The 10 Most Colorful Birds in Florida

Florida is home to over 500 native bird species that range in color and size. Some are so small they weigh less than a pound, while others may weigh over 20 pounds! Florida birds are gorgeous and vibrant, often displaying multiple colors, but which are the most colorful? Follow along to discover the 10 most colorful birds in Florida.

Roseate Spoonbill

One of the most unforgettable colorful birds in Florida is the roseate spoonbill. These bright pink birds are found throughout parts of North and South America. Roseate spoonbills are about 28 to 34 inches long and weigh up to four pounds. Although known for their stunning pink and white feathers, these spoonbills also have a light greenish head. Within the state, you can find these colorful birds in both Central and South Florida.

Indigo Bunting

Continuing our list is the indigo bunting, which has a wide native range. You can find them anywhere in North America, from North Canada to South Florida—these vibrant birds also winter in the West Indies, Central America, and northern South America. Male indigo buntings are the true showstoppers. They have brilliant blue and brown plumage varying in shade. During the breeding season, their heads are indigo, while the rest of their body is a dark sky blue.

Painted Bunting

If you’re lucky enough to see a painted bunting, you’ll immediately understand this stunning bird’s name. Painted buntings look like a painting. Male-painted buntings have bright blue heads, red breasts, and green and black wings. These distinct colors are a sight to see, although they can be hard to spot as they camouflage well. Females aren’t as colorful, although when adults, they have bright green plumage.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Have you ever seen a ruby-throated hummingbird? They are considered one of the most beautiful hummingbirds in the world. Ruby-throated hummingbirds are very small, often weighing less than 0.2 ounces. These tiny birds are known for their gorgeous red throats. They also have brown and iridescent feathers, although females do not have the same ruby-red throat as males.

Broad-billed Hummingbird

Also on our list is the broad-billed hummingbird, another stunning hummingbird species. This hummingbird is found in Mexico and the southwestern United States. Although uncommon in Florida, this stunning green and bluebird is sometimes spotted. According to iNaturalist observations, these hummingbirds have been spotted as far north in Florida as Tallahassee and as south as Naples. While known for their blue and green feathers, they also have long red beaks that make them stand out.

Black-throated Green Warblers

Black-throated green warblers are very colorful. These beautiful birds are small songbirds with an interesting range. These birds migrate to south Florida but mainly breed in eastern North America and western Canada. Black-throated green warblers are easy to spot by their yellow faces. They also have olive markings on their head. Adult males, though, sport a black throat and upper breast. Black-throated green warbles weigh less than half an ounce.

American Goldfinch

Another yellow bird to make our list is the American goldfinch. This lovely golden bird is common in the United States and Canada. It’s the state bird of New Jersey, Iowa, and Washington. American goldfinches are about 4.3 to 5.5 inches long. They weigh less than an ounce. Although male American goldfinches are known for their bright sunflower yellow feathers, this only happens after the spring molt. During fall, male American goldfinches resemble the females and are pale, brown, and have blackish wings.

Little Blue Heron

Little blue herons are found throughout Florida. These gorgeous birds aren’t just blue, though; they also have purple and greenish coloration. During breeding season, little blue herons also have dark red heads. Unlike other bird species on our list, there are few differences between males and females. Little blue herons also have two-toned bills, black and blue. Another way to spot a little blue heron is by looking at their legs, which are long and greenish.

Purple Gallinule

Nearing the end of this list is the purple gallinule. This stunning swamphen is shiny and is made up of many colors. Purple gallinules are native to Florida and are found year-round. They also live year-round in parts of South America. Adult purple gallinules are known for their deep purple and iridescent feathers. In the right lighting, they look green. They also have red and yellow beaks and long toes.

Wood Duck

Last but not least is the wood duck. Wood ducks are common in lakes throughout Florida. Female wood ducks are mainly brown and grey, while male wood ducks have unique markings. For instance, adult males have multicolored iridescent feathers bordered by striking white bars. They also have bright red eyes.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/passion4nature