Identifying Birds

Figure out what you're looking at with these tips and tricks.
Red-headed Woodpecker. Photo: Vance Solseth/Audubon Photography Awards

Bird ID is like solving a puzzle.

A Northern Cardinal's crimson feathers, an American Robin's round shape, a White-breasted Nuthatch's acrobatics—these traits are the pieces that will help you put together a successful ID. And the longer you observe a bird, the more pieces you'll pick up. But as even the most experienced birders know, sometimes you need further assistance. Or maybe you are just looking for a quick confirmation. Below you'll find a range of beginner and advanced ID tips and advice. Good luck, and happy identifying! 

 

Quick ID Guides

Curious about a bird you see on the regular? You can likely find it below. 

Get to Know These 20 Common Birds
What's That Bird at Your Suet Feeder?
More Comparison Tips
How to Tell a Raven From a Crow
How to Tell a Raven From a Crow

These black birds may belong to the same family and look similar in some ways, but several distinctive traits help set them apart.

More Raptor ID Tips
All Birdist ID Advice
Featured Species: Hang With Some Herons
Great Blue Heron
Herons, Egrets, Bitterns
! Priority Bird
Little Blue Heron
Herons, Egrets, Bitterns
Green Heron
Herons, Egrets, Bitterns
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
Herons, Egrets, Bitterns
Black-crowned Night Heron
Herons, Egrets, Bitterns
Tricolored Heron
Herons, Egrets, Bitterns
Advanced ID and Tips

All ID Stories

Remember that Audubon depends on your support to do the conservation work that we do.
A green bunting takes a water bath surrounded by drops.
How to Identify Birds
April 21, 2016 — Before you judge a bird by its color, use these eight clues to guide you.
A Beginner’s Guide to IDing Cooper’s and Sharp-Shinned Hawks
September 18, 2015 — The differences are subtle, but shape and size can help in a big way.
How to Tell a Hairy Woodpecker From a Downy Woodpecker
February 13, 2015 — Size and tail color are two of the biggest clues when deciphering these two backyard regulars.
How to Tell a Raven From a Crow
October 22, 2012 — These black birds may belong to the same family and look similar in some ways, but several distinctive traits help set them apart.