Arkansas is home to some of the largest and most majestic birds in North America, from soaring Bald Eagles to towering Trumpeter Swans. These birds dominate the skies, wetlands, and forests with their impressive wingspans and striking features. This guide explores the biggest birds in Arkansas, ranked by weight, length, and wingspan.
1. Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 17–30 lbs
- Length: 4.6–5.5 ft
- Wingspan: 6–8 ft
The Trumpeter Swan is the largest native waterfowl in North America. It stands out due to its massive size, long curved neck, and powerful wings. This species was once endangered but has rebounded thanks to conservation efforts. Their sheer body mass and broad wings make them the largest bird in Arkansas.
2. American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 10–20 lbs
- Length: 4.3–5.3 ft
- Wingspan: 8–10 ft
With an enormous wingspan of up to 10 feet, the American White Pelican is one of the largest flying birds in North America. Unlike its cousin, the Brown Pelican, this species doesn’t dive for fish but instead scoops them from the water. These giant birds migrate through Arkansas in large flocks.
3. Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 20–30 lbs
- Length: 4.5–5 ft
- Wingspan: 6.5–7.9 ft
Originally introduced from Europe, the Mute Swan is one of the heaviest flying birds in Arkansas. Recognized by its graceful white plumage and orange bill, this bird is famous for its large size and aggressive nature. Despite its beauty, it competes with native species for habitat.
4. Whooping Crane (Grus americana)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 14–17 lbs
- Length: 4.2–5 ft
- Wingspan: 7–7.5 ft
Standing at five feet tall, the Whooping Crane is one of the tallest birds in Arkansas. This endangered species is known for its striking white feathers, black wingtips, and loud, bugling call. It passes through Arkansas during migration and is a symbol of successful conservation efforts.
5. Canada Goose (Branta canadensis)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 5–14 lbs
- Length: 2.6–3.5 ft
- Wingspan: 4.2–6 ft
The Canada Goose is a well-known migratory species that thrives in Arkansas’ wetlands, lakes, and urban areas. Their large wingspan and robust body make them one of the biggest waterfowl species in the state. These geese are famous for their V-shaped migration formations and honking calls.
6. Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 6.5–14 lbs
- Length: 2.5–3.5 ft
- Wingspan: 6–7.5 ft
The Bald Eagle, America’s national bird, is the largest bird of prey in Arkansas. With a wingspan exceeding seven feet, this raptor dominates the skies, often seen near large bodies of water where it hunts fish. Its massive size, hooked beak, and sharp talons make it an apex predator.
7. Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 6.5–14 lbs
- Length: 3.5–4 ft
- Wingspan: 5–7 ft
The Sandhill Crane is known for its tall, slender body and long legs, allowing it to wade through marshes and fields. Its large wingspan and distinctive red forehead patch make it a stunning sight during migration. This species is one of the oldest surviving bird species, dating back millions of years.
8. Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 6.5–12 lbs
- Length: 3.3–5 ft
- Wingspan: 6.5–7.5 ft
The Brown Pelican is the only diving pelican, using its large body to plunge into the water for fish. Although more common along coastal areas, it occasionally visits Arkansas. Its large bill and throat pouch, combined with its massive wings, make it one of the state’s largest birds.
9. Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 4.5–6.6 lbs
- Length: 3.2–4.5 ft
- Wingspan: 5.5–6.6 ft
The Great Blue Heron is the largest wading bird in Arkansas. Standing at nearly four feet tall, this majestic bird is a patient hunter, waiting motionless before striking prey with its long, dagger-like beak. It thrives in wetlands, lakes, and along rivers, feeding primarily on fish.
10. Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 3.5–6 lbs
- Length: 2.1–2.5 ft
- Wingspan: 4.5–5.6 ft
The Black Vulture is one of the largest scavengers in Arkansas, often found soaring in the sky with its distinctive short tail and broad wings. Unlike the Turkey Vulture, it relies more on eyesight than smell to locate carrion. Its strong, stocky build makes it a dominant bird among scavengers.
11. Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 2–5 lbs
- Length: 2–2.7 ft
- Wingspan: 5–6 ft
The Turkey Vulture is easily recognized by its red, featherless head and large wingspan. It is an expert soaring bird, using air thermals to travel long distances with minimal energy. This species plays a critical role in the ecosystem by cleaning up dead animals, helping prevent disease.
12. Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus)
Why it’s one of the largest:
- Weight: 2.5–5.5 lbs
- Length: 1.6–2.3 ft
- Wingspan: 3.3–5 ft
The Great Horned Owl is the largest owl species in Arkansas, known for its powerful build, fierce hunting abilities, and distinctive ear tufts. With an immense grip strength, it can take down prey larger than itself, including rabbits and other birds. This nocturnal predator dominates the Arkansas forests at night.
Conclusion
These 12 largest birds in Arkansas showcase the state’s incredible biodiversity and avian giants. Whether soaring in the sky, wading in wetlands, or stalking prey, these birds play vital roles in the ecosystem. Birdwatchers can spot these magnificent species in wetlands, forests, and open landscapes across the state.
FAQs
What is the largest bird in Arkansas?
The Trumpeter Swan is the largest bird in Arkansas by weight and length, reaching up to 30 lbs and 5.5 feet long.
Which bird in Arkansas has the largest wingspan?
The American White Pelican holds the record with a wingspan of up to 10 feet, making it one of the largest flying birds in North America.
Are Bald Eagles common in Arkansas?
Yes, Bald Eagles are frequently seen near rivers and lakes, especially during winter when they migrate to Arkansas for food.
Where can I see the largest birds in Arkansas?
Top spots include Lake Dardanelle, the Arkansas River Valley, and wildlife refuges like Cache River NWR for pelicans, eagles, and cranes.
Do large birds in Arkansas migrate?
Yes, many of them, like the Sandhill Crane and American White Pelican, migrate through Arkansas during spring and fall.
