25 Birds That Found in Texas: Identification With Pictures

Texas, a land of vast landscapes and ecological diversity, is home to over 600 bird species—more than any other U.S. state. From the arid deserts of West Texas to the lush wetlands of the Gulf Coast, this guide explores 25 iconic birds that define the Lone Star State’s avian wonders. Whether you’re exploring Big Bend National Park, the Rio Grande Valley, or your backyard feeder, this resource will help you identify, locate, and understand the behavior of Texas’ most captivating birds.

1. Northern Cardinal

The Northern Cardinal is one of the most recognizable and beloved birds in North America, especially in Texas, where it is a year-round resident. Male cardinals are particularly striking with their vibrant crimson red feathers, black facial mask, and high, pointed crest, making them a favorite among bird enthusiasts. Females, though less showy, are just as beautiful with their warm brown coloring and subtle red highlights. Their loud, melodious whistles are often heard throughout the day, especially during the breeding season. The Northern Cardinal is not just admired for its appearance, but also for its resilience and adaptability to a variety of habitats.

Appearance

Identification features:

Male:

Brilliant, uniform crimson red plumage across the body.
Distinctive black mask covering the face and throat, extending around the beak.

Thick, conical orange-red bill suited for cracking seeds.
Prominent crest that can be raised or lowered depending on mood or alertness.
Medium-sized songbird (8–9 inches long), with a wingspan of about 10–12 inches.

Female:

Pale brown or buff-colored body with soft red tinges on wings, tail, and crest.
Less pronounced black facial area, sometimes appearing grayish.

Same bright orange-red bill as the male.
Also sports the signature crest and similar body shape, but more subtly colored.

Juveniles:

Resemble females but are duller in color.
Dark bill that gradually turns orange as they mature.

The distinct crest, black mask, and vivid red or brown coloring make cardinals easily identifiable even from a distance.

Habitat

The Northern Cardinal is highly adaptable and is found in a wide range of habitats across Texas and much of the eastern and central United States. It favors areas with dense, shrubby vegetation that provides cover and nesting sites. This includes:

Woodland edges
Thickets and hedgerows

Overgrown fields
Suburban gardens and city parks
Forest clearings

Riparian zones (areas along streams and rivers)

They are especially common in residential neighborhoods where bird feeders and ornamental shrubs are present. Cardinals are non-migratory, which means they remain in the same region throughout the year. During colder months, they often become more visible as they search for food, sometimes appearing in small groups at feeders.

Behavior

Northern Cardinals are known for their bold personalities and highly territorial behavior. Males are especially protective of their breeding areas and will aggressively chase away other males who intrude. During the breeding season, it’s common to see males attacking their own reflection in windows or car mirrors, mistaking it for a rival.

Courtship and mating:

Pairs are monogamous and often stay together year-round.
Males feed females seeds beak-to-beak in a bonding display.

Both sexes sing, although male songs are more frequent and used for territory defense.

Nesting:

Females build cup-shaped nests in dense shrubs or trees.

Typically lay 2–5 eggs per clutch and may have multiple broods per season.
Males help feed the young after they hatch.

Cardinals are active during the day (diurnal) and are often one of the first birds to sing at dawn and the last at dusk. Their song is a series of clear, whistled phrases, often repeated in patterns such as “cheer-cheer-cheer” or “birdy-birdy-birdy.”

Diet

Northern Cardinals have a varied diet and are frequent visitors to backyard bird feeders. Their thick, powerful beaks are perfectly adapted for cracking open seeds and nuts.

Primary food sources include:

Seeds: sunflower seeds, safflower, and millet are favorites.

Fruits and berries: such as mulberries, blackberries, dogwood, and elderberries.
Insects: beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and ants, especially during breeding season when protein is essential for nestlings.
Grains: like cracked corn or wheat found in bird seed mixes.

Cardinals feed on the ground or in low shrubs and trees. They also cache food in hidden spots to eat later. During the winter months, when insects are scarce, they rely more heavily on seeds and fruits, often foraging in small flocks. Their presence at feeders brings a burst of color and activity to winter gardens.

2. Blue Jay

The Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata) is one of the most intelligent and vibrant birds found across Texas and much of eastern and central North America. With its brilliant blue feathers, bold white chest, and distinctive black necklace, the Blue Jay is both beautiful and unmistakable. Known for its loud calls, complex social behavior, and resourceful nature, the Blue Jay often becomes a dominant presence at feeders and in woodland areas. It belongs to the crow family (Corvidae), and like its relatives, it exhibits high problem-solving skills and an excellent memory, especially when caching food.

Appearance

Identification features:

General Features:

Vibrant blue upperparts with a black-bordered white face.
Black “necklace” or collar around the throat.

Prominent crest that rises or flattens based on emotion or alertness.
Wings and tail marked with white, black, and blue barring patterns.
Strong, black bill and legs.

Size:

Medium-sized songbird: approximately 9–12 inches long with a wingspan of 13–17 inches.
Males and females look alike, although males may be slightly larger.

Unique Traits:

Iridescent blue is a structural color—not pigment-based—caused by the scattering of light through feather structure.
Juveniles resemble adults but may have duller coloring and less defined markings.

Habitat

Blue Jays are commonly found throughout the eastern and central United States, including much of Texas. They are especially prevalent in:

Deciduous and mixed woodlands
Suburban and urban neighborhoods with trees

Parks, gardens, and forest edges
Oak-rich areas, where acorns (a food favorite) are abundant

They adapt well to human presence and are often seen in residential areas where mature trees are available. Blue Jays are not strongly migratory, though some may move south in winter, depending on food availability and local conditions.

Behavior

Blue Jays are known for their intelligence, curiosity, and complex social interactions. They are often observed:

Mimicking hawk calls to deceive other birds or warn their group.
Using tools, such as leaves or bark, to explore or handle food.

Caching acorns and seeds in the ground or bark crevices to eat later.

Social Traits:

Typically live in family groups and may form loose flocks outside the breeding season.

Defend their territory aggressively during nesting, especially against potential predators.
Exhibit strong pair bonds, with mates working together to build nests and raise young.

Vocalization:

Loud, harsh “jay jay” calls are common, but they also produce a wide variety of softer whistles, clicks, and mimicry sounds.
Use vocalizations for alarm, communication, and deception.

Diet

Blue Jays have an omnivorous diet and are known for their versatility in feeding habits.

Primary foods include:

Nuts and seeds: Particularly fond of acorns, which they often collect and store.
Fruits and berries: Including wild cherries, dogwood, and holly.

Insects: Beetles, grasshoppers, caterpillars, and occasionally small vertebrates.
Bird eggs and nestlings: Though infrequent, they may raid nests for protein-rich meals.

At backyard feeders, they prefer:

Peanuts (especially in the shell)
Sunflower seeds
Suet and corn

Blue Jays are strong-willed at feeders, often dominating smaller birds and carrying off food to cache in hiding spots. Their resourcefulness, beautiful appearance, and raucous calls make them a fascinating and unforgettable part of Texas birdlife.

3. Great Egret

The Great Egret (Ardea alba) is one of the most elegant and visually striking wading birds found in Texas. With its long neck, towering stature, and pure white plumage, it stands out gracefully in wetlands and along shorelines. This bird is a member of the heron family and is often seen stalking prey slowly or standing motionless in shallow waters. During the breeding season, Great Egrets develop long, lacy plumes on their backs and display bright green facial skin. Once hunted to near extinction for these plumes, the species now thrives, protected by conservation laws.

Appearance

Identification features:

All-white plumage that is smooth and luminous in sunlight.
Long, S-curved neck and dagger-like yellow bill.
Long black legs and feet, suited for wading in water.

During breeding season, develops ornamental plumes on the back and green facial skin near the eyes.
Large bird: approximately 38–40 inches in length with a wingspan of up to 55 inches.

In flight:

Flies with slow, deep wingbeats.
Neck is tucked into an “S” shape, distinguishing it from similar large white birds like storks or ibises.

Juveniles resemble adults but may have duller features and lack the ornate breeding plumes.

Habitat

Great Egrets are primarily found in wetland habitats across Texas, particularly in:

Marshes and swamps
Coastal bays and estuaries

Inland lakes, ponds, and rivers
Flooded fields and rice paddies
Urban parks with water features

They are highly adaptable and can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments. During breeding season, they nest in large colonies (called rookeries), often alongside other herons and wading birds in tall trees or shrubs near water.

Behavior

Great Egrets are solitary hunters, often seen standing still or walking slowly in shallow water as they stalk fish and other aquatic prey. They strike quickly and precisely with their long, sharp bill.

Key behaviors:

Highly patient and stealthy when hunting.
Nest colonially, with both parents participating in nest-building and chick-rearing.
Males display dramatic breeding plumes and perform courtship displays to attract mates.

Defensive of their feeding territories but generally less aggressive than some other herons.

Their graceful movements and stately appearance make them a favorite subject for photographers and birdwatchers alike.

Diet

Great Egrets are carnivorous and feed primarily on a wide variety of aquatic animals.

Main food items include:

Fish (such as minnows, sunfish, and small catfish)
Amphibians (frogs and tadpoles)

Insects (dragonflies, grasshoppers, aquatic beetles)
Crustaceans (crayfish, shrimp)
Occasionally reptiles and small mammals (lizards, rodents)

They use a hunting method called “stand and wait,” relying on stillness and lightning-fast reflexes to ambush prey. Great Egrets are visual hunters, typically foraging in daylight hours when visibility is best.
Primarily fish, frogs, and aquatic invertebrates. Uses its bill to spear prey or stir up hidden creatures in murky water.

4. Belted Kingfisher

The Belted Kingfisher is a distinctive bird commonly found near rivers and lakes in Texas, easily recognized by its loud rattling call and striking blue-gray plumage. Females are unique with an additional rusty band on their chest, setting them apart visually from males.

Appearance

Identification features:

Male:

Slate blue-gray head, back, and wings
White belly with a broad blue band across the chest

Shaggy crest on the head
Long, heavy, pointed black bill

Female:

Similar to males but with an extra rusty-orange band below the blue chest band
Equally prominent crest and bill
Slightly larger body than males

Habitat

Belted Kingfishers are commonly found near freshwater bodies such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and coastal shorelines. They prefer areas with exposed perches like trees or posts near water and require vertical dirt banks or sandy cliffs to dig nesting burrows.

Diet

Their diet mainly consists of small fish like minnows and sunfish. They also eat aquatic insects, crustaceans like crayfish, and occasionally amphibians. Belted Kingfishers catch prey by diving headfirst into the water from a perch or hovering briefly above the surface.

Behavior

Known for their loud rattling calls, these birds are solitary and territorial. They excavate nesting burrows in vertical banks, often working in pairs to raise their young. Belted Kingfishers are bold hunters, frequently hovering or perching conspicuously while scanning for prey.ented by crustaceans and aquatic insects. Regurgitates pellets of indigestible bones and scales.

5. Wild Turkey

The Wild Turkey is a large, ground-dwelling bird native to North America and commonly found across Texas. Known for its impressive size and striking iridescent plumage, the wild turkey plays an important role in the ecosystem and culture.

Appearance

Identification features:

Male (Tom):

Large bird with dark, glossy feathers that shimmer with bronze, green, and copper tones
Bare, red and blue head with fleshy wattles (called a snood and caruncles)
Long tail feathers that fan out during displays

Strong, sturdy legs with spurs

Female (Hen):

Smaller and duller than males

Brownish-gray plumage with less iridescence
Less prominent head wattles and no tail fan

Habitat

Wild Turkeys prefer mature forests mixed with open clearings, grasslands, and brushy areas. They thrive in woodlands, farmlands, and grasslands across Texas, often near water sources. They roost in tall trees at night for safety.

Diet

Their diet is omnivorous and diverse, including seeds, nuts (especially acorns), berries, insects, and small amphibians. Turkeys forage by scratching the ground to uncover food like grass seeds and insects.

Behavior

Wild Turkeys are social birds often seen in flocks outside of breeding season. Males perform elaborate courtship displays, puffing up feathers and fanning tails. They are strong runners and use sharp eyesight to detect predators. Turkeys are primarily active during the day and communicate with gobbles, clucks, and purrs.

6. Painted Bunting

The Painted Bunting is a brilliantly colored songbird native to Texas and parts of the southern U.S., renowned for its vibrant mix of blue, green, red, and yellow feathers. Often called the “nonpareil” for its unmatched beauty, this bird is a favorite among birdwatchers.

Appearance

Identification features:

Male:

Bright blue head and shoulders

Vivid green back
Fiery red underparts and rump
Medium-sized songbird with a stout bill

Female:

Mostly green and yellow-green
More camouflaged and less vibrant than males

Smaller and more discreet appearance

Habitat

Painted Buntings prefer dense brush, thickets, woodland edges, and overgrown fields. In Texas, they are often found in river valleys, brushy areas, and suburban gardens with dense cover. They migrate seasonally between southern U.S. breeding grounds and Mexico or Central America for winter.

Diet

Their diet mainly consists of seeds, insects, and small fruits. During the breeding season, they eat more insects like caterpillars and beetles to fuel their energy needs. Seeds and berries become more important during migration and winter.

Behavior

Painted Buntings are shy and secretive, often staying hidden in dense foliage. Their song is a sweet, musical warble used to establish territory and attract mates. They are generally solitary or found in pairs during breeding season but may join small flocks in winter. feeders stocked with millet.

7. Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is a striking bird native to Texas, famous for its exceptionally long, forked tail that resembles scissors. It’s an agile flier and a charismatic symbol of the Lone Star State.

Appearance

Identification features:

Male:

Pale gray body with a pinkish wash on the sides and underwings
Long, deeply forked tail with black outer feathers
Black markings on wings and around eyes
Medium-sized with a slender bill

Female:

Shorter tail than males
Similar gray body but less vivid coloration
Less pronounced black markings

Habitat

These birds prefer open habitats like grasslands, prairies, savannas, and agricultural fields with scattered trees or utility wires used as perches. They are common across Texas and often seen soaring or perched conspicuously.

Diet

Primarily insectivorous, they catch flying insects such as grasshoppers, dragonflies, beetles, and flies. They hunt by sallying out from perches to snatch insects mid-air and occasionally consume berries.

Behavior

Scissor-tailed Flycatchers are acrobatic fliers, using their long tails for balance and agility. They perform aerial displays during courtship and territorial defense. They are vocal birds, often heard with a series of sharp calls and whistles.

8. Green Jay

The Green Jay is a vibrant and intelligent bird found mainly in southern Texas and parts of Central America. Known for its brilliant green body and striking blue and black facial markings, this jay is both colorful and social.

Appearance

Identification features:

Both sexes:

Bright green back and wings
Blue crown and nape
Black face mask and throat
Yellowish-green underparts
Medium-sized with a strong bill

Juveniles appear duller with less distinct markings.

Habitat

Green Jays favor dense subtropical woodlands, thickets, and brushy areas, often near water sources in southern Texas. They are also common in riparian forests and scrublands where they can find ample cover.

Diet

They have a varied diet including insects, seeds, fruits, and small vertebrates. Green Jays are opportunistic feeders, often foraging on the ground or in trees, and will also raid nests for eggs and nestlings.

Behavior

Highly social and vocal, Green Jays live in family groups and communicate with a range of calls. They are curious, intelligent birds known for problem-solving and cooperative breeding behavior.
Insects, seeds, berries, and occasionally eggs or nestlings.

9. Barred Owl

The Barred Owl (Strix varia) is a large, majestic owl widely found across Texas forests. Its haunting, rhythmic call is a familiar sound in wooded areas, often described as “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all?” With its striking barred pattern and large dark eyes, the Barred Owl is a master of stealthy nighttime hunting.

Appearance

Identification features:

Size ranges from 16 to 25 inches in length with a wingspan of 38 to 49 inches, making it one of the larger owls in Texas.
Rounded head with no ear tufts, giving a smooth silhouette.
Plumage is mottled brown and white, with distinctive horizontal barring on the chest and vertical streaks on the belly.
Large, dark brown to almost black eyes, set in a pale grayish facial disk that contrasts with the darker feathers around it.
Strong, hooked yellowish beak and powerful talons designed for grasping prey.
Both males and females look similar, though females tend to be slightly larger.

Habitat

Barred Owls thrive in mature, dense forests across Texas, particularly favoring deciduous and mixed woodlands rich in large, old trees. They are frequently found near rivers, swamps, and wetlands where prey is abundant. Their preference for dense canopy cover allows them to remain hidden during daylight hours as they roost quietly in tree cavities, hollow logs, or thick branches.

Diet

Barred Owls are opportunistic predators with a varied diet that includes:

Small to medium-sized mammals such as mice, voles, squirrels, and rabbits.
Birds, including smaller songbirds and waterfowl.
Amphibians and reptiles like frogs and snakes.
Large insects and occasionally crayfish near water bodies.

They hunt primarily at night, using exceptional low-light vision and acute hearing to locate prey even under thick foliage or in complete darkness. Their silent flight allows them to ambush prey with remarkable efficiency.

Behavior

Barred Owls are primarily nocturnal but can be active during dusk and dawn. They are highly territorial, using their distinctive vocalizations to defend their home range. Their famous call is a series of deep, resonant hoots, often performed as a duet between mates.

Nesting occurs in natural tree cavities, abandoned nests of other large birds, or sometimes in old woodpecker holes. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating eggs and feeding the young, which fledge after about a month. Barred Owls are known for their adaptability and can sometimes be seen hunting near suburban areas with wooded patches.
Rodents, frogs, snakes, and small birds. Swallows prey whole and regurgitates pellets.

10. Inca Dove

The Inca Dove (Columbina inca) is a small, charming dove native to Texas and parts of Central and South America. Known for its delicate scaled feather pattern and soft cooing, this bird is a common resident in urban and rural areas alike.

Appearance

Identification features:

Small size, about 6–7 inches long.
Brownish-gray plumage with a unique scaly pattern created by pale-edged feathers on the body and wings.
Long, squared tail with white edges visible in flight.
Pinkish legs and feet, with a slender bill.
Dark eyes surrounded by a subtle pale eye ring.

Both sexes appear similar, while juveniles have duller, less defined scaling.

Habitat

Inca Doves are highly adaptable and frequent a variety of habitats in Texas, including:

Urban gardens, parks, and suburban backyards.
Open woodlands and scrubby brushlands.
Agricultural fields and roadside areas with scattered trees or shrubs.

They prefer areas with abundant ground cover for nesting and often build fragile stick nests in low trees or shrubs.

Diet

Their diet mainly consists of small seeds, grains, and occasionally small insects. Inca Doves forage primarily on the ground, scratching leaf litter and bare soil to find food. They are also known to visit bird feeders in residential areas.

Behavior

Inca Doves are social birds that often gather in small flocks, especially outside the breeding season. Their soft cooing calls are repetitive and soothing, usually heard early in the morning or late afternoon. They have a distinctive fast, fluttering flight pattern and sometimes perform courtship displays involving slow wing beats and tail fanning.
Seeds and grains, often foraged from the ground.

11. Golden-fronted Woodpecker

The Golden-fronted Woodpecker (Melanerpes aurifrons) is a medium-sized woodpecker commonly found across Texas, recognized for its striking yellow forehead and bold black-and-white barred back. This adaptable bird is a skilled climber and driller, often heard before seen.

Appearance

Identification features:

About 9 to 11 inches long with a sturdy, chisel-like bill.
Bright yellow patch on the forehead (both sexes), with males having a red crown extending to the nape.
Black-and-white barred pattern on the back and wings.
Pale underparts with some yellowish tinge on the belly.
Red patch on the throat in males; females have less red, sometimes absent.
Strong feet with sharp claws for gripping tree trunks.

Habitat

Golden-fronted Woodpeckers inhabit a wide range of open woodlands, mesquite groves, brushlands, and even urban parks across Texas. They favor areas with scattered trees and dead wood suitable for foraging and nesting. They are especially common in southern Texas and adapt well to suburban environments.

Diet

Their diet is diverse, including:

Insects and larvae they extract from bark and wood.
Fruits, berries, and nuts.
Occasionally seeds and sap.
They have been known to forage on the ground for ants and beetles.

Behavior

Golden-fronted Woodpeckers are territorial and vocal birds, producing sharp calls and drumming sounds on trees or metal surfaces. They excavate nest cavities in dead or decaying wood and sometimes reuse old woodpecker holes. Both parents share incubation and feeding duties. Their flight is strong and direct, often accompanied by loud wing beats.
Insects, sap, fruits, and nuts.

12. Black-crested Titmouse

The Black-crested Titmouse (Baeolophus atricristatus) is a small, charismatic songbird native to southern Texas and northeastern Mexico. Known for its distinctive black crest and lively personality, this bird is a common sight in woodlands and suburban areas.

Appearance

Identification features:

Small, about 5.5 to 6 inches long.
Gray body with a prominent black crest on top of the head.
White underparts with subtle peach or buff flanks.
Large, dark eyes and a short, stout bill.
Both sexes look alike, with juveniles slightly duller.

Habitat

Black-crested Titmice favor oak-juniper woodlands, mesquite thickets, and brushy areas in Texas. They are adaptable and also frequent parks, gardens, and suburban neighborhoods where mature trees are present. They nest in natural cavities or nest boxes.

Diet

Their diet includes:

Insects and spiders, especially caterpillars, beetles, and ants.
Seeds and nuts, often cracked open with their strong bills.
Occasionally fruits and berries.

They forage actively in trees and shrubs, often hanging upside down to reach prey.

Behavior

These titmice are social and vocal, frequently joining mixed-species flocks outside breeding season. Their call is a clear, whistled “peter-peter” song. They exhibit curious and bold behavior, often investigating bird feeders and nesting boxes.
Insects, seeds, and berries. Visits feeders for suet and sunflower seeds.

13. Cactus Wren

The Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus) is Texas’ state bird and a resilient species adapted to arid environments. Known for its loud, bubbly song and spiny habitat, this wren thrives in desert scrub and thorny landscapes.

Appearance

Identification features:

Medium-sized wren, about 7 inches long.
Brownish body with bold white streaks and spots on the chest and back.
Distinct white “eyebrow” stripe extending above the eye.
Long tail often cocked upwards with dark barring.
Strong, slightly curved bill suited for probing.

Both sexes look alike.

Habitat

Cactus Wrens are commonly found in dry deserts, scrublands, and thorn forests across southern Texas. They prefer areas with dense prickly pear cactus, mesquite, and other thorny shrubs, which offer protection and nesting sites. They often build nests in cactus plants to deter predators.

Diet

Their diet primarily consists of insects such as beetles, ants, grasshoppers, and spiders. They also consume seeds and occasionally small fruits. They forage on the ground and among cactus branches, using their bill to extract insects from crevices.

Behavior

Cactus Wrens are highly territorial and vocal birds. Their song is a loud, bubbly series of trills and whistles that can carry over long distances. They build bulky, domed nests made of grasses and cactus spines, often constructing several nests within their territory as decoys.
Insects, seeds, and fruits. Rarely drinks water, obtaining moisture from food.

14. Greater Roadrunner

The Greater Roadrunner (Geococcyx californianus) is a striking, fast-running bird native to Texas deserts and scrublands. Known for its long legs and distinctive crest, this bird is a symbol of the rugged Southwest.

Appearance

Identification features:

Large, about 20 inches long with a long tail and legs.
Brown and white streaked plumage that provides excellent camouflage.
Crest of feathers on the head that can be raised or lowered.
Long, sturdy bill and zygodactyl feet (two toes forward, two backward) for gripping.
White throat and belly contrasting with darker patterned back and wings.

Both sexes appear similar.

Habitat

Greater Roadrunners inhabit arid deserts, open scrublands, and grasslands across Texas. They prefer open areas with scattered shrubs or low trees, which provide perches for spotting prey. They are ground dwellers but roost in low trees or shrubs.

Diet

Omnivorous and opportunistic, they feed on a variety of prey including:

Insects (grasshoppers, beetles, scorpions)
Small reptiles (lizards, snakes, including venomous species)
Small mammals and birds
Fruits and seeds occasionally

They hunt by running swiftly on the ground, capturing prey with quick strikes.

Behavior

Greater Roadrunners are known for their speed, able to run up to 15 miles per hour. They are territorial and use a series of coos and calls for communication. During courtship, males perform displays including bowing and tail spreading. They are mostly active during the day and use their sharp eyesight to avoid predators.
Lizards, snakes, rodents, insects, and scorpions.

15. Vermilion Flycatcher

The Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) is a strikingly colorful bird often seen in Texas’ open areas. The male’s brilliant red plumage stands out against its darker wings and tail, making it one of the most eye-catching flycatchers in the region.

Appearance

Identification features:

Male:

Vivid, bright vermilion red body and head.
Contrasting dark brown or black wings and tail.
Small, slender bill adapted for catching insects.

Female:

Pale yellowish or buffy underparts.
Gray-brown upperparts with subtle reddish tinges on the tail and wings.
Less vibrant and more camouflaged than males.

Habitat

Vermilion Flycatchers prefer open habitats such as grasslands, scrubby riverbanks, farmland edges, and suburban parks with scattered trees or shrubs. They are common near water sources but can adapt to a variety of environments across Texas.

Diet

Primarily insectivorous, these birds catch insects on the wing with agile flight maneuvers. Their diet includes flies, beetles, moths, and other flying insects. They often perch conspicuously while scanning for prey before darting out to capture it midair.

Behavior

Known for their dramatic aerial displays and energetic sallying flights, Vermilion Flycatchers are vocal birds with sharp, high-pitched calls. Males often perform conspicuous courtship flights to attract females. They nest in shrubs or small trees, building cup-shaped nests.oths.

16. Roseate Spoonbill

The Roseate Spoonbill (Platalea ajaja) is a striking wading bird famous for its brilliant pink plumage and uniquely shaped spoon-like bill. It’s a graceful and colorful presence in Texas wetlands and coastal marshes.

Appearance

Identification features:

Large bird, standing about 28 to 34 inches tall with a wingspan up to 4.5 feet.
Vibrant pink feathers covering most of the body, especially the wings.
Long, flat, spoon-shaped bill that is pale grayish-green.
Bare greenish face around the eyes with no feathers.
Long legs and neck, adapted for wading in shallow water.

Both sexes look similar.

Habitat

Roseate Spoonbills inhabit shallow freshwater and saltwater wetlands, including marshes, mangroves, estuaries, and tidal ponds along the Texas Gulf Coast. They prefer warm, protected waters rich in aquatic life.

Diet

They feed by sweeping their spoon-shaped bills side to side in shallow water to catch small fish, crustaceans, aquatic insects, and other invertebrates. Their tactile feeding method helps them locate prey by touch.

Behavior

Roseate Spoonbills are social birds, often seen in flocks with other wading birds like herons and egrets. They nest in colonies, building platform nests in mangroves or shrubs. Their graceful flight with necks outstretched and wings flashing bright pink is a spectacular sight.
Small fish, shrimp, and aquatic invertebrates.

17. Whooping Crane

The Whooping Crane (Grus americana) is one of North America’s rarest and most majestic birds. Towering in height with striking white plumage and a distinctive bugling call, it is a symbol of hope and conservation success in Texas, especially along the Gulf Coast.

Appearance

Identification features:

Stands about 5 feet tall, making it the tallest bird in North America.
Pure white plumage with black wingtips visible in flight.
Long, dark legs and a long neck held straight in flight.
Bare red crown on the head with a long, straight black bill.
Immature birds show mottled brown and white coloration before maturing.

Both sexes are similar in appearance, though females are slightly smaller.

Habitat

Whooping Cranes breed in remote wetlands in Canada and winter primarily in the coastal marshes of Texas, especially at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. They rely on large, undisturbed wetland habitats with shallow water for roosting and foraging.

Diet

Their omnivorous diet includes:

Blue crabs, clams, and aquatic invertebrates in coastal marshes.
Small fish, frogs, and reptiles.
Grains, berries, and tubers in agricultural fields during migration.
Insects and plant material from freshwater wetlands.

They forage by walking slowly through shallow water, using their long bills to probe the mud.

Behavior

Whooping Cranes are migratory and travel long distances between breeding and wintering grounds. They are highly territorial during nesting but more social in winter, often seen in family groups. Their loud, trumpet-like calls carry for miles and are used for communication and courtship.

Conservation efforts, including captive breeding and habitat protection, have helped the population recover from just 15 individuals in the 1940s to several hundred today.
Blue crabs, clams, frogs, and aquatic plants.

18. Snowy Owl

The Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus) is a magnificent Arctic visitor occasionally seen in northern parts of Texas during winter. With its striking white plumage and piercing yellow eyes, this large owl stands out in both its appearance and behavior.

Appearance

Identification features:

Large owl, 20–27 inches tall with a wingspan up to 5 feet.
Males are mostly white; females and juveniles have dark barring across the body.
Round head with no ear tufts, unlike most other owls.
Bright yellow eyes and a black beak partly hidden by feathers.
Feathered legs and feet to help withstand cold temperatures.

Both sexes are bulky and heavily feathered, giving them a powerful and fluffy appearance.

Habitat

Snowy Owls breed in the Arctic tundra but migrate south in winter. In rare irruption years, they may appear in Texas, especially in open, treeless areas such as:

Grasslands and prairies
Airports, farmlands, and coastal dunes
Fields or frozen lakes resembling tundra landscapes

They prefer wide-open spaces where they can spot prey from a distance.

Diet

Primarily carnivorous, Snowy Owls hunt during the day and feed mostly on:

Lemmings and other small rodents in their Arctic range
Rabbits, squirrels, voles, and birds during winter in southern regions
They may also take waterfowl and shorebirds when available

They hunt from low perches or the ground, flying swiftly to capture prey with their sharp talons.

Behavior

Unlike most owls, Snowy Owls are diurnal and often hunt in daylight. They are generally solitary and territorial during the winter. When food is scarce in the Arctic, large numbers may migrate farther south than usual—a phenomenon known as an irruption. Their calm demeanor and willingness to perch in the open make them favorites among birdwatchers.mings.

19. Yellow-crowned Night-Heron

The Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) is a striking, medium-sized wading bird found in wetlands across Texas. It is known for its distinctive yellow crown, nocturnal hunting habits, and preference for crustaceans.

Appearance

Identification features:

About 22–28 inches tall with a stocky build and short neck.
Adults have a dark gray body with a black head and bold yellow crown.
White cheek stripe beneath the eye.
Long, thick black bill ideal for catching crabs.
Bright red or orange eyes.
During breeding season, they grow long, delicate plumes on the head and neck.
Juveniles are brown with heavy white spotting and streaks, gradually acquiring adult plumage.

Habitat

Yellow-crowned Night-Herons favor wetland environments throughout coastal and eastern Texas. Common habitats include:

Salt marshes and mangroves
Freshwater swamps and bayous
Tidal creeks and estuaries
Suburban areas with streams or drainage ditches

They often roost in trees near water during the day and become active at dusk.

Diet

This species feeds mainly on crustaceans, especially:

Crabs and crayfish (a primary food source)
Aquatic insects
Small fish, frogs, and snails occasionally
They use a stealthy approach to stalk and grab prey with their sharp bill

Their strong stomach acid helps digest the hard shells of crustaceans.

Behavior

Unlike many herons, the Yellow-crowned Night-Heron is crepuscular or nocturnal, hunting primarily at dusk and night. They nest in trees—often in loose colonies—and both parents incubate eggs and feed the young. Though shy by day, they can be observed roosting motionless near water. Their call is a sharp “quawk” sound often heard at night.

20. Black Vulture

The Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) is a large, scavenging bird commonly seen soaring across the skies of Texas. Known for its dark plumage, short tail, and social behavior, this vulture plays a vital role in the ecosystem by cleaning up carrion.

Appearance

Identification features:

Large bird with a wingspan of about 5 feet and a body length of 23–27 inches.
Entirely black body with short, square tail and broad wings.
Silvery or white patches near the wingtips visible in flight.
Featherless black-gray head and neck—adaptations for hygiene when feeding on carcasses.
Hooked beak designed to tear through flesh.
Legs and feet are pale gray; sometimes stained white due to uric acid.

They are smaller and more compact than the Turkey Vulture, with faster wingbeats.

Habitat

Black Vultures are widespread across Texas and thrive in a variety of habitats, including:

Open woodlands and forest edges
Agricultural fields and pastures
Roadways and highways
Urban and suburban areas with nearby food sources

They roost communally in large groups in trees or on buildings.

Diet

Strictly scavengers, Black Vultures feed almost entirely on carrion:

Roadkill and carcasses of dead animals
Occasionally raid nests for eggs or weak young birds
Will eat decaying vegetation and garbage in urban settings
Unlike Turkey Vultures, they have a poor sense of smell and often follow them to locate food

They rely heavily on sight and social cues from other vultures when foraging.

Behavior

Highly social, Black Vultures are often seen in groups soaring on thermals, roosting together, or feeding at carcasses. They use visual communication, such as wing-flapping or posturing, to assert dominance at feeding sites. They mate for life and share nesting duties. Nests are usually placed in caves, hollow logs, or abandoned buildings without adding any nesting material.

21. Mourning Dove

The Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura) is one of the most widespread and recognizable birds in North America, including Texas. Known for its soft, mournful cooing and graceful flight, this slender dove is a familiar sight in both rural and urban settings.

Appearance

Identification features:

Medium-sized, slender-bodied dove, about 9–13 inches long.
Soft brown to grayish-buff plumage with black spots on the wings.
Long, pointed tail with white edges—visible in flight.
Small head, dark eyes, and thin, slightly curved black bill.
Iridescent feathers on the neck may show green or pink hues in sunlight.
Males and females look very similar, with males slightly more colorful.

Habitat

Mourning Doves are highly adaptable and found in a wide range of habitats across Texas, including:

Open fields and grasslands
Suburban gardens and city parks
Agricultural areas and roadside wires
Forest edges and desert scrub

They prefer open or semi-open landscapes with scattered trees or shrubs for roosting.

Diet

Their diet consists mostly of seeds, making them true granivores:

Over 99% of their diet is seeds from grasses, weeds, and cultivated crops
They also eat grains such as corn, millet, and wheat
Occasionally consume small gravel or sand to aid digestion in the gizzard
They forage primarily on the ground, walking in a slow, deliberate manner

They drink water by sucking it up directly, unlike many birds that take sips.

Behavior

Mourning Doves are gentle, fast fliers that can reach up to 55 mph when startled. They often perch on telephone wires or rooftops. Their mournful “coo-oo” call is iconic and often associated with quiet countryside scenes. They are monogamous and often reuse the same nest sites—flat, flimsy platforms in trees, shrubs, or buildings. Both parents feed their chicks with “pigeon milk,” a nutrient-rich secretion from their crop..

22. Golden-cheeked Warbler

The Golden-cheeked Warbler (Setophaga chrysoparia) is a small, vividly colored songbird that breeds exclusively in central Texas. This endangered species is a symbol of Hill Country conservation efforts, prized by birders for its beauty and rarity.

Appearance

Identification features:

Small warbler, about 4.5–5 inches in length.
Bright yellow face with distinctive black eye stripe and black crown.
Black back, wings, and throat contrast with white underparts.
Males are darker and more vividly marked than females.
Females have a slightly duller yellow face and less bold black markings.

The golden cheeks are the bird’s standout feature, giving it its name.

Habitat

Golden-cheeked Warblers are habitat specialists, breeding only in:

Mature Ashe juniper-oak woodlands in central Texas (notably the Edwards Plateau)
Prefer canyons and slopes with a mix of juniper and hardwoods for nesting and foraging
They migrate to Central America for winter, mainly to pine-oak forests in Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua

Loss of breeding habitat due to development and deforestation is the biggest threat to their survival.

Diet

Their diet is composed primarily of insects and other small arthropods:

Caterpillars, beetles, and spiders are primary prey
Occasionally feed on small moths and insect larvae
Forage actively by gleaning insects from leaves and bark in the mid to upper canopy

They are almost entirely insectivorous during the breeding season.

Behavior

Golden-cheeked Warblers are solitary or found in pairs during breeding. Males are territorial and sing persistently to defend their area, producing a high, buzzy “zee-zee-zee-zoo-zee.” Nests are built high in Ashe junipers using strips of bark and spider webs. Both sexes help raise the young. Due to their limited breeding range and habitat specialization, they are federally listed as endangered and closely monitored by conservation programs.
Insects, spiders, and berries.

23. Barn Swallow

The Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) is one of the most widespread and agile aerial insectivores in Texas and around the world. Known for its graceful flight, deeply forked tail, and mud-built nests, this bird is a familiar sight near farms, open fields, and rural buildings.

Appearance

Identification features:

Small songbird, about 6–7 inches in length with a wingspan of up to 13 inches.
Glossy blue-black upperparts with a rich reddish-brown (rufous) forehead and throat.
Creamy to buff-colored underparts.
Long, pointed wings and deeply forked tail with long outer feathers (streamers).
Females have slightly shorter tail streamers and duller coloring.

Their streamlined bodies and distinctive tail make them unmistakable in flight.

Habitat

Barn Swallows thrive in a variety of open habitats, often close to humans, including:

Agricultural fields, grasslands, and meadows
Barns, sheds, bridges, and other man-made structures
Near water sources like ponds, lakes, and streams
They avoid heavily wooded or densely urban areas without open skies for flight

They build nests under eaves, overhangs, and beams—any sheltered site with a ledge.

Diet

Barn Swallows feed almost entirely on flying insects, making them beneficial for pest control:

Flies, mosquitoes, beetles, moths, and other small flying insects
Occasionally consume spiders or ground insects when feeding young
Drink water in flight by skimming the surface of ponds or streams

They catch their food mid-air with incredible precision and speed.

Behavior

Barn Swallows are social and often seen in small groups or large migratory flocks. They are highly acrobatic fliers, performing swift dives and loops while hunting. Males sing a cheerful twittering song to attract mates. They return to the same nesting sites each year, often repairing or reusing old nests made from mud and straw. Both parents share nesting duties. Barn Swallows migrate long distances, spending winters in Central and South America.
Flying insects caught mid-air.

24. American Kestrel

The American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) is the smallest and most colorful falcon in North America. Found throughout Texas, this fierce little predator is admired for its striking plumage, hovering flight, and ability to thrive in both wild and human-altered landscapes.

Appearance

Identification features:

Small falcon, about 9–12 inches long with a wingspan of 20–24 inches.
Males: slate-blue wings, rusty-red back and tail, white underparts with black spots.
Females: more reddish overall with heavily barred wings and tail.
Both sexes have two distinct black “mustache” marks on the face and dark vertical streaks on the sides of their white cheeks.
Long, narrow wings and square-tipped tail.
Fast and buoyant in flight, often seen hovering mid-air.

Habitat

American Kestrels are highly adaptable and found across a variety of open habitats in Texas:

Grasslands, prairies, and savannas
Desert edges and scrublands
Agricultural fields, orchards, and ranchlands
Urban and suburban areas with open spaces and nesting cavities

They favor areas with scattered perches such as utility poles or fence posts for hunting.

Diet

Primarily carnivorous, the American Kestrel’s diet is diverse and seasonally variable:

Small mammals like voles and mice
Grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, and other large insects
Small birds, lizards, and occasionally amphibians
They often hunt by hovering in place over open ground, then diving quickly to seize prey with their talons

They may cache food in tree cavities or other hiding spots for later consumption.

Behavior

American Kestrels are solitary or paired, and they are territorial during the breeding season. They nest in tree cavities, cliffs, buildings, or nest boxes. Unlike many raptors, kestrels exhibit sexual dimorphism in coloration. They use rapid wingbeats and gliding to patrol territories. Their calls are sharp, repeated “klee-klee-klee” sounds, especially during flight or territorial disputes. These bold and curious falcons often perch in visible locations, making them a favorite among birdwatchers..

25. Green Kingfisher

The Green Kingfisher (Chloroceryle americana) is a small, jewel-like bird found in the riparian zones of southern Texas. Though not as well known as its larger cousins, this kingfisher dazzles with its emerald plumage and swift fishing dives, especially near quiet streams and ponds.

Appearance

Identification features:

Small kingfisher, about 7–8 inches long with a wingspan of roughly 11 inches.
Males: dark green upperparts, white underparts, and a bold chestnut breast band.
Females: similar but with green spotting or streaking on the sides of the breast instead of a solid band.
Both sexes have a shaggy crest and long, straight, dagger-like black bill.
Short tail and rapid wingbeats during flight.

Its vibrant green feathers shine in sunlight, giving it a metallic appearance.

Habitat

The Green Kingfisher inhabits freshwater and slow-moving water bodies, especially in southern Texas:

Shaded streams, creeks, and oxbow lakes
Riverbanks and marshy areas with abundant vegetation
Usually prefers areas with clear water for spotting prey
Found mostly in South Texas, including the Rio Grande Valley and near the Gulf Coast

They require undisturbed banks for nesting burrows and perches for hunting.

Diet

A specialist fisher, the Green Kingfisher feeds mainly on small aquatic creatures:

Tiny fish, especially minnows and small perch
Aquatic insects such as dragonfly larvae
Occasionally small crustaceans like freshwater shrimp
They perch low over water and dive in a flash to snatch prey with their strong bill

They usually swallow prey head-first to avoid injury from spines or fins.

Behavior

These birds are solitary and secretive, often perching silently just above water. Unlike larger kingfishers, they are quieter and less conspicuous. Their call is a sharp, dry “tik-tik-tik,” often heard before the bird is seen darting low over the water. They dig nesting tunnels into earthen banks, often several feet deep, and both parents incubate the eggs. Green Kingfishers are year-round residents in their range and do not migrate.

Summary:

Texas’ unique position along migratory flyways and its mosaic of ecosystems—from coastal marshes to desert scrublands—make it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The 25 stunning birds highlighted here represent just a fraction of the state’s feathered treasures, offering endless opportunities for observation and study.

Whether you’re marveling at the Golden-cheeked Warbler’s endangered song in Central Texas or watching Whooping Cranes winter along the Gulf Coast, every sighting connects you to the natural beauty of the Lone Star State. Remember to visit during peak migration seasons (spring and fall) and explore key regions like the Lower Rio Grande Valley or Big Bend National Park for unforgettable encounters.