Some birds demand attention, and the ones dressed in yellow? They practically glow.
Whether flitting through the trees or perched like tiny rays of sunshine, these birds bring a burst of color to any backyard or nature walk. Some are bold, sporting golden hues that shine in the sunlight, while others keep it subtle, with just a splash of yellow on their wings or belly.
But these birds aren’t just pretty to look at—they’ve got personality, charm, and sometimes a bit of attitude. Some sing sweet melodies, while others are quick to defend their territory with fierce determination.
From the well-known American Goldfinch to lesser-spotted beauties, here are 17 bright and beautiful yellow birds you might just be lucky enough to see. Keep your eyes peeled—you never know when a flash of gold will catch your attention!
American Goldfinch
With its vivid yellow feathers and contrasting black wings and cap, the American Goldfinch is a delight to observe. Often found flitting around in fields and gardens, these cheerful birds favor sunflower and thistle seeds.
Their acrobatic flight patterns and melodious calls add charm to any outdoor space. Despite their small size, these finches are hard to miss when they gather in flocks, creating a mesmerizing visual.
If you’re looking to attract them, consider planting native flowers or setting up feeders with seeds they love.
Yellow Warbler
The Yellow Warbler, with its bright yellow coat and subtle reddish streaks on the chest, is a heartwarming sight. Known for their sweet, whistled tunes, these warblers frequent wooded areas and gardens.
They are particularly fond of willows, where they build their nests. Observing them flit from branch to branch can be a serene experience.
To entice these melodious visitors, plant native shrubs and trees that support insect populations, their primary food source.
Prothonotary Warbler
Imagine a burst of sunshine darting through the trees near a stream or swamp, and you’ll likely find the Prothonotary Warbler. This striking bird flaunts a yellow-orange body contrasted by a blue-gray back.
Preferring wetlands and wooded swamps, these warblers are often seen near water. Their curious nature and vibrant song make them a favorite among birdwatchers.
To spot one, head to a quiet, swampy area and listen for their distinctive calls.
Western Tanager
The Western Tanager, with its brilliant yellow body and striking red head, might seem like it belongs in tropical climates rather than North American forests. These birds frequent coniferous forests, where their vivid colors can stand out against the greenery.
Known for their sweet songs, they are more often heard than seen. For those eager to catch a glimpse, visiting dense forests during spring and summer increases your chances significantly.
Yellow-throated Warbler
Often found in the treetops, the Yellow-throated Warbler’s vibrant yellow throat and contrasting black mask make it a striking sight. Preferring pine forests and cypress swamps, these birds exhibit a unique foraging behavior, creeping along branches in search of insects.
Their melodic song often gives their presence away even if they’re hidden in the foliage. For a chance to see them, wander through their preferred habitats during the warmer months.
Baltimore Oriole
Known for their vivid orange-yellow plumage, Baltimore Orioles are a joy to behold. These birds are often spotted in open woodlands and gardens, especially where fruit-bearing trees are present.
Their distinct, flute-like songs make them easy to identify even before they are seen. To invite these beauties to your yard, consider offering fruit or nectar feeders.
Their striking appearance and melodious calls will certainly brighten your day.
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Contrary to their name, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers aren’t limited to yellow hues, but their pale yellow belly is a defining feature. These woodpeckers are known for drilling neat rows of holes in trees to feed on sap and insects.
Often found in forests, their drumming and mewing calls are unmistakable. To observe their fascinating behavior, spend time in wooded areas where their preferred trees, such as birches and maples, thrive.
Common Yellowthroat
The Common Yellowthroat is a small, energetic bird often seen flitting through marshes and wet fields. Males are easily identified by their bright yellow underparts and distinctive black masks.
Known for their ‘witchety-witchety’ song, these warblers are more often heard than seen. If you wish to see them up close, venture into their habitats during spring and summer, when their songs are frequent and their colors are most vibrant.
Yellow-headed Blackbird
With a striking yellow head and chest set against a black body, the Yellow-headed Blackbird is a standout. These birds often inhabit marshes and wetlands where they can be seen clinging to reeds.
Known for their distinctive, harsh calls, they are often found in large flocks. For bird enthusiasts, visiting marshy areas during breeding season provides the best chance to observe these striking birds in all their glory.
Eurasian Siskin
The Eurasian Siskin, with its vibrant yellow-green plumage and distinctive black cap, is a charming addition to any birdwatcher’s list. Often found in European forests, these finches are lively and social, frequently seen in flocks.
Their pleasant, twittering calls are a hallmark of their presence. For those hoping to spot them, visiting mixed woodlands and areas with abundant seed sources during winter months is ideal.
Scarlet Tanager
Though better known for their striking red plumage, female and non-breeding male Scarlet Tanagers sport a beautiful yellow body. These birds are often found in deciduous forests, where their songs echo through the trees.
Observing them requires patience, as they tend to stay high in the canopy. For a chance to see these elusive beauties, visit forested areas during migration periods when they are more active.
Wilson’s Warbler
With its vibrant yellow plumage and distinctive black cap, Wilson’s Warbler is a lively presence in wooded areas and gardens. These small warblers are insectivores, often seen flitting energetically in search of their next meal.
Known for their rapid movements and cheerful songs, they add a lively charm to any birdwatching experience. To spot these warblers, explore shrubby landscapes during migration seasons when they are most active.
Cape May Warbler
Flaunting bright yellow underparts with distinctive chestnut cheek patches, the Cape May Warbler is a unique sight. These warblers are known for their affinity for nectar, often competing with hummingbirds at feeders.
Observing them can be challenging as they flit high among the pine trees. For a better view, consider setting up nectar feeders in your garden during their migration periods, attracting these colorful visitors to your backyard.
Yellow-breasted Chat
The Yellow-breasted Chat, with its vibrant yellow chest and olive-green back, is a bird of mystery and intrigue. Larger than most warblers, it is known for its varied and rich vocalizations.
Preferring dense thickets and shrubby areas, they can be elusive. To catch a glimpse, listen for their distinctive calls during warmer months when they are more vocal and active in their preferred habitats.
Pine Warbler
The Pine Warbler’s subtle yellow plumage often blends seamlessly with its pine forest surroundings, making it a delightful challenge to spot. These birds prefer to stay high in the trees where they feed on insects and seeds.
Known for their sweet, trilling song, they add a gentle melody to the forest. To increase your chances of seeing these warblers, visit pine-dominated woodlands during spring and summer.
Verdin
The petite Verdin, with its bright yellow head and chest, is a lively inhabitant of arid regions. Often seen flitting through desert shrubs, these tiny birds are known for their energetic behavior and resourcefulness in harsh environments.
Their diet consists mainly of insects and spiders, which they expertly forage. Bird enthusiasts can often spot them in desert areas where they build intricate nests in thorny bushes.
Citrine Wagtail
The Citrine Wagtail, known for its vivid yellow plumage and elegant gray wings, is often found strutting along the edges of wetlands. These birds are native to Asia but can occasionally be seen in Europe during migration.
They are known for their graceful movements and distinctive tail-wagging behavior. To see these charming birds, visit marshy areas during their migratory season, where they are likely to be feeding or resting.