Birds in Oregon

For a state that has the 6th highest bird count, Oregon isn’t that well known for birdwatching among beginners. Yet, the state sees some of the best shorebirds and seabirds along with the high elevation birds due to its mountains.

What Is The State Bird Of Oregon?

It was the schoolchildren of Oregon that wanted Western Meadowlark to be the state bird of Oregon, as decided by a poll in 1927. Almost all of the west side of North America has seen the Western Meadowlark as the songbird is especially familiar on this side.

The adult birds tend to have bright yellow chest, cheeks and throat with black and white stripe color running from their head to the entirety of their back. The chest area also has a V-shaped black spot on top of it.

What Are  Spots To Go Bird Watching In Oregon?

Malheur National Wildlife Refuge large wetlands is a call for waterfowls during the migration season. Sandhill Cranes and American White Pelicans fly over the area or might even choose to nest here. Sora, Sage Thrasher, Franklin’s Gull, are among its regular nesters.

Birdwatchers in Oregon are aware of Fort Stevens State Park as one of the best spots for catching shorebirds in action. A lot of rare species such as Pigeon Guillemot, Rhinoceros Auklet, and Northern Fulmar, can be seen with the eyes of the right observer.

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How Many Birds Can You See In Oregon?

546 species of birds have been spotted among the birds in Oregon. 409 species have been spotted in the country of Lane. Curry, Lincoln, Clatsop, Harney have seen 382, 380, 372, and 370 species respectively. Naturally, if you just walk around these cities, you’re likely to come across quite a lot of bird species.

The Malheur NWR is a hotpot for different species of birds with about 310 spotted there. Summer Lake Wildlife Area and Fern Ridge WMA–Royal Ave. areas are also famous hotspots with 275 and 267 spotted in these places. The bird species you don’t get the chance to come across in Malheur are likely to be in Summer Lake.

Top Birds To See In Oregon

Usually found alongside the coast, among the birds in Oregon Harlequin Duck has one of the most visually appealing plumage. It’s a bird made for paintings with its amalgamation of colors all over it.

Often seen at the coastal bays during winter, Brant tends to accompany fellow winter waterfowls. It’s an easily recognizable bird with its entirely black head and neck with a slightly white collar and a white belly and wings. It’s the kind of birds that will catch your eyes easily.

Crater Lake National Park is where an ancient volcano used to be, now a deep blue lake. The color of the lake clearly attracts birds like Mountain Chickadee, Williamson’s Sapsucker, and Hammond’s Flycatcher. Many other notable birds are also seen in the area.

Common Birds To See In Oregon

If you walk around Portland, you’re likely to come across Songsparrow, American Robin, Anna’s Hummingbirds. These birds are in your backyard more often than not. On a lucky day, you will be able to peep an American Kestrel.

Salem has a particularly hot birding spot, like the Talking Water Gardens where you can get quite close to the birds. Spotted Sandpiper and Heron.

Final thoughts

Oregon isn’t a state most people consider for birdwatching. A grave mistake in most experienced birders opinion, as it has plenty of rarities to offer its visitors.