Birdwatching in Yellowstone National Park - A guide to finding birds in Yellowstone
- Zach (Head Flocker)
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
Updated: May 10
Millions of people visit Yellowstone National Park each year. And for you, this is the perfect year for enjoying the birds of Yellowstone!
Have you gone birding in Yellowstone National Park?
Yes
No
I'm going soon!
Hopefully, one day!
I will be honest; this post is a 50/50 split of shameless plugs for our guide, "Birding in Yellowstone National Park" and provides you with a glimpse of some of the great birds found in Yellowstone National Park.
The Birds of Yellowstone National Park
Approximately 300 species of birds have been documented in the infamous Yellowstone National Park. Now, while a weeklong visit may not allow you to see all 300 documented species, you have a great chance at seeing over 100 species of birds! Which birds are you likely to see? Well...
Owls of Yellowstone National Park
Eight species of owl have been documented in Yellowstone National Park. However, most of these species are highly secretive, cryptic, and generally hard to find. For your best chances to see them, visit old-growth forests and riparian zones. DO NOT USE PLAYBACK. This activity is illegal in Yellowstone National Park and is often considered highly unethical. The most common species found in the park are:
Great Horned Owl
Long-eared Owl
Boreal Owl
Northern Saw-whet Owl
Great Gray Owl - but only if you know where to look!
You want to see a Great Gray Owl. I get it. It is not challenging, but it is not always an easy ask. I provide better insight in the book, but spend time at dawn and dusk near the edges of montane and wetlands or riparian areas with ample mid-story.
Hummingbirds in Yellowstone National Park
Only three species of hummingbird have been documented in Yellowstone National Park. Your best chance to see these three species is in areas with flowering plants and riparian zones. The three species of hummingbird are:
Broad-tailed Hummingbird
Calliope Hummingbird
Rufous Hummingbird
Broad-tailed Hummingbirds can be found along montane edges and up into the alpine zones where wildflowers are bursting. Rufous are usually only seen during late summer through fall, when they pass through Yellowstone heading south. For Calliope Hummingbirds, check the riparian areas at the tops of willows.
Songbirds in Yellowstone National Park
There are a large number of songbirds that nest in (and migrate through) Yellowstone. Some of the most colorful birds your mind could imagine can be found throughout the park. Luckily, these little birds sing loudly and are bright, making them easy to find! Many species are found in the montane forests, but wet meadows, riparian areas, and above the tree line will also yield species that many birders want for their life lists.
Woodpeckers of Yellowstone National Park
Ten species of woodpecker have been documented around Yellowstone. The best habitats to find the various "drummers" of the park are the old-growth forest and recently burned or beetle-killed areas. The most common species of woodpeckers here are:
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Red-naped Sapsucker
Williamson's Sapsucker
American Three-toed Woodpecker
The Black-backed Woodpecker and the American Three-toed Woodpecker are often targets of visiting birders. Find out the most recent burn areas to find these species. However, be careful. The falling trees are a real danger. One of my favorite spots for Williamson's Sapsucker is the Slough Creek Trailhead and campground.
Guides to Finding Birds in Yellowstone National Park
There are numerous resources available to help find birds in Yellowstone National Park. Here are a few of the most helpful ones:
Birds of Yellowstone - OUT OF PRINT
A Birder's Guide to Wyoming - OUT OF PRINT
While these resources are invaluable for finding birds in Yellowstone National Park, we are offering a new resource for bird and wildlife lovers.
WARNING: Shameless plug ahead.
Our newest e-guide, Birding in Yellowstone National Park, directs you to approximately 100 of the park's best birding locations. Each hotspot provides information on expected bird species, seasons to visit, finding certain species, GPS navigation, and more!
To properly use this e-Guide, we recommend using the following apps for each device type:
Android - Google Play Books
Apple - Apple Books
If you would like to use the supplementary map and instructions, you may need the additional software listed on the description page for the guide. This software is not necessary! However, we highly recommend it.
We hope Birding in Yellowstone National Park helps you find countless new species, new experiences, and new laughs.
If you need help finding the guide, click on the photo below.
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