Colorado is one of the best states for birdwatching because it has mountains, forests, grasslands, wetlands, rivers, lakes, canyons, and high desert habitats. This mix gives birders a chance to see backyard birds, mountain birds, raptors, owls, woodpeckers, hummingbirds, waterfowl, jays, sparrows, and many seasonal migrants.
Birds in Colorado can change quickly by elevation. A bird seen on the eastern plains may be very different from one found in the Rocky Mountains or western canyon country. Lower areas may attract meadowlarks, hawks, and water birds, while higher forests are better for jays, nuthatches, woodpeckers, and mountain species.
This guide covers common and interesting birds in Colorado, with simple identification tips based on color, size, habitat, season, and behavior. You can also explore our main Birds in the United States guide to find bird identification pages for all 50 states.
Quick Look at Birds in Colorado
| Bird | Main ID Clue | Common Habitat |
| Mountain Bluebird | Bright sky-blue male | Open fields, mountain meadows |
| Black-billed Magpie | Black-and-white body, long tail | Open country, towns, fields |
| Steller’s Jay | Dark head, blue body, crest | Mountain forests, parks |
| Broad-tailed Hummingbird | Green back, buzzing wings | Mountain meadows, gardens |
| Red-tailed Hawk | Broad wings, reddish tail | Roadsides, fields, foothills |
| American Kestrel | Small falcon, rusty back | Grasslands, farms, open areas |
| Great Horned Owl | Large owl, ear tufts | Forests, cliffs, cities |
| Downy Woodpecker | Small black-and-white woodpecker | Woodlands, yards, parks |
| Canada Goose | Black neck, white cheek patch | Lakes, ponds, parks |
| Western Meadowlark | Yellow chest, black V mark | Grasslands, open fields |
