Are you looking for unique and beautiful bird names starting with R?
Then you’ve come to the right place! Below is a list of 40 rarest and most beautiful bird names that start with R.
From the Red-billed Firefinch to the Rufous-tailed bush robin, these birds are sure to impress!
1. Rufous Hummingbird
The first on my list of bird names that start with R is the Rufous Hummingbird, a species of hummingbird known for its distinct red-brown color.
Found primarily in North America, the Rufous Hummingbird is easily identifiable due to its vivid plumage and brightly colored gorget (throat patch).
Though smaller than other hummingbird species, the Rufous is full of energy and personality, often seen darting around gardens and feeders searching for nectar.
Despite being relatively common throughout much of its range, the Rufous Hummingbird has a special charm that continues to draw birders of all levels.
In addition to its beautiful plumage, the Rufous Hummingbird is also known for its unusual migratory patterns.
During summer, the Rufous will travel as far north as Alaska; during winter, it can be found as far south as Mexico.
The Rufous Hummingbird is believed to fly up to 500 miles in a single day, making it one of the longest-distance migrants among North American birds.
All in all, the Rufous Hummingbird is an amazing and unique bird that deserves admiration and protection.
The next time you spot one of these captivating birds, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and resilience!
2. Ruby-Throated Hummingbird
The second on my list of bird names that start with R is the Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris), a hummingbird native to eastern North America.
It is the only species of hummingbird that breeds in the eastern United States and Canada.
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is known for its stunning iridescent plumage and fast, direct flight.
The bird has a unique look: a small, pointed bill, bright green back, and white chest.
The head and throat of the male are covered in metallic red feathers, which is where its name comes from.
The females have a grayish-green back and grayish-white chest. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is an important pollinator in its range and feeds on nectar from various flowers. They often visit hummingbird feeders for an easy meal.
This species typically nests in deciduous forests but can also be found in open woodlands and suburban areas.
This beautiful bird is a great addition to any backyard birdwatchers list and is a joy to observe!
3. Redthroat
The third on my list of bird names that start with R is the Redthroat, a stunningly beautiful bird from South America’s tropical forests.
This species has a striking red throat and chest, which sets it apart from other birds in the area. The Redthroat is also known for its loud, melodic call.
It can be heard echoing through the canopy of the rainforest in the early morning. The Redthroat is an incredibly shy bird and will fly away if disturbed.
However, they can often be seen flying around in pairs or small flocks, as they prefer to stick together.
If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these birds in its natural habitat, you’ll be in for a treat!
4. Red-Bellied Pitta
The fourth on my list of bird names that start with R is the Red-bellied Pitta (Erythropitta erythrogaster), a bird native to Southeast Asia.
It is a medium-sized bird, measuring 15–17 cm in length, and it is one of the most brightly colored members of the pitta family.
The upper parts of its body are mainly black, while its underparts are bright reddish-orange. It has a black face, wings, and a white chin patch.
This rare bird can be found in humid evergreen forests, open grassland, and mangrove swamps.
It typically feeds on insects, snails, and small frogs found on the ground. The red-bellied pitta is usually solitary and can be hard to spot due to its excellent camouflage.
While not classified as endangered, the Red-bellied Pitta’s population has declined in recent years due to habitat destruction.
If you are lucky enough to spot one, appreciate this beautiful creature!
5. Relict Gull
Relict Gull is a rare bird species native to East Asia. It is one of the largest gulls found in the region, with a wingspan of up to 5.6 ft (1.7 m).
The Relict Gull is easily identified by its white head and body, as well as its reddish-brown mantle and black primaries.
These bird names that start with R feed mainly on fish, insects, and other small aquatic creatures.
Although its population has declined in recent years due to human activities, such as pollution and overfishing, conservation efforts have successfully increased the numbers of this beautiful bird.
6. Rook
When it comes to bird names that start with R, the Rook is one of the most unique and beautiful species.
A member of the Corvidae family, the Rook has a strong, black body and distinctive gray-white facial feathers.
The Rook is also known for its loud, cawing vocalizations, which can be heard from quite a distance.
These intelligent birds are highly social and often flock together in large groups of up to several hundred individuals.
They live in colonies, and their nests, usually built high in trees or tall buildings, can be incredibly complex.
In terms of behavior, the Rook can be aggressive when protecting its territory, and it has even been known to chase away large predators such as hawks and owls. They are omnivorous, feeding small mammals, insects, seeds, and fruit.
The Rook is an incredibly interesting bird; its unique characteristics make it a great choice for birders.
If you’re looking for a rare and beautiful bird to add to your collection, consider the Rook!
7. Rosella
The Rosella is an incredibly beautiful bird known to capture the hearts of many bird lovers.
Native to Australia, this species comes in two variations – Eastern and Crimson – each boasting unique coloration and a highly sought-after appearance.
The Eastern Rosella has a yellow-orange face, blue wings, and red underparts, while the Crimson Rosella features a black head and back with red underparts and blue cheeks.
The Rosella is a great choice for any beginner bird keeper, as these bird names that start with R are known to be quite gentle and can become quite tame if well taken care of.
Their diet consists of fruits, vegetables, and seeds, making them easy to provide. All in all, these birds make wonderful companions and are sure to brighten up any aviary or home.
8. Red Kite
The Red Kite is a beautiful bird of prey known for its distinctive reddish plumage.
Its Latin name is Milvus Milvus, and it’s found throughout much of Europe, in parts of Asia, and North Africa.
It is a medium-sized raptor with a wingspan of 110 to 145 cm. The Red Kite has a fairly large range, living in both forest and open country areas.
It’s especially fond of wooded valleys and hillside ridges with nearby streams and rivers, but it can also be found in coastal areas, meadows, grasslands, and cultivated land.
When hunting, the Red Kite typically soars at great heights and searches for food with its sharp eyesight.
It preys upon small mammals such as mice and voles, frogs, fish, lizards, and insects.
But it also scavenges carrion and sometimes takes food from other birds or steals eggs from nests.
The Red Kite is a stunning sight in the wild, with its reddish-brown back, chestnut-colored belly, white patches on its wings and tail, and pale yellow legs.
It has long, forked tail feathers that help it maneuver when it is gliding through the air, and its call is a loud, ringing mew.
If you’re looking for rare and beautiful bird names that start with R, then the Red Kite is an excellent choice!
9. Redwing
The Redwing is a beautiful and distinctive bird native to Europe and Asia. Its scientific name is Turdus iliacus, belonging to the thrush family.
The adult redwing has black plumage with bright reddish-orange flanks, which give it its name.
The wings are darker than the body, and the tail is short and squared off. The bill is yellow-orange, and the legs are deep pink.
Redwings breed in Scandinavia and migrate south in the winter, spending their time in open fields, grassland, heathland, and woodland edges.
These bird names that start with R feed on worms, insects, berries, and fruits and can be found in small flocks throughout the year. They are friendly birds and often perch high in trees to sing their haunting call.
Redwings are one of the most vocal birds, producing various calls such as ‘joo-tsee,’ ‘tseep,’ and ‘zweet.’
The male is particularly loud and sings continuously during the breeding season. They have also been known to mimic other birds.
The Redwing is a valuable species, providing food for predators such as hawks, owls, and foxes.
Its numbers have decreased over the last few decades due to habitat loss, but thankfully it is still widespread across much of Europe and Asia.
10. Rifleman
The rifleman is a small passerine bird that has a distinctively long bill. Its name comes from its habit of ‘rifling’ through leaf litter in search of food, such as insects and spiders.
They are found mainly in dry woodlands but can also inhabit other habitats, including grassland and scrub.
The rifleman has greyish-brown upper parts, a white throat and underparts, and a grey-brown head and nape.
Males have black streaks on their heads’ sides, making them easily identifiable. The species is also recognizable by its call, which sounds like ‘Tseep Tseep.’
These bird names that start with R are often seen in pairs or small family groups, rarely far from their chosen nesting sites.
This can be in the form of a hole in the ground or a hole in a tree. The female builds the nest alone, and both sexes take turns incubating the eggs.
The rifleman is an interesting bird to watch due to its unusual behavior. They have aggressively defended their territory, often engaging in aerial fights with other birds.
These beautiful birds are a delight to see in any landscape, so if you’re lucky enough to spot one, watch for its unique behavior!
11. River Tern
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the River Tern, an incredibly unique and beautiful bird that starts with the letter R.
This tern species is found in large parts of Asia, including India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka. It prefers to inhabit shallow freshwater lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers.
This medium-sized bird has white plumage and a black cap and nape. It also has black wings, a bright red bill, legs, and feet.
Its wingspan averages about 35 cm (14 inches), and its weight can reach 80 grams (2.8 ounces).
The River Tern is an opportunistic feeder, meaning it will eat anything from insects, crustaceans, and fish to worms and frogs.
They usually feed in shallow waters near the shore or above the water’s surface.
Regarding nesting, the River Tern typically nests on gravel islands or sandbanks in small colonies. The female will lay between two to four eggs incubated for around three weeks.
Both the male and female parents care for the young until they fledge. The River Tern is considered a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to its wide range and stable population trends.
Nevertheless, taking care of this rare bird is important to ensure its continued survival.
12. Ruddy Turnstone
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria interpres), a small migratory shorebird in coastal areas worldwide.
As its name suggests, it uses its strong, curved bill to turn over stones and other objects in search of food.
It has a distinctive reddish-brown head, neck, and chest that contrast with its white underside.
The wings are also marked with bold black-and-white patterns. In winter, the Ruddy Turnstone’s plumage takes on a more muted brown color.
The Ruddy Turnstone feeds mostly on small invertebrates such as crustaceans, insects, worms, and mollusks.
It will also eat berries, grains, and other plant matter. In some places, it is known to take advantage of human refuse.
Ruddy Turnstones nest on dry ground near beaches and estuaries. They build their nests from grasses and mosses and lay 3 to 4 eggs.
Both parents help incubate the eggs for three weeks before the chicks hatch. The chicks are capable of flight within a few weeks of hatching.
The Ruddy Turnstone is an important species for coastal ecology because it helps to break down debris and spread nutrients across the environment.
It is also an important indicator species used to monitor coastal health.
13. Rhinoceros Auklet
Rhinoceros Auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata) is a small seabird native to the North Pacific Ocean.
It is a member of the auk family and is named for its long, curved beak that resembles the horn of a rhinoceros.
It is gray with white spots on its wings and tail and a red ring around its eyes—Rhinoceros Auklets breed along western Alaska, British Columbia, and Washington coasts.
During the breeding season, they are often seen in large flocks foraging for food offshore.
These bird names that start with R feed mainly on small fish, crustaceans, and marine worms.
The Rhinoceros Auklet is an important species for scientific study due to its life history and role as an indicator of ocean health.
14. Rivoli’s Hummingbird
Many interesting bird species have unique and special characteristics, starting with the letter R. One species is Rivoli’s Hummingbird.
This beautiful bird is found in Mexico, Central America, and Southwestern parts of the United States.
It is known for its bright iridescent feathers and has a black band on the top of its throat.
It is also the largest hummingbird in the world. The Red-crested Pochard is another bird species that starts with R.
This species is found in Europe, Asia, and Africa and is typically seen in wetlands, lakes, and shallow ponds.
They are known for the bright red and orange feathers on their heads, making them easy to spot in the water.
The Red-footed Booby is a large seabird that lives in tropical climates near the ocean.
These bird names that start with R are often seen soaring in the sky or sitting on branches near the coast.
They are mostly white with a reddish hue on their feet and tail feathers. The Rosy Starling is a beautiful bird found in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
They are small birds with glossy black feathers and pink breasts. These birds usually feed on insects but can also eat berries and other fruits. The red-vented bulb is another species that starts with R.
This species is commonly found in India, Southeast Asia, and other tropical regions.
They are bright green and black birds with a distinct red patch of feathers on their vent.
These are just some of the amazing bird species that start with R. Each has unique characteristics that make them special and add to the beauty of nature.
15. Ruby-Crowned Kinglet
One of the most distinctive bird names that start with R is the Ruby-crowned Kinglet.
This small but attractive songbird is found in coniferous North America and Canada forests, where they live on insects and fruit.
The male’s bright red crest is usually only visible when he sings or becomes excited. Its upper parts are olive-green, while its underparts are yellowish-white.
It also has two white wing-bars and a distinctive yellow stripe above its eyes.
The Ruby-crowned Kinglet is one of the earliest migrants to arrive in the spring and can often be seen flitting around trees and shrubs looking for food.
16. Rose-Breasted Grosbeak
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Rose-Breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus), a medium-sized bird native to North America.
It is a cardinal family member with distinctive black-and-white markings and a bright red patch on its chest.
The Rose-Breasted Grosbeak can be found in deciduous and mixed woods, shrubby habitats, and urban and suburban parks.
It feeds on fruits, seeds, and insects, which it finds by hopping along branches and picking them up off the ground.
It is an important pollinator of many plants and eats some invasive insects that can harm native species. This beautiful bird is a welcome sight in any backyard or park!
17. Red-Bellied Woodpecker
One of the most interesting bird names that start with R is the Red-Bellied Woodpecker.
This woodpecker species is found in the eastern and central parts of the United States.
It is known for its distinctive red patch on the back of its head and a bright red patch on its belly.
This bird is also known for its loud, hammering call. The Red-Bellied Woodpecker loves to feed on nuts, insects, fruits, and seeds.
It is an important part of the ecosystem, helping to control insect populations and disperse tree seeds.
As its name implies, the Red-Bellied Woodpecker has bright plumage that can be seen from far away. This is a great bird to look out for when you’re out in nature!
18. Red-Headed Woodpecker
The Red-headed Woodpecker is a unique bird name that starts with R.
This beautiful bird is native to the United States and can be seen in various habitats, including woodlands, fields, marshes, and open areas.
This stunning creature stands out among other birds with its bright red head, white back, and black wings.
The Red-headed Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker that typically measures 7-10 inches long and weighs around 1.7-2.9 ounces. Its primary diet consists of insects, larvae, berries, and seeds during winter.
The Red-headed Woodpecker is an incredible sight to behold in flight due to its unique coloration and aerial acrobatics.
It is a professional flyer capable of extreme agility that many birds can only dream of. They are also known for their loud call echoing through forests and open areas.
Overall, the red-headed woodpecker is one of the most stunning bird names, starting with R.
Its vibrant plumage, impressive flying ability, and unique call make it a magnificent creature to behold.
19. Red-Breasted Nuthatch
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Red-breasted Nuthatch, a small, acrobatic bird native to North America.
It is one of the region’s most widespread and commonly seen birds, and it can be found in coniferous and mixed forests throughout Canada and the United States.
The Red-breasted Nuthatch gets its name from its reddish-brown back, nape, head, and pointed beak, which it uses to crack open nuts and seeds.
Its belly is white with black stripes, and its wings are striped with grey, black, and white.
It is slightly larger than other nuthatches, measuring around 4 inches in length.
The Red-breasted Nuthatch is an active bird that loves to flit through the trees.
It can often be seen hanging upside down as it searches for food, including insects, spiders, pine seeds, and other nuts.
It also has an impressive singing voice, often heard echoing through the woods.
The Red-breasted Nuthatch can often be confused with the White-breasted Nuthatch, which is similar in size but has white and grey stripes instead of red.
Other bird names that start with R include the Rock Pigeon, Red Crossbill, Red-eyed Vireo, and Ruby-throated Hummingbird.
20. Red-Eyed Vireo
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Red-Eyed Vireo (Vireo olivaceus), a small passerine bird native to North and Central America.
It is part of the vireo family, which consists of over thirty species globally.
The red-eyed vireo gets its name from the distinctive reddish-brown eyes that it has.
It can be found in various habitats, ranging from temperate forests to mangroves and even deserts.
The red-eyed vireo is an active and agile bird, often searching for food or mates high in the treetops.
It is a fairly common bird in many parts of its range and is known to migrate long distances during summer.
The species is also known for its melodic song, which consists of a complex set of whistles and trills.
Other bird names that start with R include the Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus), the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), and the Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus).
These birds are all found in different habitats but are attractive to watch and listen to.
21. Red-Winged Blackbird
The Red-Winged Blackbird is a bird species native to most parts of North America.
This beautiful and iconic bird can be identified by its glossy black feathers, with bright red and yellow patches on its wings.
These bird names that start with R are also known for their characteristic call, often heard echoing across wetlands, marshes, and other open areas.
Red-winged blackbirds are found in many habitats, including grasslands, wetlands, woodlands, and farm fields.
The Red-Winged Blackbird is one of the most abundant bird species in the United States, making it a popular sight for many birdwatchers.
It is also a very social bird, often seen in large or mixed flocks with other species.
You will likely hear its loud and distinctive song if you spot a Red-Winged Blackbird.
Other bird names that start with R include the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, the Rose-Breasted Grosbeak, the Rufous Hummingbird, the Red Crossbill, the Red-Tailed Hawk, the Red-Bellied Woodpecker, and the Ring-Necked Pheasant.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced birder, these species will surely bring excitement to your birding adventures.
22. Red-Tailed Hawk
The Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) is a large, wide-ranging bird of prey commonly found throughout North America.
This bird is a classic bird of prey, with its hooked beak, sharp talons, and impressive wingspan.
It has a reddish-brown tail and is often seen soaring through the air, searching for small mammals and birds to feed on.
The Red-tailed Hawk is also known for its loud calls and screeches, which can be heard from a distance.
Other bird names that start with R include the Ring-necked Pheasant, the Red-winged Blackbird, the Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and the Ruby-throated Hummingbird.
23. Red-Shouldered Hawk
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus), a bird of prey found in much of the eastern and southern United States and parts of Mexico and Central America.
The Red-shouldered Hawk has distinctive reddish-brown streaking along the upper parts and wings, with a white throat, chest, and belly.
It is typically seen perched in a tree or flying slowly in circles over open fields, searching for its next meal.
Its diet mainly consists of small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.
These hawks often nest in large trees near wetlands, making them more likely to be spotted by human observers.
They will also readily take advantage of artificial structures such as nest boxes and utility poles.
They are often confused with other raptors, like the Broad-winged Hawk and the Red-tailed Hawk.
The Red-shouldered Hawk is an important species in its range, and conservation efforts are ongoing to protect it.
It is a species of special concern in some areas due to declining populations and habitat loss.
This bird is an amazing creature to observe in its natural environment, so if you ever get the chance, keep an eye out for it!
24. Royal Tern
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Royal Tern (Thalasseus Maximus), a large seabird found along coasts worldwide.
It belongs to the tern family and is a striking bird with long, pointed wings, a white body, and a black cap.
The Royal Tern is one of the largest species of terns in the world, with a wingspan of up to two meters. It is known for its impressive courtship displays and nest-building skills.
The Royal Tern is also a strong flier and can be seen gliding above the waves during long trips to and from its breeding colonies.
25. Ridgway’s Rail
Ridgway’s Rail is a bird species found primarily in western North America’s wetlands. It is also known as the California Clapper Rail due to its loud clapping call.
The bird is usually found along the coast, preferring salt marshes and brackish habitats.
This species is considered endangered due to habitat destruction, predation, and competition from introduced species.
The Ridgway’s Rail is also known for being a shy and elusive creature, rarely seen in the open.
Other bird names that start with R include the Red-billed Firefinch, the Red Kite, the Red-winged Blackbird, the Ringed Turtle-Dove, the Rock Pigeon, the Rose-ringed Parakeet, and the Ruff.
All these birds can be found worldwide in their respective habitats. They all have unique characteristics, like colorations or calls, that make them special among other bird species.
26. Razorbill
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the razorbill (Alca torda), a black and white seabird that belongs to the family Alcidae.
It is closely related to the common guillemot and is native to the cold waters of the North Atlantic Ocean. It has a sharply pointed bill, and its back is black with white speckles.
The razorbill has a wingspan of up to 43 inches, making it one of the largest members of its family.
The Razorbill is an expert hunter and feeds on small fish, crustaceans, squid, and other marine creatures. It nests in large groups in cliffside crevices or burrows dug into sandy beaches.
During the breeding season, razorbills form large colonies along the coasts of Canada, Iceland, Norway, Greenland, Scotland, and Ireland.
The Razorbill is a friendly bird whose raucous calls can often be heard echoing through the air near its nesting colonies.
These bird names that start with R are active during the day and spend much time diving into the ocean to search for food.
While these birds aren’t endangered, their population has declined due to human activities like overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction.
With proper conservation efforts, however, we can help ensure that razorbills remain a part of our world for many years.
27. Redhead
Have you ever wondered what kind of bird names start with R? If so, you’re in luck! We’ve put together a list of some of the most common bird names that start with R to help you out.
The first bird on our list is the Redhead. This species is native to North America and prefers freshwater habitats.
They are recognizable for their bright red heads and black-and-white plumage. They typically feed on insects, crustaceans, and small fish.
The Red-winged Blackbird is among the common bird names that start with R. These birds are found throughout North and South America, Europe, and Asia.
They are recognizable for their black plumage with a distinctive red patch on the wings. They typically feed on insects and seeds.
The Ring-necked Pheasant is another bird whose name starts with R. This species is native to Eurasia and one of the world’s most popular game birds.
They are easily identifiable by their long tail, blue-gray body, and distinctive white collar. They feed on plants, insects, and small mammals.
Finally, we have the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. This tiny bird is native to eastern North America and can be identified by its emerald green back and brilliant red throat patch. It feeds on nectar from flowers and small insects.
28. Rock Pigeon
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Rock Pigeon, also known as the Rock Dove, a bird native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. It is the most common pigeon in cities, where it coexists with humans.
The Rock Pigeon has a grayish-brown back, white throat and chest, and two black bars on its wings.
It is a professional flyer, capable of reaching speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.
The Rock Pigeon is closely related to other birds that begin with the letter R, including the Ring-necked Pheasant and the Red-billed Tropicbird.
The Ring-necked Pheasant is a large bird native to Eurasia and North America.
Its plumage is usually patterned with black, white, brown, and rust. The Red-billed Tropicbird is a white seabird found throughout tropical waters.
It has long, pointed wings and a long tail reaching up to two feet.
29. Rock Wren
The Rock Wren (Salpinctes obsoletus) is a brown bird native to North America. It has an unmistakable appearance, with its long, thin bill and white eyebrows.
This bird lives in dry, rocky environments like deserts, canyons, and mountains.
It feeds mainly on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. The Rock Wren is one of the few species of bird that can survive in harsh desert climates.
It does so by constructing a complex network of tunnels and chambers in the rocks and gravel it uses for nesting and roosting.
It is also known to use the same nesting sites year after year. Other bird names that start with R include Red-shouldered Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Red Crossbill, Red-winged Blackbird, and Ring-necked Pheasant.
Each of these birds has its unique habits and habitats. For example, Red-shouldered Hawks live in deciduous forests, while Red Crossbills prefer coniferous forests.
No matter what type of bird it is, they all give us an interesting glimpse into the world of nature.
30. Roseate Spoonbill
The Roseate Spoonbill is an amazing bird native to the coastal wetlands of the southern United States, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.
It has a striking pink plumage and a distinctive spoon-shaped bill, hence its name.
These birds feed primarily on small fish and crustaceans, using their bill to stir mud and silt in shallow water and scoop up prey.
These bird names that start with R can also be found in marshes, swamps, lagoons, and mangrove forests.
Roseate Spoonbills are highly social and often form large flocks of several hundred birds.
Their breeding season usually occurs between February and July, with both parents helping to build the nest and incubate the eggs.
Young birds may remain in the area for up to a year after hatching. Other bird names that start with R include the Red-crowned Crane, Red-shouldered Hawk, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, and Red-tailed Hawk.
Each species has fascinating adaptations to survive in its particular habitats and has some unusual behaviors.
Whether soaring through the sky or searching for food in the mud, these birds will surely delight any birdwatcher!
31. Rock Sandpiper
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Rock Sandpiper (Calidris ptilocnemis), a medium-sized shorebird native to the Pacific coast of North America.
It has striking black and white plumage and can often be seen running along beaches for food. The Rock Sandpiper has a wingspan of about 20 inches and weighs about 3 ounces.
Its diet consists primarily of crustaceans, mollusks, and insects. During the winter months, it can sometimes be spotted as far north as Alaska, where it migrates in search of warmer temperatures.
The Rock Sandpiper is one of several bird names that start with the letter R.
Other examples include the Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), the Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator), and the Ring-necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus).
These birds have unique traits and behaviors that make them fascinating to watch and study.
32. Rock Ptarmigan
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Rock Ptarmigan (Lagopus muta), a grouse species native to Arctic and subarctic regions across North America, Europe, and Asia.
These birds have adapted to living in cold climates and have white feathers that blend in with the snow during winter.
The Rock Ptarmigan can be found in areas with rocky terrain and is often seen foraging for vegetation in tundra areas. These birds are known for their loud cackling calls and different courtship dances.
Rock Ptarmigans are classified as the least concern by the IUCN Red List due to their large range and population size.
33. Ross’s Goose
Ross’s Goose is one of the more unique bird names that start with R. This small goose is native to North America and is found in open grasslands and wet meadows, where they graze on plants, insects, and aquatic invertebrates.
Ross’s Goose is a light gray bird with a pink bill and a black neck, breast, and crown.
This bird usually nests in colonies and can be seen foraging in shallow ponds or near the shorelines of lakes and rivers.
It feeds mainly on grasses and sedges, taking other grains, insects, and aquatic invertebrates.
During the winter, Ross’s Goose may be found in Southern California, Arizona, Texas, and Mexico.
34. Ruddy Duck
One iconic bird name that starts with R is the Ruddy Duck. The Ruddy Duck, or Oxyura jamaicensis, is a small diving duck native to North America, South America, and the Caribbean Islands.
They have a unique look: a dark reddish-brown head, neck, breast, and sides.
A white patch on the cheek gives them a distinctive appearance. The Ruddy Duck is a strong swimmer who can dive up to 8 meters underwater for food. They mainly eat aquatic insects and plants like seeds, tubers, and algae.
The Ruddy Duck is found in shallow freshwater ponds, marshes, and lakes. They breed in areas with large open water bodies.
In the winter, they migrate to wetlands and coastlines in warmer climates.
As they are excellent swimmers and divers, they often find shelter in the marshy vegetation of these places.
The Ruddy Duck is endangered due to hunting and habitat loss. Conservation efforts are being made to help protect this species and ensure its survival.
35. Ruffed Grouse
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus), a medium-sized grouse in North America.
It is the state bird of Pennsylvania and an important game bird species. This bird is also known as the Partridge or simply the Grouse.
It prefers living in dense forests and woodlands, where it can find food and protection from predators.
The Ruffed Grouse is generally a ground dweller, but they are known to fly up onto low branches or even onto rooftops.
They feed on fruits, buds, seeds, insects, and even small animals like mice and voles.
The males are known for their unique courtship display, where they rapidly drum their wings and tail feathers against the air to create a loud sound that echoes through the forest.
This bird is also known for its amazing camouflage, blending perfectly into its surroundings.
During the winter, the Ruffed Grouse will use its feathers to insulate itself from the cold and form a snowcap by fluffing up its feathers to cover its head and neck.
If you’re looking to spot one of these birds, watch during the early morning and late afternoon hours when they are most active. Ruffed Grouse is sure to put on a show!
36. Rusty Blackbird
(Euphagus carolinus) is a medium-sized passerine bird native to the eastern United States and parts of Canada.
It is a member of the Icteridae family, which includes orioles and blackbirds.
The Rusty Blackbird has a rusty-brown back, head, wings, black throat, chest, and belly.
It measures approximately 7-9 inches long and has a wingspan of around 13 inches.
The Rusty Blackbird spends the summer months breeding in wetlands throughout the northeastern United States and Canada.
It winters further south in the mid-Atlantic region and is an occasional visitor to the Gulf Coast.
Its diet consists mainly of aquatic insects, seeds, berries, and crustaceans. The Rusty Blackbird population has declined over the past several decades due to habitat destruction, pesticides, and other human activities.
It is listed as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
To help protect this species, conservationists are advocating for more wetland conservation and habitat protection measures.
37. Rufous-Crowned Sparrow
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Rufous-crowned Sparrow (Aimophila ruficeps), a small sparrow found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
It is a short-distance migratory species seen in southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and western Mexico during the breeding season.
The Rufous-crowned Sparrow can be recognized by its distinctive rufous crown stripe and distinctly striped pattern on its back.
They are grayish-brown above and white underneath with a bold white eyebrow line. They have rusty streaks on their sides and chest, with a yellowish wash on the throat and breast.
The males have a bright rufous patch on their crown, which gives the species its name. Rufous-crowned Sparrows feed on insects, seeds, fruits, and grains.
They build cup nests lined with plant fibers, downy feathers, and grasses high in shrubs or low trees.
They may also use cavities or human-made structures like utility boxes for nesting sites.
Rufous-crowned Sparrows are often seen hopping on the ground or low in the shrubbery in open areas and scrub habitats.
38. Ring-Necked Pheasant
The next on my list of bird names that start with R is the Ring-Necked Pheasant, a large, beautiful bird in many world regions, including North America, Asia, and parts of Europe.
This species is characterized by its long tail and bright colors, which range from shades of brown and white to iridescent greens, purples, and reds.
The male has an unmistakable long black neck ring, which gives the species its name. The Ring-Necked Pheasant is a popular game bird and a favorite among bird watchers.
This species is also known for its loud call, often heard during spring and summer.
It’s a relatively easy bird to spot, with its flashy colors and distinctive shape. In addition to its popularity as a game bird, the Ring-Necked Pheasant is also important for its role in ecosystem balance.
This species plays an important role in controlling insect populations, particularly through its diet of grasshoppers, caterpillars, and other insects.
39. Ring-Necked Duck,
One of the most popular bird names that start with R is the Ring-necked Duck.
These birds are found throughout North America and are especially common in wetlands. They have a distinctive dark neck ring, which makes them easily recognizable.
The Ring-necked Duck is a medium-sized diving duck with a deep chestnut-colored head and a black bill.
Males have dark brown heads with white collars and white wing patches, while females are more subtly marked with dark brown caps.
Ring-necked Ducks feed on aquatic vegetation, insects, and crustaceans. During the breeding season, males display an impressive courtship dance to attract potential mates.
This includes pushing off the water with their wings, shaking their heads, and calling out.
After mating, the female will nest near water and lay six to eight creamy-white eggs. These ducks are highly social and often seen in large flocks on lakes and rivers.
They are also great swimmers and divers, able to remain underwater for up to 30 seconds in search of food.
If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these ducks, you’ll be treated to a beautiful sight!
40. Ring-Billed Gull
The last on my list of bird names that start with R is the Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis), a medium-sized gull native to North America.
This species of Gull is often seen in coastal areas, near lakes and rivers, and occasionally in city parks.
The Ring-billed Gull is easily identified by its namesake – a black ring on the end of its yellow bill.
Its plumage is greyish-white, with dark tips on the wings, and it has yellow eyes and legs. Ring-billed Gulls are highly adaptable birds and can be found across various habitats.
These gulls are opportunistic feeders, eating anything from small fish to insects and garbage.
These bird names that start with R are also known to scavenge for food, which makes them popular among beachgoers.
During the breeding season, these birds form large colonies on cliffs and islands, nesting in shallow depressions or scraping holes in the ground.
Ring-billed Gulls are social birds, often seen in flocks, and their calls are loud and distinctive.
These gulls are also relatively long-lived; they have been recorded living up to 28 years old in the wild.
If you’re lucky enough to spot a Ring-billed Gull, take a moment to admire this beautiful bird!
