10 BEAUTIFUL BIRDS found in your own BACKYARD

Last week I talked about some cute birds of North America and this week I thought it would be nice to do a video of some stunning birds we can find in our own backyard. These are in no particular order, to me they are all number one, so let's see what ones made the list. Enjoy! Baltimore Oriole. I have never seen a male before in person, but I did get to see a lovely female last December. Although not the fantastic coloration of a male, the beaming yellow and orange of this female bird were just like nothing I had ever seen. Immediately when I noticed it at my suet feeder, I knew it was a bird that didn't belong here. The real showstopper though is an adult male, with its brilliant flame orange chest, belly, shoulder patches, and rump, which is contrasted beautifully with that jet black head and wings that are nicely set off by the white bar. Females may not be as stunning as males, but with each molt they do acquire a more orange plumage. Stunning birds for sure. American Goldfinch. One of the most eye-catching of the small finches here in North America, these little darlings are most stunning in spring and summer, particularly when it's a male, as they have the brightest yellow that is splendidly contrasted with an eye-catching black forehead cap, orange bill, and shiny black wings with white markings. Breeding females lack the black forehead and aren't as brightly colored, however their yellow color can be visible. Over fall and winter, both sexes are drabber, but they are still pretty noticeable at feeders, especially on snowy days. And by February, they are already beginning to change into their flashy brilliant yellow, pleasing those who catch a glimpse and reminding us that spring is near. Blue Jay. Widespread and familiar, this Jay certainly knows how to catch the eye. With these charming characters, the female and male share the same beautiful blue and black head and neck markings. One other very impressive thing about them is the way in which the flight and tail feathers are barred with black, with each square a slightly different shade of blue, creating a superb stained glass look. Combine all of this with their crest and it's sure to grab your attention, especially over the winter season against a snowy backdrop. Anna's Hummingbird. It couldn't be a list about stunning birds without a hummingbird on it. The dazzling iridescent reddish pink head and throat feathers of the male shimmers in direct light. Although such a small bird, the flashy plumage catches the eye, especially when combined with their way of zipping around and hovering at a feeder. Fascinating creatures to have in your sight. Red-headed Woodpecker. Here's a brilliant looking woodpecker for you. That shimmering crimson head, snow white belly, and sleek black upper body broken up by prominent flashy white wing feathers, and then going back into black for the tail. This bold pattern has earned them the nickname Flying Checkerboard. Such a distinct eye-catching character. How exciting it must be for those who get to see this occasional feeder visitor. Northern Cardinal. These charming characters are so stunning that they are peppered everywhere. Greeting cards, coffee mugs, ornaments, tree decorations. There is no shortage of trinkets with this bird on them, and for very good reason. That incredibly eye-catching red and flaming crest. Combine that with the fact they are common resident backyard birds that so many are familiar with, keeping us company over the winter season. A time they look their most stunning. Eastern Bluebird. The sweetest thrush ever, these birds have splendid colors that are unforgettable, especially the vivid deep blue of males. The mix of rich blue, white, and rusty red in their plumage is quite stunning. Seeing just one is nothing short of exciting, but setting your sights on several together is beyond eye-catching. Having a group pleasantly enjoying a bird bath or at a feeder eating mealworms will definitely catch your gaze. One of the most stunning backyard birds. Evening Grosbeak. It seems as though the best time to see one of these striking large finches is over fall and winter. Males again are the real stunners. The large pale ivory bill, lovely blend of golden yellow and browns contrasted by jet black wings. It doesn't stop there though. They continue to grab your attention with the large flashy white wing patch and that imposing bright yellow eye stripe. Evening Grosbeaks are sure to have you gazing with delight even more so after a snowfall. How striking they are in a snowy environment. And don't they look like a bigger version of the American Goldfinch? Indigo Bunting. Captivating overall, breeding males are so charming. I mean my gosh, I could get lost in that sea of intense blue. Spotting this bird in your yard would surely keep your gaze. Although not as regular as Northern Cardinals, the Indigo Bunting is fairly common and widespread, so having this handsome bird drop by is possible. And I think that the fact they aren't as familiar a sight as Cardinals makes it that much more thrilling to see this wonderful character. And finally the cherry on top, Scarlet Tanager. I didn't just do that because it's red, I swear. Blindingly stunning, seeing this bird in your yard would sure stir up some excitement. Of course this is breeding males I'm talking about. With their remarkable red color and bold black wings and tail, it's hard to miss this unmistakable little darling. To see this flash of red though you have to look high up in the trees, as this is where they like to hang out. Although a little harder to see, catching this gorgeous scarlet right in your field of vision is nothing short of breathtaking for sure. Some more mentions. Cedar Waxwings. These birds have the sleekest plumage. It appears as though every single feather is placed perfectly, giving them such a creamy soft look that makes you want to just touch these zorrel-masked stunners. Stellar's Jay. This close relative of the Blue Jay has a stunning combination of deep blue wings and tail feathers and belly, with a charcoal black back, head and neck, as if they've been dipped into ink. Gorgeous coloration. Red-winged Blackbird. Males with their intense jet black overall body and flashing bright red shoulder patches certainly grab one's attention. Yellow-rumped Warbler. These guys will visit suet feeders over winter and in spring. The one of the eastern United States is the Myrtle, and western is Audubon. Males are especially eye-catching in breeding plumage. Buried Thrush. This bird is just so remarkable with that bold pattern, a stunning blend of blue-gray, orange and black. What a sight to behold. It was fun seeing all these stunners as I made this video, since a few of them I don't get in my area. There are so many remarkable looking birds. It's amazing to me how they put all those colors together and wear it so well. I'd have a hard time choosing a favorite, because they are all uniquely stunning in their own right. However, Indigo Buntings and Tanagers are quite the impressive backyard visitor. Of all the birds I listed, which was your favorite? And what birds didn't I mention that you have seen in your own backyard that are stunning? Build your own list in the comments below. Thank you so much to the people who allowed me to use pictures and videos. Make sure to check out their social media and websites. Links are down below in the description. Thanks so much. Happy birding!