Backyard Birds in Montana

Red-Winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) 

Known for their distinctive red and yellow shoulder patches, male Red-winged Blackbirds are easily recognizable. They are one of the most common birds in Montana and can be found in wetlands, meadows, and even suburban areas. Their song is a familiar sound that often signals the beginning of spring. 

The Red-winged Blackbird is a medium-sized songbird, around 7 to 9.5 inches in length, with a wingspan of 12 to 16 inches. Male Red-winged Blackbirds are particularly striking with their glossy black plumage and bright red wing epaulets edged with yellow. This vibrant color display plays a significant role in territorial defense and mate attraction. On the other hand, females are more subdued with brown, streaked plumage, providing effective camouflage in their nesting habitat. The variation in appearance between genders is a classic example of sexual dimorphism in birds 

Red-winged Blackbirds are also known for their characteristic vocalizations. The male’s song, often described as a gurgling “conk-la-ree,” is a common sound in wetlands and signaling the start of spring. These birds are versatile in their feeding habits, consuming a diet that includes insects, seeds, and grains. They are not particularly finicky when it comes to bird feeders but may be drawn to offerings like sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and suet. Their adaptability in diet makes them frequent visitors to backyard feeders as well as natural habitats (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014). 

Dark-Eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) 

These small, sparrow-like birds are prevalent in backyards especially during the winter months. The Slate-Colored Junco, the most common subspecies in Montana, has a unique dark hood and white belly. They are often seen hopping on the ground, foraging for seeds. Recognizing a Dark-Eyed Junco is fairly easy once you know what to look for. Male juncos display striking gray plumage with a contrasting white belly, while females tend to have brownish tones, but both genders feature the species’ characteristic white outer tail feathers that flash as they fly. Their short, conical pink bills are finely adapted to seed-eating. Typically, these birds are between 5 to 6 inches in length, fitting comfortably into the small songbird category.  

One of the delightful aspects of having Dark-Eyed Juncos in your backyard is their melodious yet subtle vocalizations. They produce a rapid trill resembling that of a Chipping Sparrow, along with various soft chip and twittering sounds, which make for a pleasant auditory backdrop especially during the quieter winter season. Although they aren’t as vocal as some other species, their calls serve as gentle reminders of the diverse avian life around you. 

In terms of diet, these birds primarily consume seeds, particularly favoring those from grasses and weeds. During the winter months, offering mixed seeds, especially those containing millet and cracked corn, can attract juncos to your feeders. They often prefer ground feeders or foraging directly on the ground beneath feeders, where they can comfortably hop around and pick up scattered seeds. Including these feeding options can make your backyard a reliable food source for these charming birds, ensuring their frequent visits throughout the cold season (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Black-Capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus) 

Fun-loving and curious, the Black-capped Chickadee is a frequent visitor to bird feeders. This small bird has a black cap and bib, with white cheeks and a soft gray back. Their “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call is a delightful addition to any backyard. 

The Black-capped Chickadee is easily identifiable by its striking black cap and bib, which contrast sharply with its white cheeks and belly. This small but striking bird also sports a soft gray back and wings, with delicate buff-colored sides. Their quick and acrobatic movements, often seen flitting around branches and feeders, make them a joy to watch. Black-capped Chickadees have a distinctive call, “chick-a-dee-dee-dee,” serves as both a communication signal and an alarm call, alerting other birds of potential threats. This call varies, with the number of “dees” increasing based on the level of perceived danger. Aside from their namesake call, they also produce a high-pitched, clear whistle often rendered as “fee-bee” or “hey, sweetie,” particularly during the breeding season. 

When it comes to feeder preferences, Black-capped Chickadees are particularly fond of sunflower seeds, suet, and peanuts. Offering a mix of these foods can attract these birds to your backyard consistently. They are known for their curious and bold nature, often allowing close human observation as they dart back and forth from feeders, sometimes taking seeds to cache for later use. Their diet mainly consists of insects and other invertebrates during the warmer months, which shifts to include more seeds and berries during the winter. Adult chickadees are adept at foraging, frequently gleaning insects from tree bark and foliage. Understanding their feeding preferences and habits can enhance your birdwatching experience, ensuring these delightful visitors are well catered to throughout the year (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Brown-Headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater) 

Brown-headed Cowbirds are intriguing members of the backyard bird community in Montana. These birds are well-known for their distinctive behavioral traits and are often a topic of interest among birdwatchers and ornithologists alike. Originally, these birds followed herds of bison across prairies, but they’ve adapted well to human-altered landscapes. 

In terms of identification, the male Brown-headed Cowbird boasts a striking appearance with a glossy black body and a rich brown head, giving it a two-toned look that’s unmistakable. Females, on the other hand, are more understated with a plain brownish-gray plumage, making them less conspicuous. Their short, conical bills are ideal for their diet, which consists primarily of seeds and insects. You’ll often notice their distinct gurgling song, a combination of high-pitched whistles and bubbly notes, filling the air during the breeding season. 

Interestingly, Brown-headed Cowbirds are brood parasites, meaning they lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species. This unique behavior means they don’t build their own nests or feed their young. Instead, they rely on the unsuspecting hosts to do the job. They are generalists when it comes to habitat, thriving in a variety of environments including open fields, woodland edges, and residential areas. At feeders, they aren’t picky eaters and will readily consume cracked corn, millet, and sunflower seeds. To discourage them, some birdwatchers opt for feeders with smaller perches or mesh that selectively limit the size of birds able to access the food (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Mountain Bluebird (Sialia currucoides) 

The Mountain Bluebird, a symbol of the vast and open landscapes of Montana, is a striking sight to behold. Known for its vibrant blue plumage, this bird is a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers alike. 

Male Mountain Bluebirds exhibit a dazzling sky-blue color that covers most of their body, making them easily distinguishable. Females, on the other hand, boast a more subdued hue with light blue wings and tail, and a grayish-brown back and breast. During the breeding season, you may hear their soft, warbling song, which adds to the serenity of the open fields, meadows, and prairies they commonly inhabit. Unlike some other songbirds, their call is relatively gentle and less varied. 

When it comes to diet, Mountain Bluebirds are insectivorous during the warmer months, feasting primarily on beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. They also enjoy berries and fruits, especially in the winter when insects are scarce. For those interested in attracting these beautiful birds to backyard feeders, try offering mealworms or fruit to suit their dietary preferences. Understanding their feeding habits and providing the right food can make your backyard an inviting haven for these avian wonders (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

American Robin (Turdus migratorius) 

Recognizable by its warm orange breast and melodic song, the American Robin is a cherished sight in many Montana backyards. A familiar presence almost year-round, this bird’s vibrant plumage and active behavior make it a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers alike. 

The American Robin is a medium-sized songbird with a striking contrast between its gray-brown upper parts and rich, rusty-orange belly. Its head varies between black and gray, often darker in males. The bird’s bright white throat adorned with black streaks adds to its distinctive appearance, making identification straightforward. Typically, their cheery and melodic songs consisting of a series of whistles can be heard at dawn and dusk, signaling their presence even when out of sight. 

When it comes to diet, American Robins are versatile but show a particular fondness for earthworms, insects, and various fruits. In your backyard, offering a mixture of suet, mealworms, and berry-laden feeders can attract these birds to visit frequently. They are typically ground feeders, so placing food in accessible areas is a practical tip for bird enthusiasts. Observing their foraging behavior, you might notice them hopping on lawns, cocking their heads to locate prey beneath the soil. 

These birds are a welcome sight at any backyard feeder, bringing with them the vivid colors and delightful sounds of North American birdlife. Their adaptability and striking features make them a noteworthy subject for any birdwatching enthusiast aiming to deepen their understanding and appreciation of local avian species (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) 

Originating from Europe, House Sparrows are an invasive species that have become one of the most widespread birds in North America today. Their remarkable adaptability has allowed them to thrive in various environments, often closely associated with human habitation.  

When identifying House Sparrows, their physical appearance is a clear indicator. These small birds have a robust and chunky body with males featuring a distinctive black bib on their chests. Both males and females have buffy-brown plumage with black streaks on their backs, although females are more subdued in color, lacking the male’s vivid patterns. Juveniles resemble females but are even paler. Their stout bill is ideal for cracking seeds, a primary component of their diet.  

House Sparrows are highly vocal, often producing a series of cheerful chirps and chatter, making them easy to detect by sound. In terms of diet and feeder preferences, these birds are not picky. They readily consume a variety of seeds, especially millet, cracked corn, and sunflower seeds. They are frequent visitors to backyard feeders, particularly enjoying platforms and hoppers that accommodate their gregarious nature. By offering the right types of food and feeders, you can attract these lively and energetic birds to your backyard, adding a dynamic component to your birdwatching experience.

Sparrow behavior is equally fascinating. They are known for their social nature, often observed in large flocks. House Sparrows nest in man-made structures, including eaves, vents, and even traffic lights. Their adaptability to urban environments makes them a common sight in cities and towns across Montana. By recognizing their distinctive features and understanding their habits, you can gain a deeper appreciation for these ubiquitous yet captivating birds (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) 

The European Starling is a striking bird characterized by its iridescent dark plumage, which can shimmer in shades of green and purple depending on the light. Measuring about 8 inches in length, these birds have short tails and long, slender yellow beaks. You might also notice their speckled appearance during winter months, which gradually transforms as they molt.  

European Starlings are renowned for their vocal abilities. They are expert mimics, often incorporating sounds from their surroundings into their repertoire, such as other bird calls, mechanical noises, and even human speech. Their varied whistles, chirps, and trills add an interesting auditory layer to your backyard birdwatching experience.  

When it comes to feeding, European Starlings are not particularly picky. They frequent bird feeders, especially enjoying suet, mealworms, and assorted fruit. In the wild, their diet is equally varied, consisting of insects, earthworms, seeds, and berries. However, their aggressive feeding behavior can sometimes drive away native bird species, making them a controversial presence in many backyards (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus) 

Northern Flickers are a unique species of woodpecker that you’re likely to encounter in your backyard, especially if you live in Montana. Unlike many of their tree-bound relatives, these birds are often found foraging on the ground, particularly on bare earth or open grassy areas. 

When it comes to physical appearance, Northern Flickers are easily distinguishable. They boast a striking plumage featuring a brown body adorned with black spots and bars. Their wings and back are sharply patterned, and they reveal a bright white rump patch in flight. Two variants exist: the “yellow-shafted” Flickers found in eastern North America, which have a yellowish underwing, and the “red-shafted” Flickers, more common in the West, including Montana, that display a reddish hue on their underwings and undertail. One particularly fascinating aspect of these birds is their loud, ringing calls, which can carry over considerable distances, making them quite easy to hear even if you can’t immediately spot them. 

Northern Flickers primarily feed on ants and beetles, which they extract from the ground using their long, barbed tongues. In addition to these insects, they have a diverse diet that includes fruits, seeds, and nuts, especially during the winter months. When it comes to feeder preferences, these birds may visit suet feeders and occasionally peck at seeds on platform feeders. If attracting Northern Flickers to your yard is your goal, consider providing a mix of suet, nuts, and fruits. Additionally, ensuring the presence of leaf litter or maintaining a small patch of bare ground can encourage these woodpeckers to visit, as it mimics their natural foraging habitats (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Yellow-Rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) 

Yellow-rumped Warblers are medium-sized songbirds, typically measuring about 5.5 inches in length with a wingspan of around 9.25 inches. The male’s breeding plumage features striking blue-gray upper parts, a bright yellow rump, crown, and side patches, along with white underparts streaked with black. Females and non-breeding males appear more subdued, with brownish tones replacing the vivid blue-gray, but they still retain the signature yellow highlights.

Known for their pleasant songs, Yellow-rumped Warblers produce a sweet, warbling trill consisting of clear, ascending notes. Their calls are high-pitched and sharp, often described as a “chek” sound. During the breeding season, males can be heard singing persistently from tree tops, which helps them establish territories and attract mates.

Yellow-rumped Warblers have a varied diet that includes insects, berries, and seeds. During the warmer months, they primarily feed on insects such as caterpillars, beetles, and ants, which they catch by sallying from perches or gleaning from foliage. In the winter months, when insects are scarce, these warblers switch to eating berries, particularly from the wax myrtle and bayberry plants – a unique adaptation that allows them to digest the waxy coating. This dietary flexibility enables them to winter farther north than most other warblers (Dunn & Garrett, 1997).  

Downy Woodpeckers (Picoides pubescens) 

Notably among the backyard birds of Montana, the Downy Woodpecker is a charming presence. Endearing to birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and bird enthusiasts, the Downy Woodpecker captivates with its distinct behavior and vibrant settings. Preferring suburban areas with plenty of trees, these birds transform any backyard into an instant birdwatching haven. 

Downy Woodpeckers are petite yet striking, easily recognized by their black and white plumage. Males and females share a similar feather pattern, but males flaunt a distinctive red patch on the back of their heads. Their black and white checkered wings and white undersides make them stand out, while their small stature, relative to other woodpeckers, ensures they remain a unique sight. 

These birds are also known for their characteristic pik-pik call and rhythmic drumming. Often heard tapping on tree branches, they announce their presence with both sound and sight. Downy Woodpeckers are frequent visitors to backyard feeders, where they primarily indulge in suet, but they won’t shy away from peanuts and sunflower seeds. In their natural habitat, Downy Woodpeckers primarily feed on insects, making them beneficial for controlling insect populations in your yard. They glean their diet from the bark of trees, favoring larvae and beetles (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Black-Billed Magpie (Pica hudsonia) 

With its long tail and striking black-and-white plumage, the Black-Billed Magpie is undoubtedly a standout among backyard birds. Its tail is typically lustrous greenish-black, contrasting with its white belly, shoulders, and wing patches. The bird’s head, chest, and upper parts are all glossy black, providing a striking visual against the white. Adult magpies also display a faint blue hue on their wings in the right lighting, adding to their iridescent beauty. 

Known for their noisy and raucous calls, Black-Billed Magpies communicate through a series of loud, harsh sounds that can be quite persistent. Their vocalizations include a variety of squawks, chatters, and other sharp notes. These calls not only serve to alert other magpies of potential danger but also play a crucial role in social interactions within their groups. 

Black-Billed Magpies are frequent visitors to bird feeders, especially those offering nuts, suet, and seeds. They are opportunistic feeders with a varied diet that includes insects, small mammals, carrion, and grains. This adaptability allows them to thrive in both urban and rural settings where they often scavenge for discarded food. Due to their bold nature, don’t be surprised if they dominate the feeding area and chase away smaller birds (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis)  

With their energetic movements and distinctive calls, Red-breasted Nuthatches are a delightful addition to Montana’s backyard bird community. These small birds are often busy climbing up and down trees, making them particularly intriguing to watch. 

The Red-breasted Nuthatch is notably distinct in its appearance. It sports a striking black cap and a prominent white stripe over the eyes, creating a sharp contrast. Their underparts are a rich rusty-red color, adding to their unique look. Despite their small size, they are quite active and are often seen moving down tree trunks headfirst, a behavior characteristic of nuthatches. They possess a very distinct, nasal “yank-yank” call, which is often heard before the bird is actually seen. This vocalization is particularly useful for identification during birdwatching.  

Red-breasted Nuthatches are frequent visitors to backyard feeders. They show a strong preference for sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet, making these excellent choices for attracting them to your yard. Additionally, these nuthatches have a varied diet that includes insects and spiders, which they forage for by pecking at tree bark. During the fall and winter months, they will often cache food in crevices in tree bark, creating a reserve for harsher conditions. If you want to observe these clever birds up close, consider setting up a feeder with their preferred foods and berries (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Cedar Waxwings (Bombycilla cedrorum)  

Cedar Waxwings are elegant birds with sleek bodies, a crest on their head, and beautiful, silky plumage. Their bodies are a soft brown and gray color with subtle yellow on the belly and a distinct band of red-tipped feathers along the wings. The tail has a unique bright yellow tip, giving them a striking look in flight. Their eyes are accentuated by a black mask bordered with white, adding to their sleek, dapper appearance. In Montana, Cedar Waxwings are often spotted around woodlands, orchards, and even suburban areas where fruit-bearing trees and shrubs are abundant.  

When it comes to vocalizations, Cedar Waxwings produce high-pitched trills that are often described as “thin” and “buzzy.” These sounds are usually heard in social settings, where the birds gather in flocks around fruiting trees and bushes. Unlike many songbirds, Cedar Waxwings do not have a complex and melodious song. Instead, their calls serve more to maintain group cohesion and communicate with each other while feeding or in flight.  

Feeder preferences for Cedar Waxwings lean heavily toward fruits. In your backyard, you can attract these beautiful birds by offering fresh fruits such as apple slices, raisins, or berries. They also consume a variety of insects, particularly during the breeding season. Cedar Waxwings have a specialized diet that changes with the seasons, taking advantage of whatever fruits are available during different times of the year. They have been known to eat fruits like serviceberries, dogwood berries, and cherries. Providing berry bushes in your garden can increase your chances of frequently seeing these lovely birds (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Pine Siskins (Spinus pinus)  

Pine Siskins (Spinus pinus) Pine Siskins are distinctive members of the finch family known for their streaky brown plumage and splashes of yellow on their wings and tails. These birds are a delight to watch for bird enthusiasts across Montana due to their spirited and active behavior. 

In terms of physical appearance, Pine Siskins are relatively small, measuring around 4.3 to 5.5 inches in length. Their brown, streaked plumage camouflages well with the coniferous forests they frequent. A close look reveals yellow edgings on their wings and tails, a feature that becomes more pronounced during flight and adds a vibrant flair to their otherwise subtle coloration. The bill of a Pine Siskin is slender and pointed, adapted for their feeding habits.  

When it comes to sounds, Pine Siskins are highly vocal birds. They produce a variety of twitters and rapid, high-pitched calls that can often be heard in their preferred habitats. Their song consists of a series of distinctive, buzzy notes, often mixed with short trills and wheezes. This assortment of sounds plays a crucial role in maintaining their social structure and defending their feeding territories.  

Pine Siskins show a preference for diverse feeding options, making them regular visitors at feeder preferences. They are particularly fond of Nyjer (thistle) seeds, but they also consume sunflower seeds and suet. In the wild, their diet primarily consists of seeds from conifers, alder, and birch trees. During the breeding season and periods of high energy need, they are known to supplement their diet with insects. Pine Siskins display busy and sometimes erratic feeding patterns, often feeding in flocks and making sudden movements as they forage (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

White-faced Ibis (Plegadis chihi)  

The White-faced Ibis stands out with its unique and colorful appearance. Known for its long, curved bill, this species exhibits a distinctive combination of reddish-brown plumage accented with iridescent green and purple hues. As its name suggests, the White-faced Ibis has a distinctive white border around its facial area, which becomes especially noticeable during the breeding season. Longer legs and a sleek body aid in its wading lifestyle, making it a fascinating subject for both casual observers and avid birdwatchers.  

When it comes to vocalizations, the White-faced Ibis is relatively quiet, mostly emitting low, grunting sounds. These vocalizations are usually heard in their breeding colonies, where the birds communicate with each other. Their sounds are less melodious than many other bird species but play an essential role in their social interactions.  

In terms of feeder preferences, the White-faced Ibis is more likely to be spotted foraging in wetlands rather than at backyard feeders. These birds have a diet primarily consisting of aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and insects. Using their specialized bills, they probe the mud and shallow waters to find food. Their feeding habits are fascinating to watch, especially when they are seen in groups, methodically searching for their next meal in the wetland habitats they favor (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Western Tanager (Piranga ludoviciana)  

Standing out with its striking plumage, the male Western Tanager is easily recognizable. It boasts a vibrant yellow body, contrasting sharply with a fiery red head—a feature that is especially vivid during the breeding season. The females, while less flamboyant, have a more subdued yellowish-green color with darker wings and tail. Both sexes exhibit two prominent white wing bars, which can aid in identification. The Western Tanager’s distinctive coloration makes it a favorite among birdwatchers and photographers alike. 

The Western Tanager is not just a visual delight but an auditory one as well. Their calls consist of a series of short, musical phrases, often described as a huskier version of the American robin’s song. These birds are known for their slightly raspy and hurried sequences, which can be heard during the early morning hours. Listening for these particular sounds can significantly enhance your birdwatching experience and help in locating these colorful birds even when they are concealed within dense foliage. 

To attract Western Tanagers to your backyard, consider setting up feeders with suet or fruit. They are particularly fond of oranges—similar to orioles—but also appreciate berries and other small fruits that replicate their natural diet. In the wild, Western Tanagers primarily consume insects, including beetles, ants, wasps, and caterpillars, particularly during the breeding season. The availability of diverse food sources can increase the chances of a visit from these vibrant songbirds (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Northern Harrier (Circus hudsonius)   

Renowned for their distinctive hunting style, Northern Harriers have unique physical attributes that make them recognizable even from a distance. A medium-sized raptor, they have a slender build with long wings and a long tail, which they use expertly to maneuver while hunting. One of the most notable features is the white rump patch, which is visible when the bird is in flight. Adult males typically have a grayish hue, often referred to as the “gray ghost” due to their ghost-like appearance in the sky. Females and juveniles, however, have more brownish, streaked plumage with a heavier build. An owl-like facial disk aids their exceptional hearing, which is crucial for detecting prey. 

Although primarily silent, the Northern Harrier does occasionally produce vocalizations, especially during the breeding season. These sounds are usually high-pitched and whistling in nature, similar to other raptors. Their sharp calls can often be heard when they are engaged in courtship displays or territorial disputes. 

When it comes to diet, Northern Harriers are versatile hunters. They predominantly feed on small mammals such as voles and mice, but their diet can also include birds, reptiles, and insects. Their hunting method involves gliding low over open fields and marshes, using their acute sense of hearing and excellent vision to locate prey. They then dive down swiftly to capture their unsuspecting meal. This adaptive feeding strategy ensures they can thrive in different habitats, from grasslands to wetlands (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).

Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis)   

The Ferruginous Hawk is a striking presence in the open skies of North America. As the largest North American hawk, it boasts impressive physical features, including broad wings, a rust-colored back, and a white underbelly. This majestic raptor can often be seen gliding effortlessly over open areas such as prairies and grasslands, its striking plumage providing excellent camouflage against the earthy tones of its environment. The hawk’s legs are feathered down to the talons, a unique trait among other buteos, making it easily identifiable for keen birdwatchers. 

In terms of sounds, the Ferruginous Hawk is relatively quiet compared to other hawks. When vocalizing, it emits a high-pitched, scratchy scream, often described as a loud “keer” sound. These calls are primarily used during mating seasons or to ward off potential threats to its nesting territory. Despite their infrequent vocalizations, understanding the sounds of the Ferruginous Hawk can significantly enhance your birdwatching experience, adding another layer of engagement to your observation. 

Diet plays a crucial role in the behavior and hunting techniques of the Ferruginous Hawk. These raptors primarily hunt small to medium-sized mammals, such as rabbits, prairie dogs, and ground squirrels, showcasing their exceptional eyesight and powerful talons. Occasionally, they may also prey on birds and reptiles when the opportunity arises. Their hunting strategy often involves soaring high to spot prey or perching patiently on elevated vantage points like fence posts or power poles before swooping down with precision and speed. By understanding these dietary habits, bird enthusiasts can better predict and locate these magnificent hunters in their natural habitats (National Audubon Society, 2021; Sibley, 2014).