When trying to identify a bird species, looking at the bird’s coloration and markings can provide useful clues. If the bird in question is primarily brown in color but has distinctive white tail feathers, this narrows down the possibilities considerably.
Looking at Size and Shape
In addition to coloration, the size and shape of the bird can also help pinpoint the species. For instance, is it a large, gangly bird like a heron or a small, plump bird like a sparrow? Taking note of key physical characteristics such as the bird’s proportions, bill shape, and posture will help with identification.
Birds with brown plumage and white tails include:
- Ruffed Grouse
- American Tree Sparrow
- Dark-eyed Junco
- Northern Flicker
- Eastern Towhee
By considering the bird’s size and build along with this color pattern, the choices can be narrowed down further.
Ruffed Grouse
One possibility is the Ruffed Grouse. This medium-sized bird measures 15-19 inches in length and weighs 1-1.5 pounds. They have a stout, rotund body with a small head and short tail. The coloration is variable but generally brownish-gray with black ruffs (ruffly feathers) on the sides of the neck. The tail is blackish-brown with a broad white band at the end.
Identifying Features
- Stocky, chicken-like shape
- Broad whirring wing beats
- Black ruffs on side of neck
- Broad white band on tail
Ruffed Grouse are found throughout northern forests and thickets. They spend most of their time on the ground digging and foraging. When approached, they may burst upward with a sudden noisy flight.
American Tree Sparrow
The American Tree Sparrow is a much smaller bird that may also fit the description. Adults are 5.5-6.5 inches in length and weigh about 1 ounce. They have a rusty cap, gray face, and brown streaking on a white breast. The back and wings are reddish-brown. The most distinctive feature is a dark spot on the breast. The tail is notched and dark brown with prominent white outer tail feathers.
Identifying Features
- Small, round-bodied
- Rusty cap
- Dark spot on light breast
- White outer tail feathers
American Tree Sparrows breed in the Arctic tundra and migrate south to grasslands and fields for winter. Flocks forage on the ground for seeds and insects. They often perch in bushes or small trees.
Dark-eyed Junco
The Dark-eyed Junco is another small sparrow, around 6-7 inches in length. Adult males are slate gray above with black hoods and whitish bellies. Females are browner overall. Both sexes have conspicuous white outer tail feathers that flash during flight. There are several regional color variants including the Oregon Junco which has darker brown back plumage.
Identifying Features
- Small, slender sparrow
- Gray or brown back
- Hood and breast contrast
- Obvious white tail feathers
Juncos are ground foragers often seen hopping along the ground in small flocks. They breed in forests across Canada and the western United States. Many migrate in winter to backyards and open areas with cover.
Northern Flicker
The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized woodpecker found throughout most of North America. They measure 12-14 inches long with a wingspan around 20 inches. They have a stocky build, short legs, stiff tail feathers, and a stout pointed bill. The plumage is brownish-gray with black speckling and barring. The rump is pale gray. The tail has prominent black bands. The underside of the tail and wings are bright yellow.
Identifying Features
- Stocky woodpecker shape
- Brown barred plumage
- Yellow underwings and tail
- Black bands on white tail
Northern Flickers forage on the ground for ants and other insects. They can often be found searching lawns and fields. They breed in open woodlands across most of North America.
Eastern Towhee
The Eastern Towhee is approximately 7.5-9 inches long with a wingspan around 11 inches. They have a thick conical bill and long tails with white corners. The breeding males are black above with rufous sides. Females are brownish overall with rufous sides. Both have a distinctive rufous flank with white belly spot. The eyes are red.
Identifying Features
- Thick conical bill
- Long black or brown tail with white corners
- Rufous flanks
- Red eyes
Eastern Towhees breed in eastern forests and thickets. They spend much of their time hopping along forest floors searching for food. Their call is a loud “drink your tea” song. They winter in bushy areas and backyard scrubs.
Useful Tips for Identification
Here are some helpful tips for identifying an unknown bird with brown plumage and white tail feathers:
- Note the bird’s size and proportions relative to common backyard birds
- Look for key markings like breast spots, eye color, throat patches
- Listen for characteristic songs and calls
- Watch behavior like foraging on the ground or perching high in trees
- Consider the habitat like forest, field, wetland, backyard
- Use a field guide or app to compare pictures and descriptions
- Be patient – observing the bird from different angles can reveal helpful ID clues
Conclusion
In summary, there are several bird species in North America that are primarily brown with prominent white tail feathers. Taking note of size, shape, markings, behavior, song, and habitat can help pin down the identification. With a little detective work, even tricky brown birds can be successfully identified! Learn the common species in your area and keep an eye out for special visitors passing through.
