What Is the Most Common Bird in Colorado?
Discover Colorado’s Most Frequently Spotted Bird and Where to Find It
If you’ve ever wondered, “What is the most common bird in Colorado?” you’re not alone. With the state’s diverse habitats—from alpine forests to suburban backyards—Colorado is a haven for birdwatchers. And topping the list year after year is the American Robin.
The American Robin: Colorado’s Most Common Bird
According to annual birdwatching reports and citizen science data from organizations like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the American Robin (Turdus migratorius) is the most frequently observed bird species in Colorado. This bird thrives in urban, rural, and mountainous regions alike, making it an adaptable and familiar sight across the state.
Whether you're in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, or small towns like Grand Lake or Salida, you're likely to encounter this iconic bird on a regular basis.
What Does an American Robin Look Like?
For those new to birdwatching or simply curious, here are a few key features that make the American Robin easy to identify:
Bright orange-red breast
Dark gray back and head
Medium-sized body (about 10 inches long)
Upright stance and confident hop
Melodic song, especially at dawn
The robin’s distinctive coloring and cheerful call make it a favorite among beginner and experienced birders alike.
Where to Spot Robins in Colorado
The American Robin is a year-round resident in many parts of Colorado, although some populations migrate seasonally. You can spot robins:
In grassy lawns and city parks
Along hiking trails and forest edges
Nesting in trees and shrubs during spring and summer
Flocking together during fall and winter months
Because of their adaptability, robins thrive from the plains to the mountains, appearing as frequently in backyard gardens as in high-altitude meadows.
Other Common Birds in Colorado
While the American Robin holds the top spot, it shares the skies and treetops with many other frequently seen species. Some of Colorado’s other common birds include:
Black-capped Chickadee – Small, friendly, and a regular visitor at feeders
House Finch – Males have a red-tinted head and chest, often found on fences and rooftops
Dark-eyed Junco – Especially common during winter in foothill and mountain areas
Mourning Dove – Known for their soft cooing and slender silhouette
American Crow and Common Raven – Large, intelligent, and often seen across urban and wild areas
These species, along with the robin, make Colorado a rewarding place for casual observers and dedicated birders.
Why the American Robin Matters in Colorado’s Ecosystem
Beyond being common, the American Robin plays an important ecological role. As an insectivore, it helps control pest populations like beetles and caterpillars. It also feeds on berries, aiding in seed dispersal.
To many Colorado residents, the robin is also a symbol of spring’s arrival. Its early morning song and sudden appearance in late winter signal the start of the new season.
Final Thoughts: Colorado’s Most Common Bird
So, what is the most common bird in Colorado? The answer is clear: the American Robin. Its bright colors, friendly demeanor, and melodic song make it an unmistakable part of the Colorado landscape.
Whether you're exploring trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, relaxing in a backyard in Fort Collins, or walking through the streets of Colorado Springs, keep an eye—and ear—out for the robin. It's more than just a common bird; it’s a beloved part of everyday life in Colorado.