Hello, bird enthusiasts and nature lovers! In this article, I will be sharing with you six of the most common bird species that you can spot in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Despite the desert environment, Las Vegas is home to a wide variety of bird species that are both beautiful and fascinating.
From the colorful Northern Flicker to the soaring Mourning Dove, these birds can be found throughout the city and its surrounding areas.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor to Sin City, keep your eyes peeled for these six common birds and experience the natural beauty of Las Vegas in a whole new way.
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If you don’t have the time to read the whole article, check out this video for a quick understanding.
Common Birds in Las Vegas
1. Mourning Dove
These Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura) are from the family of Doves.
These birds are not migratory, so they permanently reside in Las Vegas.
Most common of all birds, mourning birds, male, and female, exist with little difference.
This difference is, however, enough to guess which one is male and which is female.
Males are much brighter in color, larger, and wider than females.
Their maximum length can reach up to 13.4 inches.
The classic bird way of calling for mating is through singing.
These mourning birds, too, mate in the mating season but sing.
Their ideal feed consists of seeds, nuts, insects, etc, and sometimes worms too.
If you put out their favorite food in the bird feeders, you will likely see them visiting you often.
Below are the characteristics of the Mourning Dove,
| Scientific Name | Zenaida macroura |
| Family Name | Columbidae |
| Length | 9-13 inches (23-34 cm) |
| Weight | 3.4-6.0 ounces (96-170 grams) |
| Wingspan | 17-19 inches (43-48 cm) |
| Habitat | Open woodlands, grasslands, deserts, urban areas |
| Food | Seeds, grains, insects, small invertebrates |
2. House Finch
House Finches (Haemorhous Mexicans) are small birds but have really long pointed beaks.
You can identify them because of their long tails, which are usually notched, and flatheads.
They can reach up to a maximum length of 5.5 inches for both males and females.
Anyone can attract these birds easily through bird feeders.
Just leave the feeder outside with berries, seeds, and small insects; you will see them drop by to eat.
They do not require high maintenance and usually rest anywhere on the ground or trees and feed on weed seeds, berries, flower parts, etc.
If you luckily ever get a chance to see House Finches, You will notice they take in food quickly through rapid biting, and their flight is as if they are jumping.
Below are the characteristics of the House Finch,
| Scientific Name | Haemorhous mexicanus |
| Family Name | Fringillidae |
| Length | 5-6 inches (13-15 cm) |
| Weight | 0.6-0.9 ounces (16-27 grams) |
| Wingspan | 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) |
| Habitat | Woodlands, urban and suburban areas, deserts |
| Food | Seeds, grains, fruits, berries, insects |
3. White-crowned Sparrow
In the western sides of the United States, throughout the year along the coast, these White-crowned Sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys) are the common residents.
They migrate depending on the weather conditions.
During the warm season, These birds fly towards mountains in the north, and during the cold winter season, You will see them in the lowlands present in the southwestern areas.
In the Eastern parts of the United States, these white-crowned sparrows are not year-round birds; instead, they migrate there in the cold season.
An interesting fact about them is that every white-crowned sparrow present in different parts of the world has their own song that they sing.
You can tell through their voices which part of the country it belongs to.
Below are the characteristics of the White-crowned Sparrow,
| Scientific Name | Zonotrichia leucophrys |
| Family Name | Passerellidae |
| Length | 5.9-6.7 inches (15-17 cm) |
| Weight | 0.8-1.0 ounces (24-28 grams) |
| Wingspan | 9.1-9.8 inches (23-25 cm) |
| Habitat | Brushy habitats, woodlands, meadows, tundra |
| Food | Seeds, insects, small fruits |
4. Yellow-rumped Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga Coronata), as the name suggests, has a yellow-colored rump.
They are small birds but not as small as goldfinches and chickadees.
From them, they are larger in size. Their bills are need-like and short with a slender appearance.
They have bluish-gray color on their top with a chest and the sides black color.
As their name suggests, they have a rump and a side yellow color. They have two forms, and both are of different colors.
They are seen throughout the cold winter season in the West as they only migrate there to spend the winter.
Their measurement in centimeters is 12 to 15 cm, and in inches, it is about 4.7 to 5.9 in length.
Their wingspan in centimeters is about 19 to 24 cm, and in inches, it is 7.5 to 9.4 in.
They are found in the trees, not on the lower surface but the half above the trees.
Nonmigratory forms of Yellow-rumped Warbler exist in Guatemala and Mexico.
Migratory forms are found in different places like the middle of America, Alaska, and Canada.
Below are the characteristics of the Yellow-rumped Warbler,
| Scientific Name | Setophaga coronata |
| Family Name | Parulidae |
| Length | 4.7-5.5 inches (12-14 cm) |
| Weight | 0.3-0.5 ounces (9-14 grams) |
| Wingspan | 7.5-9.1 inches (19-23 cm) |
| Habitat | Coniferous and mixed forests, woodlands, swamps |
| Food | Insects, spiders, seeds, berries |
5. Northern Flicker
Northern Flickers (Colaptes auratus) are the next most common birds in Las Vegas.
These are very popular birds that are misunderstood by woodpeckers, and these are also liked a lot by residents and visitors.
The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized woodpecker with a distinctive barred pattern on its back and wings.
The male has a red patch on the back of its head, while the female has a black patch. Both sexes have a white rump patch that is visible in flight.
The Northern Flicker measures about 11-14 inches (28-36 cm) in length.
The Northern Flicker typically weighs between 3-5 ounces (85-142 grams).
The Northern Flicker’s wingspan ranges from 16-21 inches (41-53 cm).
The Northern Flicker can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, open fields, and suburban areas.
They are most commonly found in deciduous forests and wooded areas near water.
The Northern Flicker primarily feeds on insects, including ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. They also eat fruits and nuts when insects are scarce.
Below are the characteristics of the Northern Flicker,
| Scientific Name | Colaptes auratus |
| Family Name | Picidae |
| Length | 11-14 inches (28-36 cm) |
| Weight | 3.9-5.6 ounces (110-160 grams) |
| Wingspan | 17-21 inches (43-53 cm) |
| Habitat | Forests, woodlands, parks, urban and suburban areas |
| Food | Insects (especially ants), fruits, seeds, berries |
6. Verdin
You will mostly find Verdin (Auriparus flaviceps) species in places with dry and hot climates.
They do not like moist areas and become active as the day breaks.
The Verdin is a small bird with a yellow head and a grayish-brown body.
It has a short, conical bill and a distinctive white eye ring.
The Verdin’s wings are brown with white patches, and its tail is long and narrow.
The Verdin measures about 4.5 inches (11 cm) in length.
The Verdin typically weighs between 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 grams).
The Verdin’s wingspan ranges from 6.5-7 inches (16-18 cm).
These birds can reach up to the maximum size of 4.3 inches, and their diet includes spiders, insects, and nectar from various flowers.
Below are the characteristics of the Verdin,
| Scientific Name | Auriparus flaviceps |
| Family Name | Remizidae |
| Length | 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) |
| Weight | 0.2-0.3 ounces (6-8 grams) |
| Wingspan | 6.3 inches (16 cm) |
| Habitat | Desert scrub, mesquite, thorn scrub, riparian areas |
| Food | Insects, spiders, small fruits, berries |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Las Vegas may be known for its bright lights and bustling nightlife, but it’s also home to a surprising variety of bird species.
From the majestic Mourning Dove to the colorful Northern Flicker, these six common birds offer a glimpse into the natural beauty that can be found in the city and its surrounding areas.
Whether you’re a birdwatching enthusiast or simply enjoy the outdoors, taking the time to observe these magnificent creatures can be a truly rewarding experience.
So, the next time you’re in Las Vegas, keep your eyes peeled for these six common birds and discover the natural wonders that this vibrant city has to offer.
FAQ
What types of birds can be found in Las Vegas?
Las Vegas is home to a wide variety of bird species, including raptors like hawks and eagles, songbirds like finches and sparrows, waterfowl like ducks and geese, and more.
Where can I go birdwatching in Las Vegas?
There are many places to go birdwatching in Las Vegas, including the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Floyd Lamb Park, and Wetlands Park. These areas offer a variety of habitats and are home to many different bird species.
What time of year is best for birdwatching in Las Vegas?
The best time for birdwatching in Las Vegas is typically during the spring and fall migration seasons, when many bird species pass through the area. However, many bird species can be seen in Las Vegas year-round, making it a great destination for birdwatchers at any time of the year.
Are there any rare or endangered bird species in Las Vegas?
Yes, there are several rare or endangered bird species that can be found in Las Vegas, including the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher, the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, and the Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo. These species are protected by federal and state laws, and it is illegal to disturb them or their habitats.
Can I feed the birds in Las Vegas?
Feeding wild birds is generally discouraged in Las Vegas, as it can disrupt their natural feeding patterns and cause them to become dependent on human-provided food. It is also important to avoid feeding birds in public areas, as it can create sanitation issues and attract unwanted wildlife.
What should I bring with me for birdwatching in Las Vegas?
Some recommended items to bring with you for birdwatching in Las Vegas include binoculars or a spotting scope, a field guide to bird identification, a notebook or journal, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather are also important.
Last Updated on April 9, 2023 by Lily Aldrin
