Overview
Colorado's birdlife shifts dramatically with elevation, from eastern-plains grassland species to alpine and montane forest birds high in the Rockies. That vertical range packs a lot of variety into one state.
This guide covers common and iconic Colorado birds — the field marks that identify them, their habitats, and where to look. Pair it with a photo and the app to confirm any bird you spot.
Key Species to Know
Lark Bunting
Calamospiza melanocorys
Colorado's state bird — the breeding male is black with a bold white wing patch, the female streaky brown. A songbird of the shortgrass plains.
Mountain Bluebird
Sialia currucoides
The male is an astonishing sky-blue all over, the female gray with blue wings and tail. Hovers over meadows to drop on insects.
Black-billed Magpie
Pica hudsonia
A large, unmistakable black-and-white bird with a very long iridescent tail. Bold and social around ranches, towns, and roadsides.
Steller's Jay
Cyanocitta stelleri
A charcoal-and-deep-blue crested jay of the mountain conifers, bold around campgrounds and picnic areas. Loud and curious.
Western Meadowlark
Sturnella neglecta
A chunky grassland bird with a bright yellow breast crossed by a black V, singing a rich, flute-like song from fence posts.
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
Selasphorus platycercus
A montane hummingbird; the male shows a rose-magenta throat and makes a distinctive metallic wing-trill in flight. Common at mountain flowers in summer.
Seasonal Guide
- Summer is best in the high country as montane and alpine breeders sing and nest.
- Early morning is the most active time for feeding and song.
- Winter pushes many mountain birds down to the foothills and feeders.
Safety Reminder
Observe birds without disturbing them, and never approach nests. At altitude, pace yourself and carry water. Identification results are reference information for learning and enjoyment.
Identify it instantly
Found something and not sure what it is? Point your camera with Spotter and get a species identification in seconds — with detailed reference info and species notes.