Oklahoma Bird Identification

Oklahoma is home to a variety of ecological regions.

Oklahoma's location in the south central portion of the United States gives it a diverse variety of ecological regions. It harbors small mountain ranges, expansive prairies and scattered forests. This ecological diversity supports a variety of bird species. A bird's habitat and appearance play roles in its identification. One of the most distinct species is the state bird, the scissor-tailed flycatcher.

State Bird

Scissor-tailed flycatchers are most commonly seen in open prairies.

The scissor-tailed flycatcher was adopted as the state bird in 1951. It is most commonly seen in open prairies where it consumes grasshoppers, crickets and spiders. Its name originates from its scissorlike tail, which can be up to 9 inches in length. The bird's neck and back are gray, and its chest is white. Its wings are solid black with scarlet shoulders.

Ducks, Geese and Swans

The trumpeter swan is the largest native North American bird.

More than 42 species of ducks, geese and swans can be spotted in Oklahoma. One of the most notable is the trumpeter swan. The trumpeter swan is the largest native North American bird and has a wingspan up to 9 feet. It has white plumage and a long neck. The juveniles of the species, however, are gray. Its bill is black with a salmon pink color along the mouth line.

Partridges, Grouse and Turkeys

The wild turkey is easy to spot and recognize.

Six species of partridges, grouse and turkeys can be spotted in Oklahoma. The easiest to spot, however, is the wild turkey. It has a black body and long, gray-red legs. Males of the species have featherless heads with red coloring. The tail is fan-shaped, and the wings are glossy.

Loons

The red-throated loon has a long body and short neck.

Four species of loons are in Oklahoma. The most easily identified is the red-throated loon. During winter, its body is a gray color that fades to white on the chest. When breeding season arrives, however, the loon develops the reddish throat patch for which it is named. The red-throated loon is the smallest and lightest of the loon species. It has a long body and a short neck.

Where to Look

Oklahoma's state parks provide many birding opportunities.

The abundance of state parks in Oklahoma offers many opportunities for birdwatching. Beaver State Park is in the panhandle, and the central and north central sections of the state have Keystone State Park and John Miskelly State Park. The dozens of locations to enjoy birding in Oklahoma can be found through the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife.

References

• “Birds of Oklahoma Field Guide;” Stan Tekiela; 2002
• “Compact Guide to Oklahoma Birds;” Ted Cable, Scott Seltman, Krista Kagume and Gregory Kennedy; 2007
• “Oklahoma Breeding Bird Atlas;” Dan L. Reinking; 2004