Birds That Start With M – A Complete Guide
If you enjoy birdwatching and want to expand your life list, knowing birds that start with M can help you identify some new species. The letter M may not be the most common starting letter for bird names, but there are still diverse and fascinating species that begin with this initial.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: some birds that start with M include the Mallard, Mourning Dove, Macaw, Magpie, Merlin, Meadowlark, Mockingbird, and Martin.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore numerous birds whose names start with the letter M. We’ll cover key identification features, distribution, behavior, conservation status, and more for each species.
Whether you are a novice birder or a seasoned expert, you are sure to discover some new M birds to add to your life list.
Mallard
The Mallard is a commonly recognized bird that starts with the letter M. It is a species of duck that is found in various parts of the world. Here is a complete guide to understanding the Mallard.
Identification
The Mallard is a medium-sized duck with a distinctive green head and a white neck ring. The male Mallard, also known as a drake, has a bright yellow bill, while the female, known as a hen, has a duller orange bill. Both males and females have a brownish body with black markings.
Their wings show a blue patch, which is visible during flight. Mallards also have a long, narrow tail that is pointed at the end.
Range and Habitat
Mallards are highly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including wetlands, ponds, lakes, rivers, and even urban parks. They are native to North America, Europe, and Asia, but they have been introduced to other parts of the world as well.
Mallards are migratory birds, with some populations traveling long distances during the winter months to find suitable feeding grounds.
Behavior
Mallards are social birds that often gather in small groups or flocks. They are primarily diurnal, meaning they are active during the day. Mallards are omnivorous and feed on a variety of plant matter, insects, and small aquatic creatures.
They are also known for their courtship displays, with the male performing a unique “head up-tail up” movement to attract a female. Mallards build nests on the ground near water bodies and lay a clutch of eggs, which the female incubates for about a month.
Conservation Status
The Mallard is a species of least concern according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their adaptability to different habitats and their ability to breed in a variety of conditions have contributed to their stable population.
However, like many other waterfowl species, Mallards face threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and hunting. Conservation efforts focus on protecting and preserving wetland habitats, as well as implementing sustainable hunting practices to ensure the long-term survival of this iconic bird.
Mourning Dove
The Mourning Dove, scientifically known as Zenaida macroura, is a common bird species that can be found across North and Central America. It is a member of the dove family, Columbidae, and is known for its gentle and mournful cooing sound.
This bird is one of the most widely distributed and abundant birds in North America.
Identification
The Mourning Dove is a medium-sized bird, measuring about 9-13 inches in length and weighing around 4-6 ounces. It has a slender body with a long, pointed tail. The bird’s plumage is predominantly gray-brown, with a paler underbelly and a distinctive black spot on its cheek.
The wings are marked with black spots and white tips, which are visible during flight.
Range and Habitat
Mourning Doves are highly adaptable birds that can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, open fields, urban areas, and agricultural lands. They are primarily non-migratory birds, but some populations may undertake short-distance migrations in response to food availability and weather conditions.
These doves are widespread throughout North America, from southern Canada to Mexico. They can also be found in parts of Central America and the Caribbean. Mourning Doves are known for their ability to thrive in both rural and urban environments, often nesting in trees, shrubs, and even on man-made structures like buildings and utility poles.
Behavior
Mourning Doves are typically monogamous birds that form strong pair bonds. They are known for their gentle and peaceful nature, often seen perched on wires or branches, or foraging on the ground for seeds and grains.
Their diet primarily consists of plant material, including seeds, fruits, and grains.
These birds are also known for their unique courtship display, where the male will perform a graceful flight, accompanied by a series of cooing sounds. The female will then choose a suitable nesting site, typically in a well-concealed location like a tree or shrub.
Conservation Status
The Mourning Dove is one of the most abundant bird species in North America, with a population estimated to be in the tens of millions. As such, it is not currently considered to be a species of concern in terms of conservation status.
However, it is important to note that Mourning Doves, like many other bird species, face various threats in their environment, including habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and hunting. Conservation efforts, such as the protection of nesting areas and the promotion of sustainable agriculture practices, are crucial in ensuring the long-term survival of this iconic bird species.
Macaw
The macaw is a magnificent bird that starts with the letter M. These vibrant creatures are known for their stunning plumage, intelligence, and sociability. Macaws belong to the family Psittacidae, which includes parrots, and are native to the tropical rainforests of South and Central America.
They are highly popular among bird enthusiasts due to their striking appearance and unique behaviors.
Identification
Macaws are large birds, with some species reaching lengths of up to 3 feet. They have vibrant and colorful feathers, with shades of red, blue, yellow, and green being the most common. Their strong beaks are curved and powerful, enabling them to crack open nuts and seeds with ease.
Macaws also have strong, agile feet that they use for climbing and grasping objects.
Range and Habitat
Macaws are primarily found in the tropical rainforests of South and Central America. They inhabit a wide range of habitats, including lowland forests, savannas, and mangroves. Some species are also found in drier regions like scrublands and grasslands.
Macaws are highly adaptable and can thrive in various environments, as long as there is an abundant food source and suitable nesting sites.
Behavior
Macaws are highly intelligent birds and are known for their ability to mimic human speech and sounds. They are also social creatures and often form large flocks, which can consist of hundreds of individuals.
These flocks help macaws defend their territories, find food, and provide protection from predators. Macaws are also known for their acrobatic flying skills and can often be seen soaring through the skies with their impressive wingspans.
Conservation Status
Several species of macaws are listed as endangered or critically endangered due to habitat loss, illegal pet trade, and poaching. Deforestation and the destruction of their natural habitats have significantly impacted macaw populations.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect these magnificent birds and ensure their survival. Organizations like the World Wildlife Fund and BirdLife International are actively working to conserve macaw populations and their habitats.
Magpie
The Magpie is a bird that starts with the letter M. It is known for its striking black and white plumage and its loud, melodious call. Magpies are highly intelligent and social birds, often seen in groups or pairs.
Identification
The Magpie is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 17 to 21 inches in length. It has a long tail and a distinctive black and white plumage. Its head, neck, and breast are black, while its wings and back are a glossy blue-black. The belly and rump are white, and it has a long, pointed bill.
Range and Habitat
Magpies are found in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America. They typically inhabit wooded areas, parks, and gardens, although they can also be found in urban areas. They are adaptable birds and can thrive in a range of environments.
Behavior
Magpies are known for their curious and mischievous behavior. They are highly intelligent birds and are known to be excellent problem solvers. They have been observed using tools, such as sticks, to access food or manipulate objects. Magpies are also vocal birds, with a range of calls and songs.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of the Magpie varies depending on the specific species and region. In general, they are not considered endangered. However, habitat loss and urbanization can pose a threat to their populations.
It is important to protect their natural habitats and provide suitable nesting sites for their continued survival.
Merlin
The Merlin is a small falcon that belongs to the genus Falco. It is known for its agile flying abilities and its fierce hunting skills. With a length of about 10 to 13 inches and a wingspan of around 20 to 26 inches, the Merlin is a compact and powerful bird.
Identification
The adult male Merlin has a blue-gray back and wings, with dark streaks and bars. Its underparts are pale with fine streaks, and its tail is dark with narrow white bands. The female, on the other hand, has a brownish back and wings, with a heavily streaked underbelly.
Range and Habitat
The Merlin can be found in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. In North America, it breeds in the northern regions and migrates to the southern states or Mexico during the winter.
It prefers open habitats such as grasslands, marshes, and tundra, but can also be found in forested areas.
Behavior
The Merlin is known for its hunting prowess. It feeds primarily on small birds, capturing them in mid-air with swift and precise maneuvers. It can also hunt insects, rodents, and occasionally, small reptiles.
The Merlin is a solitary bird and is often seen perched on high points, scanning the surroundings for potential prey.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of the Merlin varies depending on the region. In North America, it is listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). However, in some parts of Europe, the Merlin population has declined due to habitat loss and persecution.
Efforts are being made to protect its breeding grounds and raise awareness about the importance of conserving this species.
Meadowlark
Identification
The Meadowlark is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive appearance. It has a plump body, long legs, and a short tail. The upperparts of the bird are brown with streaks of black, while the underparts are pale yellow.
The most notable feature of the Meadowlark is its bright yellow chest with a black V-shaped pattern. The male and female Meadowlarks have similar markings, but the male’s markings are usually more vibrant. They also have a pointed bill that they use for foraging for insects and seeds.
Range and Habitat
The Meadowlark is found in various parts of North America, including grasslands, meadows, and open fields. They prefer habitats with tall grasses and scattered shrubs, as they use these for nesting and foraging.
Meadowlarks are migratory birds, and their range extends from southern Canada to northern Mexico. During the breeding season, they can be found in the northern parts of their range, while in the winter, they migrate to the southern parts.
According to All About Birds, the Eastern Meadowlark is more common in the eastern parts of North America, while the Western Meadowlark is found in the western parts.
Behavior
Meadowlarks are known for their beautiful songs, which are often described as a melodious whistle. They use their songs to defend their territory and attract mates. They are also highly territorial and will defend their nesting sites vigorously.
Meadowlarks are primarily ground-dwelling birds and are often seen foraging for insects and seeds in open areas. They have a unique feeding behavior where they run or walk on the ground and then suddenly stop to probe the soil with their bills, searching for food.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Meadowlarks varies depending on the species. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Eastern Meadowlark is listed as a species of “Least Concern,” meaning it is not currently at risk of extinction.
However, the Western Meadowlark is listed as a species of “Near Threatened,” as its population has been declining due to habitat loss and changes in agricultural practices.
Efforts are being made to protect and restore the grassland habitats that Meadowlarks rely on. Conservation organizations are working with landowners to implement sustainable land management practices that benefit both the birds and the agricultural industry.
It is important to continue these conservation efforts to ensure the long-term survival of Meadowlarks and their habitats.
Mockingbird
The Mockingbird is a well-known bird species that starts with the letter M. It is scientifically known as Mimus polyglottos and is famous for its ability to mimic the sounds of other birds and even human-made noises.
This fascinating bird is found in North and Central America, with its range extending from Canada to Mexico.
Identification
The Mockingbird is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 9 to 11 inches in length. It has a grayish-brown plumage with white patches on its wings and tail. One of the distinctive features of the Mockingbird is its long tail, which it often flicks from side to side while perched.
The bird’s beak is slender and slightly curved, allowing it to catch a variety of insects, fruits, and berries. Its legs and feet are strong, enabling it to hop and run on the ground with ease.
Range and Habitat
The Mockingbird is primarily found in open areas such as fields, parks, and gardens. It prefers habitats with scattered trees and shrubs, which provide ample perching and nesting opportunities. This adaptable bird can also be found in urban areas, where it takes advantage of the diverse food sources available.
The range of the Mockingbird extends from southern Canada to Mexico, covering a wide geographical area. It is a common sight in the United States, particularly in the southeastern states, where it is the state bird of multiple states including Arkansas, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas.
Behavior
One of the most remarkable behaviors of the Mockingbird is its ability to mimic the songs of other bird species. It can imitate the calls and songs of over 200 different birds, as well as various other sounds such as car alarms and cell phone ringtones.
This mimicry serves multiple purposes, including attracting mates, defending territory, and confusing potential predators.
The Mockingbird is a highly territorial bird and will vigorously defend its nesting area. It is known for its aggressive behavior towards intruders, diving at them and even attacking larger birds. Despite its feisty nature, the Mockingbird is a skillful parent, building intricate nests and caring for its young until they are ready to leave the nest.
Conservation Status
The Mockingbird is a species of least concern according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Its population is stable and widespread throughout its range. However, like many bird species, the Mockingbird faces threats such as habitat loss and pesticide exposure.
Conservation efforts to protect diverse habitats and promote responsible pesticide use are essential for the long-term survival of the Mockingbird and other bird species. Organizations such as the Audubon Society and the National Audubon Society are actively involved in bird conservation and provide valuable resources for bird enthusiasts.
If you want to learn more about the Mockingbird and other bird species, you can visit the Audubon Society’s website. It offers a wealth of information on bird identification, behavior, and conservation.
Martin
Identification
The Martin is a small bird that belongs to the swallow family. It is known for its sleek and slender body, with long wings and a forked tail. The adult male Martin has a glossy blue-black plumage, while the female has a slightly duller coloration.
It has a pointed bill, which it uses to catch insects mid-flight. This bird is known for its graceful flight and acrobatic maneuvers in the air.
Range and Habitat
The Martin is found in various regions across the world, including North and South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Its habitat varies depending on the species, but they are commonly found near open areas such as fields, meadows, and wetlands.
Some species of Martins are migratory, traveling long distances during the breeding season.
Behavior
Martins are highly social birds and often form large colonies, nesting in close proximity to each other. They are known for their melodious songs, which they use to communicate with other members of their colony. Martins are also skilled hunters, catching insects on the wing.
They can be seen darting and swooping through the air, showing off their agility.
Martins are cavity nesters and often make use of man-made structures such as birdhouses or artificial nesting platforms. They are known to return to the same nesting site year after year. These birds are monogamous and mate for life.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Martins varies depending on the species. Some species, such as the Purple Martin, are quite common and have stable populations. However, certain species, particularly those that rely on specific habitats or are affected by habitat destruction, may be at risk.
Conservation efforts, such as providing suitable nesting sites and protecting their habitats, can help ensure the survival of Martins. Organizations like the Audubon Society work towards promoting the conservation of these birds and their habitats through research, education, and advocacy.
Conclusion
Birds that begin with the letter M represent a diverse array of species found worldwide. By learning how to identify Mallards, Mourning Doves, Macaws, Magpies, Merlins, Meadowlarks, Mockingbirds, Martins, and other M birds, you can expand your birdwatching skills and life list.
Each species has unique identification features, distribution, behavior, and conservation needs. We hope this guide provided helpful information to boost your birding knowledge and passion. The next time you are in the field, listen and look closely for the many marvelous birds starting with M waiting to be discovered!
