Montana hosts a remarkable variety of bird species, from vibrant songbirds to majestic raptors. Its diverse landscapes, including forests, grasslands, wetlands, and mountains, provide homes for both resident and migratory birds year-round.
Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can encounter an array of species with unique behaviors, calls, and appearances. From the cheerful American Robin to the impressive Pileated Woodpecker, Montana’s birds can be observed in urban areas as well as in the wild.
This guide presents 43 common birds in Montana, with detailed information on identification, feeding habits, behavior, and habitats. The descriptions are designed to help readers of all experience levels recognize and appreciate the state’s avian diversity.
Types of Birds Found in Montana
Boreal Chickadee
The Boreal Chickadee is a less common species in Montana, easily recognized by its chocolate-brown cap and back, white cheeks, and buff-colored underparts. Slightly smaller than its relatives, it measures about 4.7 to 5.5 inches long and has a short, stubby bill. Its soft, nasal call differs from the sharper notes of other chickadees, helping birders identify it in the field.
This chickadee feeds on insects, insect eggs, and spiders during the summer months, switching to conifer seeds, berries, and cached food during the winter. Like other chickadees, it displays agile foraging behavior, often clinging to bark or dangling from branches in search of hidden food sources. It has been observed storing seeds in bark crevices to retrieve later.
In Montana, Boreal Chickadees are found primarily in the northern and western parts of the state, where dense spruce-fir forests dominate. Their distribution is more limited compared to Black-capped and Mountain Chickadees, as they prefer boreal forest habitats. Though not abundant, they represent a unique northern element of Montana’s avifauna.
American Robin
The American Robin is one of the most recognizable birds in Montana, known for its bright orange-red breast, grayish-brown back, and cheerful song. Adults measure about 9 to 11 inches long with a wingspan of 12 to 16 inches, making them medium-sized songbirds. Males are slightly more vibrant in color compared to females, while juveniles often show spotted breasts until they molt into adult plumage.
Robins are ground foragers, often seen hopping across lawns and fields as they search for earthworms, beetles, and other insects. During the late summer and fall, their diet shifts more heavily toward berries and fruits, which they often consume in large flocks. This seasonal change in diet plays a key role in their ability to survive Montana’s harsh winters.
In Montana, American Robins are widespread across cities, forests, farmlands, and even mountainous areas up to the tree line. They are among the earliest migratory birds to return in spring, signaling the change of seasons. Although some overwinter in the state, most migrate southward to warmer regions during extreme cold.
Black-capped Chickadee
The Black-capped Chickadee is a small, charming bird that residents of Montana often recognize by its black cap and bib, white cheeks, and soft gray back. Measuring about 4.7 to 5.9 inches in length, this tiny songbird has a short neck and a rounded body, giving it a distinctive appearance. Its rapid wingbeats and acrobatic movements make it an energetic presence at bird feeders and in the forest.
Known for its namesake “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call, this bird communicates warnings about predators and signals flock behavior. It primarily feeds on insects, spiders, and larvae during the warmer months, while seeds and berries form the bulk of its winter diet. Black-capped Chickadees often cache food in bark crevices or hidden spots, relying on an excellent memory to retrieve it later.
In Montana, they inhabit mixed woodlands, urban parks, and riparian areas. They are year-round residents and adapt well to cold weather, often puffing up their feathers to stay insulated during freezing nights. Their resilience and familiarity make them one of the most beloved backyard birds across the state.
Mountain Chickadee
The Mountain Chickadee can be distinguished from its close relative, the Black-capped Chickadee, by the thin white line above its eye, which gives it a slightly masked appearance. Its body size is similar, averaging 4.5 to 5.5 inches long, with a short bill and rounded body. The plumage consists of gray wings and back, a black cap and throat, and pale underparts.
This species feeds largely on insects, caterpillars, and other invertebrates during spring and summer, while shifting to seeds and conifer cones during colder months. Mountain Chickadees are agile foragers, often clinging to pine needles or hanging upside down to reach hidden food. Like other chickadees, they cache food in small hiding spots to prepare for lean winter days.
In Montana, Mountain Chickadees are primarily found in higher-elevation coniferous forests, especially in the Rocky Mountains. They are non-migratory and endure harsh winters by roosting in cavities or dense foliage for shelter. Their preference for mountainous habitats sets them apart from the Black-capped Chickadee, which thrives in lower elevations.
Red-breasted Nuthatch
The Red-breasted Nuthatch is a small, compact bird measuring about 4.3 to 4.7 inches in length, with a sharp, straight bill and short tail. Its striking plumage includes a black eye stripe, blue-gray back, and a rusty-red breast and belly. Unlike chickadees, nuthatches often climb headfirst down tree trunks, a behavior that makes them easy to identify.
Their diet consists primarily of insects and spiders during the breeding season, while conifer seeds form the bulk of their food in winter. Red-breasted Nuthatches frequently visit bird feeders, especially when natural food sources are scarce, favoring sunflower seeds and suet. Their distinctive “yank-yank” call is another reliable clue to their presence.
In Montana, they are strongly associated with coniferous forests, particularly spruce, fir, and pine stands in mountainous areas. They are year-round residents and often join mixed flocks with chickadees and kinglets during the colder months. Their adaptability and striking plumage make them a favorite among birdwatchers in the state.
White-breasted Nuthatch
The White-breasted Nuthatch is larger than its red-breasted relative, measuring 5 to 5.9 inches long with a wingspan of about 8 to 10 inches. It has a bold black crown, white face and underparts, and blue-gray back with black wing markings. Its long bill and habit of creeping along branches and trunks make it a distinctive species in Montana woodlands.
This bird feeds on insects, beetles, caterpillars, and spiders during warmer months, while acorns and other nuts become essential in fall and winter. White-breasted Nuthatches are skilled at wedging seeds into bark crevices and hammering them open with their sharp bills. They are frequent visitors to backyard feeders, often seen grabbing sunflower seeds and flying off to store them.
In Montana, they are found in deciduous and mixed woodlands, especially areas with large oak and cottonwood trees. They are non-migratory residents and remain active throughout the year, using tree cavities for roosting and nesting. Their bold behavior and distinctive “yank-yank” calls make them a familiar presence across much of the state.
Brown Creeper
The Brown Creeper is a small, slender bird with mottled brown plumage that blends perfectly with tree bark. Measuring about 4.7 to 5.5 inches in length with a thin, down-curved bill and long stiff tail feathers, it uses its tail as support while climbing. Its white underparts contrast with its cryptic upperparts, helping birders identify it when it spirals up tree trunks in search of food.
This species specializes in probing bark crevices for insects, spiders, and larvae, often starting at the base of a tree and working its way upward in a distinctive pattern. During winter, it supplements its diet with seeds. Brown Creepers are quiet and inconspicuous, but their high-pitched calls give away their presence in forests.
In Montana, they are year-round residents in mature coniferous and mixed forests, often associated with large trees and standing dead wood. Their reliance on old-growth habitats makes them more common in less disturbed areas of the state. Birdwatchers can often spot them in the Rockies and northern woodlands.
House Sparrow
The House Sparrow is a familiar, non-native species in Montana, introduced from Europe in the 19th century. It has a stocky build, measuring about 5.9 to 6.7 inches in length, with a short tail and strong bill. Males are easily recognized by their gray crown, black throat bib, chestnut nape, and streaked brown back, while females are more uniformly brown with lighter underparts.
These sparrows are opportunistic feeders, consuming seeds, grains, and insects, but they also scavenge human food scraps. Their adaptability to urban and rural environments has allowed them to thrive across Montana towns, farms, and city streets. They are social birds, often seen in noisy flocks around buildings and feeders.
In Montana, House Sparrows are most abundant in human settlements rather than wilderness. They nest in cavities, crevices, and man-made structures, sometimes outcompeting native cavity-nesting birds. Though not native, they have become a permanent and widespread part of the state’s birdlife.
American Crow
The American Crow is a large, all-black bird measuring about 16 to 21 inches long with a wingspan of 33 to 39 inches. Its glossy feathers, stout bill, and fan-shaped tail make it easy to distinguish from similar species. Its cawing voice is loud and familiar, often heard across open fields, towns, and farmlands in Montana.
Crows are omnivores and opportunistic feeders, consuming insects, earthworms, grains, carrion, and even small vertebrates. They are also known to scavenge around human settlements, where they eat garbage and discarded food. Their intelligence is remarkable, as they are capable of using tools, caching food, and problem-solving.
In Montana, American Crows are found statewide, frequenting agricultural fields, woodlands, and urban areas. They are year-round residents in many places, though some migrate short distances in winter. Their adaptability ensures they remain one of the most common large birds across the state.
Common Raven
The Common Raven is one of the largest songbirds in the world, measuring 22 to 27 inches long with a wingspan of 46 to 54 inches. It is all black with a heavy, slightly curved bill, shaggy throat feathers, and a wedge-shaped tail, distinguishing it from the American Crow. Its deep, varied vocalizations range from croaks to rattles, reflecting its intelligence.
Ravens are opportunistic feeders, consuming carrion, small mammals, insects, fruit, and even food scraps near human settlements. They are skilled hunters but also scavenge and cache food for later. Their playful behavior, including aerial acrobatics and object play, showcases their high cognitive abilities.
In Montana, they are widespread in mountainous regions, forests, rangelands, and remote wilderness areas. Unlike crows, they are less tied to human settlements and more often found in rugged, wild habitats. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in both alpine zones and lower valleys.
Black-billed Magpie
The Black-billed Magpie is a striking bird with bold black-and-white plumage and a long iridescent greenish-blue tail. It measures about 17 to 23 inches long, nearly half of which is its tail. Its black bill and flashing white wing patches make it distinctive in flight.
Magpies are omnivores, feeding on insects, carrion, small animals, seeds, and fruits. They are also known to scavenge around farms and roadsides. Intelligent and social, they often form flocks and display complex behaviors, including caching food. Their harsh chatter calls are a common sound across Montana landscapes.
In Montana, Black-billed Magpies are common in open country, grasslands, river valleys, and farmlands. They often nest in thorny trees or shrubs, building large, dome-shaped nests. Unlike many corvids, they remain in the state year-round, enduring harsh winters with their adaptable feeding habits.
Clark’s Nutcracker
Clark’s Nutcracker is a gray-bodied bird with black wings, white patches, and a strong, straight bill. Measuring 11 to 12 inches long with a wingspan of about 18 inches, it is well-adapted to life in high-elevation coniferous forests. In flight, its bold wing and tail markings stand out clearly against mountain skies.
This bird’s diet revolves heavily around pine seeds, especially from whitebark and ponderosa pines. It has an impressive memory, capable of caching tens of thousands of seeds each year and retrieving them months later. Insects and small animals are also part of its diet, but its relationship with pines is especially critical, as the species helps regenerate forests by dispersing seeds.
In Montana, Clark’s Nutcrackers are found in mountainous regions, particularly in conifer forests of the Rockies. They are year-round residents at high elevations but may move downslope during harsh winters. Their close association with alpine pines makes them an iconic bird of Montana’s mountain landscapes.
Steller’s Jay
Steller’s Jay is one of Montana’s most striking birds, recognized by its deep blue body, blackish head, and tall crest that gives it a bold appearance. Measuring about 11 to 13 inches long, this jay has a strong bill and broad wings, with contrasting shades of cobalt and charcoal in its plumage. Its raucous calls and noisy presence often draw attention before it is seen.
An omnivorous feeder, Steller’s Jay eats insects, nuts, berries, seeds, and occasionally eggs or nestlings of smaller birds. It frequently raids feeders, cracking open sunflower seeds with ease, and has a habit of caching food for later use. Highly intelligent and social, it often mimics the calls of other birds, including hawks.
In Montana, Steller’s Jays are most common in coniferous and mixed forests of the western mountains. They are year-round residents, enduring snowy winters with their food-caching behavior. Their adaptability and bold nature make them frequent visitors to campsites, cabins, and mountain towns.
Blue Jay
The Blue Jay is a familiar bird across eastern and central North America, and in Montana it is more often found in the eastern parts of the state. It is a medium-sized bird, about 9 to 12 inches long, with bright blue wings and tail, a white chest, and a distinct black necklace. Its expressive crest rises and falls with its mood, adding to its striking look.
Blue Jays are intelligent and opportunistic feeders, consuming insects, seeds, nuts, fruits, and sometimes eggs. They are particularly fond of acorns and play an important role in spreading oak trees. Their calls range from loud jeers to soft whistles, and they are known to mimic hawk cries as a warning system.
In Montana, Blue Jays are found in woodlands, parks, and residential areas, especially where oaks and hardwoods are present. Though more common to the east, they are occasional visitors across the state, sometimes irrupting westward in years of high population. They adapt well to backyard feeders, where peanuts and sunflower seeds attract them.
Pine Grosbeak
The Pine Grosbeak is a large, gentle finch measuring about 8 to 10 inches long with a thick, conical bill. Males are rosy-red with gray wings and tail, while females and young birds are grayish with hints of yellow or orange on the head and rump. Their slow, deliberate movements and soft warbling calls give them a calm presence.
They feed on buds, seeds, berries, and insects, favoring mountain ash and conifer seeds. In winter, they often forage in flocks, moving quietly among trees or visiting feeders for sunflower seeds. Their large bill is perfectly adapted for crushing tough seeds and fruit pits.
In Montana, Pine Grosbeaks are most common in high-elevation coniferous forests, especially during summer. In winter, they sometimes descend to lower elevations, visiting towns and feeders in snowy months. Their distribution is patchy, but they are more frequently observed in the western mountain regions.
Evening Grosbeak
The Evening Grosbeak is a stocky, powerful finch with bold coloration and a massive pale bill. Measuring 6 to 9 inches long, males are bright yellow with black wings and a striking white patch, while females are grayish with softer yellow tones. Their strong, direct flight and sharp calls make them noticeable in flocks.
Their diet is centered on seeds, buds, and fruits, and they are particularly fond of sunflower seeds at feeders. Evening Grosbeaks also eat insects, including spruce budworms, which historically influenced their population movements. They often feed in noisy groups, cracking seeds with their formidable bills.
In Montana, Evening Grosbeaks are irregular but widespread, found in coniferous and mixed forests. Their numbers can fluctuate from year to year, sometimes appearing in large flocks during winter irruptions. They are more common in western mountain areas but may wander across much of the state.
House Finch
The House Finch is a small, adaptable finch measuring 5 to 6 inches long with a long, notched tail and slightly curved bill. Males are recognized by their red forehead, chest, and rump, while females are streaky brown overall. Their cheerful, warbling song is a familiar sound in cities, towns, and rural areas across Montana.
Primarily seed eaters, House Finches also consume fruits, berries, and buds. They frequently visit feeders, where they favor black oil sunflower seeds. Unlike grosbeaks, their bill is more slender, making them adept at handling smaller seeds. In breeding season, males often sing from perches to attract mates and defend territories.
In Montana, House Finches are widespread, especially in urban areas, farmlands, and open woodlands. They thrive in human-altered landscapes and are year-round residents across much of the state. Their adaptability has made them one of the most common and recognizable backyard birds.
Cassin’s Finch
Cassin’s Finch is a medium-sized finch, about 6 inches long, that closely resembles the House Finch but can be distinguished by its longer bill and more peaked head. Males have a bright pink-red crown and breast that fades into a streaked brown back, while females and juveniles are streaky brown with a slightly crisper pattern. Their song is rich and musical, often compared to that of a Purple Finch.
Their diet consists mainly of seeds, buds, and berries, with a preference for conifer seeds and tree buds during the breeding season. They often forage in flocks and may mix with other finch species in winter. Cassin’s Finches readily visit feeders, especially where sunflower seeds are offered.
In Montana, they are found primarily in coniferous forests of the western mountains, where they breed in higher elevations. During winter, they move into valleys and sometimes into towns, appearing at feeders alongside other finches. Their association with montane habitats makes them a characteristic bird of the Rockies.
Red Crossbill
The Red Crossbill is a medium-sized finch, measuring about 5.5 to 6.5 inches long, easily recognized by its unusual crossed bill tips. Males are typically red or orange, while females are more olive or yellowish, both with dark wings and notched tails. The unique bill adaptation allows them to pry open conifer cones to extract seeds, a feeding behavior few other birds can match.
Their diet consists mainly of spruce, pine, and fir seeds, though they occasionally eat insects in summer. Red Crossbills are highly nomadic, wandering across Montana in search of good cone crops. Flocks are often noisy and active, calling with sharp “jip-jip” notes as they forage high in conifers.
In Montana, they are found primarily in coniferous forests of the mountains, but their presence varies depending on food availability. During cone-rich years, they may appear in large flocks, while in poor years they may be scarce. Their movements make them an unpredictable but exciting bird to encounter.
White-winged Crossbill
The White-winged Crossbill is similar in size and shape to the Red Crossbill, measuring 5.5 to 6.7 inches long, but it can be identified by its two bold white wingbars. Males are rosy red with black wings and tail, while females are yellowish with dark streaks. Like their relatives, their distinctive crossed bills are specialized for opening conifer cones.
These crossbills rely heavily on spruce seeds and are particularly associated with boreal forests. They often forage in flocks, clinging upside down to cones and chattering noisily as they work. Their call notes are sharper and more metallic than those of Red Crossbills, helping birders tell them apart by sound.
In Montana, White-winged Crossbills are less common and more localized, primarily inhabiting northern and higher-elevation spruce-fir forests. Their numbers fluctuate with cone crops, and during irruptive years, they may wander widely across the state. Observing them often requires venturing into dense conifer stands.
American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch is a small finch, about 4.3 to 5.1 inches long, with a short conical bill and notched tail. Breeding males are brilliant yellow with black wings, tail, and forehead, while females and winter birds are more subdued in olive or brownish tones. Their undulating flight and cheerful “per-chick-o-ree” call are familiar sights and sounds.
Goldfinches feed primarily on seeds, especially from thistles, sunflowers, and dandelions. Unlike many songbirds, they breed late in summer to coincide with peak seed availability. They are common visitors at feeders, where they prefer nyjer (thistle) seed and sunflower seeds.
In Montana, American Goldfinches are widespread across open fields, gardens, grasslands, and woodland edges. They are most numerous during summer breeding months but can be seen year-round in many areas. Their bright plumage and social flocks make them a favorite among backyard birdwatchers.
Pine Siskin
The Pine Siskin is a small, streaky brown finch about 4.3 to 5.5 inches long, with a slender bill and notched tail. It is easily recognized by its thin, buzzy calls and the yellow flashes in its wings and tail, especially noticeable in flight. Their streaked appearance makes them resemble sparrows, but their behavior and vocalizations reveal their finch identity.
Their diet is dominated by seeds, particularly from conifers, but they also eat weeds, grasses, and occasionally insects. Pine Siskins are highly social, often foraging in large, chattering flocks that move through trees in search of food. In winter, they flock to feeders, where they consume nyjer and sunflower seeds in great numbers.
In Montana, Pine Siskins are common throughout coniferous forests, especially in the mountains. Their populations fluctuate dramatically, with irruptive movements in some years bringing huge numbers into towns and feeders. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in both wild habitats and suburban areas.
Dark-eyed Junco
The Dark-eyed Junco is a small sparrow, measuring 5 to 6.5 inches long, with a rounded head, short pink bill, and white outer tail feathers that flash in flight. In Montana, the “slate-colored” and “Oregon” forms are most common, giving them varying plumage from gray overall to a mix of brown, black, and rust tones. Their simple, trilling songs are a hallmark of spring.
Juncos primarily feed on seeds, especially grasses and weeds, supplemented with insects during summer. They are ground foragers, often seen hopping and scratching beneath feeders or along forest edges. In winter, they gather in flocks, sometimes numbering in the dozens, and frequent backyards.
In Montana, Dark-eyed Juncos breed in coniferous and mixed forests, especially at higher elevations. In winter, they move into valleys, towns, and open areas, making them a common sight across the state. Their wide distribution and seasonal shifts make them one of Montana’s most familiar sparrows.
Song Sparrow
The Song Sparrow is a medium-sized sparrow, about 5 to 7 inches long, with streaky brown plumage and a rounded tail. It is best identified by its streaked breast with a central dark spot and its melodious, varied song that rings out from shrubs and fences. Their appearance varies regionally, but in Montana they typically show rich brown streaking.
These sparrows feed on seeds and insects, foraging on the ground or low vegetation. During summer, insects make up a significant part of their diet, providing protein for growing chicks. In winter, they shift back to grass and weed seeds, often visiting feeders for millet or sunflower seeds.
In Montana, Song Sparrows are widespread across wetlands, thickets, riparian corridors, and suburban gardens. They breed near water but can also adapt to open brushy areas. As year-round residents in much of the state, they provide a familiar voice even in cooler months.
Lincoln’s Sparrow
The Lincoln’s Sparrow is a small and finely marked sparrow, often admired for its delicate streaking and buffy tones. It typically measures about 5 to 6 inches in length, with a wingspan of around 8 inches, and has a slender body that makes it appear graceful compared to bulkier sparrow species. Its most distinctive feature is the finely streaked chest with a warm buff wash, complemented by a gray face and a small crest that gives it a slightly peaked appearance.
Behaviorally, this sparrow is shy and secretive, often staying low in dense vegetation where it can easily remain hidden. It forages quietly, scratching through leaf litter and probing the ground for seeds and insects. Its song is a sweet, musical trill that sounds more refined than many other sparrows, adding to its reputation as one of the more melodious species in Montana’s birdlife.
In Montana, Lincoln’s Sparrows are typically found in wet meadows, willow thickets, and shrubby areas near streams. They breed in the northern and higher elevation regions, often in cool, moist environments where cover is abundant. During migration, they pass through a wider variety of habitats, though always preferring areas with dense undergrowth for protection.
White-crowned Sparrow
The White-crowned Sparrow is a striking bird easily recognized by its bold black-and-white striped crown. This medium-sized sparrow measures about 6 to 7 inches long with a wingspan of 9 to 10 inches, and it has a plain gray breast and body that highlight the dramatic head markings. Its bill color varies with age and subspecies, ranging from pink to orange.
These sparrows are active and social, often foraging in flocks during migration and winter. They primarily feed on seeds and small insects, scratching at the ground or hopping through low vegetation to uncover food. Their song is clear and whistled, often described as sweet and mournful, and is highly variable depending on the region, making it a useful tool for birders to identify local populations.
In Montana, White-crowned Sparrows are common during migration and breeding in shrubby areas, grasslands, and forest edges. They are particularly abundant in open spaces with scattered brush, where they can easily nest and forage. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in both rural and suburban settings across the state.
Golden-crowned Sparrow
The Golden-crowned Sparrow stands out for its distinctive golden-yellow forehead bordered by black stripes, giving it a regal appearance. Measuring about 6 to 7 inches in length, it has a fairly stocky build with a grayish body that provides contrast to its bright crown. During the nonbreeding season, the crown is duller and less vivid, making identification a bit trickier.
This sparrow has a slow and mournful song, often described as “Oh dear me,” which is especially common in migration and breeding territories. It feeds mostly on seeds, buds, and insects, foraging on the ground or low vegetation. These birds often form loose flocks during migration and are not as secretive as some of their sparrow relatives, making them more visible to birdwatchers.
In Montana, the Golden-crowned Sparrow is primarily seen during migration, passing through shrubby habitats, forest edges, and brushy fields. They breed farther north in Alaska and western Canada, but their migration route takes them across Montana, where they stop to feed and rest before continuing their journey.
American Tree Sparrow
The American Tree Sparrow is a hardy little bird, adapted to colder climates and often seen in Montana during the winter months. It measures about 5.5 to 6.5 inches in length with a wingspan of around 9 inches. Its key features include a rusty cap, a gray face, and a distinct dark spot in the center of its plain grayish breast.
This species is active and energetic, often seen in small flocks that forage on the ground for seeds and insects. They frequently scratch in the snow or leaf litter to uncover food. Their song is a sweet, tinkling melody, though they are more often heard giving a musical “tseet” call note while moving about.
American Tree Sparrows favor open habitats such as fields, meadows, and shrubby areas in Montana. They do not breed in the state but are common winter visitors, arriving in large numbers from the Arctic tundra where they nest. Their presence in Montana is a sure sign of the colder months.
Savannah Sparrow
The Savannah Sparrow is a small, streaky bird, measuring about 5 to 6 inches long with a wingspan of around 8 inches. Its plumage is finely streaked brown and white, often with a subtle yellowish tinge in front of the eye, which helps distinguish it from other sparrows. The tail is relatively short and notched, adding to its compact appearance.
This sparrow is often seen running or hopping along the ground, searching for seeds and insects. It is known for its buzzy, insect-like song, which is high-pitched and short but distinct. Savannah Sparrows are adaptable foragers and may be observed in both open fields and along roadsides, making them relatively easy to spot.
In Montana, Savannah Sparrows are common breeding birds in grasslands, prairies, and agricultural fields. They thrive in open landscapes and are particularly abundant in areas with tall grasses and low shrubs. Their wide distribution across the state makes them one of the most frequently observed sparrows in summer.
Western Meadowlark
The Western Meadowlark is one of Montana’s most iconic birds, celebrated for its rich, flute-like song. It is a medium-sized bird, about 8 to 11 inches long with a wingspan of up to 16 inches. Its bright yellow underparts, marked with a bold black “V” on the chest, contrast with its mottled brown and white upperparts that provide camouflage in grasslands.
Known for its beautiful voice, the Western Meadowlark often sings from fence posts or tall grasses, especially during the breeding season. It feeds mainly on insects during summer, including beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars, while switching to seeds and grains in the colder months. Its behavior includes probing the ground with its long bill to uncover hidden prey.
In Montana, the Western Meadowlark is widespread across prairies, meadows, and agricultural areas. It is the official state bird, a symbol of the open landscapes and grasslands that define much of Montana’s natural beauty. Their songs are a familiar and cherished sound throughout the spring and summer.
Yellow-headed Blackbird
The Yellow-headed Blackbird is a striking bird easily recognized by its vivid golden-yellow head and chest contrasting sharply with its black body. Measuring about 8 to 10 inches long with a wingspan of up to 17 inches, males display the most vibrant plumage, while females are more subdued with a brownish body and duller yellow markings. A distinctive white patch can also be seen on the wing when in flight.
This blackbird is known for its harsh, raspy call, often described as one of the more unusual songs among Montana’s birds. During the breeding season, males perch conspicuously on cattails or reeds to display and defend their territories. They forage mainly on insects during the summer, switching to seeds and grains outside the breeding season, often feeding in large flocks.
In Montana, Yellow-headed Blackbirds are found in wetlands, marshes, and prairie potholes, especially where cattails and reeds are abundant. They are common summer residents, nesting in colonies in marsh vegetation. After breeding, they gather in large flocks and move into agricultural fields and open countryside before migrating south in winter.
Red-winged Blackbird
The Red-winged Blackbird is one of Montana’s most familiar birds, instantly recognized by the male’s glossy black plumage and bright red shoulder patches edged with yellow. Females, by contrast, are streaky brown and resemble large sparrows. These birds measure about 7 to 9 inches long with a wingspan of around 12 to 16 inches, making them medium-sized blackbirds.
Males are highly territorial during the breeding season, singing their distinctive “conk-la-ree” song from cattails or fence posts to ward off rivals. They are omnivores, feeding on insects, spiders, seeds, and grains, often foraging on the ground or in shallow water. Outside of the breeding season, they form large flocks that may include other blackbird species.
In Montana, Red-winged Blackbirds are especially abundant in wetlands, marshes, and along rivers and ponds. They also adapt well to farmland and suburban areas, making them one of the most widespread blackbird species in the state. Their numbers peak in spring and summer when they are actively nesting.
Brewer’s Blackbird
The Brewer’s Blackbird is a sleek, medium-sized bird with a glossy, iridescent appearance. Males are entirely black with a purple sheen and striking pale eyes, while females are plain grayish-brown with dark eyes. They measure about 8 to 10 inches in length with a wingspan of up to 15 inches. Their overall appearance is simple but elegant, making them relatively easy to identify.
These blackbirds are opportunistic feeders, consuming a diet of insects, grains, seeds, and even human scraps when available. They are often seen foraging in flocks on the ground in open areas such as fields, lawns, and parking lots. Brewer’s Blackbirds are also social nesters, often breeding in colonies in shrubs, trees, or even on the ground.
In Montana, they are commonly found in agricultural fields, grasslands, and towns, where their adaptability allows them to thrive. They are particularly abundant during the breeding season but remain present in many areas year-round. Their gregarious nature makes them a familiar sight across much of the state.
Brown-headed Cowbird
The Brown-headed Cowbird is a small blackbird with a glossy black body and a distinctive chocolate-brown head. Males are the most striking, while females are plain brown with streaked underparts. Measuring about 7 to 8.5 inches long with a wingspan of 12 to 15 inches, they are stockier than many other blackbirds.
This species is best known for its brood parasitism: females lay their eggs in the nests of other birds, leaving the host species to raise their young. Cowbirds feed on insects, seeds, and grains, often foraging on the ground in open areas, pastures, and fields. They are commonly seen following livestock, feeding on insects stirred up by grazing animals.
In Montana, Brown-headed Cowbirds are widespread in open country, grasslands, and agricultural landscapes. They avoid dense forests but are abundant in habitats with scattered trees and shrubs. Their unique reproductive behavior has a significant impact on native songbird populations in the region.
Common Grackle
The Common Grackle is a large, long-tailed blackbird with an iridescent sheen of purple, green, and bronze. It measures 11 to 13 inches long with a wingspan of up to 18 inches, making it noticeably larger than most other blackbirds. Its piercing yellow eyes and keel-shaped tail are key identification features.
Grackles are bold and opportunistic, feeding on insects, grains, seeds, fruit, and even small vertebrates. They often forage in noisy flocks, striding confidently on the ground or probing with their strong bills. During breeding season, males display by puffing up their feathers and producing a harsh, squeaky call.
In Montana, Common Grackles are found in open woodlands, wetlands, farmland, and urban areas. They nest in trees, shrubs, and occasionally man-made structures. Although more common in eastern Montana, they are widespread across much of the state during the breeding season and migrate south for winter.
European Starling
The European Starling, an introduced species, is a highly adaptable and abundant bird across Montana. It is medium-sized, about 8 inches long with a wingspan of 12 to 16 inches. Its glossy black plumage shows iridescent purple and green tones in the breeding season, while winter plumage is speckled with white spots. Its short tail and long, slender yellow bill in summer make it easy to identify.
Starlings are aggressive and highly social, often forming large flocks known as murmurations, which create spectacular aerial displays. They feed on insects, fruits, seeds, and human food scraps, often foraging in open areas or lawns. Their vocal abilities are impressive, with a repertoire of whistles, clicks, and mimicry of other bird species.
In Montana, European Starlings thrive in towns, farmland, and open countryside. They readily nest in cavities, often outcompeting native species for nesting sites. Though considered invasive, their adaptability ensures they remain one of the most common and widespread birds in the state.
Rock Pigeon
The Rock Pigeon is a familiar sight in Montana’s towns and cities, where it often gathers in flocks on buildings, bridges, and grain elevators. This medium to large bird measures 11 to 13 inches long with a wingspan of 19 to 26 inches. Its plumage is highly variable, though most individuals have bluish-gray feathers with two black wing bars and a darker tail band. Iridescent greens and purples often shimmer on the neck.
These pigeons are strong fliers and capable of covering long distances while foraging. They feed primarily on seeds, grains, and food scraps, making them highly dependent on human activity in urban areas. Their behavior includes frequent cooing, bowing displays, and fast wing beats during flight. They are also known for their homing ability, which has been used in domesticated forms for centuries.
In Montana, Rock Pigeons are most common in urban and agricultural regions, where food sources and nesting sites are abundant. They rarely occur in remote wild areas, instead preferring human-modified habitats. Their adaptability has allowed them to thrive year-round in both small towns and large cities.
Mourning Dove
The Mourning Dove is a graceful, slender-bodied bird recognized by its soft, mournful cooing call. It measures about 9 to 13 inches in length with a wingspan of up to 18 inches. Its plumage is light brown and gray with black spots on the wings, and it has a long, pointed tail edged with white, which makes it easy to distinguish in flight.
These doves are fast and agile fliers, producing a characteristic whistling sound with their wings as they take off. They feed mostly on seeds, foraging on the ground in open habitats, fields, and backyards. Their gentle behavior and soothing call make them one of the most recognized and beloved birds in Montana.
Mourning Doves are widespread across the state, found in grasslands, farmlands, and suburban areas. They nest in trees, shrubs, or even on ledges, often raising multiple broods during the summer months. They are present year-round in much of Montana, though some populations migrate south for winter.
Eurasian Collared-Dove
The Eurasian Collared-Dove is an introduced species that has quickly expanded its range across Montana. Measuring 12 to 14 inches long with a wingspan of 18 to 22 inches, it is slightly larger than the Mourning Dove. Its plumage is pale gray with a distinctive narrow black “collar” on the back of the neck, which gives the species its name.
These doves are confident and adaptable, often seen perched on wires, rooftops, or fence posts. Their diet consists mostly of seeds and grains, but they also consume fruits and occasionally insects. Their call is a repetitive three-note coo, which differs from the softer song of the Mourning Dove.
In Montana, Eurasian Collared-Doves are common in towns, farmlands, and rural communities. They are non-migratory and remain present throughout the year, often forming loose flocks. Their rapid spread across North America makes them a permanent part of Montana’s avian landscape.
Northern Flicker
The Northern Flicker is one of Montana’s most distinctive woodpeckers, measuring 11 to 14 inches long with a wingspan of up to 20 inches. Unlike most woodpeckers, it often feeds on the ground, where it probes for ants and beetles with its long, curved bill. Its plumage is patterned with brown and black barring, with a white rump visible in flight.
This woodpecker is known for its loud, ringing “kleer” call and rhythmic drumming on trees or buildings. It also displays a habit of flicking its wings open to reveal bright underwings—yellow in eastern populations and red in western ones, including Montana. Their behavior includes frequent ground foraging, making them unique among woodpeckers.
In Montana, Northern Flickers are widespread in open woodlands, forest edges, and suburban areas. They nest in tree cavities, often excavating new holes each year. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in both wild and developed landscapes.
Downy Woodpecker
The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest woodpecker in Montana, measuring only 6 to 7 inches long with a wingspan of about 10 to 12 inches. It has a checkered black-and-white plumage with a white back and undersides. Males can be distinguished by a small red patch on the back of the head, which females lack.
This woodpecker forages on tree trunks and branches, probing for insects, larvae, and spiders. It also eats seeds and berries, particularly in winter. Its short, sharp tapping and high-pitched “pik” calls make it easy to detect in wooded habitats. Despite its small size, the Downy Woodpecker is energetic and bold, often visiting backyard feeders.
In Montana, Downy Woodpeckers are common residents in forests, woodlots, orchards, and residential areas. They are year-round inhabitants and readily adapt to areas where trees provide both food and nesting opportunities. Their approachable nature makes them a frequent favorite among birdwatchers.
Hairy Woodpecker
The Hairy Woodpecker closely resembles the Downy Woodpecker but is larger, measuring 9 to 10 inches long with a wingspan of 13 to 16 inches. It shares the same black-and-white checkered pattern, with males also showing a red patch on the back of the head. A key identification feature is its longer, chisel-like bill, which is nearly the length of its head.
This species feeds primarily on wood-boring insects, which it extracts from tree bark with powerful blows. It also consumes seeds, nuts, and suet from feeders. Hairy Woodpeckers are strong drummers, producing loud, steady bursts of tapping that can echo across forests. Their sharp calls and persistent foraging make them conspicuous once detected.
In Montana, Hairy Woodpeckers inhabit a wide variety of forest types, from riparian cottonwoods to dense coniferous stands. They are year-round residents and are especially common in wooded foothills and mountainous regions. Their reliance on mature trees makes them good indicators of healthy forest ecosystems.
Pileated Woodpecker
The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest woodpecker in Montana, reaching 16 to 19 inches in length with a wingspan of up to 30 inches. Its bold appearance includes a black body, white underwings, and a striking red crest. Both sexes share these features, though males also display a red stripe on the cheek.
These powerful woodpeckers leave large, rectangular holes in trees as they excavate for carpenter ants, beetle larvae, and other insects. Their loud, echoing calls and deep drumming can carry great distances through forests. They are less likely to visit feeders than smaller species but can sometimes be seen at suet.
In Montana, Pileated Woodpeckers are found in mature forests, especially in western parts of the state with dense coniferous and mixed woodlands. They are year-round residents but require large tracts of forest to sustain their feeding and nesting needs. Their presence is often a highlight for birdwatchers due to their impressive size and striking appearance.
FAQs about Birds in Montana
What is the most common bird in Montana?
The American Robin is often considered the most common bird in Montana. It is widespread across towns, forests, and fields, easily recognized by its orange breast and melodious song. During spring and summer, robins are seen in almost every habitat, making them a familiar sight to residents and visitors alike.
Are there woodpeckers in Montana?
Yes, Montana is home to several species of woodpeckers, including the Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, and the large Pileated Woodpecker. Each species has distinct markings and feeding behaviors, from small drumming sounds of the Downy to the deep, powerful excavations of the Pileated.
What kinds of sparrows can be found in Montana?
Montana hosts a wide variety of sparrows such as the Song Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Lincoln’s Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, and American Tree Sparrow. These small birds inhabit grasslands, wetlands, and shrubby areas, with some species breeding in the state while others migrate through.
Do migratory birds pass through Montana?
Yes, Montana lies on important migratory routes, and many species pass through during spring and fall. Birds like the Golden-crowned Sparrow and Pine Siskin are more commonly seen during migration, stopping in the state to feed before continuing their journeys north or south.
Which blackbirds are native to Montana?
Montana has several native blackbirds including the Red-winged Blackbird, Yellow-headed Blackbird, and Brewer’s Blackbird. They are often found in wetlands, grasslands, and agricultural fields, where they forage for insects and seeds. Their large flocks are a common sight in the state.
Are European Starlings and Rock Pigeons native to Montana?
No, both European Starlings and Rock Pigeons are introduced species that have adapted well to Montana’s towns and farmlands. Starlings are known for forming massive flocks called murmurations, while Rock Pigeons are commonly seen in cities and agricultural areas.
What is the state bird of Montana?
The Western Meadowlark is the official state bird of Montana. It is celebrated for its flute-like, melodious song that rings across prairies and grasslands during spring and summer. Its bright yellow breast with a black “V” marking makes it easy to recognize.
