Midwest · Mississippi Flyway

Birds in Minnesota

Minnesota's boreal forest, prairie, and Great Lakes shoreline give it the most breeding birds in the Midwest.

440+Bird species
3Habitat types
1Birding hotspots
4+Cities

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.

Browse all birds →

Backyard Birds in Minnesota

Birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens in Minnesota. 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 Minnesota

Minnesota spans 3 major habitat types. Explore birds adapted to each environment.

🌲Forest BirdsWoodland and canopy birds including woodpeckers, warblers, and owls.
🌊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 Minnesota

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

1

Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve

Duluth's Lake Superior ridge funnels fall raptor migration.

Bird Calendar — Minnesota

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 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.