Identifying little brown jobs (LBJ) or brown birds can pose a challenge since they lack the distinctive features of their more vibrant counterparts. However, fret not! This comprehensive guide will assist you in recognizing various brown avian species like sparrows, wrens, and others that you may encounter. Additionally, it provides information on the different brown birds found in Arizona throughout the year.
This guide categorizes the brown birds commonly observed in Arizona based on their prevalence, as reported by avid birdwatchers on ebird. Whether these birds grace your backyard or wander the woods and fields, you can rely on this list for identification purposes. The species are arranged in descending order, from the most frequently spotted to the least common.
Brown Birds in Arizona during the Summer:
– Brown-headed Cowbird
– Common Yellowthroat
Brown Birds in Arizona during the Winter:
– White-crowned Sparrow
– Marsh Wren
– Savannah Sparrow
– Cedar Waxwing
– American Goldfinch
– White-throated Sparrow
– Eastern Phoebe
Brown Birds in Arizona during Migration:
– Swainson’s Thrush
– Swamp Sparrow
– Northern Waterthrush
– Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Rare or Accidental Species in Arizona:
– Louisiana Waterthrush
– Golden-crowned Sparrow
– Winter Wren
– Brown Thrasher
– Purple Finch
– American Tree Sparrow
– Wood Thrush
– Carolina Wren
– Field Sparrow
– Great Crested Flycatcher
– Eastern Towhee
A Total of 40 Brown Birds in Arizona:
1. Mourning Dove:
These elegant avian creatures can be seen during the breeding season in northern Arizona and throughout the year in the southern region. Approximately 47% of summer checklists and 44% of winter checklists from birdwatchers include Mourning Doves.
Mourning Doves possess graceful appearances with small heads, plump bodies, and long tails. They display a soft brown hue adorned with black wing spots, with males slightly outweighing females.
- Scientific Name: Zenaida macroura
- Length: 9.1-13.4 inches (23-34 cm)
- Weight: 3.0-6.0 ounces (96-170 g)
- Wingspan: 17.7 inches (45 cm)
Mourning Doves are prevalent across the lower 48 states throughout the year, although they may migrate from the northern Midwest and southern Canada after the breeding season.
These birds often perch on telephone wires and diligently forage for seeds on the ground, primarily in grasslands, fields, and backyards. You can also find them in open areas or at the edges of woodlands.
To attract Mourning Doves to your backyard, scatter millet on the ground or offer them black sunflower seeds, nyjer, cracked corn, or peanut hearts.
2. House Finch – Female:
House Finches are year-round residents of Arizona, appearing on 45% of summer checklists and 47% of winter checklists. Unlike migratory birds, they remain in the state throughout the year.
Female House Finches feature brown-streaked plumage, while the males have reddish heads and breasts, with the rest of their bodies primarily brown-streaked.
- Scientific Name: Haemorhous mexicanus
- Length: 5.1-5.5 inches (13-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.6-0.9 ounces (16-27 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.8 inches (20-25 cm)
Initially confined to western US states, House Finches were introduced to the eastern states, where they thrived and even outcompeted the Purple Finch.
You can spot House Finches in parks, farms, forest edges, and backyard feeders, often in noisy groups that are hard to miss.
To attract House Finches to your backyard, provide black oil sunflower seeds or nyjer seeds in tube or platform feeders.
Not all finches in Arizona exhibit brown colors; some may display more vibrant hues.
3. White-crowned Sparrow:
White-crowned Sparrows are primarily winter birds in Arizona, present in 37% of winter checklists. They are typically sighted between September and May, with a small population staying throughout the summer (4% of summer checklists).
These sparrows are large with grayish plumage, long tails, small bills, and distinctive black and white head stripes.
- Scientific Name: Zonotrichia leucophrys
- Length: 5.9-6.3 inches (15-16 cm)
- Weight: 0.9-1.0 ounce (25-28 g)
- Wingspan: 8.3-9.4 inches (21-24 cm)
White-crowned Sparrows breed in Alaska and arctic Canada before migrating south to the lower 48 states and Mexico during winter. However, some individuals may choose to remain along the Pacific Coast and mountainous regions year-round.
You can find White-crowned Sparrows in weedy fields, along roadsides, forest edges, and even your yard, where they forage for weed and grass seeds, as well as fruits like elderberries and blackberries.
Their nests, made from twigs, grass, moss, and pine needles, are often located low to the ground in shrubs or on the tundra. They lay up to seven eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks, and the chicks fledge in around nine days.
To attract White-crowned Sparrows to your backyard, offer sunflower seeds or take advantage of the seeds dropped by other birds at the feeders.
4. Abert’s Towhee:
Abert’s Towhees can be observed in Arizona throughout the year. They do not migrate and are present in 17% of summer checklists and 24% of winter checklists.
These sparrows boast large grayish-brown bodies, roughly the size of a robin, with rusty undertones beneath their tails.
- Scientific Name: Melozone aberti
- Length: 8.3-9.1 inches (21.2-23.1 cm)
- Weight: 1.5-1.9 ounces (42.5-54.9 g)
- Wingspan: 10.4-11.6 inches (26.5-29.5 cm)
Abert’s Towhees inhabit dry habitats with dense undergrowth near desert streams and riverbeds, primarily in southwestern Arizona.
Their diet mainly consists of insects like beetles, ants, caterpillars, cicadas, and grasshoppers. During winter, they may also consume certain seeds, particularly grasses.
Abert’s Towhees construct their nests in dense vegetation approximately five feet above the ground. These nests are made of leaves, bark, and grass.
To attract Abert’s Towhees to your yard, incorporate a water feature like a birdbath and introduce native plants. They also visit ground feeders in search of seeds.
5. House Sparrow:
House Sparrows are non-native birds that have been introduced to Arizona, where they can be observed year-round. They appear in up to 21% of both summer and winter checklists.
These introduced species have thrived and become one of the most common birds. They feature gray and brown heads, white cheeks, black and brown backs, and gray bellies.
- Scientific Name: Passer domesticus
- Length: 5.9-6.7 inches (15-17 cm)
- Weight: 0.9-1.1 ounces (27-30 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-9.8 inches (19-25 cm)
House Sparrows are permanent residents of the United States and southern Canada. You can find them near houses and buildings, and they often exhibit tameness, sometimes even feeding from your hand.
These sparrows primarily consume grains, seeds, and discarded food. While they can be considered pests due to their non-native status, they frequently visit backyards even without being actively fed.
To attract House Sparrows to your backyard feeders, provide various birdseed types, including millet, corn, and sunflower seeds.
6. Northern Cardinal – Female:
Northern Cardinals are year-round inhabitants of Arizona, mostly residing in the southern part of the state. They are present in 17% of summer checklists and 14% of winter checklists.
Female Northern Cardinals exhibit a touch of splendor with their brown plumage, sharp crest, red highlights, and red beaks.
The male Northern Cardinal, on the other hand, is a breathtaking sight with its vibrant red coloration, black face mask, red crest, and beak.
- Scientific Name: Cardinalis cardinalis
- Length: 8.3-9.1 inches (21-23 cm)
- Weight: 1.5-1.7 ounces (42-48 g)
- Wingspan: 9.8-12.2 inches (25-31 cm)
Northern Cardinals inhabit the eastern half of the United States, reaching as far west as Arizona and certain southern states.
You can find Northern Cardinals in dense vegetation, where they forage for seeds, fruits, and insects. During the breeding season, they can exhibit aggressive behavior, attacking their own reflection to protect their territories.
To attract Northern Cardinals to your backyard, offer feeders filled with sunflower seeds, peanut hearts, millet, and milo. They readily feed from large tube feeders, hoppers, platform feeders, or food scattered on the ground.
7. Northern Flicker:
Northern Flickers are frequently sighted in Arizona during winter, but some individuals can also be observed year-round. They appear in 11% of summer checklists and 17% of winter checklists.
These woodpeckers exhibit large brown bodies with black spots and a white patch on their rumps during flight. The males sport a red nape of the neck, while the flashes in their wings and tail can be red or yellow depending on their geographic origin (red-shafted in the west and yellow-shafted in the east).
- Scientific Name: Colaptes auratus
- Length: 11.0-12.2 inches (28-31 cm)
- Weight: 3.9-5.6 ounces (110-160 g)
- Wingspan: 16.5-20.1 inches (42-51 cm)
Northern Flickers can be found across the United States throughout the year, with Canadian populations migrating south during the winter.
They primarily feed on ants, beetles, fruits, and seeds, often seen on the ground using their curved bill for digging.
To attract Northern Flickers to your backyard, provide suet feeders. Other woodpecker species may also visit your feeders in Arizona.
8. Bewick’s Wren:
Bewick’s Wrens can be observed in Arizona year-round, appearing in up to 14% of both summer and winter checklists.
These wrens display brown-backed bodies with long, gray, upright tails featuring darker barring. They also have gray bellies and a distinctive white stripe over their eyes.
- Scientific Name: Thryomanes bewickii
- Length: 5.1 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
Bewick’s Wrens are year-round residents of southern and western states, with some minor movements during winter.
You can find Bewick’s Wrens in scrublands, thickets, open woodlands, where they hop from branch to branch, flicking their long tails. Their diet includes insects and larvae, such as bees, bugs, caterpillars, and beetles.
Nests are constructed on rock ledges, old woodpecker nests, nest boxes, or crevices in buildings. They take the form of cup-shaped structures made from sticks, grasses, and a softer lining. The incubation period lasts around two weeks, with chicks fledging approximately two weeks later.
To attract Bewick’s Wrens to your backyard, provide suet, mealworms, and hulled sunflower seeds.
9. Song Sparrow:
Song Sparrows can be observed in Arizona year-round, but their numbers increase during winter as more individuals migrate from their northern breeding grounds.
They are most commonly seen from mid-September to May, appearing in 14% of winter checklists and 10% of summer checklists.
Song Sparrows may not possess striking appearances like other backyard birds, but their continuous songs are utilized to attract mates during spring and summer.
- Scientific Name: Melospiza melodia
- Length: 4.7-6.7 inches (12-17 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-1.9 ounces (12-53 g)
- Wingspan: 7.1-9.4 inches (18-24 cm)
Song Sparrows reside year-round in the northern United States. Those that breed in Canada migrate to southern states during winter.
They can be found in open areas, shrubby habitats, and wetlands, often perching on low shrubs while singing. They are also frequent visitors to backyard feeders.
Song Sparrows have a varied diet, including insects such as beetles, caterpillars, midges, spiders, and earthworms. They also consume buckwheat, sunflower seeds, raspberries, wild cherries, blackberries, wheat, and rice.
To attract Song Sparrows to your backyard feeders, provide black oil sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and nyjer on platform feeders.
Arizona is home to a surprising number of sparrows, each with their unique songs and interesting characteristics that can aid in easy identification.
10. Chipping Sparrow:
Chipping Sparrows can be observed year-round in Arizona. They breed in the northern part of the state, appearing in 5% of summer checklists, while in the southern region, they are spotted during winter and recorded in 10% of winter checklists.
These sparrows possess slender bodies, long tails, grayish bellies, and brown and black-streaked backs. They feature a rusty crown and a black eye line, with more subdued colors during winter.
- Scientific Name: Spizella passerina
- Length: 4.7-5.9 inches (12-15 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 ounces (11-16 g)
- Wingspan: 8.3 inches (21 cm)
Chipping Sparrows spend their breeding season in the United States and Canada before migrating to Mexico and Florida for winter. However, some individuals remain in southern states throughout the year.
You can find Chipping Sparrows in small flocks on open grounds, and they readily visit backyard feeders in search of various birdseed types.
To attract Chipping Sparrows to your backyard, offer seeds or cracked corn
on open feeders like hoppers or platforms.
11. American Robin:
American Robins can be seen in Arizona during winter and the breeding season. They are present in 9% of winter checklists and 8% of summer checklists.
These birds have brownish backs with orange breasts, complemented by a distinct white eye ring. Their plumage varies slightly between males and females.
- Scientific Name: Turdus migratorius
- Length: 9.0-11.0 inches (23-28 cm)
- Weight: 2.7-3.0 ounces (77-85 g)
- Wingspan: 12.0-16.0 inches (31-41 cm)
American Robins breed across North America and Canada, migrating south to areas like Arizona during winter. They are known for their melodious songs and are often associated with the arrival of spring.
You can find American Robins in various habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and lawns, where they forage for earthworms, insects, and berries.
To attract American Robins to your yard, provide open areas with ample foraging space and offer fruits like berries and chopped apples.
12. Lark Sparrow:
Lark Sparrows are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 6% of summer checklists. They have a distinctive appearance with bold facial markings and a combination of brown, black, and white plumage.
- Scientific Name: Chondestes grammacus
- Length: 5.9-6.3 inches (15-16 cm)
- Weight: 0.8-1.1 ounces (23-31 g)
- Wingspan: 8.7-9.4 inches (22-24 cm)
Lark Sparrows breed across the western and central United States, including parts of Arizona. They prefer open habitats such as grasslands, shrubby areas, and pastures.
Their diet primarily consists of seeds, insects, and spiders. Lark Sparrows are known for their unique songs, often described as a combination of whistles and trills.
To attract Lark Sparrows to your backyard, provide open areas with scattered seeds or offer a mix of sunflower and millet seeds in feeders.
13. Curve-billed Thrasher:
Curve-billed Thrashers are year-round residents of Arizona and can be observed throughout the state. They are present in 5% of summer checklists and 9% of winter checklists.
These birds have brownish-gray plumage with a curved beak, which gives them their name. They are known for their distinctive and melodious songs.
- Scientific Name: Toxostoma curvirostre
- Length: 9.8-10.6 inches (25-27 cm)
- Weight: 1.7-2.3 ounces (49-66 g)
- Wingspan: 12.6-13.8 inches (32-35 cm)
Curve-billed Thrashers are primarily found in desert areas, where they forage for insects, fruits, and seeds. They are skilled at using their curved beaks to dig in the ground for food.
These thrashers build cup-shaped nests from twigs and grass, often hidden in dense vegetation. They lay 2-5 eggs and raise multiple broods during the breeding season.
To attract Curve-billed Thrashers to your yard, provide a mix of fruits, mealworms, and suet in platform feeders. They may also be enticed by water sources like birdbaths.
14. Gila Woodpecker:
Gila Woodpeckers are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in desert regions. They are present in 7% of summer checklists and 8% of winter checklists.
These woodpeckers have a brownish body with a pale yellow belly and black-and-white wings. Males have a red crown, while females have a black crown.
- Scientific Name: Melanerpes uropygialis
- Length: 8.3-9.8 inches (21-25 cm)
- Weight: 1.7-2.7 ounces (49-77 g)
- Wingspan: 15.0-16.1 inches (38-41 cm)
Gila Woodpeckers primarily feed on insects, including ants and beetles, but also consume fruits and cactus nectar. They are known for excavating nest cavities in saguaro cacti.
Their distinctive “wick-a-wick-a-wick” call can often be heard in desert habitats, where they make use of saguaro cacti and dead tree limbs for perching.
To attract Gila Woodpeckers to your yard, consider providing suet feeders and maintaining dead tree snags or nest boxes.
15. Canyon Towhee:
Canyon Towhees are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in rocky canyons and desert habitats. They are present in 7% of summer checklists and 7% of winter checklists.
These towhees have a predominantly brown plumage with a rufous undertail. They also have a striking red eye and a long tail.
- Scientific Name: Melozone fusca
- Length: 8.3-9.1 inches (21-23 cm)
- Weight: 1.3-1.6 ounces (37-45 g)
- Wingspan: 10.2-11.0 inches (26-28 cm)
Canyon Towhees primarily forage on the ground, searching for insects, seeds, and fruits. They are known for their scratching behavior, often using their feet to uncover hidden prey.
These towhees build nests in low vegetation, creating cup-shaped structures from twigs, grass, and leaves. They lay 3-4 eggs during the breeding season.
To attract Canyon Towhees to your yard, provide dense shrubs and bushes as well as scattered seeds on the ground or in feeders.
16. Rock Wren:
Rock Wrens are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 4% of summer checklists. They are known for their ability to climb and navigate rocky terrain.
- Scientific Name: Salpinctes obsoletus
- Length: 4.7-5.9 inches (12-15 cm)
- Weight: 0.5-0.8 ounces (14-23 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
Rock Wrens have brownish-gray plumage with intricate patterns and markings. They possess a distinctive white eyebrow stripe and a long, decurved bill.
These wrens primarily forage for insects, spiders, and other arthropods among rocks and crevices. They build nests in rock cavities or crevices, often hidden from view.
To attract Rock Wrens to your yard, create rock piles or use rock walls, which can serve as suitable nesting and foraging areas.
17. Green-tailed Towhee:
Green-tailed Towhees are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 4% of summer checklists. They inhabit dense shrubby areas and coniferous forests.
- Scientific Name: Pipilo chlorurus
- Length: 7.1-7.9 inches (18-20 cm)
- Weight: 1.0-1.4 ounces (29-40 g)
- Wingspan: 9.8-10.6 inches (25-27 cm)
Green-tailed Towhees have a brown back, a greenish-gray head, and a distinct green tail. They also possess a red eye and a pinkish beak.
These towhees primarily forage on the ground for insects, seeds, and berries. They are known for their distinctive trilling song.
To attract Green-tailed Towhees to your yard, provide dense shrubs and offer a variety of seeds and insects in feeders or scattered on the ground.
18. Lucy’s Warbler:
Lucy’s Warblers are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 3% of summer checklists. They are known for their preference for nesting in cavities, often using abandoned woodpecker holes.
- Scientific Name: Oreothlypis luciae
- Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3-6.7 inches (16-17 cm)
Lucy’s Warblers have a brownish-gray back and a pale yellow belly. Males have a black throat patch, while females have a more subdued throat color.
These warblers primarily forage for insects, including small beetles and caterpillars, often catching them on the wing. They can be found in riparian areas and mesquite bosques.
To attract Lucy’s Warblers to your yard, consider providing nest boxes or natural cavities suitable for nesting.
19. Black-throated Sparrow:
Black-throated Sparrows are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in arid habitats such as deserts and grasslands. They are present in 6% of summer checklists and 3% of winter checklists.
- Scientific Name: Amphispiza bilineata
- Length: 5.1-5.5 inches (13-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.5-0.6 ounces (14-17 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9-8.7 inches (20-22 cm)
Black-throated Sparrows have a grayish-brown back, a distinctive black throat patch, and white markings on their face. They are known for their melodious songs.
These sparrows primarily forage on the ground, feeding on seeds, insects, and small fruits. They build nests in low shrubs, using grasses and twigs.
To attract Black-throated Sparrows to your yard, provide low shrubs and scatter a mix of seeds on the ground or in feeders.
20. Yellow-eyed Junco:
Yellow-eyed Juncos are winter birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of winter checklists. They breed in high-elevation coniferous forests and migrate to lower elevations during winter.
- Scientific Name: Junco phaeonotus
- Length: 5.5-6.3 inches (14-16 cm)
- Weight: 0.6-0.9 ounces (17-26 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 inches (20-23 cm)
Yellow-eyed Juncos have a grayish-brown back, a gray head, and a yellow eye. They also possess a pinkish bill and white outer tail feathers.
These juncos primarily forage on the ground, feeding on seeds, berries, and insects. They can be found in forests, woodlands, and shrubby habitats.
To attract Yellow-eyed Juncos to your yard, provide a mix of seeds and suet in feeders or scatter them on the ground.
21. Cassin’s Sparrow:
Cassin’s Sparrows are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of summer checklists. They inhabit grasslands and shrubby areas.
- Scientific Name: Peucaea cassinii
- Length: 5.5-6.3 inches (14-16 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 ounces (11-17 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9-8.7 inches (20-22 cm)
Cassin’s Sparrows have a brownish-gray back with streaks, a pale gray belly, and a pale eye stripe. They are known for their distinct song, often delivered while perched on a prominent shrub.
These sparrows primarily forage on the ground for seeds and insects, especially grasshoppers and beetles.
To attract Cassin’s Sparrows to your yard, provide open grassy areas and scatter seeds on the ground or offer them in low feeders.
22. Rufous-winged Sparrow:
Rufous-winged Sparrows are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 1% of summer checklists. They inhabit arid grasslands, open areas with sparse vegetation, and desert scrub.
- Scientific Name: Peucaea carpalis
- Length: 5.1-5.5 inches (13-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (11-14 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-7.9 inches (19-20 cm)
Rufous-winged Sparrows have a grayish-brown back, a pale gray belly, and rufous-colored wings. They also possess a distinctive pale eye ring.
These sparrows primarily forage on the ground, feeding on seeds and insects. They can be observed scratching the soil surface in search of prey.
To attract Rufous-winged Sparrows to your yard, provide open areas with sparse vegetation and offer a variety of seeds in low feeders or scattered on the ground.
23. Scott’s Oriole:
Scott’s Orioles are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of summer checklists. They inhabit desert areas, mesquite bosques, and riparian zones.
- Scientific Name: Icterus parisorum
- Length: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
- Weight: 1.1-1.4 ounces (32-40 g)
- Wingspan: 12.2-12.6 inches (31-32 cm)
Scott’s Orioles have a black head, back, and tail, contrasting with their bright yellow underparts. They also possess a distinct black bib.
These orioles primarily forage for insects and feed on nectar from flowers, especially those of agave and ocotillo plants.
To attract Scott’s Orioles to your yard, provide nectar feeders or offer a sugar-water solution. Planting native flowering plants can also attract them.
24. Gray Flycatcher:
Gray Flycatchers are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of summer checklists. They inhabit open woodlands, juniper forests, and sagebrush habitats.
- Scientific Name: Empidonax wrightii
- Length: 5.1-5.9 inches (13-15 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (11-14 g)
- Wingspan: 8.7-9.4 inches (22-24 cm)
Gray Flycatchers have a grayish-brown back, a pale gray belly, and a distinct eye ring. They also possess a small bill and a slight crest.
These flycatchers primarily feed on flying insects, catching them on the wing. They are known for their
habit of perching on exposed branches and making short flights to catch prey.
To attract Gray Flycatchers to your yard, provide perching spots such as small branches or dead snags. Maintain open spaces with access to flying insects.
25. Brown-crested Flycatcher:
Brown-crested Flycatchers are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of summer checklists. They inhabit riparian areas, open woodlands, and mesquite bosques.
- Scientific Name: Myiarchus tyrannulus
- Length: 8.7-9.4 inches (22-24 cm)
- Weight: 1.2-1.5 ounces (34-42 g)
- Wingspan: 13.8-14.6 inches (35-37 cm)
Brown-crested Flycatchers have a brownish-gray back, a pale yellow belly, and a prominent brown crest on their head. They also possess a distinctive lemon-yellow belly.
These flycatchers primarily feed on insects, catching them in mid-air or from perches. They are known for their loud and melodious calls.
To attract Brown-crested Flycatchers to your yard, provide natural perches such as dead snags or branches. Maintaining a water source can also be enticing.
26. Bendire’s Thrasher:
Bendire’s Thrashers are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in desert scrub, mesquite bosques, and arid grasslands. They are present in 4% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.
- Scientific Name: Toxostoma bendirei
- Length: 9.8-10.6 inches (25-27 cm)
- Weight: 2.2-2.8 ounces (62-80 g)
- Wingspan: 13.8-14.6 inches (35-37 cm)
Bendire’s Thrashers have a brownish-gray back, a pale gray belly, and a long, curved bill. They possess a streaked breast and distinctive yellow eyes.
These thrashers primarily forage on the ground, feeding on insects, spiders, and small reptiles. They are known for their complex and melodious songs.
To attract Bendire’s Thrashers to your yard, provide dense shrubby habitats and maintain a water source, such as a birdbath.
27. Canyon Wren:
Canyon Wrens are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in rocky canyons, cliffs, and arid mountain slopes. They are present in 4% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.
- Scientific Name: Catherpes mexicanus
- Length: 4.7-5.9 inches (12-15 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.6 ounces (11-17 g)
- Wingspan: 8.3-9.8 inches (21-25 cm)
Canyon Wrens have a brownish-gray back, a buff-colored belly, and distinctive white eye stripes. They possess a long, slender bill and a short tail.
These wrens are skilled climbers, often navigating rocky terrain with ease. They primarily feed on insects and spiders found among crevices and rocky surfaces.
To attract Canyon Wrens to your yard, create rock piles or use rock walls, which can serve as suitable nesting and foraging areas.
28. Olive-sided Flycatcher:
Olive-sided Flycatchers are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of summer checklists. They inhabit coniferous forests, particularly near water sources.
- Scientific Name: Contopus cooperi
- Length: 6.3-7.5 inches (16-19 cm)
- Weight: 1.1-1.4 ounces (31-40 g)
- Wingspan: 12.6-14.2 inches (32-36 cm)
Olive-sided Flycatchers have a dark grayish-brown back, a white belly, and distinct white patches on their flanks. They possess a large, triangular head.
These flycatchers primarily feed on flying insects, often perching at the top of trees to survey their surroundings. They are known for their loud and distinctive call.
To attract Olive-sided Flycatchers to your yard, provide tall trees with open perching spots. Maintaining a water source nearby can also be beneficial.
29. Red-naped Sapsucker:
Red-naped Sapsuckers are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in mixed coniferous and deciduous forests. They are present in 4% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.
- Scientific Name: Sphyrapicus nuchalis
- Length: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
- Weight: 1.4-1.9 ounces (40-55 g)
- Wingspan: 13.0-14.6 inches (33-37 cm)
Red-naped Sapsuckers have a brownish-black back, a white belly, and a red nape patch. Males possess a red throat, while females have a white throat.
These sapsuckers primarily feed on sap from tree wells that they create by drilling small holes in the bark. They also consume insects attracted to the sap.
To attract Red-naped Sapsuckers to your yard, provide tall trees, particularly those with sap-producing species like birch or maple.
30. Cactus Wren:
Cactus Wrens are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in desert regions with abundant cacti. They are present in 4% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.
- Scientific Name: Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus
- Length: 7.1-8.7 inches (18-22 cm)
- Weight: 1.1-1.6 ounces (32-45 g)
- Wingspan: 11.8-13.8 inches (30-35 cm)
Cactus Wrens have a brownish back with black and white streaks, a pale belly, and a long, curved bill. They possess distinctive white eyebrow stripes and a bold white stripe above the eye.
These wrens are adapted to arid habitats and are often seen perched atop cacti. They primarily feed on insects, spiders, and small reptiles.
To attract Cactus Wrens to your yard, provide dense shrubs and cacti as suitable nesting and foraging habitats. Water sources can also be enticing to them.
31. Black-throated Gray Warbler:
Black-throated Gray Warblers are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of summer checklists. They inhabit mixed coniferous and deciduous forests, particularly in higher elevations.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga nigrescens
- Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)
Black-throated Gray Warblers have a black back, a white belly, and a distinctive black throat patch. Males possess a yellow face, while females have a more subdued face color.
These warblers primarily feed on insects, often gleaning them from foliage and branches. They are known for their high-pitched and buzzy songs.
To attract Black-throated Gray Warblers to your yard, provide a mix of trees and shrubs for foraging and nesting. Maintaining a water source can also be beneficial.
32. Bell’s Vireo:
Bell’s Vireos are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of summer checklists. They inhabit riparian areas, thickets, and shrubby habitats.
- Scientific Name: Vireo bellii
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5-7.9 inches (19-20 cm)
Bell’s Vireos have a grayish-green back, a pale belly, and a distinctive white eye ring. They possess a hooked bill and are often observed foraging actively in foliage.
These vireos primarily feed on insects, spiders, and small fruits. They are known for their repetitive and melodious songs.
To attract Bell’s Vireos to your yard, provide dense shrubby habitats near water sources. Offering a variety of insects and small fruits can also be enticing.
33. Hammond’s Flycatcher:
Hammond’s Flycatchers are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of summer checklists. They inhabit coniferous forests, particularly in higher elevations.
- Scientific Name: Empidonax hammondii
- Length: 5.1-5.5 inches (13-14 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 8.7-9.1 inches (22-23 cm)
Hammond’s Flycatchers have a grayish-brown back, a pale belly, and a slight eye ring. They possess a small bill and are often observed perched on lower branches.
These flycatchers primarily feed on flying insects, making quick aerial sallies to catch their prey. They are known for their soft and buzzy calls.
To attract Hammond’s Flycatchers to your yard, provide tall trees and maintain a water source nearby. Offering a mix of flying insects can also be beneficial.
34. Gambel’s Quail:
Gambel’s Quail are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in desert scrub, grasslands, and mesquite bosques. They are present in 4% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.
- Scientific Name: Callipepla gambelii
- Length: 10.6-11.8 inches (27-30 cm)
- Weight: 5.3-7.1 ounces (150-200 g)
- Wingspan: 14.2-15.4 inches (36-39 cm)
Gambel’s Quail have a grayish-brown body with a scaled appearance, a forward-curving black topknot, and a distinct teardrop-shaped head plume. Males possess a vibrant reddish cap.
These quails primarily forage on the ground, feeding on seeds, fruits, and insects. They are known for their distinct “ka-KOW-ka-KOW” calls.
To attract Gambel’s Quail to your yard, provide dense shrubby habitats as suitable cover and nesting areas. Scatter seeds on the ground or offer them in low feeders.
35. Verdin:
Verdins are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in desert scrub, mesquite bosques, and arid habitats. They are present in 3% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.
- Scientific Name: Auriparus flaviceps
- Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.3 ounces (6-8 g)
- Wingspan: 5.9-6.3 inches (15-16 cm)
Verdins have a grayish-brown back, a yellow head and belly, and a long, slender bill. They possess a distinctive yellow face and a crest that can be raised or lowered.
These small birds primarily feed on insects, spiders, and nectar from flowers such as ocotillo and agave. They are known for their active and acrobatic foraging behavior.
To attract Verdins to your yard, provide native desert plants that produce nectar-rich flowers. Offering suet or mealworms can also supplement their diet.
36. Red-faced Warbler:
Red-faced Warblers are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 2% of summer checklists. They inhabit mixed coniferous forests, particularly in higher elevations.
- Scientific Name: Cardellina rubrifrons
- Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.1-7.5 inches (18-19 cm)
Red-faced Warblers have a grayish back, a white belly, and a distinct red face and throat. They possess a black eye stripe and a short, thin bill.
These warblers primarily feed on insects, often foraging actively in foliage and branches. They are known for their high-pitched and melodious songs.
To attract Red-faced Warblers to your yard, provide a mix of trees and shrubs for foraging and nesting. Maintaining a water source can also be beneficial.
37. Curve-billed Thrasher:
Curve-billed Thrashers are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in desert scrub, mesquite bosques, and arid grasslands. They are present in 3% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.
- Scientific Name: Toxostoma curvirostre
- Length: 10.2-10.6 inches (26-27 cm)
- Weight: 2.2-2.8 ounces (62-80 g)
- Wingspan: 11.8-13.4 inches (30-34 cm)
Curve-billed Thrashers have a brownish-gray back, a pale belly, and a long, slightly decurved bill. They possess a streaked breast and a distinct white eye stripe.
These thrashers primarily forage on the ground, feeding on insects, fruits, and seeds. They are known for their varied and melodious songs.
To attract Curve-billed Thrashers to your yard, provide dense shrubby habitats as suitable nesting and foraging areas. Water sources can also be enticing to them.
38. Yellow Warbler:
Yellow Warblers are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 3% of summer checklists. They inhabit riparian areas, wetlands, and shrubby habitats.
- Scientific Name: Setophaga petechia
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (9-11 g)
- Wingspan: 6.7-7.5 inches (17-19 cm)
Yellow Warblers have a bright yellow body, a pale belly, and a thin, pointed bill. They possess a reddish streaking on their chest and a white wing bar.
These warblers primarily feed on insects, often flitting through foliage and gleaning prey. They are known for their sweet and repetitive songs.
To attract Yellow Warblers to your yard, provide a mix of trees and shrubs near water sources. Offering a variety of insects can also be beneficial.
39. Rufous-crowned Sparrow:
Rufous-crowned Sparrows are year-round residents of Arizona, commonly found in desert scrub, grasslands, and rocky slopes. They are present in 3% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.
- Scientific Name: Aimophila ruficeps
- Length: 5.5-5.9 inches (14-15 cm)
- Weight: 0.6-0.7 ounces (17-20 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9-8.3 inches (20-21 cm)
Rufous-crowned Sparrows have a brownish-gray back, a pale belly, and a reddish-brown crown. They possess a distinctive facial pattern with a white eye ring.
These sparrows primarily forage on the ground, feeding on seeds, insects, and small fruits. They are known for their distinctive trilling song.
To attract Rufous-crowned Sparrows to your yard, provide open grassy areas and scatter seeds on the ground or offer them in low feeders.
40. Violet-green Swallow:
Violet-green Swallows are summer birds in Arizona, appearing in 3% of summer checklists. They inhabit forests, canyons, and open areas with suitable nest cavities.
- Scientific Name: Tachycineta thalassina
- Length: 4.7-5.1 inches (12-13 cm)
- Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (11-14 g)
- Wingspan: 11.0-11.8 inches (28-30 cm)
Violet-green Swallows have a metallic green back, a white belly, and distinct white patches on their rump and face. They possess a forked tail and long, pointed wings.
These swallows primarily feed on flying insects, often foraging in groups and performing aerial acrobatics. They are known for their chattering calls.
To attract Violet-green Swallows to your yard, provide suitable nest boxes or structures with open access for nesting. Maintaining a water source can also be beneficial.