West · Central Flyway

Birds in Montana

Montana's vast prairies and mountain valleys are home to eagles, grouse, and grassland sparrows.

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

Popular cities in Montana

Common Birds in Montana

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

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Backyard Birds in Montana

Birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens in Montana. 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 Montana

Montana 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 Montana

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

1

Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area

Snow Goose migration spectacle in spring and fall.

Bird Calendar — Montana

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 Montana

Montana is located in the West region of the United States and falls along the Central Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes. The state is home to more than 420 bird species across 3 habitat types: forest, wetland, urban.

Whether you're a backyard birder in Billings or planning a trip to Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in Montana.