Arizona’s landscapes are no strangers to vibrant bursts of color, but it’s the red birds in the avian realm that truly steal the show. Their scarlet feathers capture the attention of both avid birdwatchers and casual observers.
Join me on a virtual expedition through this blog post as I uncover the beauty of Arizona’s red birds, featuring pictures, ID guides, and more. Let’s dive right into the adventure!
1. Northern Cardinal
Northern Cardinals are known for their vibrant red plumage and are commonly seen in Arizona. They have a distinctive crest that contrasts beautifully with their black masks.
Cardinals are usually found in dense vegetation habitats like shrubs and woodlands, where they build nests and seek shelter. They communicate and form strong bonds with their mates through melodious songs and elaborate courtship displays. Their diet consists primarily of seeds, fruits, and insects.
- Scientific Name: Cardinalis cardinalis
- Length: 21-23 cm (8.3-9.1 in)
- Weight: 33-42 g (1.2-1.5 oz)
- Wingspan: 25-31 cm (9.8-12.2 in)
- Call Sign: Clear, whistled phrases such as “cheer, cheer, cheer” or “birdie, birdie, birdie”
- Migratory: No
- Range: Eastern and central regions of North America, from southern Canada to Mexico
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
2. Vermilion Flycatcher
Vermilion Flycatchers are enchanting birds, known for their striking appearances. The males display vibrant plumage, featuring a brilliant scarlet hue that contrasts against their jet-black wings and tail.
These charming birds inhabit open areas like grasslands and deserts, where they perch on exposed branches or wires. With agile flight, they gracefully swoop to catch insects mid-air, mainly beetles and flies, using their sharp beaks.
- Scientific Name: Pyrocephalus rubinus
- Length: 14-15 cm (5.5-6 inches)
- Weight: 9-12 grams (0.3-0.4 ounces)
- Wingspan: 22-24 cm (8.5-9.5 inches)
- Call Sign: High-pitched, melodic “tseep” or “pik” sound
- Migratory: No
- Range: Western hemisphere, found in parts of North, Central, and South America
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
3. Red-winged Blackbird
Red-winged Blackbirds are medium-sized birds with glossy black feathers and distinctive red and yellow shoulder patches called epaulets.
They inhabit marshes, wetlands, and open fields, often perching on cattails or tall grasses. Males are known for their melodious songs and strong territorial defense. These birds are adaptable and resourceful, feeding on insects, seeds, and grains.
- Scientific Name: Agelaius phoeniceus
- Length: 18-24 cm (7-9.4 in)
- Weight: 41-65 g (1.4-2.3 oz)
- Wingspan: 29-38 cm (11-15 in)
- Call Sign: Conk-la-ree!
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: North America, Central America, and the Caribbean
- Conservation Status: Least concern (LC)
4. House Finch
House Finches are frequently seen in Arizona, showcasing vibrant plumage and singing cheerfully. These small birds have a stout body, brownish feathers with streaks of red or orange, and a conical beak.
They thrive in diverse habitats, including urban areas and deserts, where they build nests in trees, shrubs, and man-made structures. House Finches are lively, engaging in playful flights and forming large flocks. They primarily eat seeds but also indulge in insects.
- Scientific Name: Haemorhous mexicanus
- Length: 12.5-15 cm (4.9-5.9 in)
- Weight: 16-27 g (0.56-0.95 oz)
- Wingspan: 20-25 cm (7.9-9.8 in)
- Call Sign: Warbling song, “cheep” call
- Migratory: No
- Range: North America, from Canada to Mexico
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
5. Pyrrhuloxia
Pyrrhuloxias, also known as desert cardinals, closely resemble Northern Cardinals but have distinct appearance variations. Males display a striking blend of red and gray feathers, while females present a more muted range of brown and gray tones.
Thriving in arid desert habitats, Pyrrhuloxias possess a charming demeanor and engage in social behavior, often forming flocks with other birds. They have a diverse diet consisting of seeds, insects, and fruits, enabling them to adapt as skilled foragers.
- Scientific Name: Pyrrhuloxia sinuata
- Length: 7-8 inches (18-20 cm)
- Weight: 1.2-1.6 ounces (34-45 grams)
- Wingspan: 11-12 inches (28-30 cm)
- Call Sign: Varied, including sharp metallic notes and whistling sounds
- Migratory: No, resident bird
- Range: Southwestern United States and northern Mexico
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
6. Elegant Trogon
Elegant Trogons are one of the unique birds in Arizona, featuring vibrant green backs, scarlet bellies, and undertails that shimmer with coppery hues. They inhabit the verdant canyons and woodlands of Arizona, seeking shelter under the shade of tall trees.
Observing their behavior reveals their regal nature, as they perch majestically on branches and gracefully take flight with a fluttering motion. Their diet consists of insects, fruits, and occasionally small reptiles.
- Scientific Name: Trogon elegans
- Length: 25-30 cm (9.8-11.8 in)
- Weight: 82-105 grams (2.9-3.7 oz)
- Wingspan: 36-41 cm (14-16 in)
- Call Sign: Varied, including a soft, descending, fluting sound
- Migratory: No
- Range: Southern Arizona (USA), and Northwestern Mexico
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
7. Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s Hummingbirds are delightful little wonders, showcasing a shimmering blend of emerald green and ruby red feathers. These vibrant birds can be found in diverse habitats, ranging from desert scrublands to urban gardens, where they enhance the beauty of their surroundings.
Renowned for their energetic behavior, they engage in impressive aerial displays and fiercely defend their territories. Despite their small size, they are mighty defenders. Their diet primarily consists of nectar from flowers, occasionally supplemented with small insects.
- Scientific Name: Calypte anna
- Length: 9-11 cm (3.5-4.3 in)
- Weight: 3.9-6.0 g (0.14-0.21 oz)
- Wingspan: 11-12 cm (4.3-4.7 in)
- Call Sign: High-pitched chirping or buzzing
- Migratory: No
- Range: Coastal regions of western North America, from southern Canada to northern Baja California (United States)
- Conservation Status: Least concern (LC)
8. Painted Redstart
Painted Redstarts have glossy black bodies adorned with fiery red patches on their wings, tail, and belly.
These birds inhabit woodlands, gracefully flitting from tree to tree and showcasing their wings in a captivating manner. Along with their elegant movements, Painted Redstarts have a diverse diet, consuming insects, spiders, and small fruits.
- Scientific Name: Myioborus pictus
- Length: 13-14 cm (5-5.5 in)
- Weight: 9-12 g (0.3-0.4 oz)
- Wingspan: 21-23 cm (8-9 in)
- Call Sign: High-pitched, musical trill
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Western United States and Mexico
- Conservation Status: Least concern (LC)
9. Red-faced Warbler
Red-faced Warblers are small songbirds with fiery red faces that beautifully contrast with their slate-gray upperparts and white underparts.
They prefer cool, shaded habitats of coniferous forests found at higher elevations. These agile and acrobatic warblers delight birdwatchers with their flight as they skillfully forage for insects among the tree branches. Their diet mainly consists of spiders, beetles, and caterpillars.
- Scientific Name: Cardellina rubrifrons
- Length: 11-12 cm (4.3-4.7 inches)
- Weight: 7-10 grams (0.25-0.35 ounces)
- Wingspan: 18-20 cm (7-8 inches)
- Call Sign: High-pitched, musical trill
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Mountains of western North America, from southwestern United States to Central America
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
10. White-winged Crossbill
White-winged Crossbills, also called Two-barred Crossbills, are charming songbirds known for their vibrant plumage and distinctive crossed bills.
They thrive in coniferous forests and prefer habitats with pine, spruce, and fir trees. These social birds are often seen in flocks and have a diet consisting primarily of conifer seeds, which they skillfully pry open.
- Scientific Name: Loxia leucoptera
- Length: 14-16 cm (5.5-6.3 in)
- Weight: 26-35 grams (0.92-1.23 oz)
- Wingspan: 24-27 cm (9.4-10.6 in)
- Call Sign: Variable, with characteristic “jip” or “kip” notes
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: North America (including Alaska and Canada)
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
11. Summer Tanager
Summer Tanagers are vibrant songbirds known for their stunning plumage. Males flaunt a striking crimson red coat, while females boast a more subdued yellowish hue.
They thrive in various habitats, including woodlands and forests, and are skilled hunters, feasting on insects like beetles and bees. With their melodious songs and graceful flight, Summer Tanagers are a true delight for birdwatchers in Arizona.
- Scientific Name: Piranga rubra
- Length: 16-18 cm (6.3-7.1 in)
- Weight: 28-33 g (0.99-1.16 oz)
- Wingspan: 25-28 cm (9.8-11 in)
- Call Sign: Clear, musical “pit-i-tuck”
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Eastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
12. Red Crossbill
Red Crossbills have a distinct appearance with vibrant plumage and crossed bills. They inhabit coniferous forests and display skilled climbing abilities, often perching on the upper branches of trees.
Using their specialized bills, they extract seeds from pine cones, showcasing their mastery of the forest environment. Their primary diet consists of conifer seeds.
- Scientific Name: Loxia curvirostra
- Length: 14-16 cm (5.5-6.3 in)
- Weight: 26-40 grams (0.92-1.41 oz)
- Wingspan: 24-27 cm (9.4-10.6 in)
- Call Sign: Complex series of “jip-jip” or “kip-kip” notes
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
13. Hepatic Tanager
Hepatic Tanagers are known for their vibrant appearance and lively behavior. With rich red plumage, they create a striking contrast against the greenery of their forested habitats.
Thriving in woodlands, these songbirds hop through trees and perch on branches, easily catching the eye. Their diet mainly consists of insects and fruits.
- Scientific Name: Piranga flava
- Length: 16-18 cm (6.3-7.1 in)
- Weight: 19-23 g (0.67-0.81 oz)
- Wingspan: 27-30 cm (10.6-11.8 in)
- Call Sign: High-pitched “chik-burr”
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Western North America (from southern Canada to Mexico)
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
14. Red-naped Sapsucker
Red-naped Sapsuckers are small woodpeckers with a black-and-white body, a bright red crown, and a distinct red patch on their nape.
They inhabit coniferous forests and mixed woodlands, where they excavate nest cavities. These busy birds create unique patterns of sap wells on tree trunks, feeding on the sap and attracting insects. They also supplement their diet with berries and insects found on tree bark.
- Scientific Name: Sphyrapicus nuchalis
- Length: 20-23 cm (7.9-9.1 in)
- Weight: 35-49 g (1.2-1.7 oz)
- Wingspan: 37-42 cm (14.6-16.5 in)
- Call Sign: High-pitched, repetitive “wick-wick-wick”
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Western North America (breeding), Mexico and Central America (wintering)
- Conservation Status: Least concern (LC)
15. Red-shafted Flicker
Red-shafted Flickers, a subspecies of Northern Flickers, have a unique combination of colors, including vibrant red shafts on their wings, which adds elegance to their appearance.
These flickers prefer open woodlands and forest edges as their habitat, where they can find abundant opportunities to forage for insects. They communicate and establish territories through rhythmic drumming on trees.
- Scientific Name: Colaptes cafer
- Length: 28-31 cm (11-12.2 in)
- Weight: 85-145 g (3-5.1 oz)
- Wingspan: 42-45 cm (16.5-17.7 in)
- Call Sign: “wick-a-wick-a-wick”
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Western North America (from Alaska to Central Mexico)
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
16. Red-tailed Hawk
Red-tailed Hawks are known for their striking appearance and impressive aerial displays. With broad, rounded wings and a distinctive red tail, they command attention wherever they soar.
These majestic raptors adapt to diverse habitats, from deserts to forests, with ease. They exhibit patient and stealthy behavior while hunting rodents, small mammals, and reptiles.
- Scientific Name: Buteo jamaicensis
- Length: 45-65 cm (17.7-25.6 in)
- Weight: 690-1,600 g (1.5-3.5 lb)
- Wingspan: 110-145 cm (43.3-57.1 in)
- Call Sign: High-pitched scream or screech
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: North and Central America
- Conservation Status: Least concern (LC)
17. Red-breasted Merganser
Red-breasted Mergansers have long, slender bodies with vibrant plumage. The males possess a blend of white, black, and cinnamon tones, while the females have more subdued grayish-brown feathers.
They prefer freshwater lakes and rivers, gracefully diving for fish, crustaceans, and aquatic invertebrates. Watching their intricate courtship displays and agile swimming maneuvers is a delight for bird enthusiasts.
- Scientific Name: Mergus serrator
- Length: 51-64 cm (20-25 in)
- Weight: 0.9-1.6 kg (2-3.5 lb)
- Wingspan: 66-72 cm (26-28 in)
- Call Sign: Harsh croaking or low grunting sounds
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia
- Conservation Status: Least concern (LC)
18. Red-breasted Nuthatch
Red-breasted Nuthatches are small birds with a striking red-orange chest that contrasts against their slate-blue back.
These energetic birds primarily inhabit coniferous forests, fearlessly scurrying along tree trunks and branches in search of insects and seeds. They have a distinctive foraging style of going upside down and frequently store food for future consumption.
- Scientific Name: Sitta canadensis
- Length: 10-11.5 cm (4-4.5 in)
- Weight: 9-13 g (0.3-0.5 oz)
- Wingspan: 18-23 cm (7-9 in)
- Call Sign: A high-pitched “yank” or “yank-yank”
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: North America (breeds in Canada and the United States)
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
19. Red-shouldered Hawk
Red-shouldered Hawks possess a reddish hue on their shoulders, which complements their rich brown feathers.
These magnificent birds are often sighted in wooded areas, where they perch gracefully on tall trees. With their piercing eyes, they diligently survey the ground below, searching for their preferred prey of small mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
- Scientific Name: Buteo lineatus
- Length: 43-61 cm (17-24 in)
- Weight: 550-1,100 g (1.2-2.4 lb)
- Wingspan: 99-127 cm (39-50 in)
- Call Sign: A distinct, loud “kee-yer” or “klee-yer”
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Eastern and central North America
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
20. Red-throated Pipit
Red-throated Pipits are small songbirds with a mixture of brown, black, and white feathers, as well as a distinctively red throat.
These charming birds prefer open grasslands and meadows as their habitat. They are agile and energetic, engaging in hopping and flying while foraging for insects and seeds. Their diet consists of various small invertebrates, which contribute to the local ecosystem.
- Scientific Name: Anthus cervinus
- Length: 14-16 cm (5.5-6.3 in)
- Weight: 15-22 g (0.5-0.8 oz)
- Wingspan: 24-27 cm (9.4-10.6 in)
- Call Sign: High-pitched “tsrii”
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Arctic and subarctic regions of Eurasia and North America
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
21. Common Redpoll
Common Redpolls are small and charming birds with vibrant plumage, combining red, black, and white feathers on their bodies. They reside in dense coniferous forests and open woodlands, gracefully flitting from branch to branch.
These birds possess a diverse diet, consuming seeds, berries, and insects. Their cheerful chirps and acrobatic displays make observing them in their natural habitat a delightful experience.
- Scientific Name: Acanthis flammea
- Length: 11-14 cm (4.3-5.5 in)
- Weight: 12-18 g (0.4-0.6 oz)
- Wingspan: 20-25 cm (7.9-9.8 in)
- Call Sign: A high-pitched “twi-twi-twi”
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia
- Conservation Status: Least concern (LC)
22. Red Knot
Red Knots possess a blend of rich chestnut, gray, and white feathers. With their long, slender bills and sturdy bodies, they navigate coastal habitats gracefully.
They are renowned for their exceptional feeding behavior, as they probe deep into the sand to locate tiny invertebrates, mollusks, and crustaceans. Their annual migrations cover impressive distances, highlighting their tenacity and endurance.
- Scientific Name: Calidris canutus
- Length: 23-26 cm (9-10.2 in)
- Weight: 100-200 g (3.5-7.1 oz)
- Wingspan: 47-53 cm (18.5-21 in)
- Call Sign: Varied whistling notes
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Arctic breeding grounds, migrates along coastlines worldwide
- Conservation Status: Near threatened (NT)
23. Painted Bunting
Painted Buntings are small, colorful songbirds. The males are visually striking, displaying vibrant plumage in shades of blue, green, and red. In contrast, the females feature more subtle colors, combining green and yellow tones.
These birds prefer dense shrubby habitats such as thickets and brushy areas, where they seek shelter and privacy. They have a varied diet that includes seeds, fruits, and insects, making them a delightful sight for birdwatchers.
- Scientific Name: Passerina ciris
- Length: 11-14 cm (4.3-5.5 in)
- Weight: 12-15 g (0.4-0.5 oz)
- Wingspan: 19-23 cm (7.5-9.1 in)
- Call Sign: High-pitched musical trill
- Migratory: Yes
- Range: Southeastern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)
Wrap Up
Now that you’re familiar with the beautiful red avian species of Arizona, identifying them in your backyard or their natural habitats should be easy for you.
Before you go, I recommend reading this article about the state bird of Arizona, especially if you’re an Arizonan. You’ll enjoy learning about the avian symbol of your state.
