“The Most Common Backyard Birds in Colorado” is an informative article that highlights the bird species that are frequently seen in Colorado’s backyards. Drawing from data collected by the citizen science program eBird, the article offers accurate information on these birds. With pictures of each bird species and tips on attracting them, readers can easily identify and invite these beautiful creatures to their own outdoor spaces. From the ever-present American Robin to the official State Bird of Colorado, the Lark Bunting, the article covers a wide range of species and provides details on their identification, habitat, behavior, and feeding preferences. Additionally, it shares resources for bird watching in Colorado, including the eBird website and local bird watching clubs, as well as information on different regions and common species by season. Whether readers are amateur bird enthusiasts or seasoned birders, this article offers valuable insights into Colorado’s backyard birdlife.
Most Common Backyard Birds in Colorado
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the most common backyard birds in Colorado! Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or just looking to add some vibrant life to your backyard, this article provides all the information you need to know. Compiled from data collected by the citizen science program eBird, the bird species mentioned in this article are accurate and reliable.
So let’s dive into the diverse avian world of Colorado and discover the fascinating birds that inhabit this beautiful state!
American Robin
Identification
The American Robin is an iconic bird with a distinctive appearance. They have a plump body, a reddish-orange breast, grayish-brown upperparts, and a white eye ring. Their familiar song can be heard echoing through neighborhoods during the spring and summer months.
Habitat
American Robins can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, parks, gardens, and suburban areas. They often nest in trees or shrubs, constructing cup-shaped nests made of twigs, grass, and mud.
Behavior
These birds are known for their territorial nature. They are often seen hopping along the ground, searching for insects, worms, berries, and fruits to feed on. American Robins are also great bathers and can often be found splashing around in birdbaths or puddles.
Feeding preferences
The American Robin primarily feeds on worms and insects but also enjoys eating berries and fruits, especially during the summer and fall months. Their preference for fruit makes them particularly attracted to fruit-bearing trees and shrubs such as serviceberries, hawthorns, and wild cherries.
Lark Bunting
Identification
The Lark Bunting is the official State Bird of Colorado and is known for its striking appearance. The male Lark Buntings have a black body with white wing patches and a white underbelly. Females, on the other hand, have mostly brown plumage with dark streaks.
Habitat
Lark Buntings prefer open grasslands, prairies, and sagebrush habitats. They are commonly found in eastern Colorado but can also be spotted in the western regions during migration.
Behavior
These birds are highly social and often form flocks, especially during the winter months. During the breeding season, male Lark Buntings perform elaborate courtship displays to attract mates.
Feeding preferences
Lark Buntings primarily feed on seeds, grasses, and weeds. They forage on the ground, hopping and running to catch their prey.
House Finch
Identification
House Finches are small birds with a stout body and a conical bill. The males have a vibrant red coloration on their head, chest, and belly, while females have a duller brown plumage with streaks.
Habitat
House Finches can be found in various habitats, including urban areas, suburbs, woodlands, and deserts. They often nest in trees, shrubs, and sometimes even manmade structures.
Behavior
These birds are known for their cheerful songs, often heard throughout the day. They are highly sociable and can be seen in small groups or flocks.
Feeding preferences
House Finches primarily feed on seeds, fruits, and berries. They are especially attracted to feeders containing sunflower seeds, nyjer seeds, or fruits such as grapes and cherries.
Northern Flicker
Identification
Northern Flickers are medium-sized woodpeckers with a distinctive appearance. They have a brown body with black bars and spots, a white rump, and a red patch on the back of their head. When in flight, their white rump is highly visible.
Habitat
These woodpeckers can be found in open woodlands, forest edges, savannahs, and suburban areas. They often nest in tree cavities and are known to excavate their own nest holes.
Behavior
Northern Flickers use their strong bills to forage for insects in trees, shrubs, and on the ground. They also have a unique behavior of drumming on trees to attract mates or establish territories.
Feeding preferences
Their diet consists mainly of insects, particularly ants and beetles. Northern Flickers also feed on fruits and berries, especially during the winter months when insects are scarce.
Dark-eyed Junco
Identification
Dark-eyed Juncos are small sparrows with a chunky body and a short bill. They have a gray or dark gray head and back with a white or pale gray underbelly. The males often have a contrasting black or brown hood.
Habitat
These birds prefer coniferous forests, mountains, and shrubby areas. In winter, they may venture into suburban areas and lowland habitats.
Behavior
Dark-eyed Juncos are known for their ground-dwelling behavior. They often forage on the ground, scratching through leaf litter in search of seeds and insects. They are also frequent visitors to feeders.
Feeding preferences
Dark-eyed Juncos primarily feed on seeds, grains, and insects. They are particularly attracted to sunflower seeds and millet found in feeders.
Black-billed Magpie
Identification
Black-billed Magpies are large, striking birds with a glossy black color and a long, graduated tail. They have white markings on their wings and belly, and their bill is black.
Habitat
These birds can be found in a variety of habitats, including open areas, woodlands, and mountain valleys. They often build large, domed nests made of sticks.
Behavior
Black-billed Magpies are highly intelligent and curious birds. They are known for their ability to imitate various sounds, including human speech.
Feeding preferences
Their diet is varied and includes insects, small mammals, seeds, fruits, carrion, and even eggs of other birds. They are opportunistic feeders and can adapt to various food sources.
Black-capped Chickadee
Identification
Black-capped Chickadees are small, active birds with a black cap and bib, white cheeks, and a grayish-white underbelly. Their wings and back are a combination of gray and olive-brown.
Habitat
These birds are common in forests, woodlands, parks, and gardens. They can often be seen flitting among branches and tree trunks.
Behavior
Black-capped Chickadees are known for their acrobatic behavior, hanging upside down from branches while foraging for prey. They also have a distinctive chick-a-dee-dee-dee call.
Feeding preferences
Their diet mainly consists of insects, seeds, berries, and suet. They are frequent visitors to backyard feeders containing sunflower seeds and suet cakes.
Mountain Bluebird
Identification
Mountain Bluebirds are small thrush-like birds with a sky-blue coloration on their head, back, and wings. The females have a duller blue color, and both sexes have a white underbelly.
Habitat
As their name suggests, Mountain Bluebirds are commonly found in mountainous regions, open grasslands, and meadows. They often nest in tree cavities or manmade nest boxes.
Behavior
Mountain Bluebirds are known for their graceful flight and melodious songs. They are migratory birds and spend the winter months in warmer southern regions.
Feeding preferences
Their diet consists mainly of insects, particularly grasshoppers, beetles, and spiders. Mountain Bluebirds also consume berries and fruits when available.
Common Species by Season
Spring
During the spring months, birds such as the American Robin, House Finch, and Northern Flicker can be commonly observed. They are busy preparing their nests, attracting mates, and foraging for food to feed their offspring.
Summer
Summer brings a wide variety of birds to Colorado, including the Lark Bunting, Mountain Bluebird, and Black-billed Magpie. These birds take advantage of the warmer weather and abundant food supply to breed and raise their young.
Fall
In the fall, the Dark-eyed Junco makes its appearance as these migratory birds pass through Colorado on their way to their wintering grounds. They join other birds such as the Black-capped Chickadee in foraging for seeds and berries to fuel their long journey.
Winter
Winter in Colorado brings a unique set of birds, including Black-capped Chickadees, House Finches, and Northern Flickers. These hardy birds rely on feeders and natural food sources to survive the cold winter months.
In conclusion, Colorado is home to a diverse range of backyard birds that bring joy and beauty to any outdoor space. By providing suitable habitats, food sources, and water, you can attract these wonderful feathered friends to your own backyard. Remember to check out resources such as eBird and local bird watching clubs to enhance your birding experience. So get ready to explore the fascinating world of Colorado’s backyard birds and enjoy the wonders of nature right at your doorstep. Happy birding!
