There are thousands of bird species, but most of the birds you will meet fall into a handful of familiar groups. Here is a simple overview, with links to our guides for each.
Songbirds
The small, tuneful perching birds of backyards and gardens — cardinals, robins, sparrows and more. Start with our songbirds guide.
Birds of prey
Hunting birds with hooked beaks and talons — owls, hawks and eagles. See the birds of prey guide.
Water birds
Ducks, geese, swans and gulls that live around ponds, lakes and coasts. See the water birds guide.
Hummingbirds
Tiny, hovering nectar-feeders in a class of their own. See the hummingbird guide.
Pet birds
Parrots and their relatives kept as companions — budgies, cockatiels, conures and more. Browse our pet bird care guides or the cockatiel guide, and check foods on the food checker.