35 LARGE Birds that live in North America (2023)

Do you want to learn about the LARGEST birds found in North America?

Well, you have come to the right place. 🙂

Below is a list of birds that are large, either in weight, height, length, or wingspan. I’ve included a variety of species, such as hawks, herons, corvids, owls, and geese.

#1. Red-tailed Hawk

• Length: 18-26 inches / 45-65 cm
• Weight: 1.5-3.5 lbs. / 700-1600 gm
• Wingspan: 43-55 inches/ 110-140 cm

Red-tailed Hawks are probably the type of hawk that people are most familiar with.

These large birds are often seen in North America on drives in the countryside, either soaring in the sky or perched on a fence post. The plumage color of Red-tailed Hawks can be anything from nearly white to virtually black, so coloration is not a reliable indicator. The best way to identify them is by looking for their characteristic red tail. 🙂 

Red-tailed Hawk Range Map

These hawks are highly adaptable, and there is no real description of their preferred habitats because they seem to be comfortable everywhere. I have seen Red-tailed Hawks backpacking in the deep wilderness to urban cities to my own suburban backyard! Pick a habitat, such as pastures, parks, deserts, roadsides, rainforests, woodlands, fields, or scrublands, and you’ll find them thriving.

Red-tailed Hawks have impressive calls that are easily identified.

In fact, people are so enamored with their screams it’s common for directors to use the sounds of a Red-tailed Hawk to replace Bald Eagles that appear in movies. In case you have never heard one, Bald Eagles don’t make sounds that live up to their appearance (putting it nicely!).

#2. Great Horned Owl

• Length: 17-25 inches (43 – 64 cm)
• Weight: 2.5 to 4 pounds (1134 – 1814 grams)
• Wingspan: 3 – 5 feet (91-153 cm)

Great Horned Owls are common large birds in North America.

In fact, these raptors can actually be found almost anywhere in North America, from the Arctic to the tropics. Its habitat is practically unlimited as long as there are trees and rocky nesting sites available. It is hard to find a bird that can adapt better than a Great Horned Owl.

Great Horned Owl Range Map

These owls are large and look fierce! To identify them, look for their long tufts of feathers that resemble ears on their head. Also, check out their intimidating eyes. I know I would not want to have a staring contest with one!

Both sexes hoot, but males are lower-pitched than females. Males give territorial calls that can be heard a few miles away at night. I don’t think there’s another owl species that does hooting better than a Great Horned Owl!

Generally speaking, these owls tend to eat larger animals to sustain their bigger bodies. They seek rabbits, geese, groundhogs, many species of birds, rats, and even other raptors!

But these owls also have no problem eating small prey, such as frogs, insects, invertebrates, reptiles, mice, and scorpions. Interestingly, a Great Horned Owl’s sense of smell is so weak that they even attack and eat skunks!

#3. Wild Turkey

• Length: Adult males measure 39-49 in (100–125 cm) in length. Females are a little smaller.

• Weight:  Adult males weigh from 11 to 24 lb (5 – 11 kg). Females are smaller and weigh 5.5–11.9 lb (2.5-5.4 kg).

• Wingspan: 4 to 4.75 feet (1.25 – 1.44 m)

Everyone knows what this large bird looks like in North America!

Wild Turkeys cannot be confused with any other animal. Many people even think they look like little dinosaurs as they strut around.

To find Wild Turkeys, wake up early in the morning, and you will often find them foraging in clearings and along roadsides. Luckily, they aren’t shy and are often spotted while driving.

Wild Turkey Range Map

Believe it or not, despite their hefty size, Wild Turkeys can fly! It surprises many people when they come across them roosting high in a tree. In addition, these talented birds can also swim by folding their wings, extending their tails, and using their legs to propel themselves.

Interestingly, only male turkeys make the famous gobble call. This sound is used to announce themselves to females while competing with other males for the ladies’ attention. LISTEN BELOW:

#4. Peregrine Falcon

• Length: 13-23 inches / 34-58 cm
• Weight: 12-53 oz. / 330-1500 gm
• Wingspan: 29-47 inches / 74-120 cm

These large birds of prey are commonly found in North America in urban areas. Because of their fondness for nesting on the sides of tall buildings, these falcons are common in cities where they often become local celebrities!

Peregrine Falcon Range Map

Peregrine Falcons have the honor of being the FASTEST animal on the planet!

Don’t be fooled by stories that the cheetah is the fastest creature. Oh sure, they can crank it up to 75 mph (120 kph), and that is amazing for being on the ground.

But when a Peregrine Falcon dives, it can reach speeds of up to 200 mph (320 kph)! And it starts its journey from as high as 3,000 feet, so it cruises at these high speeds for a considerable distance.

CHECK OUT THE VIDEO BELOW TO SEE THE INCREDIBLE DIVING ABILITIES OF THE PEREGRINE FALCON.

At the high speeds that these falcons can travel, their lungs should inflate and burst. But because they have a bony bump in their nose, it disrupts the airflow just like the dome shape on the front of a jet engine. Nature never ceases to amaze!

#5. Bald Eagle

• Length: 28-40 inches / 70-102 cm
• Weight: 6.5-15 lbs / 3-7 kg
• Wingspan: 71-91 inches / 1.8-2.3 meters

The Bald Eagle has been the national symbol of the United States since 1782 and is one of the most recognizable birds in the world!

These large raptors are now quite prevalent in North America, but that wasn’t always the case.

Bald Eagles almost went extinct in the mid-20th century due to DDT poisoning. After years of dedicated conservation work, they have recovered and are a true success story. They are most commonly seen around bodies of water.

Bald Eagle Range Map

The reason that Bald Eagles are found around water is that they mostly eat fish! Look for them around marshes, lakes, coasts, and rivers. The BEST areas are forests near large bodies of water that provide good fishing AND tall trees for nesting sites.

Below, you can hear what a Bald Eagle sounds like. If you imagine an intimidating eagle call, then you would be wrong. I think they sound more like a gull, with trills and little whistles.

Press PLAY above to hear a Bald Eagle!

#6. Canada Goose

• Length: 30 – 43 in / 75 to 110 cm

• Weight: 5.75 – 14.25 lb / 2.6–6.5 kg

• Wingspan: 50–73 in / 127–185 cm

Canada Geese are extremely common.

I’m sure you probably recognize these large birds, as they are very comfortable living around people. Look for them wherever there are grasses or grains to eat, such as lawns, parks, farm fields, and golf courses. I know I have been guilty of stepping in their “droppings” at least a few times in my backyard as they come to eat corn from my feeding station. 🙂

Canada Goose Range Map

In fact, these geese are now so abundant that many people consider them pests for the amount of waste they produce! If you have a manicured lawn that is maintained all the way to the water’s edge, you have an open invitation for these birds to visit.

The Canada Goose is also easy to identify while flying overhead. If you see a flock of large birds in a V-formation, then it’s most likely them. Flying this way helps conserve energy, and different birds take turns leading the way.

These large birds are easy to hear in North America.

Listen for a wide variety of loud honks and cackles. Listen above!

#7. American Crow

• Length: 16–20 in / 40–50 cm

• Weight: 11 – 21 oz / 300 – 600 g

• Wingspan: 33 – 39 in / 85 – 100 cm

American Crows are large, adaptable birds and are common in almost every habitat. The places they can be found include woodlands, fields, rivers, marshes, farms, parks, landfills, golf courses, cemeteries, and neighborhoods.

American Crow Range Map

These corvids are one of the smartest birds found in North America. For example, they can use tools, solve problems, and recognize human faces. It seems that crows even do things just for fun! Seriously, if you search the internet, it is easy to find videos of them using round objects to sled down roofs.

American Crows have a large vocabulary. Listen for any number of caws, rattles, cackles, and clicks. The most common sound is a “caw-caw.” (Listen below)

#8. Osprey

• Length: 20-25.5 inches / 50-65 cm
• Weight: 3-4.4 lb. / 1.4-2 kg
• Wingspan: 59-71 inches / 150-180 cm

Despite their appearance, the first thing you should know about Ospreys is they are NOT hawks! They are not eagles either and, scientifically speaking, have been given their own Family (Pandionidae) and Genus (Pandion), separate from all other birds of prey.

Osprey Range Map

When you think of an Osprey, you should think of fish because that is what these birds eat 99% of the time. Even an Osprey’s talons are perfectly adapted for catching fish. If you take a close look, you will see they are extremely curved and even intersect when fully closed, which makes them perfectly designed for holding onto slippery fish!

Even more interesting, their outer toe is reversible, which lets them rotate the toe so they can have two in front and two in back. Only Ospreys and owls have this unique ability, which allows them to be more efficient hunters.

And these guys don’t just skim the surface and grab their prey near the top like an eagle. Ospreys hit the water HARD and plunge right in to assure themselves of a catch. Amazingly, they can then take off while submerged and with a fish in their talons!

#9. Great Blue Heron

• Length: 36–54 in / 91–137 cm (Head to tail)

• Height: 45–54 in / 115–138 cm

• Weight: 4.0–7.9 lb / 1.82–3.6 kg

• Wingspan: 66–79 in / 167–201 cm

These large birds are typically seen in North America along the edges of rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

Great Blue Herons appear majestic in flight, and once you know what to look for, it is pretty easy to spot them. Watch the skies for a LARGE bird that folds its neck into an “s” shape and has its legs trailing straight behind.

Great Blue Heron Range Map

Most of the time, they will either be motionless or moving very slowly through the water, looking for their prey. But watch them closely because when an opportunity presents itself, these herons will strike quickly and ferociously to grab something to eat. Common foods include fish, frogs, reptiles, small mammals, and even other birds.

Believe it or not, Great Blue Herons mostly build their nests, which are made out of sticks, very high up in trees. In addition, they almost always nest in large colonies that can include up to 500 different breeding pairs. And unbelievably, nearly all the breeding pairs nest in the same few trees!

#10. Cooper’s Hawk

• Length: 13.5-20 inches / 35-50 cm
• Weight: 8-24 oz / 220-680 gm
• Wingspan: 24.5-35.5 inches / 62-90 cm

These large raptors are commonly found in North America in woods or on the edge of fields. Cooper’s Hawks are known for their flying agility. I see them often at my house in high-speed chases through the canopy, going after their prey.

Cooper’s Hawk Range Map

Because of their incredible flying abilities, these raptors primarily eat songbirds and are common to see in backyards around bird feeders. At my feeding station, I have observed these hawks preying on Red-winged Blackbirds, European Starlings, and Mourning Doves. 

The most common sound a Cooper’s Hawk emits is an alarm call that sounds like “kuck, kuck, kuc” or “cak-cak-cak.”

In contrast to many other birds, males are usually responsible for building the nest. The female seems to just sit back, relax, and make minor adjustments when the male does something she doesn’t like. 🙂

#11. Pileated Woodpecker

There are not many birds that will make you stop what you’re doing quite like a Pileated Woodpecker. These birds are HUGE, and adults can be up to 19 inches (48 cm) long and have a wingspan of 30 inches (76 cm)! For reference, this is about the size of a crow.

In addition to their large size, these birds are mostly black but with white stripes on their face and neck. Look for a large triangle red crest on the top of their heads. Males have a red stripe on their cheek, whereas the stripe is black on females.

Pileated Woodpecker Range Map

Pileated Woodpeckers are common in large, mature forests with lots of dead and fallen trees. They rely on rotting wood consisting of ants, wood-boring beetles, and termites to find food. Additionally, they will supplement their diet with fruits and nuts.

Incredibly, Pileated Woodpeckers will visit bird feeders! Yes, it’s possible to attract these stunning birds to your backyard. They are most often seen dining on suet. The below video was taken from my bird feeding station.

#12. Barred Owl

• Length: 16–25 inches (40–63 cm)
• Weight: 1–2.75 pounds (500–1250 gr)
• Wingspan: 38–49 inches (96–125 cm)

Barred Owls are a common and large owl found in North America. The name “barred” derives from the horizontal stripes of alternating light brown and dark brown on the wings, back, and tail.

Barred Owls are the type of owl that I have observed the most in the wild. They are inquisitive and will often stay and watch as you walk past them. Even if they get nervous as you approach, they typically fly off to another nearby tree to continue observing.

Barred Owl Range Map

Barred Owls rely on mice and other small rodents but eat just about anything made of meat! They will readily grab rats, rabbits, bats, squirrels, moles, minks, weasels, opossums, a variety of birds, frogs, snakes, fish, and turtles, and will even hunt around your nightly campfire to catch some sweet, juicy insects.

And speaking of classical noises, their hoots are the classic sounds featured in movies and scary Halloween tales. It is easy to recognize their call as it sounds like they are asking, “Who cooks for you.” Barred Owls will sound off during daylight hours, too, and they mate for life.

#13. Turkey Vulture

• Length: 25-32 inches / 64-81 cm
• Weight: 2-5 lbs / 0.8-2.4 kg
• Wingspan: 63-72 inches / 160-183 cm

The Turkey Vulture is a large black bird that is incredibly common in North America. In fact, it is the most abundant vulture in the entire country. They are relatively easy to identify, as they are all black, with a bald red head and a pinkish bill. The name derives from their loose resemblance to a Wild Turkey.

Turkey Vultures use their highly developed sense of smell to locate carrion. Their sense of smell is so sensitive that they can detect dead meat from 8 miles (13 km) away. These birds actually prefer to eat fresh food, and they try to get to animals as quickly as possible after their death.

Turkey Vulture Range Map

These birds are dark, and they absorb heat easily. To cool themselves off, they defecate on their legs to cool the blood and help them moderate their body temperature. Let’s collectively say “Ewww” and move on!

When these raptors are frightened, they can be so full of meat that they cannot rapidly fly away. In this case, you may see them projectile vomit what they’ve eaten to lose weight and escape. If they target the predator’s face, the material can be blinding. Remember that even if they miss, they are vultures eating rotting meat, so try to imagine the odor.

#14. Common Raven

• Weight: 3.2 lbs / 1.47 kg

• Wingspan: 46-60 in / 116-153 cm

These large birds are one of the SMARTEST in North America!

For example, one study has shown that Ravens are drawn to gunshots during hunting season to investigate the carcass but ignore other loud noises that don’t lead to food, such as air horns or car alarms.

Their intelligence makes them efficient predators, and it’s common for ravens to team up to get food, such as stealing eggs from nests or attacking larger prey like newly born lambs.

Common Raven Range Map

Since they are so smart and adaptable, Common Ravens are found in many habitats. Look for them living near the edges of towns, especially in landfills that supply an endless amount of food. But ravens also have no problem living far away from civilization.

Common Ravens are impressive vocalists who make many different types of calls, from harsh grating calls to shrill alarm sounds. But the most common sound you will hear in the wild is a gurgling croak that rises in pitch.

Interestingly, they can mimic the sounds of many other bird species and even humans if raised in captivity.

#15. Northern Goshawk

• Length: 16-27 inches / 41-69 cm
• Weight: 22-50 oz / 630-1400 gm
• Wingspan: 35-50 inches / 89-127 cm

Northern Goshawks are secretive birds that are hard to see, as these birds of prey prefer living in large forests away from civilization. Many people mistakenly think they have seen one in their backyard when it was just a Cooper’s Hawk, which looks similar.

But look closely, and you will see a dark-colored head that is usually paired with deep red eyes makes the Northern Goshawk hard to mistake. The underbody is often a bluish-white to light gray with barring. The upper body is blue-gray or even brown with certain morphs.

Northern Goshawk Range Map

These large birds are widespread in North America but are hard to see, especially in the suburbs and cities. Some individual birds are short-term migrants during colder months, heading south until adequate food can be found. Other birds stay in the same place all year.

Opportunistic and fierce hunters, Northern Goshawks eat a wide variety of foods. The list includes insects, mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Listen for a harsh “ca-ca-ca” sound. As it calls, they turn their head from side to side slowly, which gives the vocal effect of a ventriloquist.

#16. Red-shouldered Hawk

• Length: 15-19 inches / 38-48 cm
• Weight: 1.1-1.9 lbs. / 500-860 gm
• Wingspan: 38-42 inches / 96-107 cm

Distinctly marked, Red-shouldered Hawks have a barred rufous chest, mostly white underwings, a strongly banded tail, and, of course, red shoulders that are visible when perched.

Red-shouldered Hawks are primarily forest dwellers. Their favorite places are woods with an open upper canopy since this extra space allows them to hunt more efficiently. These raptors are also common in suburban areas where houses have been mixed into woodlands. I see Red-shouldered Hawks frequently, especially in winter, hunting in my backyard for squirrels.

Red-shouldered Hawk Range Map

Speaking of food, these hawks primarily eat small mammals but will feast on snakes, lizards, and amphibians when available.

When hunting, these raptors drop onto their prey directly from overhead, making their hunting style unique. You can see this behavior perfectly below, as a Red-shouldered Hawk tries to catch a squirrel in my backyard! Don’t worry, the hawk is unsuccessful.)

Red-shouldered Hawk hunting in my backyard!

#17. Tundra Swan

• Length: 45–59 in / 115–150 cm

• Weight: 7.5–21.2 lb / 3.4–9.6 kg

• Wingspan: 66–83 in / 168–211 cm

During summer, you will not see Tundra Swans near people, as they spend the breeding season in the remote Arctic. Look for them in winter and migration, where they are visitors to many large bodies of water. They also visit farm fields in large flocks, looking for food.

Tundra Swans form long-term, dedicated relationships. Typically, by the time they are 2 or 3, they have found a partner. Once that happens, these two birds will breed, feed, roost, and travel together year-round.  

The most common sound these birds make is a “hoo-ho-ho” bugle, with the second syllable being emphasized. (Listen below)

Another typical sound associated with Tundra Swans is the whistling of their wings. Lewis and Clark initially called them “whistling swans” when they first encountered them, and many people still use this name today.

#18. Great Egret

• Length: 31 – 41 in / 80 – 104 cm

• Weight: 1.5 – 3.3 lb / 700 – 1,500 g

• Wingspan: 52 to 67 in / 131 to 170 cm

Great Egrets are large birds found in North America. These herons are stunning and especially put on a show during breeding season when they grow long feathery plumes called aigrettes, which are held up during courtship displays.

Great Egret Range Map

In fact, these aigrettes are so beautiful that great Egrets were almost hunted to extinction in the 19th century because these feathers made such nice decorations on ladies’ hats. The National Audubon Society was formed in response to help protect these birds from being slaughtered. To this day, the Great Egret serves as the symbol of the organization.

Slightly smaller than a Great Blue Heron, this species eats almost anything that may be in the water. The list includes reptiles, birds, amphibians, small mammals, and countless invertebrates.

Great Egrets don’t get any awards for their beautiful songs. Listen for a loud sound that is best described as a croak (“kraak”). When surprised, you may hear a fast “cuk-cuk-cuk” alarm call. LISTEN BELOW!

#19. Sandhill Crane

• Height: 2.6 to 4.5 ft / 80 to 136 cm

• Weight: 6.0 to 14.8 lb / 2.7 to 6.7 kg

If you go to the right habitat, Sandhill Cranes are easy to spot in North America. These water birds are large, elegant, and put on some fancy dancing while trying to attract a mate! It’s common to see a breeding male pump their wings, bow, stretch their wings, and jump into the air, all in the name of love. 🙂

Sandhill Crane Range Map

Sandhill Cranes are well known for their LOUD bugling calls.

In fact, these sounds can be heard over 2 miles away and are given both on the ground or while flying. They have adapted extremely long windpipes that actually coil into the sternum, which helps produce the low, loud pitch.

One thing that amazes me about Sandhill Cranes is how long they live. The oldest one on record was at least 36 years old, as it was banded originally in 1973 and then found again in 2010!

#20. Trumpeter Swan

Trumpeter Swans are the largest bird by weight in North America!

They have a wingspan of almost 6 feet (1.8 m) and weigh around 25 pounds (11.3 kg), which is about twice the amount of a Tundra Swan. In fact, they are so big that about 100 yards of open water is needed for them to get enough speed to take off!  

Trumpeter Swans were once endangered due to overhunting, but luckily, their population has recovered, and they are increasing their numbers. Unlike Tundra Swans, this species doesn’t travel to the Arctic in summer to nest and breed. Look for them near ponds, lakes, rivers, and marshes, and the farther from people, the better!

These large birds typically nest on an existing structure that is surrounded by water, such as beaver dams, muskrat dens, small islands, floating masses of vegetation, and artificial platforms. Trumpeter Swans are very sensitive when breeding and will commonly abandon their nest sites and babies due to human disturbance.

Deep, loud trumpets can be heard when they are alarmed or defending their territory, which is two syllables with the second one emphasized (“oh-O”).

#21. Double-crested Cormorant

• Length: 28–35 in / 70–90 cm

• Weight: 2.6 – 5.5 lb / 1.2 – 2.5 kg

• Wingspan: 45 – 48 in / 114 – 123 cm

Double-crested Cormorants are incredibly unique looking, with many people thinking they appear to be a cross between a loon and a goose. These expert divers eat almost exclusively fish, which they catch underwater with their perfectly adapted hooked bills.

Double-crested Cormorant Range Map

One of the BEST ways to find these large water birds in North America is to look for them on land with their wings spread out. Double-crested Cormorants don’t have waterproof feathers, so after swimming, they have to dry them.

Large colonies of these birds tend to gather in trees near water, where they all build their nests in a small cluster of trees. Unfortunately, there can be so many birds so close together that their poop ends up killing the trees!

Double-crested Cormorants emit unique, deep guttural grunts, which I think sound more like a large walrus than a bird. Listen below!

#22. Great Gray Owl

• Length: 24 – 33 inches (61–84 cm)
• Weight: 1.5 – 4 lb (580–1,900 grams)
• Wingspan: 5 feet (1.5 meters)

Great Gray Owls are the largest owl in North America!

If you’re lucky enough to see one, they are stunning raptors. Many people think they look like they are wearing a grey suit with a bowtie around its neck!

These owls cover a lot of territory in their range, but they prefer to live in a forest near a clearing. It’s instrumental in the wintertime, as they need a lot of area for listening to rodents running beneath the snow so they can crash through and catch lunch! Because they are so big, they require a lot of food, eating up to 7 rodents every day.

Great Gray Owl Range Map

Grey Gray Owls NEVER build nests. They just use the ones that other big birds made. Talk about being efficient! However, once they claim a used nest, these owls will defend it courageously, even against black bears!

Their call is reasonably distinctive, bold, and deep, sounding like “whooooo, woo, woo, woo.“ They also have a soft double hoot that is used when providing food to their babies or defending a territory.

#23. Brown Pelican

• Length: 3.25 to 5 ft / 1 to 1.52 m

• Weight: 4.4 – 11.0 lb / 2 – 5 kg

• Wingspan: 6.7 – 7.5 ft / 2.03 – 2.28 m

It’s hard to mistake these large birds in North America since no other bird looks quite like it!

When I visit the beach, I love seeing the way that Brown Pelicans elegantly fly just over the water’s surface. While these water birds are common today, believe it or not, they almost went extinct in the mid-20th century due to DDT poisoning.

Brown Pelican Range Map

These seabirds are commonly seen along the coast as they plunge aggressively headfirst into the water. These dives are meant to stun the surrounding fish, which then are scooped up with their enormous throat pouch and swallowed whole.

Don’t bother listening for them, as Brown Pelicans are mostly silent creatures. You may hear loud popping sounds when they defend their nests, which are made from them snapping their bills together sharply.

#24. American White Pelican

• Pelecanus erythrorhynchos

• It is a GIANT white water bird with a long neck and long bill.
• Yellow patch at the base of the bill that wraps around their eyes.
• Breeding adults have an odd plate that sticks up from the end of the bill.

American White Pelicans are hard to miss due to their massive size. In fact, they are one of the largest birds in North America. They typically weigh between 11 – 20 pounds (5.0 – 9.1 kg), but it’s their wingspan that is most impressive.

When fully spread, the wings measure over 9 feet (2.7 m) from tip to tip, which is the second widest in North America, behind the California Condor.

American White Pelican Range Map

These pelicans don’t dive like many other birds to catch fish but instead use their giant neck pouches to scoop up fish. Individuals commonly work together to herd fish to shallow areas to make them easier to catch.

Interestingly, chicks that are still INSIDE the egg can squawk to convey discomfort if conditions become too hot or too cold! Otherwise, adults are generally silent.

#25. Mute Swan

• Length: 55 – 63 in / 140 – 160 cm

• Weight: 23.4 – 26.2 lb / 10.6 – 11.87 kg

• Wingspan: 79 – 94 in / 200 – 240 cm

Mute Swans are one of the most elegant and beautiful birds you will see in the water. They are also enormous and are one of the heaviest birds that can fly!

But did you know that these large birds are NOT native to North America?

Due to their beauty, Mute Swans were imported from Europe and then released in parks, large estates, and zoos. Unfortunately, these individuals escaped and have established an invasive wild population.

Don’t be filled by their appearance; these swans can be aggressive, and they regularly attack kayakers and other people who get too close to their nest. They also displace native ecosystems due to their voracious appetite, which requires up to 8 pounds (3.6 kg) of aquatic vegetation per day!

Despite their name, these swans are not mute!

While it’s true they are relatively quiet, they make a hoarse trumpet sound when defending their territory. And if they are threatened, expect to hear various barks, hisses, and snorts.

#26. Ferruginous Hawk

• Length: 20-27 in / 51-69 cm

• Weight: 2-5 lbs / 900-2270 gm

• Wingspan: 47-60 inches / 1.2-1.5 meters

Ferruginous Hawks are beautiful raptors that live in the open deserts and prairies of the West. They are the largest hawks found in North America and have long, broad wings and a wide gray, rusty, or white tail.

These hawks have two color forms you may observe.

• The light morph birds have a rusty brown back and pale underparts.
• The dark morph individuals are dark brown and chestnut-colored on both their back, chest, and belly. Dark morph birds are much rarer to see than light ones.

Ferruginous Hawk Range Map

Somewhat social, Ferruginous Hawks may roost in groups during winter, which can contain between 6-12 individuals. Mated pairs seem to be mostly monogamous and are incredibly adaptable nesters. For example, these hawks will use trees, rock outcrops, ledges, haystacks, nest platforms, power poles, various other human-made structures, and the ground for nests.

Their alarm call sounds like “kree” or “kaah” and is typically given when defending territory or frightened. Some people think it sounds similar to a gull.

#27. Golden Eagle

• Length: 26-40 inches / 66-100 cm
• Weight: 6.5-16 lbs / 3-7 kg
• Wingspan: 71-91 inches / 1.8-2.3 meters

Golden Eagles are incredibly fast and agile, which makes them expert hunters. Where Bald Eagles mostly eat fish, these eagles almost always eat mammals. Their favorite prey include rabbits, hares, ground squirrels, marmots, and prairie dogs. But these raptors have been known to hunt and kill animals as large as small deer, seals, mountain goats, coyotes, and badgers!

Golden Eagles are dark brown with gold feathers on the backs of their necks, which is how they got their name. Juvenile birds have white patches on their wings and tails. Immature Bald Eagles and adult Golden Eagles look similar and can be easily confused.

The distinguishing feature between these two birds is that the Bald Eagle doesn’t mind showing a little leg, whereas the Golden Eagle has feathers down to the top of its feet.

These large birds prefer vast open areas in North America, such as landscapes that include cliffs, mountains, or hills. You can also spot these birds in grasslands, farmlands, shrublands, arctic tundra, and coniferous woodlands.

Golden Eagle Range Map

These eagles are not extremely noisy, and their calls sound like whistles that are weak and high. Just like Bald Eagles, for such a powerful raptor, you would think Golden Eagles would have a much more intimidating sound!

#28. Snow Goose

• Height: 25 – 31 in / 64 – 79 cm

• Weight: 4.5 – 6.0 lb / 2.05 – 2.7 kg

• Wingspan: 53 – 65 in / 135 – 165 cm

During the breeding season, Snow Geese spend their time in the continent’s northernmost areas, away from human civilization. Most people only get the pleasure of seeing this large goose in North America when they migrate south in fall and winter.

Snow Goose Range Map

Look for Snow Geese in large fields and bodies of water. If they are around, it is usually not hard to find them, as they are almost always seen in huge flocks accompanied by a lot of honking!

One of the most impressive things you will watch today is the video below, which shows an ENORMOUS flock of Snow Geese. It’s hard to fathom how many birds are traveling together!

As you can probably hear from the video above, Snow Geese are one of the noisiest waterfowl you will encounter. Their nasally, one-syllable honk can be heard at any time of day or night, at any time of the year!

#10. Wood Stork

Wood Storks are incredibly tall birds found in North America, standing over 3 feet in height. They also have a large wingspan that is typically between 5 – 6 feet from tip to tip. These water birds are usually seen in marshes or swamps looking for food, which includes fish and crustaceans.

Wood Stork Range Map

Wood Storks are not common, and you usually need to visit a large wetland to find one. Wildlife refuges and preserves tend to be great places. But luckily, because of their large size and unique head and bill, they are easy to identify when seen.

And my kids were happy to hear I don’t share the same parenting techniques as the Wood Stork. To keep their nestlings cool when it becomes too hot, parent storks regurgitate water all over their babies. 🙂

#30. Gyrfalcon

• Length: 19 – 26 inches / 48 – 65 cm
• Weight: 1.75 – 5 lbs. / 794 – 2268 gm
• Wingspan: 43 – 63 inches / 110 -160 cm

The first thing we need to discuss when it comes to Gyrfalcons is how to pronounce its name! As much as I want to say “Gear-falcon” every time, that is incorrect.

The correct way to pronounce the name is “JER·falcon.” The beginning sounds like the letter “J” and not the letter “G” (Click this link to hear someone saying “Gyrfalcon.”)

Okay, now that we have that out of the way, let’s talk more about this magnificent raptor! The Gyrfalcon, sometimes known as the Gyr, is the largest species of falcon in North America (and the world). They are birds of the Arctic, and they breed on the sides of cliffs in remote areas of Alaska and Canada. Because they live in secluded areas, Gyrfalcons are typically safe from human disturbances, but they do face challenges from climate change.

During winter months, Gyrs have to come south from the high Arctic to find food. Depending on the specific year, you never know how far south they may come!

As far as sounds go, Gyrfalcons make a few. When they are alarmed, listen for a “kak kak kak” noise, which you can hear below.

#31. Black Vulture

• Length: 22 – 29 inches / 56 – 74 cm
• Weight: 3.5 – 6.5 lbs / 1.6-3 kg
• Wingspan: 51 – 66 inches / 1.3 – 1.7 meters

Black Vultures primarily eat carrion, but unlike most other vultures, they are known to kill animals to feed on fresh meat. It is not uncommon for them to prey on living skunks, opossums, and livestock, such as baby pigs, calves, and lambs.

Black Vultures are monogamous and will stay with their mate for many years. The loyal pair are excellent parents and will defend their nest, eggs, and young vigorously. Interestingly, these vultures build their nests on the ground in stumps, caves, thickets, brush piles, or hollow trees. No nesting material is used either!

Black Vulture Range Map

Look for Black Vultures in North America in both forested and open areas. They prefer to roost and nest in dense forests but forage for food along roads, fields, and other open spaces.

Black Vultures are commonly seen hanging around Turkey Vultures, and it’s not because they are best friends.

Between the two species, Turkey Vultures have a MUCH better sense of smell. Black Vultures use this fact to their advantage and follow Turkey Vultures to a carcass. And many times, the more aggressive Black Vultures will chase away their vulture cousins to have the food all to themselves. I wonder if Turkey Vultures ever feel used? 🙂

#32. Crested Caracara

• Length: 20–26 in / 50–65 cm

• Wingspan: 47–52 in / 120–132 cm

Crested Caracaras are incredibly unique. While they are technically falcons, most people think they look like hawks. But to make things more confusing, they act like vultures, as their primary food source is carrion. As a result, they are often seen scavenging on carcasses next to vultures.

As if you are not already confused about Crested Caracaras, one of the best places to find these large birds in southern North America is ON THE GROUND, as they spend a lot of time here walking around. It is also fairly common for these falcons to run down live prey, which includes reptiles, insects, and small mammals.

Crested Caracaras are not that common in North America and are seen more often in Mexico and South America. But if you come across one, there is no other bird that looks similar!

#33. Greater White-fronted Goose

• Length: 25–32 in / 64–81 cm

• Weight: 4.4 – 7.4 lb / 1.93–3.31 kg

• Wingspan: 51–65 in / 130–165 cm

These birds breed in the arctic tundra but then migrate south for winter. Look for these large geese in North America in large flocks in wetlands, lakes, and farm fields.

Greater White-fronted Goose Range Map

Greater White-fronted Geese have INCREDIBLY strong family bonds. Mated pairs migrate with each other and stay together for many years. Their offspring even stick around for longer than most other species, and it’s not unusual to see the young with their parents through the next breeding season.

Their flight call is relatively easy to identify. Listen for a two to three-syllable sound that resembles laughing.

#34. Greater Roadrunner

• Geococcyx californianus 

• It stands at a height of around 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) and is the largest cuckoo species in the Americas.  
• From beak to tail, the roadrunner is about 20–24 inches (52–62 cm) long.
• Roadrunners possess distinctive X-shaped footprints with four toes each: two toes point forward, while the other two point backward. 

When people hear “Roadrunner,” they immediately think of the iconic “beep, beep” of the WarnerBrothers’ cartoon Roadrunner!

But just like the character in the show, the Greater Roadrunner is an impressive bird that is built for speed! It can outpace humans, conquer rattlesnakes, and flourish in challenging environments.

They have developed various adaptations to thrive in the harsh conditions of the desert. For example, like seabirds, they release a concentrated salt solution through glands near their eyes, conserving water rather than excreting it through their kidneys.  

Greater Roadrunner Range Map

In addition, their diet consists of moisture-rich prey such as mammals and reptiles, which provides them with the water they need in the desert. 

To spot Greater Roadrunners in North America, venture along quiet roads in open landscapes. Their sudden appearance is often surprising as they swiftly emerge from shrub cover or dash across roads. 

Listen for their dovelike, low-pitched cooing, typically uttered from a raised perch. 

#35. California Condor

• Height: 36-42 inches / 91-107 cm

• Weight: 17-25 lbs / 80-165 gm

• Wingspan: 114 inches / 290 cm

California Condors have the LARGEST wingspan of any bird found in North America, stretching over 9 feet from tip to tip.

California Condors have exceptional gliding abilities, riding thermals at almost no energy expenditure. They can soar up to nearly 15,000 feet (4,600 meters) high. The frontline of their wings is almost entirely straight, and the feathers on the wingtips allow them to be extremely sensitive to thermals. They can spot a meal at great distances and have been known to fly 150 miles (240 km) in a single search for food.

One of the rarest species of birds on the planet, the California Condor went extinct in the wild in 1987 when all of the remaining birds were captured. These birds were then raised and bred in safe environments with the hope of releasing the offspring back into the wild.

To increase numbers, biologists needed to encourage females to lay a second egg since condors only produce ONE egg naturally. To accomplish this feat, the first egg laid was removed and raised by humans who used puppets to mimic the parents!

California Condor Range Map

Luckily, the program worked, and condors were released back into the wild in California in 1991 and Arizona in 1996. Since then, they have slowly been increasing their numbers. In March 2020, there were 337 birds in the wild and 181 in captive breeding programs.

Learn more about other birds in North America!

Which of these large birds have you seen in North America?

Let us know in the comments!