Overview
Minnesota's lakes, north-woods forest, and prairie edges give it a classic upper-Midwest birdlife, from iconic loons to bugling sandhill cranes. Waterbirds and boreal songbirds are highlights.
This guide covers common and iconic Minnesota 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
Common Loon
Gavia immer
Minnesota's state bird — a large diving waterbird with a black head, checkerboard back, and dagger bill in summer. Famous for its haunting, yodeling calls.
Black-capped Chickadee
Poecile atricapillus
A tiny, tame bird with a black cap and bib, white cheeks, and soft gray back. Bold at feeders year-round, even in deep cold.
Northern Cardinal
Cardinalis cardinalis
The male is brilliant red with a black face and crest, the female warm buff with red highlights. A vivid splash of color against winter snow.
American Goldfinch
Spinus tristis
A small finch; the breeding male is bright yellow with black wings and cap, duller in winter. Bounds through the air with a canary-like flight call.
Sandhill Crane
Antigone canadensis
A tall gray crane with a red forehead and a bustle of feathers over the tail, giving loud, rolling bugle calls. Gathers in big flocks in fall.
Bald Eagle
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
A huge raptor; the adult has a white head and tail against a dark body. Common along Minnesota's rivers and lakes, especially the Mississippi.
Seasonal Guide
- Spring and fall bring migrating waterfowl, cranes, and warblers in big numbers.
- Winter feeders concentrate chickadees, cardinals, nuthatches, and finches.
- Listen for loons on northern lakes at dusk in summer.
Safety Reminder
Observe birds without disturbing them, and never approach nests. 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.