Black and white birds might not seem flashy at first, but in Colorado, they stand out in a way that’s both simple and striking. From the high country forests to the open grasslands, these birds bring sharp contrast and personality to every kind of landscape. Whether it’s the bold flash of a magpie’s tail, the delicate markings of a chickadee, or the crisp mask of a shrike, black and white birds are everywhere if you know where to look. Some are year-round residents, while others arrive with the seasons, marking the quiet shift from winter to spring or summer to fall.
This article explores a selection of Colorado’s most recognizable black and white birds—where they live, how to spot them, and what makes each one worth paying attention to. These birds might not wear the bright colors of warblers or buntings, but they carry their own kind of beauty—often in the form of bold patterns, sharp behavior, or curious personalities. Whether you’re hiking in the foothills or watching your backyard feeder, these are birds that invite a second look. And once you start noticing them, it’s hard not to see them everywhere.
1. Downy Woodpecker
- Scientific name: Picoides pubescens
- Life span: 2-5 years
- Size: 6-7 inches
- Weight: 1 oz
- Wingspan: 13 inches
- Status: Least concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Stays year-round; does not leave the state.
The Downy Woodpecker is one of the most common and approachable woodpeckers in North America, including Colorado. Found in forests, parks, and even backyard trees, it’s easy to spot thanks to its distinctive black-and-white colouring. Its back is checkered with black and white bars, and its face features clean lines with a bold black eye stripe. Males sport a small red patch on the back of the head, while females lack this marking.
Despite their small size, Downy Woodpeckers behave with the confidence of much larger birds, often drumming on tree trunks or calling out with a sharp “pik.” They are active and agile climbers, hitching up vertical surfaces with quick little hops. Their compact, rounded appearance and high-pitched calls make them familiar companions across much of the year, especially in wooded neighborhood and natural areas throughout the state.
Downy Woodpeckers nest in tree cavities they excavate themselves, typically in soft, dead wood. The pair takes turns carving out the space, and the female lays her eggs on a wood-chip-lined floor. Their nests are snug and vertical, hidden in trunks or limbs.
They forage by tapping and probing bark for insects and larvae, often moving methodically along small branches. They also visit feeders for suet and seeds. Agile and curious, they blend easily into mixed woodlands and gardens.
Downy Woodpeckers are common across North America and thrive in varied habitats. Their ability to live in parks and suburban yards has kept populations stable. Conservation is minimal, but healthy tree cover and reduced pesticide use support their long-term presence.
2. Hairy Woodpecker
- Scientific name: Picoides villosus
- Life span: 5-10 years
- Size: 7-10 inches
- Weight: 1.5 oz
- Wingspan: 15 inches
- Status: Least concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Resident species; present throughout the year.
The Hairy Woodpecker is a close relative of the Downy, though noticeably larger and more powerful in appearance. It has a striking black-and-white pattern, with clean white outer tail feathers and a bold white stripe down the middle of its back. Males have a small red patch at the back of the crown, while females show only black and white. Found across North America and throughout Colorado, Hairy Woodpeckers live in mature forests, wooded canyons, and sometimes large city parks.
They are strong, deliberate birds, often heard before they are seen thanks to their louder drumming and sharp call notes. In contrast to the Downy’s small and dainty form, Hairy Woodpeckers look sturdy and long-billed. Observers may need to look closely to tell them apart, but once you know the proportions, the difference is clear. They are dependable year-round residents in Colorado’s forested landscapes.
Hairy Woodpeckers also nest in tree cavities, usually selecting mature or dead trees. The entrance is circular, and the interior chamber is deep. Pairs take turns excavating and may reuse or return to similar sites each year.
They hammer more forcefully than Downies and prefer larger trunks, seeking beetle larvae and ants. They also eat seeds and visit feeders occasionally. Their powerful drumming and longer bill help distinguish them in dense forest habitats.
Hairy Woodpeckers are widely distributed and stable. They need mature trees for nesting and foraging, so forest thinning can reduce nesting sites. Keeping natural snags and old trees helps sustain healthy populations across their range, including throughout Colorado.
3. Black-billed Magpie
- Scientific name: Pica hudsonia
- Life span: Up to 15 years
- Size: 17-24 in / 45-60 cm
- Weight: 5.6-7.4 oz / 160-210 g
- Wingspan: 22-24 in / 56-61 cm
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Stays year-round; does not migrate.
The Black-billed Magpie is a bold, unmistakable bird found throughout the western half of North America, including the entire state of Colorado. Its body is mostly glossy black, with striking white shoulder patches and long, iridescent blue-green tail feathers that shimmer in the sun. The contrast between its black and white coloration gives it a sleek, formal appearance, as if dressed for an occasion.
Often seen strutting through open fields or perched on fence posts, it’s one of the few birds in the region that shows little fear of people. Magpies are social and highly vocal, and their presence adds energy to the open country landscapes they prefer. While they tend to avoid dense forest, they’re common in farmland, open woodland, and even near towns. In flight, their broad wings flash white and their long tails trail behind, making them easy to identify even from a distance.
Magpies build large, dome-shaped nests from sticks, often in trees or shrubs, sometimes even on manmade structures. Both mates help with construction, lining the inner cup with softer materials. Nests are bulky, well-hidden, and used year after year with minor repairs.
They eat just about anything—carrion, insects, seeds, fruit, even garbage. Opportunistic and curious, they often forage on the ground, flipping over leaves or inspecting roadkill. Their bold, clever foraging reflects their high intelligence and adaptability.
Historically widespread in the West, magpies were once persecuted as pests. Today, their populations remain stable in Colorado, although localized declines occur with habitat loss or poisoning. They’re now appreciated as charismatic residents of open spaces and rural towns.
4. Black-capped Chickadee
- Scientific name: Poecile atricapillus
- Life span: 2–3 years
- Size: 4.7–5.9 in (12–15 cm)
- Weight: 0.3–0.5 oz (9–14 g)
- Wingspan: 6.3–8.3 in (16–21 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Permanent resident; remains in Colorado all year.
The Black-capped Chickadee is a small, lively bird with a big personality. Found across much of the northern United States and Canada, it is a common year-round resident in Colorado’s woodlands, riparian corridors, and backyard feeders. It has a soft gray body, a clean white face, and a black cap and throat that give it a masked look. These simple colors create a balanced, attractive pattern that’s easy to recognize.
Chickadees move in short hops through branches, often hanging upside down as they explore twigs and bark. Their cheerful “chick-a-dee-dee” call is one of the most familiar sounds in the woods, often leading birders straight to them. Though they’re small, chickadees are inquisitive and quick to investigate new things, which makes them a favourite among birdwatchers. Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in everything from dense forests to suburban yards and city parks.
Chickadees nest in cavities—often in rotten wood or old woodpecker holes. They also excavate their own. The female builds a soft nest from moss and fur inside. Nesting is quiet and discreet, often well-concealed in wooded areas or even backyard boxes.
They feed mostly on insects, spiders, and seeds, gleaning from twigs and bark with quick movements. In winter, they cache food in hidden spots, relying on excellent memory. Their foraging style is energetic, curious, and always alert.
Black-capped Chickadees are widespread and not currently at risk. They benefit from nest box programs, native landscaping, and winter feeders. As climate change affects forest composition, long-term monitoring ensures this tiny bird stays a familiar woodland presence.
5. White-breasted Nuthatch
- Scientific name: Sitta carolinensis
- Life span: 2–6 years
- Size: 5.1–5.5 in (13–14 cm)
- Weight: 0.6–1.1 oz (18–30 g)
- Wingspan: 7.9–10.6 in (20–27 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Non-migratory; stays in Colorado all year.
The White-breasted Nuthatch is a compact, energetic bird found across much of North America, including year-round in Colorado. Its plumage is a handsome mix of slate-gray, black, and bright white, with a black cap and a clean white face and underparts. Its wings show dark tones with pale edging, and its short tail has white corners that flash in flight. Nuthatches are easy to recognize not only by color but by behaviour—they move headfirst down tree trunks with smooth, deliberate movements.
This unusual motion, combined with their nasal calls, makes them a unique presence in mixed woodlands and suburban areas alike. Unlike many small songbirds, they are fairly solitary outside the breeding season and often observed working methodically along branches or tree bark. Their confident movements and distinct profile make them a pleasure to watch during any season in Colorado’s forests and woodlands.
Nuthatches nest in cavities, often reusing old woodpecker holes or natural crevices. The female builds a soft nest of bark, feathers, and fur. They defend the site actively and may smear sap near the entrance to deter intruders.
They creep headfirst down tree trunks, foraging for insects in bark crevices. Seeds and nuts also feature in their diet, especially in colder months. Their movement is acrobatic and surprisingly graceful for such a stout bird
White-breasted Nuthatches remain widespread and stable. They adapt well to suburban forests and benefit from feeders and cavity availability. Conservation mainly involves maintaining mature woodlands and ensuring nesting trees are left standing when safe to do so.
6. Clark’s Nutcracker
- Scientific name: Nucifraga columbiana
- Life span: Up to 17 years
- Size: 10.6–11.8 in (27–30 cm)
- Weight: 3.9–5.7 oz (110–160 g)
- Wingspan: 18.9–20.5 in (48–52 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Stays year-round; may shift elevation seasonally.
Clark’s Nutcracker is a bold, mountain-dwelling bird with a special place in Colorado’s high-elevation ecosystems. It is found across the western mountains of North America and is especially common in subalpine and alpine zones where whitebark and limber pines grow. Its plumage is pale gray with black wings and tail, the latter marked by bright white outer feathers that stand out during flight. The bill is long and pointed, well suited for prying seeds from pine cones.
Clark’s Nutcrackers are often seen flying across open mountain slopes or perched atop conifers, vocalizing with loud, croaking calls. They are highly intelligent and capable of storing thousands of pine seeds in hidden caches for later use. This behaviour not only helps them survive harsh winters, but also contributes to tree dispersal. Their striking contrast and busy presence make them a memorable sight in Colorado’s higher altitudes.
These birds nest high in conifer trees, often near the edge of alpine forests. The bulky nest is built with twigs and lined with softer materials. Both parents share incubation, sometimes enduring cold early-season conditions at high elevations.
They specialize in pine seeds, particularly from limber and whitebark pines. They cache thousands annually, often burying them in soil. Their strong bills and excellent memory allow them to retrieve food even months later, sometimes redistributing tree growth.
Clark’s Nutcrackers are closely tied to pine ecosystems. Declines in whitebark pine affect them directly. Conservation focuses on protecting these trees and studying their mutual relationship. They are a keystone species in fragile mountain habitats that are changing rapidly.
7. Northern Shrike
- Scientific name: Lanius borealis
- Life span: Up to 7 years
- Size: 9.1–9.8 in (23–25 cm)
- Weight: 2.0–2.3 oz (56–66 g)
- Wingspan: 12.6–13.8 in (32–35 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Migratory and uncommon
- Migratory behaviour: Winter visitor; leaves by early spring.
The Northern Shrike is a winter visitor to Colorado, breeding far to the north in boreal forests before migrating south. It is a medium-sized songbird with the build of a small hawk—gray above, pale below, and marked with black wings and tail. A bold black mask stretches across its eyes, giving it a fierce, watchful look. Despite its soft colouring, this bird is a skilled predator, often perching quietly on fence posts or leafless trees as it scans for movement.
Northern Shrikes prefer open country in winter, particularly where scattered shrubs or trees offer good lookout points. Because they are only present in the colder months, sightings in Colorado are often memorable, especially in grasslands or prairie edges. Though they can be elusive, their silhouette and upright posture often stand out against snowy fields or dry winter brush.
Northern Shrikes don’t breed in Colorado but arrive during winter. They breed far north in taiga and tundra zones. Nests are cup-shaped, built in dense shrubs or trees, and are carefully lined with feathers and fur to insulate in cold.
They are predatory songbirds, hunting insects, rodents, and small birds. Often, they impale prey on thorns or barbed wire to store it. Their hunting style is vigilant and patient, from exposed perches in open, snowy fields.
Since they are only seasonal visitors in Colorado, conservation focuses on winter habitat preservation. Climate change may shift their range over time. They’re uncommon but not rare, and their presence adds excitement to winter birding outings.
8. Loggerhead Shrike
- Scientific name: Lanius ludovicianus
- Life span: 3–6 years
- Size: 7.9–9.1 in (20–23 cm)
- Weight: 1.3–1.8 oz (35–50 g)
- Wingspan: 11.0–12.6 in (28–32 cm)
- Status: Near Threatened
- State status: Breeding and uncommon
- Migratory behaviour: Breeds in summer; migrates south by fall.
The Loggerhead Shrike is a fierce little bird of open country, found in grasslands, shrublands, and agricultural edges across the southern and central United States. In Colorado, it is a summer breeder, nesting in the state’s eastern plains and semi-open areas. Its appearance is bold and clean: a smooth gray back, white underparts, black wings with a white flash, and a distinct black mask that gives it a sharp, almost mischievous expression. Its sturdy bill curves slightly, a feature unusual among songbirds and hinting at its predatory habits.
Loggerhead Shrikes are often seen perched on fences, wires, or low branches as they watch for insects, lizards, and small mammals. While they may look dainty from a distance, up close they reveal a confident and intense demeanour. Their presence in Colorado varies by season, and they are always a notable addition to any open-country birding outing.
Loggerhead Shrikes nest in shrubs or small trees, often selecting isolated patches in open country. The nest is a deep, well-constructed cup of twigs and grass, hidden in dense branches. Both parents assist with care and defense of the young.
Their hunting combines stealth and speed. From low perches, they spot insects, small mammals, and birds. They impale food on thorns or wire to eat or store. Their fierce nature contrasts with their clean, almost dapper appearance.
Loggerhead Shrikes are declining due to habitat loss, pesticides, and collisions. They are listed as Near Threatened. Grassland preservation, native vegetation, and responsible farming practices are key to supporting their fragile populations across Colorado and the broader U.S.
9. Lark Bunting
- Scientific name: Calamospiza melanocorys
- Life span: Up to 4 years
- Size: 5.5–7.1 in (14–18 cm)
- Weight: 1.1–1.5 oz (30–43 g)
- Wingspan: 9.8–11.0 in (25–28 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Leaves Colorado in fall after breeding season.
The Lark Bunting is Colorado’s state bird and a striking summer resident of the eastern plains. During breeding season, the male is a bold black with large white wing patches that flash as he flies or displays. This contrast makes him unmistakable against the green and gold grasses of the prairie. Females and nonbreeding males are more subdued, with streaked brown plumage that helps them blend into their surroundings.
These birds are part of the sparrow family, but their overall appearance is more robust and stocky. Lark Buntings are often seen perched on fence lines or flying in loose flocks low over the grasslands. Their musical songs and fluttering displays are a defining feature of spring and early summer in their range. After breeding, they migrate south, disappearing from the state until the following year. Their seasonal presence makes each sighting feel special.
Lark Buntings build nests on the ground, hidden among prairie grasses. The female selects the site and lines it with grasses, fine roots, and sometimes fur. The location provides camouflage and protection from predators and harsh winds of the open plains.
They forage mainly on the ground, searching for seeds and insects. Males are often seen singing from fence posts or fluttering above the grass in display. Outside breeding season, they form flocks that move across open landscapes.
Once abundant, Lark Buntings have declined due to habitat loss and land use changes. As Colorado’s state bird, they hold special attention, and prairie conservation efforts help support their return. Maintaining native grasslands is crucial to their breeding success.
10. Mountain Chickadee
- Scientific name: Poecile gambeli
- Life span: 2–4 years
- Size: 4.7–5.5 in (12–14 cm)
- Weight: 0.3–0.4 oz (9–12 g)
- Wingspan: 7.5–8.7 in (19–22 cm)
- Status: Least Concern
- State status: Breeding and common
- Migratory behaviour: Year-round resident in mountain forests.
The Mountain Chickadee is a familiar companion in Colorado’s high-elevation forests. It looks much like the Black-capped Chickadee but has a distinct white eyebrow stripe that sets it apart. Its head is black and white, with gray wings and back and pale underparts. The combination of these features gives it a crisp, alert look. These birds are year-round residents in coniferous forests, often found in pine, spruce, or fir stands.
They travel in small flocks, constantly calling and chattering as they flit between branches in search of food or cover. Their movements are quick and darting, and they frequently hang upside down or cling to pine cones. In colder months, they can be seen investigating crevices and bark for food, always lively and resourceful. Their soft songs and busy behaviour add charm and energy to even the quietest winter woods in the Rockies.
Mountain Chickadees nest in tree cavities, often in old woodpecker holes or natural hollows in conifers. They may also use nest boxes. The female constructs a soft nest with moss and animal hair, often far from trails or human activity.
They forage actively in conifer forests, hopping through branches in search of insects, spiders, and seeds. Their white eyebrow stripe and quick, agile movements help distinguish them among the shadows of pine and fir trees.
Mountain Chickadees remain common in their high-elevation habitats, but depend on healthy forests. Fire suppression and climate shifts pose long-term threats. Conservation strategies focus on maintaining forest diversity and dead wood essential for nesting cavities.
Where to look for Black and white birds in Colorado
Black and white birds are surprisingly common in Colorado if you know where—and how—to look. Many of them, like the Black-capped Chickadee or Downy Woodpecker, live here year-round, while others, like the Lark Bunting or Northern Shrike, are more seasonal visitors.
The best way to find them is to start early in the morning, when birds are most active and calling. Bring a pair of binoculars, move slowly, and listen for familiar sounds—chickadee chatter, woodpecker taps, or magpie calls. These birds aren’t usually shy, but they do blend into their surroundings more than you might expect.
Here are four great places in Colorado to spot black and white birds:
- Roxborough State Park – Great for chickadees, nuthatches, and woodpeckers in mixed forest.
- Rocky Mountain National Park – Look for Clark’s Nutcracker and Mountain Chickadees at higher elevations.
- Pawnee National Grassland – Prime area for Lark Buntings in summer.
- Barr Lake State Park – Open areas and woodland edges attract magpies, shrikes, and more.
Each location offers something different, but all give you a chance to see these birds in action. With a little patience and curiosity, you’ll start noticing them everywhere.
Conclusion
Black and white birds add contrast and character to Colorado’s landscapes, from quiet forests to wide-open plains. Their bold patterns make them easy to recognize, but each species brings its own story, habits, and place in the ecosystem. Whether it’s the clever magpie, the quiet chickadee, or the sharp-eyed shrike, these birds remind us to pay attention to the details around us.
You don’t need to travel far—many can be seen right in your neighborhood. By learning about them, we not only enjoy nature more but also help protect the spaces these birds call home.
