By Avian Feathers Team
Published June 2025
Texas is one of the best places for birdwatching in the country. With wide skies, open spaces and changing seasons, birds are always on the move. Whether you’re in the city, country or somewhere in between, you’re never far from feathered company.
Here are 7 common birds you’re likely to see across the Lone Star State.
1. Northern Mockingbird
This bold bird is the state bird of Texas. It is known for copying the songs of other birds and turning them into long, loud concerts. Mockingbirds are not shy and often perch in open places like fences and rooftops. They will even defend their territory from cats and other birds.
Size
Length: 8–11 inches.
Wingspan: 12–15 inches.
Weight: 1.5–2 ounces.
Scientific Name: Mimus polyglottos
2. Northern Cardinal
With its bright red feathers and sweet whistles, the Northern Cardinal is a favorite across Texas. Males are red, while females are soft brown with touches of orange. They love backyard feeders and sing loudly from treetops. Cardinals are active year-round and easy to spot.
Size
Length: 8–9 inches.
Wingspan: 10–12 inches.
Weight: 1.4–1.7 ounces.
Scientific Name: Cardinalis cardinalis
3. Blue Jay
These bright blue birds are loud, smart and full of attitude. They often travel in family groups and can mimic the calls of hawks. Blue Jays are found in parks, neighborhoods and forests throughout the state. You’ll hear their sharp calls before you see them.
Size
Length: 9–12 inches.
Wingspan: 13–17 inches.
Weight: 2.5–3.5 ounces.
Scientific Name: Cyanocitta cristata
4. House Sparrow
With a heart-shaped face and white feathers, the Barn Owl is easy to spot. It is found across most of Texas and likes open fields, farmlands and grasslands. It does not hoot. Instead, it makes a long, eerie screech.
Size
Length: 5.9–6.7 inches.
Wingspan: 7.5–9.8 inches.
Weight: 0.9–1.4 ounces.
Scientific Name: Passer domesticus
5. Mourning Dove
These soft gray birds are peaceful and calm. They perch on wires, fences and rooftops and make a gentle cooing sound. Their wings make a sharp whistling noise when they fly. Mourning Doves are one of the most hunted game birds in Texas but are still very common.
Size
Length: 9–13 inches.
Wingspan: 17–18 inches.
Weight: 4–6 ounces.
Scientific Name: Zenaida macroura
6. Carolina Wren
Small, round and loud. Carolina Wrens have a strong voice for their size and love singing from hidden spots. They have reddish-brown backs, white eyebrows and a curved bill. You’ll often hear them before you see them, especially near bushes, sheds or porches.
Size
Length: 4.7–5.5 inches.
Wingspan: 11 inches.
Weight: 0.6–0.8 ounces.
Scientific Name: Thryothorus ludovicianus
7. Great-tailed Grackle
These shiny blackbirds are common in parking lots, lawns and open fields. Males are glossy black with long, V-shaped tails, while females are brown. They make strange calls that sound like whistles, clicks and metallic squeaks. Grackles are loud, social and hard to ignore.
Size
Length: 15–18 inches.
Wingspan: 18–23 inches.
Weight: 3.7–6.7 ounces.
Scientific Name: Quiscalus mexicanus
From the noisy grackles to the sweet-singing mockingbirds, Texas is full of common birds that are anything but boring. These everyday species bring color, music, and life to every corner of the state. Whether you’re walking through a city park, sitting in your backyard, or driving down a country road, there’s always a bird nearby if you take the time to look.
They may be common, but they each have something special to offer—whether it’s a burst of bright feathers, a familiar call, or just a flash of movement in the trees. All it takes is a few minutes of watching and listening, and you’ll start to notice them everywhere.
Where to Spot Common Birds in Texas
Texas is a big state with all kinds of habitats, so you’ll find common birds just about everywhere. From busy cities to wide open prairies, these feathered friends are easy to spot once you know where to look.
• Northern Mockingbird: Found in backyards, city parks, and fence posts across the state. They love to sing from rooftops and shrubs.
• Great-tailed Grackle: Look for them in parking lots, near fast food spots, and along city sidewalks. Their loud calls make them easy to find.
• Northern Cardinal: These bright red birds hang out in suburban gardens, forest edges, and bird feeders year-round.
• Blue Jay: Often seen in oak woodlands, parks, and neighborhoods. They’re noisy and bold, so you won’t miss them.
• House Sparrow: These tiny birds thrive in towns and cities, especially near buildings, stores, and outdoor cafes.
• Mourning Dove: Spotted on telephone wires, fences, and rural roadsides. Their soft coos are heard in both cities and countryside.
• Carolina Wren: Search near porches, woodpiles, and shrubs. These curious little birds love cozy spots and often hop close to homes.
Which of these have you seen in your backyard or neighborhood? Let us know your favorite Texas bird.