Top 25 Beautiful Backyard Birds of Florida: Which Ones Will You See In Your Yard?

If you’re a backyard birder in Florida, you’re in for a treat! The Sunshine State is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse backyard birds in North America. From colorful songbirds to stately raptors, there’s something for everyone here.

Florida’s climate is perfect for backyard birds. The state has warm, sunny weather year-round, with average temperatures in the winter hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

This moderate climate is ideal for various bird species, many of which are migratory and visit Florida during the winter months.

In addition to its temperate climate, Florida also has a diverse landscape, including wetlands, forests, and beaches.

This variety of habitats provides backyard birds with plenty of food and shelter options, making Florida a great place for backyard birding.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at 25 of the most common backyard birds of Florida that we found by surveying residents and utilizing data from ebird and other citizen science databases. By reading this article, we hope you will identify some new species and find out which ones live near you!

Backyard Birds In Florida

According to the latest data from ebird, there are 542 observed species of Birds in Florida. This data comes from over 2.1 million checklists from just over 56,000 avid birdwatchers.

Trying to identify and see all 542 may be quite an exciting challenge, so we have chosen to focus on the birds you are more likely to see in your home, backyard, or bird feeders.

Here are some things to know about Backyard Birds In Florida:

• 542 observed species
• The Northern Cardinal is the most common backyard bird in Florida
• The Northern Cardinal is the most common feeder bird in Florida
• The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is the smallest most common feeder bird in Florida
• The American Crow is the largest backyard bird on this list
• The Red-bellied Woodpecker is the most common Woodpecker of Florida.
• The Northern Mockingbird is Florida’s state bird

Top 5 Hotspots For Birdwatching In Florida

If you prefer to venture away from home to do some birding, then visit one of Florida’s best hotspots for birdwatching. These hotspots are determined by the total number of species observed by fellow birdwatchers in Florida.

1. Lake Apopka North Shore
2. Fort De Soto Park
3. Gulf Islands National Seashore
4. St Marks National Wildlife Reserve
5. Honeymoon Island

Top 25 Backyard Birds Of Florida

The list below is determined by the number of bird watchers in Florida who have seen a species at least once, divided by the number of bird feeder sites.

1. Northern Cardinal

The Northern Cardinal is a common species of bird found in the United States and is the most common backyard bird of Florida. They can be seen all year round in the state.

Northern Cardinals are small songbirds, with males and females generally weighing less between 42 – 48g (1.5 – 1.7 oz), and are 21-23cm (8.3-9.1 inches) long.

Northern cardinals have a distinctive crest on their head that can be raised when they feel threatened or aggressive; however, this behavior is not often observed in wild populations and has been lost to captive ones.

The Northern Cardinal’s feathers range from bright red in males to brownish orange in females, and their bills are short but wide at the base – giving them an upturned appearance, making them easy to identify.

Northern Cardinals have a varied diet that consists of fruits, seeds, berries, and insects and are very common at most bird feeders but prefer to eat seeds such as sunflower, safflower, and cracked corn from the ground.

The Northern Cardinal has been seen at 92% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Type for Northern Cardinals

• Large Tube feeder
• Large Hopper
• Platform Feeder
• Ground

Feeder Food for Northern Cardinals

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Safflower
• Cracker Corn
• Peanut Hearts
• Millet
• Milo

2. Mourning Dove

The Mourning Dove is a common species of bird found throughout North America and can be seen in Florida all year round.

They are about the size of an American Robin, with adults between 23-34cm (9.1-13.4 inches) long and weighing between 86-170g (3-6oz).

Mourning Doves have grayish-brown feathers, and their heads are pale gray; however, they lack crests or head adornments.

Mourning Doves prefer open habitats in rural and urban areas and weedy fields.

Mourning Doves are ground foragers meaning that they eat seeds, grains, and other vegetation found on the ground. They have a varied diet but prefer to eat weed seeds such as dandelions or grasses in open fields rather than forest floors.

Mourning doves also drink water from puddles created by rain which they find near trees and shrubs.

They are frequent visitors to backyard bird feeders and typically eat seeds that have fallen on the ground or platform feeders.

The Mourning Dove has been seen at 86% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Type for Mourning Doves

• Large Hopper
• Platform feeder
• Ground

Feeder Food for Mourning Doves

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Safflower
• Nyjer
• Cracker Corn
• Peanut Hearts
• Millet & Milo
• Oats

3. Red-bellied Woodpecker

The Red-Bellied Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker with a long, chisel-like bill. They are found in the eastern half of the United States and are year round residents of Florida.

Males and Females are about 24cm (9.4 inches) long and weigh around 56-91g (2-3.2oz). Red-bellied Woodpeckers have black-and-white stripes above and a paler below.

The male has red from its bill to its nape, while the female only has a red nape. Red bellies can be seen during flight but are more challenging to see when perched.

They live in various habitats, including woodlands, bottomland forests, swamps, riversides, and parks. They are most commonly found near water to find insects to eat. 

They will seldom peck at the wood of trees to find food but instead will forage for insects whenever the opportunity presents itself. They also feed on nuts, fruits, and seeds and store their food in bark crevices.

Red-bellied woodpeckers also visit backyard bird feeders that offer suet, sunflowers seeds, or peanut butter mixed with birdseed. While at backyard feeders, they are bullish birds and will often dominate other smaller birds and their cousins (Downy & Hairy Woodpeckers).

The Red-bellied Woodpecker has been seen at 81% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Red-bellied Woodpeckers

• Large Hopper
• Platform Feeder
• Nectar Feeder
• Suet Cage

Feeder Foods for Red-bellied Woodpeckers

• Black Oil & Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Safflower
• Suet
• Cracker corn
• Peanuts & Peanut Hearts
• Sugar Water
• Fruit
• Mealworms

4. Blue Jay

The Blue Jay is a common species of bird found throughout North America and can be seen in Florida all year round.

Blue Jays are about 25-30cm (9.8-11.8 inches) long and generally weigh between 70 – 100g (2.5-3.5oz). They have a very short neck and bill with a thick blue crest on their head.

They have very distinctive bright blue feathers on the top with white spots and gray-white color below, making them easy to identify from other birds.

Blue Jays are loud, boisterous birds that will eat almost anything they can find – making them one of the most common backyard visitors.

They are widespread at backyard bird feeders and will typically dominate smaller birds that visit simultaneously. They love sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and whole peanuts.

The Blue Jay has been seen at 81% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Blue Jays

• Large Tube feeder
• Suet Cage
• Large Hopper
• Platform feeder
• Ground

Feeder Food for Blue Jays

• Hulled & Black oil Sunflower Seeds
• Safflower
• Suet
• Cracker Corn
• Peanuts & Peanut Hearts
• Fruit
• Mealworms

5. Northern Mockingbird

The Northern Mockingbird is a common species of bird found in the United States, Mexico and some areas of Central America. The Northern Mockingbird is Florida’s state bird and can be seen all year round.

They are very similar to American Robins except for their size – with both sexes 21-26cm (8.3-10.2 inches) long and weighing between 45-58g (1.6-2oz).

They have grayish-brown feathers with black spots on their wings and tails; however, they also have white bellies, making them recognizable.

Northern Mockingbirds are not migratory but instead stay in the same location year-round. They prefer dense shrubby areas with open patches nearby, descriptive of most backyards.

Northern Mockingbirds build open-cup nests found high in trees or bushes – making them easy to see.

They are primarily carnivorous, feeding mainly on insects during the summer months and switching to berries or fruit in autumn and winter.

They are a frequent visitor to backyards and will typically visit suet feeders.

The Northern Mockingbird has been seen at 67% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Northern Mockingbirds

• Platform Feeder
• Ground

Feeder Foods for Northern Mockingbirds

• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Suet
• Peanut Hearts
• Fruit
• Mealworms

6. Tufted Titmouse

The Tufted Titmouse is a small species of bird that can be found throughout much of the Eastern half of North America. These tiny birds can be seen in Florida backyards any time of the year.

They are gray above and white below with a crested head and small black forehead. Tufted Titmice are only about 14 – 16cm (5.5-6.3 inches) long and weigh around 18-26g (0.6-0.9oz).

Tufted Titmice are sociable birds found in pairs or groups living in deciduous woods, towns, wooded suburbs, and parks. They are omnivorous with a diet that consists mainly of insects and some seeds and berries.

Although they prefer to glean foliage for their preferred food, Tufted Titmice will readily visit bird feeders searching for sunflower seeds, peanuts or suet.

The Tufted Titmouse has been seen at 65% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Tufted Titmouse

• Large & Small Tube Feeder
• Large & Small Hopper
• Suet Cage
• Platform Feeder

Feeder Foods for Tufted Titmouse

• Black Oil and Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Safflower
• Nyjer
• Suet
• Peanuts & Peanut Hearts
• Mealworms

7. Carolina Wren

The Carolina Wren is a common bird species in the eastern part of North America and is a year-round resident of Florida backyards.

Carolina Wrens are small backyard birds typically between 12 – 14cm (4.7-5.5 inches) long and weigh between 18-22g (0.6-0.8oz), with males slightly larger than females.

They have rusty-brown feathers with white spots on their tails and wings, with lighter brown-orange chest and belly, and a bold white line above the eye, making them very easy to identify from other birds.

Carolina Wrens spend most of their time in thick vegetation such as brushy woods, underbrush or shrubs, looking for insects and spiders to eat – making it easy to see when they fly out from their hiding place.

They are the only wren that will visit backyard bird feeders regularly and typically prefer suet feeders.

The Carolina Wren has been seen at 61% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Carolina Wrens

• Large Tube feeder
• Suet Cage
• Large & Small Hopper
• Platform Feeder
• Ground

Feeder Foods for Carolina Wrens

• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Suet
• Peanut Hearts
• Mealworms

8. American Goldfinch

The American Goldfinch is a common species of bird found throughout North America. These little birds can be seen in Florida backyards during the winter months.

They are small songbirds 11-13cm (4.3-5.1 inches) long and weigh between 11 – 20g (0.4-0.70 oz), with males being slightly larger than females. 

Breeding adult males have a bright yellow color on their heads and rump with a black cap and black-tipped wings, making them easy to identify from other birds.

Winter adult males are tan above and pale gray below with a yellow face and throat. 

Breeding adult females are olive-brown above and yellow below, and winter adult females are generally gray overall.

Their preferred habitat is overgrown, weedy fields, pastures, and well planted suburban areas and backyards.

They mainly eat seeds from wild sunflowers, composite flowers or thistles, and very few insects. 

American Goldfinches are frequent visitors of backyard bird feeders – making them easy to spot around the yard. They prefer hulled sunflower and nyjer seeds.

The American Goldfinch has been seen at 57% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for American Goldfinches

• Large & Small Tube feeder
• Large & Small Hopper
• Platform Feeder
• Ground

Feeder Foods for American Goldfinches

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Nyjer

9. Yellow-rumped Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warblers are small songbirds found throughout North and Central America from Canada down to Panama. They can be seen throughout Florida during the winter months.

They are about 12-14cm (4.7-5.5 inches) long, weigh between 12-13g (0.4-0.5oz) and have long wings that allow for quick travel in thick vegetation or high into the trees where they will find their nests on a thin branch close to the trunk of a tree.

Their beaks are short, solid, and pointed at the end, which they use to catch insects.

They are light gray with flashes of white in their wings. They have a yellow patch under their chin and yellow sides. Females’ colors are duller than the males, and winter plumage for both is a pale brown.

The Yellow-rumped Warbler prefers coniferous and mixed woodland habitats that provide plenty of shrubs, underbrush, and leafy trees for protection. They can also be found in parks and residential areas in the fall and winter.

They are insectivores that will prey on many insects they can catch. They will also eat small fruits or berries from early fall to spring.

The Yellow-rumped Warbler has been seen at 56% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Yellow-rumped Warblers

• Large & Small Tube Feeders
• Suet Cage
• Large & Small Hopper
• Platform Feeder
• Nectar Feeder

Feeder Foods for Yellow-rumped Warblers

• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Suet
• Peanut Hearts
• Sugar Water
• Fruit
• Mealworms

10. Downy Woodpecker

The Downy Woodpecker is a small woodpecker found throughout North America and is a year-round resident of Florida.

They are smaller than most woodpeckers at about 14-17cm (5.5-6.7 inches) long and weigh between 21-28g (0.7-1oz).

Downy Woodpeckers have a black back and white stripe down the middle. They are white below, and their wings have a checkered black and white detailing them.

The males have a red patch at the back of the head, and females have a black head. They have a petite-looking bill compared to their other woodpecker relatives.

Their beaks are short, solid, and pointed at the end, which they use to chisel wood for excavation or peck at the bark to find food underneath.

Their preferred habitat is wooded areas with plenty of trees near rivers, ponds, or wetlands – even urban areas with a mix of grasslands, shrubs, and woodlands.

They are acrobatic foragers whose main diet consists of insects it can glean and probe from trees.

They will also eat seeds, berries, or fruit when needed and are more common at bird feeders than their larger relatives. They prefer suet feeders and enjoy black oil sunflower seeds, peanut butter, seeds, and millet.

The Downy Woodpecker has been seen at 52% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Downy Woodpeckers

• Suet Cage
• Large & Small Hopper
• Platform Feeder

Feeder Foods for Downy Woodpeckers

• Black Oil & Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Safflower
• Suet
• Peanuts & Peanut Hearts
• Mealworms

11. Carolina Chickadee

The Carolina Chickadee is a small species found primarily in the southeastern United States. These little birds can be seen in Florida backyards all year round.

Carolina Chickadees are only about 11cm (4 inches) long and weigh between 8-12g (0.3-0.4oz).

They have gray-white feathers with a distinct dark cap on their head and dark throat with white cheeks and gray bill, giving them the “chickadee” appearance from which they get their name.

Their preferred habitat is deciduous or mixed woods with large trees for roosting and nesting. They also inhabit woodlands around towns, suburbs and parks. 

Carolina Chickadees are omnivorous birds that eat both insects and seeds – making them widespread backyard visitors. They prefer feeding on seeds and sunflower seed mixes from bird feeders but will also eat suet in wintertime.

The Carolina Chickadee has been seen at 49% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Carolina Chickadees

• Large & Small Tube Feeder
• Suet Cage
• Large Hopper
• Platform Feeder

Feeder Foods for Carolina Chickadess

• Black Oil & Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Safflower
• Nyjer
• Suet
• Peanuts & Peanut Hearts
• Mealworms

12. Palm Warbler

The Palm Warbler is a small songbird found in the eastern half of the United States and most of southern Canada. They can be seen in Florida during the winter months.

Males and females are about 12-14cm (4.7-5.5 inches) long and weigh around 7-13g (0.3-0.5oz). They have longer legs than most Warblers, a medium-length bill, and a long tail.

They are olive-green above and yellow under their throat and tail. Eastern species have a yellow belly, and Western species have a white belly. During the breeding season, they have a rusty-colored cap.

Palm Warblers can be found in various habitats, including woods, forests, marshes, meadows, and even open areas near water. They breed in the summer in the Canadian Boreal forest region (Far north).

During the winter/migration months, they can be seen primarily among weedy fields, forest edges, and other dense shrubberies.

They eat insects primarily and feed on spiders, snails, tree seeds, and berries. They often forage on the ground as they walk but also hop while searching for food.

They can be found in backyards with trees and shrubs and have been known to visit bird feeders that offer sunflower seeds.

The Palm Warbler has been seen at 48% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Palm Warblers

• Large and Small Tube feeder
• Ground
• Platform feeder
• Large and Small Hopper
• Suet Cage

Feeder Foods for Palm Warblers

• Hulled sunflower seeds
• Suet
• Mealworms
• Peanut Hearts

13. Gray Catbird

The Gray Catbird is a medium-sized songbird found all over North America except for the far western states and can be seen in Florida during the winter months.

Males and females are about 21-24cm (8.3-9.4 inches) long and weigh 23-56g (0.8-2oz). They have broad rounded wings, a slim body, a long tail, and a narrow bill with a slight curve at the end.

They are primarily gray with a black cap, black tail, and a rust-colored patch under their tail.

Gray Catbirds can be found in various habitats with dense shrubs, including woods, brushy forest undergrowth, suburban parks, and backyards.

They eat insects primarily in the spring and summer and berries and small fruits during migration and winter.

They can be found in backyards with fruiting trees and shrubs and have been known to visit bird feeders that offer sunflower seeds, fruit, and mealworms.

The Gray Catbird has been seen at 46% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Gray Catbirds

• Platform feeder
• Ground

Feeder Foods for Gray Catbirds

• Hulled sunflower seed
• Mealworms
• Fruit
• Suet

14. House Finch

The House Finch is a small bird found in most of North America, including parts of the United States and Southern Canada. These little birds can be seen primarily in northern Florida all year round.

House Finches are 12-15cm (5.1-5.5 inches) long and weigh between 16-27g (0.6-0.9oz).

They have short wings that allow for a quick flight, and their beaks are stubby and slightly curved on top with a long flat head. The males are known for their bright red heads and breast with brown wings, tails, and back.

Their preferred habitat is open, grassy areas with some trees – often near farmlands.

They will also be found around towns and suburbs to find food quickly on the ground, such as birdseed spilled from backyard feeders (or even at pet food bowls left out for our furry friends).

They are ground forages whose preferred diet consists mainly of seeds, buds, and fruit. They are common at backyard bird feeders and will often feed in large numbers, especially when black oil sunflowers seeds are present in your feeders.

The House Finch has been seen at 43% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for House Finches

• Large & Small Tube Feeder
• Large & Small Hopper
• Platform Feeder

Feeder Foods for House Finches

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Safflower
• Nyjer

15. American Crow

The American Crow is a large bird found throughout most of North America, except in some areas in the southern United States along the border with Mexico. These big birds are year-round residents of Florida.

American Crows are large at about 40-53cm (115.8-21 inches) long and weigh between 316-620g (11.2-22oz). They are black all over, including their legs, feet, bill, and eyes.

They have a very distinct, short tail with broad wings that allow for a quick flight. They are known to be brilliant birds – able to use tools to obtain the food they otherwise couldn’t reach.

Their preferred habitat is open areas such as pastures with some trees – either deciduous or coniferous to roost at night when they sleep. They will often be found in urban areas where food is plentiful – for example, at dumpsters behind supermarkets or garbage bins.

They are omnivores and very opportunistic and will eat small mammals, insects, and amphibians but may also be found eating fruits or grain in the wintertime when other food sources are scarce.

We have even personally seen crows stealing chicks from other nests and flying away to eat them.

Not your typical visitor to backyard feeders but may hang around yards that offer a compost heap, easy access to garbage, or pet food lying around.

The American Crow has been seen at 41% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for American Crows

• Platform Feeder
• Ground

Feeder Foods for American Crows

• Black Oil & Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Suet
• Cracker Corn
• Peanuts & Peanut Hearts
• Fruit
• Millet & Milo
• Oats

16. Pine Warbler

Pine Warblers are heavy warblers found in the eastern United states and are year-round visitors to Florida backyards and gardens.

They are about 13-14cm (5.1-5.5 inches) long and weigh 9-15g (0.3-0.5oz). They have stout bills and long notched tails.

They are primarily yellow with an olive-green back, gray-white bellies, and two white wing bars. Males and females look alike, but female warblers are a bit duller in coloration than males.

They are. As the name suggests, they prefer to live in pine forests, mainly along the edges of open fields, but can also be found in residential areas with similar deciduous woods.

Pine Warblers are insectivores that eat insects they catch or glean from vegetation like leaves or bark or even find on the ground when seeds aren’t around. They will supplement with berries and seeds in winter.

They will often visit bird feeders in the winter, especially if suet is offered in an elevated feeder. They will also eat millet, peanut hearts, sunflower seed, and cracked corn if presented.

The Pine Warbler has been seen at 41% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Pine Warblers

• Large & Small Tube feeder
• Suet Cage
• Large & Small Hopper
• Platform Feeder

Feeder Foods for Pine Warblers

• Hulled Sunflower Seed
• Suet
• Peanut Hearts
• Mealworms
• Millet

17. Common Grackle

The Common Grackle is a large blackbird found in abundance throughout the Eastern and Mid-Eastern parts of North America. They are year-round residents of Florida backyards.

They are about the size of a Mourning Dove and are around 28-34cm (11-13.4 Inches) long and weigh between 74-142g (2.6-5oz). Males are slightly larger than females.

They have a flat head with yellow eyes and a stout beak to eat insects, seeds, fruits, small invertebrates, and snails. They have a long tail and shiny black plumage. The male has a greenish iridescence to their feathers, while the female is less glossy with brown feathers on her head.

The Common Grackle is usually found in large flocks in open habitats that include farmlands or grassland areas. Still, it will also be seen around residential areas where food scraps are available, like compost piles or bird feeders. They can sometimes be found near wetlands too.

Common Grackles are opportunistic omnivores that eat mainly insects and some grain but supplement with food items like seeds, fruits, small invertebrates, and snails.

They usually feed or forage on the ground but will also scavenge in the garbage around residential areas if given the opportunity.

The common grackle will often visit backyard bird feeders and don’t seem to be too picky when it comes to the type of feed present.

The Common Grackle has been seen at 40% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Common Grackles

• Large Hopper
• Platform Feeder
• Ground

Feeder Foods for Common Grackles

• Black oil Sunflower Seeds
• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Safflower
• Suet
• Cracker Corn
• Peanuts & Peanut Hearts
• Fruit
• Millt & Milo
• Oats

18. Chipping Sparrow

Chipping Sparrows are ubiquitous sparrows that are found throughout North America. These little birds will often be seen in Florida during the winter months.

They are about 12-15cm (4.7-5.9 inches) long, weigh between 11-16g (0.4-0.6oz). Chipping Sparrows are slender, long-tailed birds with gray faces, chestnut heads, and a white belly. They have a black line through the eye, back and wings.

They have relatively short wings that allow for quick travel through thick vegetation or high into the trees where they will find their nests on a thin branch close to the trunk of a tree.

Their beaks are short but thick at the end for catching insects and eating seeds from grasses or trees.

Their preferred habitat is open woodland, forest edges, and clearings. It will also be found in parks and residential areas.

Chipping Sparrows eat insects they can glean from the ground, vegetation, or the air in summer months and forage for seeds in wild grasses and weeds in the fall and winter months.

They are frequent visitors at bird feeders and prefer to eat seeds such as black oil sunflower seeds, millet, or cracked corn from a platform feeder or the ground. You will often see them in small flocks around your feeders.

The Chipping Sparrow has been seen at 39% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Chipping Sparrows

• Large & Small Hopper
• Platform Feeder
• Ground

Feeder Foods for Chipping Sparrows

• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds
• Nyjer
• Cracked Corn
• Millet

19. Yellow-throated Warbler

The Yellow-throated Warbler is a small bird found in the eastern half of the United States and Central America. These Warblers can be seen all year round in northern Florida and in southern Florida during their winter migration.

Males and females are about 13-15cm (5.1-5.5 inches) long and weigh around 9-11g (0.3-0.4oz). They have long, thick bills, short notched tails, and are more heavy-looking than other Warblers.

They are gray above and white below with a yellow throat. They have black streaks on their sides, a white eyebrow, and a white tail.

Yellow-throated Warblers are found in various habitats, including woodlands, pine forests, swamps, marshes, and mangroves.

They breed in the southeastern United States (Texas to Florida), and during winter/migration, they can be seen in Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America.

They eat insects primarily but also feed on spiders, beetles, caterpillars, agave, and coconut palm flowers. They forage mainly in the upper part of trees and can often be seen hovering in place while searching for food.

They have visited bird feeders and backyards that offer black oil sunflower seeds or suet, especially during migration season.

The Yellow-throated Warbler has been seen at 38% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Yellow-throated Warblers

• Large and Small Hopper
• Suet Cage
• Platform Feeder
• Large and Small tube Feeder
• Nectar Feeder

Feeder Foods for Yellow-throated Warblers

• Hulled sunflower seed
• Suet
• Mealworms
• Fruit
• Nectar

20. Ruby-throated Hummingbird

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a tiny bird found only in eastern North America and Central America.

They are the most commonly seen hummingbirds throughout their range, except for southern Florida, where they are seen less frequently. They can be seen in north and central Florida, primarily during summer.

Males and females are about 7-9cm (2.8-3.5 inches) long and weigh around 2-6g (0.1-0.2oz). They have long, slender bills and short wings.

They are metallic green above and grayish-white below with red throats (males), or pale gray throat with reddish sides of their head/throat (females).

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, open spaces, and backyards. They breed in the eastern United States and Canada, and during winter/migration, they migrate south to Central America.

They eat mostly nectar from flowers but also feed on insects by catching them mid-flight. They forage mainly in the upper part of trees and hover in place while searching for food.

They have been known to visit bird feeders with nectar, especially during their migration months.

The Ruby-throated Hummingbird has been seen at 37% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds

Nectar Feeder

Feeder Foods for Ruby-throated Hummingbirds

Sugar Water/Nectar

21. Brown Thrasher

The Brown Thrasher is a common species of songbird found in the eastern half of North America. These birds are year-round residents of Florida backyards.

Males and Females are about 23-30cm (9.1-12 inches) long and weigh between 61-89g (2.1-3.1oz). They are slender birds with long legs, bills, and tails that often cock up much the same way as a Carolina Wren.

Brown thrashers have dark brown feathers above and a lighter white color with dark streaks below.

They have long tails that are usually about the same length as their bodies, and their wings have two white wing bars, which also aids in distinguishing them from other species of birds. They have a gray-brown face with yellow eyes.

Brown Thrashers have a varied diet but prefer to eat insects such as grasshoppers or beetles found under rocks, leaves, or logs in the summer and fruits, nuts (acorns), and seeds in the winter.

Brown thrashers are most commonly found in forests near open fields where they can forage for insects on the ground; however, you can find a brown thrasher hanging around a bird feeder in the backyard, especially if suet and seeds are offered.

The Brown Thrasher has been seen at 37% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Brown Thrashers

• Platform
• Ground

Feeder Foods for Brown Thrashers

• Black oil Sunflower Seeds
• Hulled sunflower seeds
• Suet
• Cracker Corn
• Peanut Hearts

22. American Robin

The American Robin is a common species of bird found throughout North America. The American Robin can be seen in Florida, mainly during winter.

American Robins are 20-28cm (7.9-11 inches) long and weigh 77-85g (2.7-3oz).

American Robins have a distinctive orange chest with black spots; however, their back feathers are brownish gray. Their beaks are tiny but comprehensive at the base, giving them a very distinct appearance.

They are common in most environments across North America, especially in gardens, parks, and wooded areas around towns and suburbs.

The American Robin is known to poke around in leaf litter, looking for insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and earthworms to eat in the summer months. They prefer berries or fruit during the autumn and winter months.

They are also known for being very friendly birds found at most bird feeders and prefer feeders that offer live mealworms.

The American Robin has been seen at 34% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for American Robins

• Platform feeder
• Ground

Feeder Foods for American Robins

• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Suet
• Peanut Hearts
• Fruit
• Mealworms

23. Painted Bunting

The Painted Bunting is a brightly-colored bird found in the southern United States and Central America. They can be seen in southern Florida during winter and the rest of Florida during their migration period.

Males and females are about 12-13cm (4.7-5.1 inches) long and weigh around 13-19g (0.5-0.7oz). They have short, stubby bills and short notched tails.

Males are a greenish-yellow above and red below, with a blue head. Females are mainly yellow-green all over.

Painted Buntings prefer thick shrubs or trees, woodland edges, and weedy areas.

They eat seeds primarily and also feed on insects such as spiders, wasps, flies, snails, grasshoppers, and caterpillars during their breeding season. They forage mainly on or near the ground.

They will visit bird feeders and backyards that offer black oil sunflower seeds or thistle seeds with good dense cover.

The Painted Bunting has been seen at 34% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Painted Buntings

• Large and Small Hopper
• Large and Small Tube feeder
• Platform Feeder 
• Ground

Feeder Foods for Painted Buntings

• Black Oil Sunflower Seed
• Hulled Sunflower Seed
• Nyjer Seed

24. Common Ground Dove

The Common Ground-Dove is a small plump dove that can be found throughout the southern United States and can be seen in Florida all year round.

Both males and females are about 15-18cm (5.9-7.1 inches) long and weigh around 28-40g (1-1.4oz). They have short wings, a short tail, and short legs.

They are grayish-brown above with a paler pinkish color below. They have dark spots on their wings that resemble scales, and their bill is pinky-red with a black tip.

They prefer open habitats such as dry brushy fields or grasslands but live in farmland, pastures, or wooded edges surrounding cultivated land if available.

Ground doves are timid and solitary birds preferring to avoid contact with humans while foraging. If approached by humans or other animals, they will fly away quickly but choose not to fly too far from their home range.

Ground Doves spend most of their time on the ground searching for seeds and small insects and will often visit ground feeders if regular birdseed is available.

The Common Ground Dove has been seen at 33% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Common Ground Doves

• Ground
• Platform Feeder
• Large Hopper

Feeder Foods for Common Ground Doves

• Hulled Sunflower Seeds
• Cracked Corn
• Millet
• Oats
• Milo

25. Eastern Phoebe

The Eastern Phoebe is a small plump songbird found primarily in the eastern half of North and Central America. These little birds can be seen in Florida backyards during the winter months.

They are about 14-17cm (5.5-6.7 inches) long and weigh between 16-21g (0.6-0.7oz). Their beaks are short, thin, and slightly decurved at the end and have short wings that allow easy travel through thick brush or up into trees to find their nests above ground level.

They are brownish-gray above and whites below with slightly darker wings. 

The plumage on their heads has a dark cap which they sometimes raise into a peak.

The males are darker than females, but both sexes have similar coloration in their plumage – they only differ by the slight thickness of the bill, which is thicker in the male.

Eastern Phoebes prefer open habitats such as parks, yards, and woodlands – often nesting on human structures like bridges or buildings that provide protection. They will also be found around farmlands to find insects to prey on.

They are insectivores that prey on flying insects such as wasps and bees. They will also eat small fruits from early fall to spring.

The Eastern Phoebe has been seen at 33% of all feeder sites in Florida.

Feeder Types for Eastern Phoebes

• Large and Small Hopper
• Platform Feeder
• Large and Small Tube Feeder

Feeder Foods for Eastern Phoebes

• Nyjer
• Cracked Corn
• Millet
• Fruit

What Are The Most Common Backyard Birds All-Year-Round In Florida?

• Northern Cardinal
• Mourning Dove
• Red-bellied Woodpecker
• Blue Jay
• Northern Mockingbird
• Tufted Titmouse
• Carolina Wren
• Downy Woodpecker
• Carolina Chickadee
• House Finch (Northern Florida)
• American Crow
• Pine Warbler
• Common Grackle
• Yellow-throated Warbler (Northern Florida)
• Brown Thrasher
• Common Ground Dove

What are the most common winter backyard birds of Florida?

• American Goldfinch
• Yellow-rumped Warbler
• Palm Warbler
• Gray Catbird
• Chipping Sparrow
• Yellow-throated Warbler (Southern Florida)
• American Robin
• Painted Bunting (Southern Florida)
• Eastern phoebe

Birds To Spot Beyond The Backyard In Florida

When you decide to venture away from your home to do some birdwatching, these are some of the other birds to look out for:

1. Tree Swallow
2. Red-winged Blackbird
3. Boat-tailed Grackle
4. Fish Crow
5. Purple Martin
6. Barn Swallow
7. European Starling
8. White Ibis
9. American White Pelican
10. Cedar Waxwing
11. Black-throated Blue Warbler
12. Swainson’s Thrush
13. American Redstart
14. Killdeer
15. Brown Pelican
16. Common Nighthawk
17. Eastern Kingbird
18. Swallow-tailed Kite
19. Broad-winged Hawk
20. Peregrine Falcon
21. Blackpoll Warbler
22. Sharp-shinned Hawk
23. Swamp Sparrow
24. Little Blue Heron
25. Indigo Bunting
26. Hooded Warbler
27. House Wren
28. Rusty Blackbird
29. American Kestrel
30. Mitred Parakeet

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Keep a watchful eye out for the backyard birds of Florida

If you are a backyard birder in Florida, there are plenty of beautiful species to discover and enjoy. Whether it’s your backyard or one of the top hotspots for birdwatching, there is no better time than now to get outside and see what birds are around!

The most common backyard birds in Florida will keep you entertained all year long with their bright colors and friendly personalities.

If you have any questions about identifying more species or finding out which ones live near you, let us know! We would love to help identify new bird species for our readers.

Don’t forget to check out our other blog posts for more information about birds and nature. Also, don’t forget to share this post with your friends and family!

Until next time, happy birding!