In “A Guide to Red, Orange, and Yellow Birds in Missouri,” readers can discover a wealth of information about the vibrant avian species found in the state. While color may catch the eye, this guide emphasizes that shape and size play a more crucial role in bird identification. With over 415 species present in Missouri, bird enthusiasts are in for a treat. From familiar red birds like the American Robin and Northern Cardinal, to striking orange birds like the Baltimore Oriole and Brown Thrasher, and exquisite yellow birds such as the American Goldfinch and Yellow-rumped Warbler, this article offers a comprehensive list of the common species that grace the skies of Missouri. Nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike will find this guide a valuable resource for identifying and appreciating the colorful feathered inhabitants of Missouri.

Common Red Birds

American Robin

The American Robin is a well-known red bird found in Missouri. It has a distinctive red breast and a grayish-brown back. The male and female robins look similar, with the male having a slightly brighter red breast. These birds are known for their melodious song and are often heard singing in the early morning hours. American Robins are commonly found in open grassy areas, fields, and gardens throughout Missouri.

Northern Cardinal

The Northern Cardinal is another common red bird that can be found in Missouri. The male cardinal is easily recognizable with its bright red plumage and crest on its head. The female cardinal, on the other hand, has a more subdued reddish-brown color. Cardinals are often seen perched on branches or hopping on the ground in search of food. They have a wide range of habitats including woodlands, gardens, and residential areas.

House Finch

The House Finch is a small red bird that is native to western North America. The male House Finch has a red head, breast, and rump, while the female has a streaked brown plumage. These birds are commonly found in urban and suburban areas, where they build their nests in shrubs, trees, or on buildings. House Finches are known for their lively song, which consists of a series of warbles and trills.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a tiny red bird that is known for its ability to hover in mid-air and feed on nectar from flowers. The male hummingbird has a vibrant red throat, while the female has a plain white throat. These birds are migratory and can be seen in Missouri during the summer months. They are often found near gardens, parks, and wooded areas where there are plenty of flowers to feed on.

Red-headed Woodpecker

The Red-headed Woodpecker is a striking red and black bird that is commonly found in Missouri. As the name suggests, it has a vibrant red head and neck, with a black body and wings. These woodpeckers are known for their distinctive call and can often be heard drumming on tree trunks in search of insects. Red-headed Woodpeckers can be found in forests, woodlands, and even in urban areas with mature trees.

Summer Tanager

The Summer Tanager is a beautiful red bird that is commonly found in Missouri during the summer months. The male Summer Tanager is a bright red color, while the female is a more subdued yellowish-green. These birds are known for their melodious song and can often be seen perched high in the treetops. Summer Tanagers are primarily insect-eaters and can be found in forests, woodlands, and along rivers and streams.

Purple Finch

The Purple Finch is a small red bird with dark brown streaks on its back and wings. The males have a deep red color, while the females have a more muted brownish-red plumage. These birds are known for their sweet, warbling song and can often be found in coniferous forests and mixed woodlands. Purple Finches are seed eaters and can often be seen perched on tree branches or feeding at bird feeders.

Common Orange Birds

Barn Swallow

The Barn Swallow is a migratory bird with a beautiful orange color. It has a long, deeply forked tail and a dark, rust-colored breast. These birds are found in a variety of habitats, including open fields, wetlands, and around human structures such as barns and bridges. Barn Swallows are known for their graceful flight and can often be seen swooping and diving in search of insects.

Brown Thrasher

The Brown Thrasher is a medium-sized bird with a reddish-brown color. It has a long, curved bill and a streaked breast. These birds are known for their loud, melodious song, which includes a variety of notes and phrases. Brown Thrashers can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, thickets, and shrubby areas. They are often seen foraging on the ground, flipping leaves and soil in search of insects and seeds.

Red-shouldered Hawk

The Red-shouldered Hawk is a large bird of prey with a reddish-orange color on its chest and shoulders. It has broad, rounded wings and a long, banded tail. These hawks can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and wetlands. They are skilled hunters and can often be seen perched on tree branches or soaring high in the sky in search of small mammals and other prey.

Eastern Towhee

The Eastern Towhee is a medium-sized bird with a rusty-orange color on its sides. The male has a black head, upperparts, and tail, while the female has a more brownish plumage. These birds are known for their distinctive “drink your tea” song, which consists of musical phrases followed by a trill. Eastern Towhees can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, thickets, and shrubby areas.

American Kestrel

The American Kestrel is a small falcon with a reddish-orange color on its back and tail. It has a white face with black markings and a bluish-gray wings. These birds are known for their hovering flight and can often be seen perched on utility wires or tree branches, scanning the ground for prey. American Kestrels are adaptable birds and can be found in a variety of open habitats, including fields, meadows, and agricultural areas.

Baltimore Oriole

The Baltimore Oriole is a beautiful orange and black bird that is commonly found in Missouri during the summer months. The male Baltimore Oriole has a bright orange plumage, while the female is a more subdued yellowish-orange. These birds are known for their beautiful, flute-like song and can often be seen nesting in the branches of tall trees. Baltimore Orioles are primarily insect-eaters but also feed on nectar and fruit.

Cooper’s Hawk

The Cooper’s Hawk is a medium-sized bird of prey with a reddish-orange color on its breast and belly. It has a rounded tail and short, broad wings. These hawks can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and suburban areas. They are skilled hunters and can often be seen flying low to the ground or perched in trees, waiting for an opportunity to catch small birds and mammals.

Orchard Oriole

The Orchard Oriole is a small orange and black bird that is a summer visitor to Missouri. The male Orchard Oriole has a bright orange plumage, while the female is a duller yellowish-orange. These birds are known for their beautiful, melodious song and can often be seen foraging for insects and fruit in orchards, woodland edges, and parks. Orchard Orioles build their nests high in trees, weaving them with grass and plant fibers.

Wood Thrush

The Wood Thrush is a medium-sized bird with a reddish-brown back and an orange and dark-speckled breast. These birds are known for their flute-like song, which is often heard in the early morning and evening hours. Wood Thrushes can be found in deciduous forests and wooded areas with dense undergrowth. They forage on the ground, flipping leaves and soil in search of insects and other small prey.

Common Yellow Birds

American Goldfinch

The American Goldfinch is a small, bright yellow bird that is commonly found in Missouri. It has a black cap and wings with white wing bars. These birds are known for their cheerful, bubbling song and can often be seen feeding on seeds in gardens and meadows. American Goldfinches are seed eaters and can often be found perched on thistle plants, extracting seeds with their specialized beaks.

Northern Flicker

The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized bird with a yellow underbelly and a black-spotted breast. It has a distinctive white rump patch and yellow shafts on its wings and tail. These woodpeckers can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and suburban areas. Northern Flickers are known for their loud, repetitive calls and can often be seen foraging for ants and beetles on the ground or on tree trunks.

Yellow-rumped Warbler

The Yellow-rumped Warbler is a small yellow bird with a grayish back and a bright yellow rump. It has black streaks on its sides and a white throat. These warblers can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and shrubby areas. Yellow-rumped Warblers are known for their musical trilling song and can often be seen hopping from branch to branch in search of insects.

Eastern Meadowlark

The Eastern Meadowlark is a medium-sized bird with a bright yellow breast and a black “V” on its chest. It has a brown back with black streaks and a white belly. These birds are known for their distinctive, flute-like song, which can often be heard in open grassy areas and meadows. Eastern Meadowlarks can often be seen perched on fence posts or in tall grass, singing or foraging for insects.

Common Yellowthroat

The Common Yellowthroat is a small yellow bird with a black mask and a white underbelly. The male has a bright yellow breast, while the female has a more subdued yellow color. These warblers can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, marshes, and shrubby areas. Common Yellowthroats are known for their distinctive “witchity-witchity-witch” song and can often be seen flitting among the vegetation in search of insects.

Northern Parula

The Northern Parula is a small warbler with a bright yellow throat and breast. It has a bluish-gray back and wings with white wing bars. These birds are known for their buzzy, high-pitched song and can often be seen foraging for insects in the treetops. Northern Parulas can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and along rivers and streams.

Great Crested Flycatcher

The Great Crested Flycatcher is a medium-sized bird with a bright yellow belly and a rusty orange throat. It has a long, pointed bill and a distinctive crest on its head. These flycatchers can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and along rivers and streams. Great Crested Flycatchers are known for their loud, harsh calls and can often be seen perched in the tree canopy, waiting to catch flying insects.

Cedar Waxwing

The Cedar Waxwing is a medium-sized bird with a yellow belly and a gray back. It has a black mask and a small crest on its head. These birds are known for their sleek, silky plumage and can often be seen flocking together in search of fruit. Cedar Waxwings can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, orchards, and suburban areas with fruiting trees and shrubs.

Dickcissel

The Dickcissel is a small yellow bird with dark streaks on its breast and upperparts. It has a whitish belly and a small, yellow patch on its throat. These birds are known for their unique, buzzing song, which consists of a series of “dick-dick-ciss-ciss” notes. Dickcissels can be found in open grassy areas, agricultural fields, and prairies. They are often seen perched on fence posts or tall grass, singing or foraging for insects.

Yellow-breasted Chat

The Yellow-breasted Chat is a medium-sized bird with a yellow throat and breast. It has a grayish back and a white belly. These birds are known for their wide variety of vocalizations, including whistles, clucks, and gurgles. Yellow-breasted Chats can be found in a variety of habitats, including thickets, shrubby areas, and wetlands. They are often secretive, but their distinctive song can give away their presence.

Kentucky Warbler

The Kentucky Warbler is a small yellow bird with a black mask and a bright yellow underbelly. It has a olive-green back and wings with white wing bars. These warblers can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, thickets, and shrubby areas. Kentucky Warblers are known for their loud, rolling song, which can often be heard in the early morning and late afternoon hours.

Yellow-throated Vireo

The Yellow-throated Vireo is a small bird with a yellow throat and breast. It has a grayish back and wings with white wing bars. These birds are known for their sweet, warbling song and can often be seen foraging for insects in the treetops. Yellow-throated Vireos can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and along rivers and streams. They are often noticed by their distinctive call and can be seen hopping among the branches in search of food.

Introduction to Bird Identification

When it comes to identifying birds, shape and size play a more crucial role than color. While colors like red, orange, and yellow can be helpful in narrowing down the possibilities, many bird species exhibit variations in plumage. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to other physical characteristics, such as the shape of the bird’s body, beak, and wings, as well as its size and behavior, to accurately identify different bird species.

Birds Found in Missouri

Missouri is home to a rich diversity of bird species, with over 415 species recorded within the state. The abundance of forests, grasslands, wetlands, and rivers in Missouri provides a variety of habitats for birds to thrive. The state’s central location also makes it a stopping point for many migratory birds traveling along the Mississippi Flyway. Birdwatching in Missouri can be a rewarding experience, as it offers opportunities to observe both resident and migratory species.

Bird conservation plays a vital role in maintaining the biodiversity of Missouri’s avian populations. Many birds face threats such as habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. By learning to identify birds and understanding their habitat preferences and behaviors, individuals can contribute to bird conservation efforts by creating bird-friendly environments and supporting conservation organizations.

Identifying Red Birds

Red birds can be easily spotted and identified due to their vibrant plumage. However, it is essential to consider other physical characteristics, habitat preferences, and behaviors before confirming their identification. The following tips can help in identifying red birds in Missouri:

Physical Characteristics of Red Birds

Red birds, such as the American Robin, Northern Cardinal, and Ruby-throated Hummingbird, exhibit distinctive red plumage. The American Robin has a red breast and a grayish-brown back, while the Northern Cardinal has a bright red color with a crest on its head. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird, although small, has a vibrant red throat in males and a plain white throat in females.

Habitat Preferences and Behaviors

Red birds can be found in a variety of habitats. The American Robin prefers open grassy areas, fields, and gardens. The Northern Cardinal is commonly found in woodlands, gardens, and residential areas. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are attracted to flowers and can be seen in gardens, parks, and wooded areas. Understanding their habitat preferences can help narrow down the possibilities when identifying red birds.

Tips for Spotting Red Birds

To spot red birds effectively, keep an eye out for their vibrant plumage against the surrounding foliage or background. Listen for their distinctive calls or songs, as different red birds have unique vocalizations. Observing their behavior, such as feeding habits or territorial displays, can provide additional clues for identification. Using binoculars or a camera with a telephoto lens can also help in observing details that might not be visible from a distance.

Identifying Orange Birds

Orange birds can add a vibrant touch to the avian palette, with their warm hues standing out against green foliage. However, it is important to consider other physical characteristics, habitat preferences, and behaviors when identifying orange birds in Missouri. The following tips can help in identifying orange birds effectively:

Physical Characteristics of Orange Birds

Orange birds, such as the Barn Swallow, Brown Thrasher, and Baltimore Oriole, display varying shades of orange in their plumage. The Barn Swallow has a rust-colored breast and a deeply forked tail. The Brown Thrasher has a reddish-brown color and a streaked breast. The Baltimore Oriole, on the other hand, exhibits a bright orange plumage in males and a duller yellowish-orange color in females.

Habitat Preferences and Behaviors

Orange birds can be found in different habitats. Barn Swallows are commonly seen around open fields, wetlands, and areas near barns and bridges. Brown Thrashers prefer woodlands, thickets, and shrubby areas. Baltimore Orioles nest in tall trees and can be found in orchards, woodland edges, and parks. Understanding their habitat preferences and behaviors can aid in their correct identification.

Tips for Spotting Orange Birds

To spot orange birds, look for their warm, orange hues amidst the surrounding vegetation. Pay attention to their unique calls or songs, as different orange birds have distinct vocalizations. Observing their behavior, such as foraging techniques or nesting habits, can provide valuable information for identification. Additionally, using optics like binoculars or a telephoto lens can enhance the visibility of details that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Identifying Yellow Birds

Yellow birds bring a vibrant burst of color to the avian world, but accurate identification requires attention to other physical characteristics, habitat preferences, and behaviors. Consider the following tips to help identify yellow birds in Missouri:

Physical Characteristics of Yellow Birds

Yellow birds, such as the American Goldfinch, Northern Flicker, and Yellow-rumped Warbler, display various shades of yellow in their plumage. The American Goldfinch has a bright yellow color with black accents, while the Northern Flicker exhibits a yellow underbelly and distinctive yellow shafts on its wings and tail. The Yellow-rumped Warbler has a grayish back and a bright yellow rump.

Habitat Preferences and Behaviors

Yellow birds can be found in diverse habitats. American Goldfinches are often seen in gardens and meadows, feeding on seeds. Northern Flickers inhabit woodlands, forests, and suburban areas, foraging for ants and beetles. Yellow-rumped Warblers are found in forests, woodlands, and shrubby areas, hopping from branch to branch in search of insects.

Tips for Spotting Yellow Birds

Spotting yellow birds can be aided by their bright plumage, which stands out against the vegetation. Listen for their distinct calls or songs, as different yellow birds have different vocalizations. Be observant of their behavior, such as feeding techniques or flocking patterns, as these can provide further clues for identification. Utilizing binoculars or a telephoto lens can facilitate the observation of fine details, even from a distance.

Red Birds in Missouri

Missouri is home to a variety of red birds, each with its own distinct characteristics. These birds can be found across different habitats, from woodlands to open fields, adding a pop of color to the state’s avian diversity. The following descriptions provide additional insight into some of the red birds found in Missouri:

Description of American Robin

The American Robin is a familiar red bird with a grayish-brown back. It has a vibrant red breast and can often be heard singing its melodious song in the early morning hours. American Robins are commonly found in open grassy areas, fields, and gardens throughout Missouri.

Description of Northern Cardinal

The Northern Cardinal is easily recognizable by its bright red plumage and crest on its head. This cardinal species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with the male having a more vibrant red color compared to the female. Cardinals are often seen perched on branches or hopping on the ground in search of food. They have a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and residential areas.

Description of House Finch

The House Finch is a small red bird native to western North America. The male House Finch has a red head, breast, and rump, while the female has a streaked brown plumage. House Finches are commonly found in urban and suburban areas, often building their nests in shrubs, trees, or on buildings. They are known for their lively song, which consists of a series of warbles and trills.

Description of Ruby-throated Hummingbird

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a tiny red bird with the ability to hover in mid-air and feed on nectar from flowers. The male hummingbird displays a vibrant red throat, while the female has a plain white throat. These migratory birds can be seen in Missouri during the summer months, often found near gardens, parks, and wooded areas rich in nectar-producing flowers.

Description of Red-headed Woodpecker

The Red-headed Woodpecker stands out with its striking red head and neck, contrasting against its black body and wings. These woodpeckers are known for their distinctive call and can often be heard drumming on tree trunks in search of insects. Red-headed Woodpeckers can be found in forests, woodlands, and even in urban areas with mature trees.

Description of Summer Tanager

The Summer Tanager is a beautiful red bird often seen in Missouri during the summer months. The male Summer Tanager displays a bright red plumage, while the female has a more subdued yellowish-green color. These birds are known for their melodious song and can often be seen perched high in the treetops. Summer Tanagers primarily feed on insects and can be found in forests, woodlands, and along rivers and streams.

Description of Purple Finch

The Purple Finch is a small red bird with dark brown streaks on its back and wings. Males exhibit a deep red color, while females have a more muted brownish-red plumage. These birds are known for their sweet, warbling song and can often be found in coniferous forests and mixed woodlands. Purple Finches are seed-eaters and can be seen perched on tree branches or feeding at bird feeders.

Yellow Birds in Missouri

Missouri is home to a diverse array of yellow birds, each adding a touch of brightness to the state’s avian population. These birds can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to meadows, showcasing their radiant plumage. The following descriptions provide further insight into some of the yellow birds found in Missouri:

Description of American Goldfinch

The American Goldfinch is a small, bright yellow bird with a black cap and wings adorned with white wing bars. Their cheerful, bubbling song can often be heard in gardens and meadows. American Goldfinches are primarily seed-eaters and are often seen perched on thistle plants, extracting seeds with their specialized beaks.

Description of Northern Flicker

The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized bird with a yellow underbelly and a black-spotted breast. It boasts a distinctive white rump patch and yellow shafts on its wings and tail. These woodpeckers are found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and suburban areas. Northern Flickers are known for their loud, repetitive calls and can be seen foraging for ants and beetles on the ground or on tree trunks.

Description of Yellow-rumped Warbler

The Yellow-rumped Warbler is a small yellow bird with a grayish back and a bright yellow rump. Its sides are adorned with black streaks, and it has a white throat. These warblers can be found in forests, woodlands, and shrubby areas. Yellow-rumped Warblers are known for their musical trilling song and can be seen hopping from branch to branch in search of insects.

Description of Eastern Meadowlark

The Eastern Meadowlark is a medium-sized bird with a bright yellow breast and a black “V” on its chest. It has a brown back with black streaks and a white belly. Their distinctive, flute-like song can often be heard in open grassy areas and meadows. Eastern Meadowlarks can be seen perched on fence posts or foraging for insects in tall grass.

Description of Common Yellowthroat

The Common Yellowthroat is a small, yellow bird with a black mask and a white underbelly. Male Common Yellowthroats exhibit a bright yellow breast, while females have a more subdued yellow color. These warblers are found in wetlands, marshes, and shrubby areas. Common Yellowthroats are known for their distinct “witchity-witchity-witch” song and can be seen flitting among the vegetation in search of insects.

Description of Northern Parula

The Northern Parula is a small warbler with a bright yellow throat and breast. Its back and wings are bluish-gray, adorned with white wing bars. These birds can be found in woodlands, forests, and along rivers and streams. Northern Parulas are known for their buzzy, high-pitched song and can be observed foraging for insects in the treetops.

Description of Great Crested Flycatcher

The Great Crested Flycatcher is a medium-sized bird with a bright yellow belly and a rusty orange throat. It boasts a long, pointed bill and a distinctive crest on its head. These flycatchers can be found in various habitats, such as woodlands, forests, and along rivers and streams. Great Crested Flycatchers emit loud, harsh calls and can often be seen perched in the tree canopy, hunting for flying insects.

Description of Cedar Waxwing

The Cedar Waxwing is a medium-sized bird with a yellow belly and a gray back. It has a black mask on its face and a small crest on its head. These birds are often seen flocking together in search of fruit and can be found in woodlands, orchards, and suburban areas with fruiting trees and shrubs. Their sleek, silky plumage adds to their distinctive appearance.

Description of Dickcissel

The Dickcissel is a small yellow bird with dark streaks on its breast and upperparts. It has a whitish belly and a small yellow patch on its throat. These birds are known for their unique, buzzing song, consisting of a series of “dick-dick-ciss-ciss” notes. Dickcissels can be found in open grassy areas, agricultural fields, and prairies. They are often seen perched on fence posts or tall grass, singing or foraging for insects.

Description of Yellow-breasted Chat

The Yellow-breasted Chat is a medium-sized bird with a yellow throat and breast. Its back is grayish, and it has a white belly. These birds are known for their wide variety of vocalizations, including whistles, clucks, and gurgles. Yellow-breasted Chats can be found in thickets, shrubby areas, and wetlands. They are often secretive but can be detected by their distinctive song.

Description of Kentucky Warbler

The Kentucky Warbler is a small yellow bird with a black mask and a bright yellow underbelly. Its back and wings are olive-green, and it exhibits white wing bars. These warblers can be found in woodlands, thickets, and shrubby areas. Kentucky Warblers are known for their loud, rolling songs, which can often be heard in the early morning or late afternoon hours.

Description of Yellow-throated Vireo

The Yellow-throated Vireo is a small bird with a yellow throat and breast. Its back and wings have a grayish color, with white wing bars. These birds are known for their sweet, warbling songs and can be observed foraging for insects in the treetops. Yellow-throated Vireos can be found in woodlands, forests, and along rivers and streams. They are often noticed by their distinctive calls and can be seen hopping among the branches in search of food.