Backyard Birds of Oklahoma: a Guide to Feathered Friends in Your Yard (2024)

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As an Oklahoma resident, you’re fortunate to host a diverse array of backyard birds in your yard.

The vibrant Northern Cardinal, graceful Mourning Dove, and boisterous Red-winged Blackbird are common sights.

But there’s more! Learn to identify birds by color, from bright yellow American Goldfinches to rich blue Eastern Bluebirds.

Attract feathered friends with feeders, birdbaths, and native plants.

Enjoy seasonal bird-watching as hawks migrate in spring or cranes overwinter.

By understanding their habits and implementing conservation strategies, you’ll create a welcoming haven for Oklahoma’s backyard birds.

And that’s just the beginning – the experiences these winged wonders offer are truly engaging.

Common Backyard Birds in Oklahoma

You’ll commonly encounter the vibrant Northern Cardinal, graceful Mourning Dove, boisterous Red-winged Blackbird, cheerful American Robin, and ubiquitous House Sparrow in Oklahoma backyards. These species are easily identifiable by their distinct colors, calls, and behaviors, making backyard bird watching an enjoyable and educational pastime.

Northern Cardinal

The Northern Cardinal is a prominent backyard bird in Oklahoma, recognized for its vibrant red plumage and melodious song.

It typically thrives in various habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and urban areas.

Cardinals primarily consume seeds, fruits, and insects. Their conservation is critical due to habitat loss.

Symbolically, the cardinal represents beauty and essentiality.

Observing their interactions with other birds like hawks, sparrows, and woodpeckers is quite fascinating.

Mourning Dove

The Mourning Dove, a common backyard bird in Oklahoma, is often known for its gentle cooing call and distinctive swift flight. They’ve been observed in significant numbers across Oklahoma during colder months. These doves prefer open habitats and are often seen near backyard bird feeders . Below is a table comparing the notable aspects of the Mourning Dove with other backyard birds.

Traits	Mourning Dove
Sightings	Typically sighted in significant numbers
Diet	Primarily seeds, with occasional grains and insects
Behavior	Ground-feeding, swift flight, gentle cooing calls
Nest	Simple, platform-like, made of twigs and grasses
Habitat	Open areas, fields, backyard feeders

Red-winged Blackbird

The Red-winged Blackbird, commonly found in Oklahoma, showcases distinctive red and yellow shoulder patches. Their melodic songs resonate in wetland habitats, where they nest among cattails and shrubs. These agile birds exhibit territorial behavior, especially during the breeding season, and are known for their impressive aerial displays. Understanding their migration patterns can enhance your birdwatching experience.

American Robin

The American Robin, a familiar sight in Oklahoma backyards, is a thrush known for its cheerful song and distinctive orange breast. These adaptable birds thrive in urban and suburban areas, nesting in trees and shrubs. Robins feed on a variety of insects, worms, and berries, making them a welcome addition to any garden.

• Robins are one of the earliest birds to sing at dawn.
• They often forage in groups, especially during migration.
• Robins are known for their distinctive cheerio-cheerio song.
• They’re excellent at locating earthworms by sight and sound.
• Robins are a sign of spring and renewal in many cultures.

House Sparrow

The House Sparrow, a feisty little bird, is a common sight in Oklahoma backyards. These adaptable creatures thrive on human presence, often nesting in eaves and gutters. Their cheerful chirping adds life to any garden. To attract House Sparrows, offer a variety of seeds and suet. With their bold personalities, these birds bring endless entertainment to avid birdwatchers.

Behavior	Migration
Aggressive	Year-round resident
Noisy	Rarely migrates
Adaptable	Stays close to human habitats
Feeding Habits	Conservation
—————-	————–
Eats seeds, grains, insects	Considered an invasive species
Forages on the ground	Competes with native birds
Visits feeders regularly	Adapts well to urban environments

House Sparrows symbolize resilience, resourcefulness, and the joy of simple pleasures. Their presence reminds us to embrace life’s small wonders and find happiness in unexpected places.

Identifying Birds by Color

You can identify many backyard birds by their color. For example, bright yellow birds like the American Goldfinch or Yellow Warbler, vibrant red birds such as the Northern Cardinal or Summer Tanager, and rich blue birds like the Eastern Bluebird or Indigo Bunting often visit Oklahoma backyards.

Yellow Birds

Yellow birds such as Yellow Warblers and Goldfinches are commonly found in Oklahoma.

The vibrant yellow plumage of these birds makes them easily identifiable.

Their presence adds a lively touch to backyard birdwatching.

Observing their behavior and distinct features can enhance your birding experience, providing a deeper understanding of these delightful Yellow Warblers, Goldfinches, and other yellow-hued avian species in Oklahoma.

Red Birds

When identifying red birds in Oklahoma, look for these distinctive species:

1. Northern Cardinal
2. Summer Tanager
3. Red-headed Woodpecker
4. Scarlet Tanager

These species boast vibrant red plumage and can be commonly spotted in Oklahoma’s yards and woodlands. Keep an eye out for these iconic red birds as you enjoy the diverse avian life in your surroundings.

Blue Birds

Blue birds like the Eastern Bluebird are a joy to spot in Oklahoma backyards. Look for their bright blue backs, white bellies, and rusty chests. Bluebirds prefer open habitats with scattered trees and nest in cavities, so provide a bluebird house. They eat insects and berries. Listen for their cheerful warble. Bluebirds are year-round residents in Oklahoma.

Black Birds

Black birds are easy to spot in your Oklahoma backyard! Look for:

• Red-winged Blackbirds with their bold red shoulder patches and buzzy songs
• Grackles with iridescent feathers and long tails, often seen in large flocks
• Cowbirds, nest parasites that lay eggs in other birds’ nests
• Bobolinks in breeding plumage, with black bodies and white patches
• Brown-headed Cowbirds, another nest parasite species

  To attract blackbirds, offer millet and sunflower seeds. Provide water and native plants for nesting. Protect blackbirds by keeping cats indoors and reducing pesticide use. Enjoy these charismatic backyard birds!

Brown Birds

Brown birds are a diverse group found in Oklahoma backyards. From the rusty-colored House Sparrow to the streaked Lark Bunting, these feathered friends add beauty and interest. Observe their unique behaviors, like the Mourning Dove’s gentle cooing or the Killdeer’s broken-wing act. Protect brown birds by providing native plants and avoiding pesticides. With a keen eye, you’ll appreciate the subtle charm of these backyard beauties.

Species	Identifying Features	Habitat
House Sparrow	Small, brown with black bib	Urban areas, parks
Lark Bunting	Black in summer, brown in winter	Grasslands, fields
Mourning Dove	Long tapered tail, round head	Open areas, feeders

Attracting Birds to Your Backyard

You can attract a variety of birds to your backyard by providing essential resources such as:

Feeders filled with high-quality seed

Birdbaths for drinking and bathing

Native plants that offer food and shelter

Nesting boxes designed for specific species

Reliable water sources like small ponds or misters

Properly maintaining these elements and considering the specific needs of your local bird population will create an inviting environment for feathered visitors throughout the year.

Feeders

Avoid discussing things which would be discussed in the NEXT SUBTOPIC entitled ‘Native Plants‘.

Birdbaths

When setting up birdbaths, consider placing them in open areas.

Using various depths to accommodate different bird species.

Aim for water depths of 1-3 inches to attract egrets, grebes, plovers, kingbirds, and swallows.

Ensure birdbath accessories, like water drippers or fountains, help maintain water quality.

Clean birdbaths regularly to prevent the spread of diseases and provide a healthy environment for visiting birds.

Native Plants

Attract birds to your Oklahoma backyard by planting native plants from local nurseries. Choose pollinator plants and drought-tolerant species for bird-friendly landscaping. Consider species like wood-pewee, titmouse, gnatcatcher, phoebe, and kinglet when selecting your plants to create a welcoming environment for birds. Native plants guarantee the best chances of thriving in your garden and supporting the local ecosystem .

Nesting Boxes

Nesting boxes provide safe havens for birds like flycatchers, owls, and woodpeckers. Choose the right size and placement, using untreated wood and ventilation holes. Fill with soft nesting materials like grass, moss, or feathers. Clean boxes annually and monitor for occupancy. Enjoy watching birds raise their young in your backyard oasis!

Water Sources

Providing a dependable source of clean water is essential for luring birds to your backyard. Install a birdbath or shallow dish, maintain its cleanliness, and consider adding a dripper or mister to attract birds. Verify that the water is shallow, less than 2 inches deep, and position the bath near shrubs for protection from predators .

• Provide a dependable source of clean, unfrozen water year-round
• Keep birdbaths clean and free of algae and debris
• Place baths near cover but away from feeders to prevent contamination

Seasonal Bird Watching in Oklahoma

With the changing seasons, your backyard bird watching opportunities evolve as migratory species arrive or depart while year-round residents remain.

Spring migration brings a wave of colorful warblers, tanagers, and grosbeaks passing through Oklahoma, pausing to refuel before continuing their journey northward.

Summer finds resident species like Northern Cardinals, Mourning Doves, and Red-winged Blackbirds nesting and rearing their young in local habitats.

Spring Migration

Spring migration in Oklahoma brings the arrival of various bird species drawn by favorable weather patterns and habitat changes. Notable migrants include hawks, geese, kites, rails, and whistling-ducks. Tracking bird arrival during this time provides insights into migration patterns and nesting success. Understanding the influences of weather patterns on migratory behavior is important for birdwatchers and conservation efforts.

Summer Breeding

During the summer breeding season in Oklahoma, observe songbird courtship displays, nestling development, and fledgling behaviors. Breeding season length varies, with egg incubation durations specific to each species like the red-tailed hawk, hairy woodpecker, killdeer, cuckoo, and roadrunner. Engage in the fascinating spectacle of avian life cycles as these birds diligently raise their young in your backyard sanctuary.

Fall Migration

As fall approaches, Oklahoma’s skies come alive with the spectacle of bird migration.

Flocks of nighthawks, harriers, and parulas wing their way south, while teals and waxwings join the journey.

Bird banding stations track their progress, revealing the intricate patterns of their migratory routes and the importance of stopover sites along the way.

Observe these avian travelers as they pause to refuel and rest before continuing their journey.

Winter Residents

As the leaves fall and temperatures drop, Oklahoma’s backyards welcome a new cast of feathered friends.

Bitterns, cranes, eagles, hawks, and owls arrive from the north, seeking food and shelter.

Adapt your feeders with high-energy suet and seed mixes to support these winter residents.

Grab your binoculars and discover the unique adaptations that allow these birds to thrive in the cold.

Year-Round Species

Some backyard birds in Oklahoma, like the Northern Cardinal and Carolina Chickadee, are year-round residents. To attract these feathered friends year-round:

1. Provide a variety of feeders with different seed types, suet, and mealworms.
2. Install a heated birdbath for drinking and bathing.
3. Plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers that offer food and shelter.

Rare and Unusual Birds in Oklahoma

While most backyard birds in Oklahoma are common species like cardinals, robins, and sparrows, you may occasionally spot a few rare and unusual visitors. Keep an eye out for the reddish egret, roseate spoonbill, painted bunting, varied bunting, and groove-billed ani – their striking plumage and behaviors make them a memorable sight in your yard.

Reddish Egret

The Reddish Egret, a stunning bird native to Oklahoma, exhibits unique habitat preferences favoring shallow coastal waters.

Its diet mainly comprises fish, crustaceans, and amphibians.

Classified as Near Threatened due to habitat degradation, conservation efforts focus on preserving coastal wetlands.

During breeding, they exhibit elaborate courtship displays.

Their migration patterns vary, with some individuals migrating locally, unlike storks or falcons, emphasizing their distinct behavior among bird species.

Roseate Spoonbill

The Roseate Spoonbill is a stunning wading bird with a unique spoon-shaped bill.

These rare visitors to Oklahoma prefer coastal habitats, but occasionally venture inland.

They nest in colonies with other wading birds, feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects.

Habitat loss and human disturbance threaten this beautiful species.

Keep an eye out for these pink beauties near wetlands and estuaries.

Painted Bunting

The stunning Painted Bunting is a rare visitor to Oklahoma backyards. These colorful birds breed in the south-central U.S. and winter in Mexico and Central America. Look for them in brushy areas, thickets, and along forest edges. They eat seeds, berries, and insects. Conserve habitat to protect this beautiful species. (Source)

Varied Bunting

The varied bunting is a rare sight in Oklahoma backyards. This colorful bird prefers dense, brushy habitats along the state’s southern border. Its diet consists mainly of seeds and insects. Varied buntings migrate to Mexico and Central America for the winter. Though uncommon, these vibrant birds are a treat for any Oklahoma birder to spot.

Groove-billed Ani

The Groove-billed Ani is a rare and unusual bird in Oklahoma, identified by its unique vocalizations, intricate mating behavior, and nesting habits.

This bird has a diverse diet and distinct migration patterns, making it a fascinating subject for birdwatchers.

Photos and information about the Groove-billed Ani can be shared on birding forums or listservs, contributing to the collective understanding of this remarkable species .

Backyard Bird Feeding Tips

To attract a wide variety of backyard birds, offer an assortment of seed types, including black oil sunflower, nyjer, safflower, and mixed seed.

Suet cakes and hummingbird nectar are also excellent options for providing energy-rich sustenance to your feathered visitors.

When placing feeders, choose locations that offer nearby cover from predators and inclement weather but remain visible from a comfortable viewing area.

Proper feeder maintenance, such as regular cleaning and seed replenishment, guarantees a hospitable environment for your backyard bird population.

Seed Types

When stocking up on seed for your backyard birds, look for high-quality mixes that include a variety of seeds like black oil sunflower, nyjer, millet, and safflower.

Store seed in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

Offer multiple seed types in separate feeders to attract a wider range of species.

A little goes a long way – fill feeders just enough to last a few days to prevent spoilage.

Suet

When selecting suet for birds in Oklahoma, it’s important to contemplate various types, such as traditional, no-melt, or specialty blends with added fruits or insects.

Place suet feeders in shaded areas to prevent melting in warmer weather and offer birds a high-energy food source in winter.

Suet provides essential fats and proteins, benefiting birds year-round.

Consider making homemade suet or explore different commercial recipes for variety.

Hummingbird Nectar

Hummingbirds are drawn to nectar feeders, making it important to know the proper nectar recipe. A mixture of 4 parts water to 1 part sugar is recommended, ensuring a sufficient sugar concentration. Opt for feeder types with bright colors to attract hummingbirds. Regular nectar maintenance, including cleaning and refilling, is essential for the well-being of these remarkable birds. (Source)

Feeder Placement

When determining where to place your bird feeder, consider the feeder types and bird preferences.

Suitable locations include areas with open spaces for easy predator avoidance.

Make sure windows are a safe proximity away to prevent bird collisions.

Place the feeder near trees or shrubs to provide cover for birds.

Take care to position it in a spot that allows for easy observation from your home.

Feeder Maintenance

To keep your feeder birds healthy, clean feeders every 2-3 weeks with a 10% bleach solution. Dry thoroughly before refilling. Discard moldy seed. Feeders with drainage holes and perches that allow waste to fall through are best. Proper feeder hygiene prevents disease transmission and guarantees your backyard birds stay happy and healthy all year round.

Backyard Bird Nesting Habits

You’re in for an enthralling experience observing the nesting habits of backyard birds in Oklahoma. From nest construction using twigs, grass, and other materials, to egg laying, incubation periods, caring for nestlings, and witnessing fledglings take their first flight, the nesting cycle offers an insightful glimpse into avian life.

Nest Building

As spring arrives in Oklahoma, backyard birds get busy constructing their nests. They gather twigs, grass, moss, and even human hair to weave intricate homes. Cardinals prefer dense shrubs, while bluebirds look for nest boxes or tree cavities. Robins build mud-and-grass cups on ledges. Doves make flimsy stick platforms. Beware of nest predators like cats, snakes, and squirrels.

Egg Laying

During egg laying, female backyard birds select a suitable nesting site and use an array of nesting materials to construct a secure nest. The process of egg development takes place over a specific incubation period, essential for fledgling success. The selection of an appropriate nest site plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the incubating eggs.

Incubation

Once the eggs are laid, birds must keep them warm for a specific period to guarantee healthy development of the chicks.

This incubation period varies by species, but parents take turns sitting on the nest, using their body heat to maintain the ideal temperature.

Eggs typically hatch after 12-15 days for songbirds.

Brood parasites like cowbirds lay their eggs in other birds’ nests, relying on the host parents to incubate and raise their young.

Nestling Care

Once the eggs hatch, both parents work tirelessly to feed the hungry nestlings. They bring a variety of insects, spiders, seeds and berries to the nest. Nestlings are vulnerable to predators like snakes, cats and raccoons. Parasites like mites and blowfly larvae can also harm nestlings. Sadly, many nestlings don’t survive due to lack of food, disease or predation.

Fledgling Behavior

Once nestlings leave the nest, they enter the fledgling stage. Fledglings are still dependent on their parents for food and protection. They’ve limited mobility and rely on begging vocalizations to signal hunger. Parents continue to feed and guard fledglings, gradually encouraging independence. Fledglings eat a diet of insects, seeds, and berries provided by their parents.

• Fledglings beg for food with loud calls
• Parents bring fledglings insects, seeds, and berries
• Fledglings have short flights and hop on branches
• Parents defend fledglings from predators
• Fledglings gradually learn to feed themselves

Backyard Bird Behavior

You’ll often witness fascinating backyard bird behaviors like territorial disputes, where birds aggressively defend their nesting areas or food sources. Courtship displays, such as singing, dancing, or presenting nesting materials, can be observed during breeding seasons as birds attract mates.

Territorial Disputes

As spring arrives, your backyard birds engage in lively territorial disputes. Males belt out loud, complex songs to mark their boundaries and defend their nests from rivals. Feisty females join the fray, chasing away intruders with fierce dives and angry chatter. Food competition intensifies at crowded feeders, with dominant species bullying weaker ones. Resolving these conflicts is key to successful breeding.

Territorial Songs	Nest Defense	Boundary Disputes	Mating Displays
Loud, complex	Fierce dives	Marking borders	Bright colors
Advertise domain	Angry chatter	Rival eviction	Unique plumage
Attract mates	Protect eggs	Claim resources	Elaborate songs
Warn competitors	Feed young	Maintain territory	Courtship rituals

Courtship Displays

During spring, male backyard birds put on dazzling courtship displays to attract mates. You may witness:

1. Vibrant plumage – males flaunt their brightest feathers.
2. Aerial acrobatics – soaring, diving, and fluttering flights.
3. Vocal serenades – melodious songs and calls.
4. Ritualized dances – strutting, bowing, and wing-flapping.

These behaviors showcase a male’s fitness, territory, and parenting abilities. Observing courtship is a delightful way to appreciate the beauty and complexity of backyard bird life.

Feeding Habits

Bird feeding habits vary widely among species, with different food preferences affecting their behavior in the backyard. Understanding their seed, suet, and nectar preferences is key to attracting a diverse range of birds. Proper feeder placement can also influence the types of birds visiting your yard. A chart comparing the feeding habits of common backyard bird species is provided below:

Species	Food Preferences
Northern Cardinal	Seeds, fruits, insects
Mourning Dove	Seeds, grains, insects
Red-winged Blackbird	Seeds, grains, insects
American Robin	Earthworms, fruits, insects
House Sparrow	Seeds, grains, insects

Bathing and Preening

Birds maintain their feather quality by engaging in bathing and preening behaviors. They use various water sources, such as birdbaths or shallow dishes, for bathing purposes. Seasonal bathing helps them keep their feathers clean and free of debris. After bathing, birds engage in preening, carefully arranging their feathers with their beaks to remove dirt and excess oil. Wet feathers are then air-dried for maximum insulation and waterproofing.

• Utilize various water sources for bathing
• Engage in seasonal bathing to maintain feather quality
• Perform preening behaviors to arrange feathers and remove dirt and oil
• Air-dry wet feathers for insulation and waterproofing

Roosting

As the sun sets, your backyard birds settle in for the night. Many species, like bluebirds and woodpeckers, roost in tree cavities or birdhouses . Others, such as sparrows and finches, prefer dense shrubs or evergreens . Crows and blackbirds often gather in large communal roosts . Observe your feathered friends’ nocturnal behaviors and provide suitable roosting sites to support their needs.

Roosting Behavior	Examples
Tree Cavities	Bluebirds, Woodpeckers
Birdhouses	Bluebirds, Wrens
Dense Shrubs	Sparrows, Finches
Evergreens	Sparrows, Finches
Communal Roosts	Crows, Blackbirds

Backyard Bird Conservation

While observing the delightful feathered visitors in your Oklahoma backyard, it’s vital to be aware of the threats they face, such as habitat loss, window collisions, outdoor cats, pesticide exposure, and climate change’s impacts.

Taking proactive measures to mitigate these risks can contribute to the preservation of these remarkable avian species and ensure their continued presence for generations to come.

Habitat Loss

Habitat loss is the primary threat to backyard birds in Oklahoma. Preserving natural habitats by planting native vegetation and avoiding pesticides is essential. Provide bird-friendly landscaping with dense shrubs, trees, and water sources. Avoid clearing vegetation during nesting season. Outdoor cats also pose a significant threat to backyard birds. Keep cats indoors or use cat enclosures to protect birds.

Window Collisions

Window collisions are a major threat to backyard birds. To keep your feathered friends safe, minimize glass reflections, turn off outdoor lighting at night, and avoid planting vegetation too close to windows. Install window decals or screens to break up reflections and alert birds to the glass barrier. Prioritize bird safety when designing your backyard oasis.

Outdoor Cats

Outdoor cats pose significant dangers to bird populations.

Implementing effective outdoor cat control strategies such as containment, deterrents, and sterilization can help mitigate their impact on bird conservation.

Always consider outdoor cat alternatives that prioritize bird safety and well-being in your backyard habitat.

Pesticides

Pesticides can be harmful to backyard birds. Instead, use organic gardening methods and bird-safe plants to create a healthy habitat. Avoid spraying insecticides, which can poison birds and reduce their food supply. Plant native flowers, shrubs and trees to attract insects for birds to eat. Your backyard can be a safe haven for feathered friends with a few simple changes.

Climate Change

Climate change impacts backyard bird conservation in Oklahoma through range shifts, affecting food availability and increasing habitat loss. To address this, important conservation measures are essential, such as preserving native habitats, reducing pesticide use, and supporting initiatives to mitigate climate change effects. Engaging in habitat restoration projects and promoting awareness about the significance of conserving bird habitats are critical steps in safeguarding backyard bird populations.

• Preserve native habitats
• Reduce pesticide use
• Support climate change mitigation initiatives
• Promote awareness on habitat conservation (Source)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)