20 Types of Birds That Start With N (Pictures & ID Guide)

Birds That Start With N are amazing creatures with diverse features and stories. Whether they are majestic, elusive, or colorful, they all have something in common: the letter N. In this post, I will share some of the most interesting facts about these avian wonders including their scientific names and everything you need to know about these birds that start with the letter N.

Explore 20 Birds That Start With N Incl (Photos)

1. Nightingale

• Scientific name: Luscinia megarhynchos

The nightingale, found in Western Europe, North Africa, Asia Minor, and Southern and East Africa, boasts a plain brown and pale grey plumage. But what truly sets it apart is its enchanting voice.

The nightingale’s melodious song has inspired legends, fairy tales, and poetry.

During winter, it migrates from Europe and Asia to Africa, covering vast distances. Remarkably, its brain can produce around 1000 different sounds, making it a true virtuoso of the avian world.

2. Nene

• Scientific name: Branta sandvicensis

The Nene, also known as the Hawaiian goose, holds a special place in Hawaii’s heart. In 1957, it became the state bird when only about 30 individuals remained in the wild.

Thanks to conservation efforts, the population has slowly rebounded to approximately 2500 birds. Sporting a gray body, white neck, and distinctive black stripes, the Nene is a rare and endangered species.

Its haunting calls echo across the Hawaiian landscape, a testament to its resilience.

3. Nankeen Kestrel

• Scientific name: Falco cenchroides

The Nankeen Kestrel birds are medium-sized birds of prey, graces the skies of Australia, New Guinea, and Indonesia that start with N . Its predominantly white plumage contrasts with reddish-brown wings and neck. Dark wingtips add elegance to its appearance.

Often perched on posts or dead trees, these kestrels are graceful in flight and can hover in one spot for extended periods. The name “Nankeen” harks back to a popular color in trade during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

4. Neddicky

• Scientific name: Cisticola fulvicapilla

The Neddicky, a small bird native to southern Africa, boasts a brownish back and wings, complemented by white underparts and a reddish-brown cap. Its vocal prowess is remarkable; Neddickies emit a variety of calls, from melodious tunes to chattering notes.

Their diet includes termites, moths, grasshoppers, seeds, and small grasses. Interestingly, they can lay eggs sporadically, sometimes producing one egg a day after the initial batch.

5. Northern Saw-whet Owl

• Scientific name: Aegolius acadicus

The Northern Saw-whet Owl, a pint-sized nocturnal hunter, inhabits North America. Its compact frame and expressive eyes make it endearing. Despite its small size, it preys on rodents and insects with precision. The owl’s distinctive call resembles the sound of a saw being sharpened, hence its name. These secretive birds nest in tree cavities and rely on their cryptic plumage for camouflage.

These are just a few of the remarkable birds that grace our planet, each contributing to the rich tapestry of biodiversity. Whether it’s the nightingale’s song or the Nene’s resilience, these avian wonders remind us of the magic that exists in the natural world. So next time you hear a melodious tune.

6. Northern Royal Albatross

• Scientific name: Diomedea epomophora

The Northern Royal Albatross, with its immense wingspan, is a true ocean wanderer. Found in the southern oceans, it spends most of its life gliding effortlessly above the waves.

These albatrosses can cover thousands of miles during their foraging trips, relying on wind currents to carry them. Their striking white plumage and black wingtips create a captivating sight against the azure backdrop of the open sea.

7. Northern Screamer

• Scientific name: Chauna chavaria

The Northern Screamer, native to South America, is an odd-looking bird with a mix of duck-like and chicken-like features. Its large body, long legs, and strong bill make it an efficient swimmer and forager.

These screamers inhabit wetlands and marshes, where their raucous calls echo across the water. Despite their ungainly appearance, they are skilled at evading predators and raising their chicks in floating nests.

8. Northern Scrub Robin

• Scientific name: Cercotrichas galactotes

The Northern Scrub Robin, also known as the Rufous Bush Chat, frequents arid and scrubby habitats across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

Its rusty-brown plumage allows it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. These robins are insectivorous, hopping along the ground in search of prey. Their melodious song adds a touch of music to the dry landscapes they inhabit.

9. Nightjar

• Scientific name: Caprimulgus europaeus

The Nightjar, a master of camouflage, emerges at dusk to hunt insects. Its cryptic plumage resembles tree bark, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings.

Nightjars are often associated with eerie calls and superstitions. Their haunting “churring” sounds evoke mystery and magic. These nocturnal birds are found across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

10. Nuttall’s Woodpecker

• Scientific name: Picoides nuttallii

Nuttall’s Woodpecker, a resident of western North America, is a lively and agile tree climber. Its black-and-white plumage, adorned with red on the crown and nape, makes it instantly recognizable.

These woodpeckers drum on tree trunks to communicate and excavate insect larvae. Their presence adds vibrancy to oak woodlands and mixed forests.

11. Nile Valley Sunbird

• Scientific name: Nectarinia aurita

The Nile Valley Sunbird, a jewel of Africa, dazzles with its iridescent plumage. Males flaunt vibrant metallic blues and greens, while females opt for subtler shades.

These sunbirds thrive in arid and semi-arid regions, sipping nectar from flowers with their specialized curved bills. Their aerial acrobatics and melodious calls add color to the desert landscape.

12. Narina Trogon

• Scientific name: Apaloderma narina

The Narina Trogon, native to the lush forests of sub-Saharan Africa, is a vision of emerald and crimson. Its striking plumage, adorned with a long tail and a distinctive bill, makes it a sought-after sighting for birdwatchers.

Trogons are known for their quiet, flute-like calls and their preference for perching motionless in the canopy. They feed on insects, fruits, and small reptiles.

13. Nihoa Finch

• Scientific name: Telespiza ultima

The Nihoa Finch also found as birds that start with letter N, endemic to the remote Nihoa Island in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, faces an uncertain future. With only a few dozen individuals remaining, it is critically endangered.

These finches exhibit subtle variations in plumage, from pale gray to olive-brown. Their survival hinges on habitat restoration efforts and protection from invasive species.

14. Northern Goshawk

• Scientific name: Accipiter gentilis

The Northern Goshawk, a fierce raptor of the northern hemisphere, epitomizes stealth and power. Its slate-gray plumage, piercing yellow eyes, and sharp talons make it a formidable hunter.

Goshawks specialize in ambushing prey from dense forest cover, swooping down with astonishing speed. Their presence indicates a healthy ecosystem with a balance of predator and prey.

15. Northern Flicker

• Scientific name: Colaptes auratus

The Northern Flicker, also known as the Yellow-shafted Flicker, is a woodpecker with a twist. Its striking plumage features a mix of black, brown, and golden-yellow feathers. When in flight, the undersides of its wings reveal bright yellow shafts.

These flickers forage for ants, beetles, and fruits on the ground, often using their strong bills to excavate insect colonies.

16. Northern Cardinal

• Scientific name: Cardinalis cardinalis

The Northern Cardinal is also found in list of birds that start with N with its fiery red plumage and distinctive crest, is a beloved backyard visitor across North America. Males wear vibrant red coats, while females opt for more subdued shades.

Their cheerful whistles and chirps resonate through gardens and woodlands. Cardinals are monogamous and often stay paired for life, sharing the joys of nesting and raising their young.

17. Northern Harrier

• Scientific name: Circus cyaneus

The Northern Harrier, also known as the Marsh Hawk, glides low over wetlands, grasslands, and open fields. Its distinctive white rump patch and owl-like facial disk set it apart.

These harriers hunt by flying low, listening for the rustling of rodents in the grass.

Their aerobatic courtship displays involve impressive twists and turns. Their conservation status varies across regions, with some populations facing threats.

18. Northern Mockingbird

• Scientific name: Mimus polyglottos

The Northern Mockingbird, with its fiery red plumage and distinctive crest, is a beloved backyard visitor across North America. Males wear vibrant red coats, while females opt for more subdued shades.

Their cheerful whistles and chirps resonate through gardens and woodlands. Cardinals are monogamous and often stay paired for life, sharing the joys of nesting and raising their young.

19. Nashville Warbler

• Scientific name: Vermivora ruficapilla

The Nashville Warbler, a small songbird, embarks on an impressive migratory journey.

During breeding season, it inhabits the boreal forests of North America, from Alaska to Newfoundland. Its olive-green back, yellow underparts, and striking white eye ring make it a delightful sight.

These warblers flit through trees, foraging for insects and spiders. Their sweet, high-pitched songs resonate in the early morning hours.

20. Northern Wheatear

Scientific name: Oenanthe oenanthe

The Northern Wheatear, a migratory passerine, breeds in the Arctic tundra and alpine regions of Eurasia. Its striking black-and-white plumage, rusty tail, and white eye stripe create a bold contrast.

During migration, it travels thousands of miles to winter in Africa. Wheatears are ground-dwelling insectivores, often perching on rocks or fences to scan for prey.

FAQ’s:

Q1: What are some common birds that start with the letter N?

A: Some common birds that start with N include the Nubian Woodpecker, Natal Francolin, Nelson’s Sparrow, Northern Goshawk, and Nashville Warbler.

Q2: Are there any endangered birds starting with N?

A: Yes, the Nene, also known as the Hawaiian Goose (Branta sandvicensis), is an endangered species endemic to the Hawaiian Islands.

Q3: What’s unique about the Nightingale among birds that start with N?

A: The Nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos) is known for its enchanting, melodic songs, and it is one of the few birds that sing at night.

Q4: Are there any birds with N in their name that are native to specific regions?

A: Yes, the Nicobar Pigeon, native to the Nicobar Islands and Southeast Asian regions, is known for its colorful plumage, making it distinct among birds starting with N.