickadee Making It Possible To Identify Them By Ear. Watching Their Energetic Foraging Brightens Even The Coldest Winter Day.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Small Bird With Black Cap And Bib
Field Mark	White Eye Stripe Separates It From Black-Capped Chickadee
Diet	Eats Insects Seeds And Suet
Behavior	Stores Food In Bark Crevices For Winter
Range	Year-Round Resident Of Colorado Mountains

 Northern Flicker

The Northern Flicker Is One Of The Most Striking Wood Peckers In Colorado. Unlike Most Woodpeckers It Is Often Seen On The Ground Searching For Ants And Beetles Which Make Up A Large Part Of Its Diet. In Colorado Two Forms Can Be Found the “red-shafted” Variety With Reddish Underwings And Tail Feathers And The “yellow-shafted” Variety With Yellow Highlights. Both Have Spotted Chests Black Crescent Shaped Bibs And Striking Facial Markings.

These Birds Are Fairly Large With A Loud Ringing “wick-a-wick-a-wick” Call That Carries Across Open Spaces. They Readily Visit Backyards Especially Where Trees Provide Nesting Holes. While They Can Drum Loudly On Siding Or Metal Chimneys Their Presence Adds Color And Personality To Suburban Birding. As Migratory Birds Some Flickers Remain In Colorado Year Round While Others Move Further South For Winter.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Large Woodpecker With Spotted Chest And Black Bib
Forms	Two Forms: Red-Shafted And Yellow Shafted
Diet	Eats Mostly Ants And Beetles
Call & Drumming	Loud “Wick-A-Wick” Call And Strong Drumming
Habitat	Found In Open Woodlands And Backyards

Pine Siskin

The Pine Siskin Is A Small Streaky Finch Often Found In Flocks Around Colorado’s Forests And Feeders. With Its Brown Streaked Body And Subtle Yellow Wing And Tail Edges It Blends In Well Until It Takes Flight When The Yellow Flashes Are More Visible. These Energetic Birds Are Highly Social Constantly Chattering In Buzzy High Pitched Notes.

Pine Siskins Have An Unpredictable Migration Pattern, With Their Numbers In Colorado Varying Greatly From Year To Year. They Feed Mainly On Seeds Particularly From Conifers But They Also Visit Backyard Feeders Stocked With Nyjer Or Sun Flower Seed. In Winter They Often Gather In Mixed Flocks With Goldfinches And Redpoll Creating Lively Feeding Scenes. Their Constant Energy And Sudden Irruptions Make Them Exciting To Watch.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Small Streaky Finch With Yellow Wing Edges
Diet	Eats Conifer Seed Sunflower And Nyjer
Behavior	Social  Travels In Flocks With Buzzy Calls
Population	Numbers Vary From Year To Year
Habitat	Found In Forests And At Feeders

 Pinyon Jay

The Pinyon Jay Is A Specialized Bird Tied Closely To Pinyon Pine Forests Of The Western U.s. Including Parts Of Colorado. With Dusty Blue Plumage And Short Tails They’re Often Mistaken For Crows At First Glance But Are Smaller And Slimmer. They Travel In Noisy Flocks Their Nasal “kaw-kaw” Calls Echoing Across Dry Foothills And Woodlands. Their Presence Is Closely Linked To Areas Where Pinyon Pines Produce Abundant Seeds.

Pinyon Jays Are Remarkable Seed Storers Caching Thousands Of Pine Nuts Each Year. Their Memory Helps Them Recover Many Of These Stores Though Some Go Untouched Aiding In Forest Regeneration. Unlike Other Jays They Lack Head Crests But Make Up For It With Strong Social Bonds And Cooperative Behaviors. In Colorado Spotting A Flock Of Pinyon Jays Is A Special Treat For Birders Exploring The Foothills.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Dusty Blue Jay Without A Crest
Call	Noisy Flocks With Nasal Calls
Diet	Specializes On Pinyon Pine Seeds
Behavior	Caches Thousands Of Seeds For Winter
Habitat	Found In Foothills And Dry Woodlands

Rock Pigeon

The Rock Pigeon Also Known Simply As The City Pigeon Is One Of The Most Widespread Birds In Colorado’s Urban Areas. Originally Introduced From Europe Centuries Ago Pigeons Now Thrive In Cities Towns And Rural Farms. They Come In A Wide Variety Of Colors From The Classic Gray With Iridescent Neck Feathers To Pure White Mottled Or Even Nearly Black Their Cooing Calls And Constant Presence Make Them Hard To Miss.

Rock Pigeons Feed On Seeds Grains And Human Food Scraps Often Gathering In Large Flocks Around Parks And City Squares. They Nest On Ledges Bridges And Building Rooftops Resembling Their Wild Cliff Dwelling Ancestors. Though Some Times Considered Pests Pigeons Are Fascinating For Their Homing Ability Which Humans Have Used For Centuries To Carry Messages. In Colorado They’re A Year Round Part Of The Urban Land Scape.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Common City Bird With Variable Plumage
Diet	Eats Seeds, Grains, And Human Scraps
Nesting	Nests On Buildings Bridges And Ledges
Ability	Famous For Strong Homing Ability
Range	Year Round Resident In Colorado Towns And Cities

 Red-breasted Nuthatch

The Red-breasted Nuthatch Is A Small Energetic Bird With A Striking Appearance. Its Blue Gray Back Rusty Orange Under Parts And Bold Black And White Facial Stripes Make It Easy To Identify Known For Its Nasal “yank-yank” Call It’s A Familiar Sound In Colorado’s Coniferous Forests Unlike Many Birds Red Breasted Nuthatches Often Climb Headfirst Down Tree Trunks As They Search For Insects And Seeds Hidden In Bark Crevices.

These Birds Are Partial Migrants, Meaning Their Numbers In Colorado Can Fluctuate From Year To Year Depending On Food Availability Further North. During Irruption Years Large Numbers Move South Filling Feeders With Their Lively Antics. They’re Fond Of Suet And Sunflower Seeds And Will Often Take Food And Cache It For Later Use. Their Busy Upside Down Foraging Habits Make Them A Joy To Observe In Mountain Forests And Back Yards Alike.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Small Bird With Blue Gray Back And Rusty Belly
Facial Markings	Distinct Black And White Facial Stripes
Call	Nasal “Yank-Yank” Call
Behavior	Climbs Headfirst Down Trees While Foraging
Diet	Visits Feeders For Suet And Sun Flower Seeds

Song Sparrow

The Song Sparrow Is One Of The Most Widespread Sparrows In Colorado Recognized For Its Streaked Brown Plumage And Melodious Singing Though Its Appearance Is Modest Its Musical Voice Is Anything But. Each Male Has A Unique Variation Of The Song Which Usually Begins With Several Clear Notes Followed By A Jumble Of Trills. These Sparrows Inhabit Wetlands Shrubby Fields And Back Yards Often Staying Low To The Ground.

Their Adapt Ability Is Remark Able As They Thrive In Both Wild And Suburban Environments. They Feed On Seeds And Insects Often Scratching At The Ground With Both Feet To Uncover Food. During Breeding Season Their Persistent Singing Fills Marshes And Meadows With Sound. While Some Migrate South For Winter Many Remain In Colorado Year Round Especially In Milder Habitats.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Brown Streaked Sparrow With Central Breast Spot
Song	Beautiful And Varied Songs
Habitat	Found In Wetlands Fields And Backyards
Diet	Eats Seeds And Insects
Range	Year-Round Resident In Some Parts Of Colorado

Spotted Towhee

The Spotted Towhee Is A Striking Sparrow Sized Bird With Bold Colors And Behaviors. Males Have Jet Black Heads Backs And Throats With White Spots On Their Wings And Sides And Bright Rufous Flanks. Females Are Similar But Appear More Brown Than Black. These Birds Are Often Found Scratching Noisily In Leaf Litter Using Both Feet To Kick Back Ward As They Search For Insects Seeds And Berries.

Spotted Towhees Favor Shrubby Habitats Forest Edges And Back Yards With Dense Cover. Their Song Is A Buzzy Trill While Their Sharp “chewink” Call Is Often Heard Before They’re Seen. In Colorado They Are Common During Spring And Summer And Sometimes Stay Year Round In Milder Regions. Their Bold Plumage And Foraging Antics Make Them A Favorite For Bird Watchers.

Fact	Details
Appearance (Male)	Black Head Back And Throat With Rufous Flanks
Appearance (Female)	Brownish Instead Of Black
Markings	White Spots On Wings And Back
Behavior	Loud Scratching Behavior In Leaf Litter
Habitat	Common In Shrubby And Forest Edge Habitats

Sharp-shinned Hawk

The Sharp Shinned Hawk Is The Smallest Hawk In Colorado Often Mistaken For A Blue Jay In Flight Because Of Its Size. These Agile Raptors Are Built For Speed With Short Rounded Wings And A Long Narrow Tail. They Specialize In Hunting Small Birds Weaving Rapidly Through Trees In Pursuit Of Prey. Adults Have Bluish Gray Backs And Reddish Barred Chests While Juveniles Are Brown And Streaked.

They Are Most Often Seen During Migration Though Some Remain Year Round Especially Near Wooded Areas With Abundant Food. Sharp Dhinned Hawks Frequently Visit BackYard Feeders Not For Seeds But For The Birds That Gather There. Their Sudden Fast Flights Can Scatter An Entire Feeding Flock In Seconds. While They May Seem Like Unwelcome Guests They Play A Key Role In Balancing Bird Populations.

Fact	Details
Size	Smallest Hawk In Colorado
Features	Short Wings And Long Tail Built For Speed
Diet	Hunts Small Birds In Forests And Near Feeders
Plumage	Adults Bluish Gray Juveniles Brown And Streaked
Range	Common During Migration Some Stay Year Round

Townsend’s Solitaire

Townsend’s Solitaire Is A Slender Gray Thrush That Blends Easily Into Colorado’s Mountain Land Scapes. Its Plain Appearance Is Accented By A Bold White Eye Ring And White Flashes On The Wings And Tail. While It May Not Be Flashy In Color Its Sweet Flute Like Song Is Among The Most Beautiful In The Rockies. Solitaires Are Often Perched Upright On Fence Posts Tree Tops Or Rocky Outcrops Scanning For Insects And Berries.

They Are Closely Tied To Juniper Berries Which Make Up Much Of Their Winter Diet. Unlike Many Thrushes Townsend’s Solitaires Remain In Colorado Year Round Often Braving Harsh Mountain Winters. Their Territorial Songs In Winter Unusual Among Songbirds Echo Across Quiet Forests. For Birders Spotting One Perched Against A Snowy Backdrop Is A Memorable Experience.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Slim Gray Thrush With White Eye Ring
Field Marks	White Flashes On Wings And Tail In Flight
Song	Beautiful Flute Like Song
Diet	Eats Insects In Summer Juniper Berries In Winter
Range	Year Round Resident In Colorado Mountains

White-breasted Nuthatch

The White Breasted Nuthatch Is A Familiar And Acrobatic Bird Often Seen Creeping Along Tree Trunks And Branches. It Has A White Face And Breast A Blue Gray Back And A Black Cap Giving It A CrispClean Look. Unlike Most Birds It Frequently Moves Headfirst Down Tree Trunks Probing The Bark For Insects And Seeds. Its Nasal “yank-yank” Call Is Distinctive And Easy To Recognize In Colorado’s Forests And Neighbor Hoods.

This Species Is A Year Round Resident And Is A Frequent Visitor To Back Yard Feeders Especially When Sunflower Seeds And Suet Are Available. White Breasted Nuthatches Also Store Food In Bark Crevices To Retrieve Later During Harsh Winters. They Often Join Mixed Flocks With Chickadees And Wood Peckers Making Them A Lively Part Of Winter Bird Watching Their Bold Behavior And Adapt Ability Make Them A Favorite Among Bird Enthusiasts.

Fact	Details
Appearance	White Face And Breast  Blue Gray Back  Black Cap
Behavior	Climbs Headfirst Down Trees
Call	Nasal “Yank-Yank” Call
Diet	Eats Insects Seeds  And Suet
Range	Year Round Resident In Colorado

White-crowned Sparrow

The White Crowned Sparrow Is One Of The Most Elegant Sparrows Seen In Colorado. Adults Are Marked By Bold Black And White Stripes Across The Crown With Gray Faces And Streaky Brown Wings. They’re Often Found In Open Areas Brushy Habitats And BackYards Especially During Migration In Spring And Fall. Their Clear Whistled Song Is Sweet And Memorable Often Described As Sounding Like “poor Sam Peabody.”

These Sparrows Feed Mostly On Seeds But Switch To Insects During The Breeding Season. While Many Migrate Further North To Nest Some Spend Winters In Parts Of Colorado. They Often Travel In Flocks Scratching The Ground For Food Beneath Shrubs And Feeders. Their Crisp Markings Make Them Stand Out Among Sparrows Adding Brightness To Any Birding Outing.

Fact	Details
Appearance	Bold Black And White Striped Crown
Features	Gray Face Streaky Brown Wings
Song	Sweet Whistled Song
Diet	Eats Seeds And Insects
Range	Common During Migration And In Winter

 

What Is The Most Common Bird In Colorado?

The American Robin Is Often Considered The Most Common Bird In Colorado Frequently Seen In Backyards Parks And Forests.

How Do I Find Out What Kind Of Bird Is In My Yard?

You Can Use A Field Guide Bird Id Apps Like Merlin Or Compare Photos Online To Match Markings Size And Calls.

What are the nuisance birds in Colorado?

European Starlings House Sparrows And Rock Pigeons Are Often Labeled Nuisance Birds Because They Compete With Native Species.

What Bird Is Colorado Known For?

Colorado Is Famous For The Lark Bunting Which Is Also The State Bird And Known For Its Striking Black And White Breeding Plumage.

What Is The Most Common Bird Of Prey In Colorado?

The Red Tailed Hawk Is The Most Common Raptor Often Seen Soaring Over Highways Fields And Open Country.

 Conclusion

Bird Watching In Colorado Is A Journey Through Mountains Plains Wetlands And Cities All Filled With Feathered Life. From Bold Steller’s Jays In The High Rockies To Quiet Song Sparrows In Back Yard Bushes Each Species Adds Color Song And Personality To The Land Scape. Whether You Are New To Birding Or A Seasoned Expert Keeping Your Eyes And Ears Open Will Always Reward You With New Discoveries.

The Best Part Is That Many Of These Birds Can Be Enjoyed Right Outside Your Door. By Setting Up Feeders Planting Native Shrubs Or Simply Taking A Walk In A Local Park You’ll Encounter Countless Feathered Neighbors. Colorado’s Birdlife Is A Reminder That Nature Is Never Far Away Some Times It’s Perched Right On The Fence Or Singing From The Treetops.