West · Pacific Flyway

Birds in Idaho

Idaho's Rocky Mountain terrain and sagebrush steppe host forest birds, grouse, and raptors.

430+Bird species
4Habitat types
1Birding hotspots
4+Cities

Popular cities in Idaho

Common Birds in Idaho

The most frequently reported bird species across Idaho. Click any bird for full profiles, photos, calls, and attraction tips.

Browse all birds →

Backyard Birds in Idaho

Birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens in Idaho. These are the species you're most likely to attract with the right food, plants, and habitat setup.

Find the right feeder →Bird-friendly plants →

Birds by Habitat in Idaho

Idaho spans 4 major habitat types. Explore birds adapted to each environment.

🌲Forest BirdsWoodland and canopy birds including woodpeckers, warblers, and owls.
🏜️Desert BirdsDesert specialists—from thrashers to quail adapted to arid conditions.
🌊Wetland BirdsMarsh, lake, and river species—waterfowl, herons, and shorebirds.
🏙️Urban BirdsCity-adapted birds thriving in parks, gardens, and neighborhoods.

Top Bird Watching Spots in Idaho

The best places to go bird watching in Idaho, from national wildlife refuges to local sanctuaries.

1

Camas National Wildlife Refuge

Greater Sage-Grouse leks and Sandhill Crane staging.

Bird Calendar — Idaho

What to expect each month: migration arrivals, departures, and seasonal highlights.

February
Steady winter residents
March
Steady winter residents
June
Steady winter residents
July
Steady winter residents
August
Steady winter residents
November
Steady winter residents
December
Steady winter residents

Explore neighboring states

About birding in Idaho

Idaho is located in the West region of the United States and falls along the Pacific Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes. The state is home to more than 430 bird species across 4 habitat types: forest, desert, wetland, urban.

Whether you're a backyard birder in Boise or planning a trip to Camas National Wildlife Refuge, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in Idaho.