Watch Out for Birds! Popular Birdwatching in Missouri

Birdwatching in Missouri

There are over 900 different species of birds in North America and more than 400 varieties of species we can find when birdwatching in Missouri. During the coming weeks, we will give tips on how to attract various kinds of birds, what they like to eat, and what you can do to help them feel comfortable nesting in your own backyard.

In this post, we will list a few common species of birds that you will likely see when birdwatching in Missouri and the surrounding area and when to expect them.

Birdwatching in Missouri (Popular Species)

Birdwatching in Missouri - Eastern Bluebird

Male Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis)

Eastern Bluebirds are common in Missouri. They are permanent residents in many southern states and in the Midwest. In other states, they will arrive early in the spring and stay through late fall.


Birdwatching in Missouri - Cardinals

A pair of cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis)

The Cardinal is a permanent resident in most eastern, southern and midwestern states throughout the year.


istockphoto goldfinch

American Goldfinch (Carduelis tristis)

The American Goldfinch will remain in the middle part of the U.S. throughout the seasons, even in northern states with good food supply.


istockphoto nuthatch 1

A white breasted nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis)

White-breasted Nuthatches are usually permanent residents throughout much of North America.


istockphoto carolina wren

Carolina Wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus)

North Carolina and House Wrens are in most of North America and may migrate north for breeding during fall or spring.


istockphoto hummingbird

A Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris)

Almost all Hummingbirds leave North America in the fall. The males will return in spring earlier than the females.


istockphoto red headed woodpecker

Red headed Woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus)

The Red-Headed Woodpecker will likely be seen throughout the year. Nesting holes are usually built in the beginning of the breeding season in late April and May.


istockphoto baltimore oriole

Male Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula)

The Baltimore Oriole and Orchard Oriole are common summer residents in Missouri. Orioles can arrive as early as April and most will leave by the end of August.


These are only a few of the kinds of birds you’ll see when birdwatching in Missouri.  Looking for more? You can find more at Audubon.

We hope you have found this post helpful and continue to look out for our future posts. We will talk to experienced bird-watchers who will give us great tips on birds’ habitats and feeding habits. As always, remember to follow us on Facebook and if you have any questions or comments, please click the comment button. Thanks for reading and happy birdwatching!

Looking for wild bird seed to feed your feathered friends? Pleasant Hill Pet & Livestock has a great selection of seed for birdwatching!