Midwest · Mississippi Flyway
Birds in Minnesota
Birds in Minnesota: Minnesota's boreal forest, prairie, and Great Lakes shoreline give it the most breeding birds in the Midwest. This guide lists the common backyard birds, a month-by-month calendar, and the best places to go bird watching in Minnesota.
Popular cities in Minnesota:
Common Birds in Minnesota
The most frequently reported bird species across Minnesota. Click any bird for full profiles, photos, calls, and attraction tips.
Backyard Birds in Minnesota
Minnesota backyard birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens. These are the species you’re most likely to attract with the right food, plants, and habitat setup.
Where to Go Bird Watching in Minnesota
The best places to see birds in Minnesota, from national wildlife refuges to local sanctuaries.
Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve
Duluth's Lake Superior ridge funnels fall raptor migration.
Birds in Minnesota by Month
What to expect each month: migration arrivals, departures, and seasonal highlights.
Birds by Habitat in Minnesota
Minnesota spans 3 major habitat types. Explore birds adapted to each environment.
Birds in neighboring states
About birding in Minnesota
Minnesota is located in the Midwest region of the United States and falls along the Mississippi Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes. The state is home to more than 440 bird species across 3 habitat types: forest, wetland, urban.
Whether you’re a backyard birder in Minneapolis or planning a trip to Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in Minnesota.