Backyard Birds of Nevada: a Comprehensive Guide to Feathered Visitors (2024)

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As a Nevada backyard enthusiast, you’re in for a delight regarding the state’s diverse backyard birds.

From majestic waterfowl like Canada Geese and Mallards to nimble songbirds such as Verdins and Ruby-crowned Kinglets, your outdoor haven is a top destination for feathered visitors.

Keep an eye out for the iconic Black Phoebe’s tail-bobbing antics, the California Scrub-Jay’s raucous calls, and the soaring grace of Red-tailed Hawks.

With the right backyard habitat, you may even attract desert specialists like Gambel’s Quail or Anna’s Hummingbirds.

Immerse yourself further to uncover the secrets of Nevada’s rich avian tapestry.

Waterfowl

Waterfowl, comprising ducks, geese, and other aquatic birds, are a familiar sight in Nevada’s backyards, parks, and wetlands. From the majestic Canada Goose and the ubiquitous Mallard, to the distinctive Ruddy Duck, American Coot, Killdeer, Great Blue Heron, and Double-crested Cormorant, these feathered visitors add a touch of natural beauty and life to urban and suburban landscapes.

Canada Goose

You may spot Canada Geese in your backyard during their migration through Nevada. Known for their:

1. Distinctive honking calls
2. V-shaped flight formations
3. Grazing on grassy areas

These large waterfowl breed in montane forests and grasslands, exhibiting interesting social behaviors and strong family bonds. Their conservation status is currently stable.

Mallard

You’ll often spot the vibrant mallard duck gracing Nevada’s lakes and marshes. During mating season, watch the male’s dazzling green head and chestnut breast impress potential mates through elaborate courtship displays. These hardy birds nest near water sources before migrating south for winter. Preserving wetland habitats aids mallard conservation efforts in our desert state.

Ruddy Duck

The ruddy duck’s chestnut-red body and upturned tail are a striking sight in Nevada’s backyard ponds. These compact divers:

1. Breed in marshes and wet meadows
2. Migrate long distances to wintering grounds
3. Favor shrubby areas with dense vegetation

Monitor their declining populations and protect remaining wetland habitats to enjoy these unique ducks’ presence.

American Coot

You may spot the American coot, a plump, dark bird with a distinctive white beak, wading in marshes or ponds. These sociable waterfowl breed across Nevada, with males performing elaborate courtship displays. Though populations are stable, habitat loss threatens their wetland homes—a reminder of our role in conservation efforts.

Killdeer

When you spot a killdeer’s distinct black collar and tail markings in your backyard, you’re witnessing one of Nevada’s most intriguing shorebirds. These plovers nest right on the ground, feigning broken wings to lead predators away from their well-camouflaged eggs. Their insect-rich diet sustains them throughout Nevada’s warm months before migrating south.

Great Blue Heron

You’ll often spot the stately great blue heron wading in Nevada’s wetlands. These tall, long-legged birds:

1. Breed in colonies near water sources
2. Migrate south for warmer winters
3. Hunt fish, amphibians, and small mammals
4. Prefer wetland habitats like marshes and ponds

Watch for their distinctive s-curved neck as they patiently stalk prey. With careful observation, you may glimpse their fascinating feeding behaviors.

Double-crested Cormorant

While observing the double-crested cormorant, you’ll notice its slender body and distinctive double crest. These fish-eating birds nest in colonies near water sources, diving to catch their prey. Though adaptable, their populations face threats from habitat loss and human disturbance. Learning about their nesting habits and conservation status promotes responsible bird-watching.

Birds of Prey

Among the birds of prey you might spot in your Nevada backyard are the red-tailed hawk, northern flicker, and American kestrel.

The red-tailed hawk is a large raptor that soars high in the sky with its distinctive rust-colored tail.

The northern flicker, a striking woodpecker with a black breast and red patch on the nape, often feeds on the ground or excavates nests in trees.

Red-tailed Hawk

You’ll spot the red-tailed hawk:

1. Soaring on thermal updrafts
2. Perching on telephone poles
3. Nesting in tall trees
4. Hunting small mammals

These raptors migrate across Nevada, aiding seed dispersal. Distinguish them from ferruginous hawks by their reddish tails. Listen for their screaming kree-ahh calls echoing through open spaces.

Northern Flicker

You might spot the Northern Flicker, a woodpecker cousin, pecking at your yard. These quirky birds favor open woodlands near suburbs, foraging for insects and seeds on the ground. Their distinctive "flickering" flight and loud calls make them hard to miss. Like their red-winged blackbird and northern mockingbird neighbors, they’re year-round Nevada residents.

American Kestrel

You might spot the American Kestrel, a petite falcon, hovering above open fields or perched on wires. This fierce hunter displays:

• Rusty back and tail
• Slate-blue wings
• Distinctive black mustache markings
• Rapid wingbeats while hunting

Their mating rituals involve dazzling aerial displays, making them a alluring backyard visitor.

Songbirds

Nevada’s songbirds are a delightful addition to any backyard. From the melodic trills of the Black Phoebe to the raucous calls of the Common Raven, these feathered vocalists enliven outdoor spaces with their diverse songs and behaviors.

Black Phoebe

The energetic black phoebe, a small songbird with a constant tail-bobbing motion, calls urban backyards and streamside settings home. These aerial insectivores construct nests from mud, moss, and plant fibers under bridges and overhangs. Listen for their characteristic "chebec" call as they hawk insects from conspicuous perches.

Appearance	Small, dark gray with white belly
Diet	Flying insects
Habitat	Near water sources
Status	Common resident

Common Raven

The common raven is a true Nevada native, found across diverse habitats from deserts to mountains.

Intelligent and adaptable, these iconic black birds thrive on a varied diet of insects, carrion, and even human scraps.

Watch for their stick nests on cliff ledges and power line towers where mated pairs form lifelong bonds.

Listen for their iconic "caw" echoing through Lamoille Canyon—it’s the call of Nevada’s largest songbird.

California Scrub-Jay

Moving on from the alluring common raven, let’s explore the feisty California Scrub-Jay. Envision these:

1. A bold blue crest
2. Raucous screeching calls
3. Acrobatic nut-burying antics
4. Territorial defense displays

These iconic backyard birds thrive in Nevada’s shrubby, oak-dotted habitats, delighting with their charismatic scrub jay behavior.

Verdin

You might spot the petite Verdin, a gray songbird with a chestnut crown patch and curved bill, flitting among desert scrub. These sociable birds forage for insects and seeds in small flocks, nesting colonially in thorny shrubs. Admire their intricate grass-woven nests, and listen for their cheery, descending call notes.

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

While the verdin thrives in desert habitats, you’ll find the ruby-crowned kinglet in:

1. Coniferous forests
2. Riparian areas
3. Well-vegetated suburbs

This petite songbird sports a ruby crown visible during mating displays. Listen for its high-pitched trill and tsee calls. Though tiny, it fearlessly defends its territory from intruders, even larger birds!

Marsh Wren

Hear that loud, bubbly song? The marsh wren’s rambunctious vocals fill Nevada’s wetlands. These tiny, streaked brown birds thrive in marshy vegetation, expertly weaving their grass-domed nests. Watch as they flit from reedbed to tule patch, gobbling insects and spiders. Appreciate these resilient songbirds – habitat loss threatens their marsh havens. Support wetland conservation efforts.

Bewick’s Wren

Much like its marsh-dwelling cousin, you’ll find Bewick’s Wren hopping about energetically in:

1. Brushy areas
2. Woodpiles
3. Tangles of vines
4. Overgrown gardens

Listen for its bright, bubbly song and watch for its upright tail as it forages for insects and spiders. These sprightly birds build domed nests with side entrances, often reusing old nest cavities.

European Starling

You’re likely familiar with the European starling’s glossy black plumage and noisy flocks crowding urban areas. This invasive species migrates in massive murmurations, consuming grains and fruits. While a backyard nuisance, these gregarious birds exhibit fascinating roosting behavior, huddling together for warmth and protection from predators like hawks.

Northern Mockingbird

You’ll often hear the cheery, mimicking calls of the Northern Mockingbird in your backyard. This bold, gray songbird with white wing patches loves open spaces with trees and shrubs for nesting. It feasts on insects, fruits, and seeds, defending its territory with vigorous singing. Supporting native plants aids in conserving this migratory species‘ habitat.

American Robin

That perky bird with the rusty-red breast is the American Robin, a beloved backyard visitor. These adaptable songbirds feast on earthworms, fruits, and your lawn-clipped insects. While some robins migrate, many stay year-round, nesting in trees or structures. Appreciate their cheerful songs heralding spring’s arrival—and watch your step during breeding season!

Doves and Pigeons

Two of the most commonly seen doves in Nevada backyards are the Eurasian Collared-Dove and the Mourning Dove. The Eurasian Collared-Dove, an invasive species, has a distinct black collar on its neck, while the Mourning Dove’s long, pointed tail and mournful cooing make it easily recognizable.

Eurasian Collared-Dove

Those charming Eurasian Collared-Doves pecking around your yard? These resilient birds:

1. Thrive in urban and suburban areas
2. Feed on seeds, grains, and insects
3. Build flimsy stick nests on ledges

   Having spread from Asia, they’re now common across Nevada and the American Southwest. Their mournful "coo-coo-coo" call rings out as they keep expanding their range.

Mourning Dove

You’ve likely noticed mourning doves, gentle birds with mournful coos echoing in your yard. Their nesting habits are fascinating:

Nest Location	Nest Structure	Egg Color
On flat surfaces or branches	Flimsy twig platform	White
In trees, on buildings	No nesting material	–
Frequently uses same nest	–	–

These doves prefer open habitats and eat seeds, making suburban areas ideal.

Other Notable Birds

Beyond the common backyard birds, Nevada offers an array of other avian visitors worth observing. From the comical Gambel’s Quail to the majestic Bald Eagle, these feathered creatures add vibrant diversity to the state’s natural landscapes.

Gambel’s Quail

You’ll likely encounter Gambel’s Quail foraging for seeds in desert scrublands or residential areas. These plump, terrestrial birds form tight-knit coveys, relying on dense vegetation for nesting and protection from predators. Their distinctive topknot plumes and curved crest make them easily identifiable. Sadly, overgrazing and urbanization pose threats to their dwindling habitats.

Rock Pigeon

You’re likely familiar with the rock pigeon, a ubiquitous sight in urban areas. These birds:

• Thrive in human-modified environments
• Feed on seeds, grains, and discarded food
• Nest on ledges and rooftops
• Exhibit a range of plumage colors

Though often dismissed as "pests," rock pigeons are adaptable survivors deserving of our respect.

Anna’s Hummingbird

You’ll recognize Anna’s Hummingbird by its iridescent emerald feathers and slender, curved beak designed for sipping nectar. Despite their tiny size, these migratory marvels make annual journeys spanning hundreds of miles. Observe them hovering and darting among your garden’s blooms – a shimmering delight.

Anatomy	Beak: Slender, curved	Wings: Rapid, hovering
Migration	Annual, hundreds of miles	Follow blooms, nectar
Diet	Nectar, insects	Frequent sips required
Appearance	Iridescent emerald plumage	Compact, agile

Hooded Merganser

You’ll often spot the striking hooded merganser diving for fish in Nevada’s lakes and rivers. Admire its sleek body and distinct crest as it surfaces. This migratory waterfowl breeds in tree cavities during spring, its thin, serrated beak adept at catching aquatic prey. Learn its unique habits for an enriching birdwatching experience.

Green-winged Teal

If you’re fortunate, you might spot the dainty green-winged teal during its migration through Nevada’s wetlands.

These small dabbling ducks prefer shallow marshes and ponds where they feed on aquatic plants and insects.

Watch for their distinctive green stripe on the male’s head and their bright yellow legs.

Though their numbers are stable, preserving wetland habitats is essential for this charming bird’s continued survival.

Great Egret

While on the lookout for green-winged teal, you’ll likely spot the statuesque great egret wading in shallow waters. These elegant birds breed in wetlands, constructing nests in trees or bushes. Their conservation status is "Least Concern," though habitat loss remains a threat. During migration, keep an eye out for their distinctive black legs and yellow bill.

American Avocet

You may spot the elegant American avocet, wading in shallow wetlands with its long, upturned bill. This shorebird feeds on aquatic insects, mollusks, and crustaceans by sweeping its bill through the water. During breeding season, avocets nest in loose colonies on gravelly or sandy sites near water. Their striking black-and-white plumage and bold markings make them easy to identify.

American White Pelican

The regal American White Pelican is a sight to behold, with its massive wingspan and brilliant white plumage.

These birds migrate through Nevada, resting and feeding in wetlands and lakes. You might spot them gracefully gliding over the water’s surface, scooping up fish and aquatic plants with their massive pouched bills.

Their breeding colonies are a spectacular sight, reminding us of the importance of habitat conservation for these majestic birds.

Clark’s Grebe

You’ll spot Clark’s Grebe, a sleek aquatic bird, gliding effortlessly across Nevada’s lakes and marshes. Observe their:

1. Striking black and white plumage
2. Graceful courtship dances
3. Voracious appetite for small fish and crustaceans

This migratory species favors freshwater habitats, nesting in colonies and undertaking impressive migrations each year.

American Bittern

The elusive American Bittern is a marsh dweller you might spot in Nevada’s wetlands. With its streaky brown plumage and slender body, it blends effortlessly into the reeds. Listen for its distinctive pumping call during breeding season as males advertise their territory. Though fairly adaptable, habitat loss remains a concern for this wading bird.

Black-crowned Night Heron

You’ll spot the black-crowned night heron stalking through wetlands at dusk, its distinctive "quawk" call piercing the evening air. This nocturnal feeder sports a sleek black crown and back, contrasting with reddish-brown plumage. Observe its patient hunting style along pond edges before it snaps up frogs or small fish with its dagger-like bill.

Turkey Vulture

If you spot a large, dark bird soaring effortlessly on tilted wings, it may be the turkey vulture – a natural scavenger. Although not the most graceful flyer, its:

• Keen eyesight
• Excellent sense of smell
• Voracious appetite
• Essential role in the ecosystem

Make it a welcome backyard visitor by providing roosting areas and avoiding toxic substances that could contaminate its food sources.

Bald Eagle

You may spot the majestic bald eagle soaring overhead, its distinctive white head and tail unmistakable. These impressive birds of prey rely on fish, small mammals, and carrion as food sources. Study their hunting patterns and nesting sites near lakes and rivers. Migratory routes bring them to Nevada, where conservation efforts protect their habitats.

Sight	Sound	Symbol
Soaring majesty	Piercing cry	Freedom
Keen hunter	Powerful wings	Resilience

Barn Swallow

You might spot the graceful barn swallow swooping over fields in summer. These deeply forked-tailed birds feed on insects, nesting in barns and bridges. Their diet aids pest control for farmers. After breeding, they migrate incredible distances to Central and South America, guiding themselves by the stars. Sadly, their numbers decline due to habitat loss and pesticides.

Evening Grosbeak

You may spot the striking evening grosbeak during winter, when they migrate south from their northern breeding grounds. These thick-billed finches are:

• Bright yellow and black, with white wing patches
• Often found foraging in tree canopies and bird feeders
• Fond of sunflower seeds, fruits, and buds
• More common in mountain regions with coniferous forests
• Experiencing population declines due to habitat loss

Ensure to provide them with suitable habitat and food sources to aid their conservation.

Audubon Warbler

If you’re lucky during your spring and summer birding adventures, you might spot the striking Audubon Warbler. These lively warblers prefer riparian habitats with thick foliage for nesting and foraging. Listen for their melodious, buzzy trill echoing through the woodlands during their brief breeding season in Nevada.

Band-tailed Pigeon

You may also encounter the Band-tailed Pigeon, a large bird with a distinct black crescent on its nape. These seed-eaters inhabit oak woodlands and forage on acorns, berries, and grains. Listen for their distinctive cooing and watch for their flocking behavior during breeding season in pine-oak forests.

Black-chinned Hummingbird

Visiting from Mexico, the tiny black-chinned hummingbird arrives in Nevada by late spring to nest. These iridescent acrobats prefer desert riparian areas, sipping nectar from red flowers like trumpet vines and sage. Their high-pitched trills fill the air while they aggressively defend territories from rival hummers. Learn their unique courtship rituals and watch these aerial marvels feistily defend nest sites.

Black-headed Grosbeak

If you’re graced with a black-headed grosbeak visiting your backyard, savor this striking songbird’s vibrant presence. With a hefty, seed-cracking beak that transforms from dusky to brilliant orange during breeding season, these migratory birds favor open woodlands and forests. Their melodious warbling enriches spring and summer before they depart for warmer climes.

American Dipper

Have you spotted the American Dipper, also known as the "water ouzel"? This unique songbird, often mistaken for a winter wren, thrives near fast-moving streams and rivers. Watch as it dips and bobs while foraging underwater for aquatic insects. Breeding season typically spans from April to July, so listen for their loud, ringing songs echoing through the canyons.

American Goldfinches

While admiring your feathered visitors, keep an eye out for the vibrant American goldfinches.

These cheerful songbirds flock to backyard feeders filled with nyjer and sunflower seeds.

Listen for their delightful warbling songs and watch for their undulating flight patterns during migration.

Offer nesting materials like plant fibers to attract breeding pairs.

Protect them from predators like hawks and outdoor cats.

American Water Pipit

If you spot a small, slender bird bobbing its way across your yard, you might be in the presence of the American Water Pipit. These ground-dwelling insectivores frequent streams and wet areas, nesting near water sources. Listen for their distinctive "pip-it" calls or observe their erratic, bounding flight patterns during breeding season as they defend their territories.

House Finch

If you’ve noticed a small, streaky-brown bird with a red face and breast, you’ve likely encountered the ubiquitous House Finch. With their incessant, cheery warbling and sociable nature, these granivores thrive in urban and suburban areas, nesting in cavities and building nests from plant materials and strings. Though non-migratory, their cheerful presence enhances any backyard.

Mountain Bluebird

You’ll often spot the vibrant Mountain Bluebird, Nevada’s state bird, perched on fences or hovering above fields. With its:

1. Brilliant blue plumage
2. Melodic warbling song
3. Aerial hunting for insects

These cavity-nesters thrive in open habitats like sagebrush and meadows. Support their conservation by providing nest boxes.

Pileated Woodpecker

You’re likely to spot the striking Pileated Woodpecker in Nevada’s wooded areas. With its striking black body, white stripes, and flaming-red crest, it’s unmistakable. Listen for its distinctive loud calls and watch for rectangular holes in dead trees – signs of its nest cavities and feeding.

Feature	Description
Size	Crow-sized, around 16-19 inches long
Habitat	Mature forests with dead trees
Behavior	Drums on trees, excavates nest cavities

Wood Duck

You’re sure to spot the stunning Wood Duck on Nevada’s ponds and marshes. These dabbling ducks thrive in wooded swamps and wetlands, feasting on seeds, insects, and aquatic plants. Their elaborate courtship displays are a marvel, with males sporting iridescent green crests and chestnut breasts to attract mates. After nesting in tree cavities, they migrate to wintergrounds further south.

Bufflehead

After observing the Wood Duck, you might spot the dapper Bufflehead, a petite diving duck that’s a delight to watch. These buoyant birds often:

1. Congregate on lakes and ponds in winter
2. Dive for aquatic insects and plants
3. Display a large white patch behind the eye
4. Nest in tree cavities near water

Buffleheads face threats like habitat loss, so supporting conservation efforts aids in their continued existence.

Black-bellied Whistling-duck

You may spot the black-bellied whistling-duck, a distinctive waterfowl species, during its annual migration through Nevada. Known for their unique whistling call and dark belly patch, these ducks breed in wetlands and marshy areas. Observe their courtship rituals and nesting habits, contributing to citizen science efforts tracking their conservation status.

Breeding Season	Summer
Habitats	Wetlands, Marshes
Diet	Aquatic Plants, Insects
Taxonomic Order	Anseriformes
Conservation Status	Least Concern

Ferruginous Hawk

You might spot the impressive Ferruginous Hawk soaring over open fields and grasslands. This large raptor prefers to hunt from a perch, patiently waiting to swoop down on small mammals like rabbits and ground squirrels. Here are some key facts:

1. Largest hawk in North America
2. Reddish-brown feathers on back and wings
3. Conservation efforts aim to protect nesting areas

Cooper’s Hawk

You may spot the stealthy Cooper’s Hawk hunting in suburban areas, parks, and woodlots. Observe its distinctive flap-flap-glide flight pattern as it pursues prey with lightning speed. This fierce raptor prefers dense cover for nesting and targets smaller birds and mammals.

Habitat	Hunting	Diet
Woodlands, suburbs	Ambush from cover	Songbirds, squirrels
Parks, urban areas	Swift pursuit	Rodents, bats
Riparian zones	Patient stalking	Young rabbits

Broad-winged Hawk

You might spot the broad-winged hawk soaring above Nevada’s woodlands during its spring migration. These compact raptors adeptly hunt small mammals and insects, swooping down with their distinctive broad wings. Look for their distinctive white bands near tree canopies, where they nest in the warmer months before continuing south.

Rough-legged Hawk

A winter visitor, you’ll recognize the rough-legged hawk by its distinctive feathered legs and dark wrist patches. Watch for these birds hunting low over open fields and marshes, hovering on outstretched wings before plummeting to capture small mammals. Their migration patterns and nesting habits in the Arctic tundra make them a welcome sight in Nevada’s chilly months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)