R is for radiant feathers, raspy calls, and birds that bring real charisma to the skies. If you’re hunting for birds that start with the letter R, you’re in for a treat. From regal raptors to rare rainforest dwellers, this list showcases the rich variety of avian species whose names begin with R—each one automatically updated and pulled straight from our growing bird database.
The world of “R” birds is a dynamic one. You’ll come across Ravens—mysterious and intelligent birds known for their problem-solving abilities, deep croaking voices, and symbolic presence in folklore from Norse to Native American traditions. With their glossy black plumage and dramatic silhouettes, ravens are more than just birds—they’re storytellers of the sky.
Then there’s the vibrant Roseate Spoonbill, an unmistakable wader with cotton-candy pink feathers and a bill shaped like—yes—a spoon! These elegant creatures are a sight to behold in wetlands, sweeping their bills side-to-side in shallow water to scoop up aquatic insects, shrimp, and fish. Their bold color and graceful movement give the flamingo a run for its money.
Let’s not forget the high-flying Red-tailed Hawk, one of North America’s most iconic birds of prey. With a piercing cry often heard in movies, this raptor rules the open skies and wide grasslands, riding thermals with effortless grace. It’s just one of many “Red-” named birds in this section—from the Red-winged Blackbird to the Red-billed Firefinch.
What makes the letter R so remarkable in birding circles is how ecologically diverse its birds are. You’ll discover everything from reclusive songbirds to majestic raptors, coastal scavengers to desert dwellers—and they all share that same starting letter. Whether you’re into backyard birdwatching or globe-trotting nature treks, you’ll find R birds in just about every habitat on Earth.
This page doesn’t just offer a random list—it’s your birdwatcher’s reference point, where you’ll see detailed profiles, including scientific names, wingspan, average size, and fun facts. Plus, each entry is automatically updated as new birds are added to our system, so you’re always seeing the latest and most accurate data available.
And yes, that includes some unusual ones you might not expect—like the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird, a fiery little nectar lover; or the Rainbow Lorikeet, a technicolor parrot native to Australia that’s as playful as it is beautiful.
So whether you’re a beginner birder looking for fun facts, or a seasoned ornithologist hunting for rare names, our list of birds that start with “R” is here to educate, entertain, and inspire. You’ll soon realize that R doesn’t just stand for “rare”—it stands for remarkable, radiant, and ready to be explored.
Scroll down, explore the list, and let the “R” birds ruffle your feathers—in the best way possible!
