37 Birds that Start with D (Pictures & Facts)

Do you know any birds that start with D? Although many people might not be familiar with them, there are actually a few birds that fit this bill.

The list of birds that start with the letter D is long and varied. These birds can be found in all parts of the world, from the tropics to the tundra. Some of these birds are common, while others are less commonly seen. Let’s explore more below

List of birds that start with d

1. Dark eyed junco

One of the most common winter birds in North America is the dark eyed junco. These small, sparrow-like birds can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to fields to backyards. Dark eyed juncos are generally gray or brown, with a pale belly.

They have distinctive dark eyes and a white bill. These birds are songbirds, and their songs vary depending on the region they live in. Dark eyed juncos are omnivorous, eating a variety of seeds, fruits, and insects. They are also known for their habit of dust bathing.

2. Downy woodpecker

The downy woodpecker is a small, stocky woodpecker that is widely distributed in North America. It is the most common woodpecker in the United States and Canada.

This bird that starts with letter D is easily identified by its black and white plumage, and its small size. This species feeds on insects, which it extracts from tree bark and branches.

Downy woodpeckers are cavity nesters, and they often excavate their own nests in dead trees or rotten logs. They also use natural cavities in trees, or old birdhouses or squirrel nests. They are found in tropical moist lowland forests.

3. Duchess lorikeet

Gorgeous and very loud, the duchess lorikeet is a small parrot that is found in tropical moist montane forests in the Solomon Islands.

It is a brightly-colored bird that has a green body, red head, chest and bell, and a bright yellow collar.

It is a social bird that lives in flocks and feeds on nectar, fruit, and insects. The Duchess lorikeet is classified as a vulnerable species due to the loss of its natural habitat.

4. Dune lark

Can birds camouflage? The dune lark is a master at this. Preferring sandy natural habitats, its sandy-brown to buff upper parts allow it to blend into the environment.

This small passerine bird inhabits open desert habitats in Africa. The dune lark has a white throat and breast, and has a long tail.

It is a ground-nesting bird that feeds on insects and seeds. The dune lark is common in open areas such as deserts, steppes, and savannas, where it can be seen foraging on the ground or perched on bushes and rocks.

5. Dwarf fruit dove

Looking for a green bird? Dwarf fruit doves are a small, colorful bird that is found in New Guinea.

These birds are about 5 – 6 inches long and have a brightly colored body. They are usually seen perched in trees or on telephone wires.

Dwarf fruit doves eat a variety of fruit, but prefer berries and seeds. They are also known to eat insects. These birds are monogamous and mate for life. The male and female share the responsibility of incubating the eggs and taking care of the young. They are known to produce “Oh-wah” sound that is repeated at least 6 times.

Related Read: Here is a list of birds that start with c

6. Dusky pigeon

Dark grey and medium-sized, the dusky pigeon bird is another bird that begins with D and is found in many parts of the world.

Measuring about 9 inches, it is known for its high pitched “whoop” mostly three notes; first not is prolonged followed by two short notes. Its breeding season starts from january to May with both parents taking time to care for the young ones.

7. Drab-breasted bamboo tyrant

The drab-breasted bamboo tyrant, or Hemitriccus diops, is a small passerine bird that is endemic to parts of South America.

This species is typically found in forests and woodlands near bamboo thickets, where it feeds on insects. The drab-breasted bamboo tyrant has olive-brown upperparts, buff underparts, and a yellow eye ring.

8. Desert owls

Desert owls are one of the most unique and interesting owl species in the world. They are found in the deserts of Africa. They have very large eyes that allow them to see well in the dark, and they are able to survive in very hot environments.

The desert owl is also very good at camouflage; can blend in with the sand and rocks to avoid being seen by its prey or predators.

9. Dunlin bird

Dunlin is a small shorebird that can be found in many parts of the world. They are about six to eight inches long and weigh about 0.17 pounds. They have a rusty-brown back, distinct whitish belly with a black patch, and long slightly curved bill.

Dunlins are very fast runners and strong fliers, and can often be seen darting around on the beach or in the air. They eat mostly invertebrates and small fish, but will also eat seeds and other plants. Dunlins live in large flocks and are very social birds.

10. Dwarf cassowary

What is the size of a dwarf cassowary? Males measure between 3 – 4.9 feet. Cassowaries are large, flightless birds that live in the tropics.

They have a black feathered body and head, a blue neck, and a fleshy growth on their heads. These birds are omnivorous and eat a variety of plants and animals. The dwarf cassowary is the smallest of all cassowaries and is found only in New Guinea and is very secretive.

11. Dwarf sparrowhawk

Commonly found on some Indonesian islands, the dwarf sparrowhawk is a small raptor found in Indonesia. This bird is the smallest member of the Accipiter genus, and is sometimes considered to be a subspecies of the African pygmy hawk.

The dwarf sparrowhawk has short, rounded wings and a long tail. It is sexually dimorphic, with males being noticeably larger than females. This species feeds on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. It gives a “kew-ke” call.

13. Dusky hummingbird

Favoring tropical moist lowland forests, the dusky hummingbird is a small stocky bird that is mostly found in Southern Mexico.

This species can be identified by its green plumage and long fiery red bill. Dusky hummingbirds are very active birds, and can often be seen hovering or feeding at flowers.

14. Dwarf vireo

Another species of birds starting with D is the dwarf vireo. Also found in Souther Mexico, it is a small dark gray bird that prefers a solitary life.

This species is difficult to spot because it is so inconspicuous. Dwarf vireos are active singers and can be heard singing from high in the treetops. They are insectivores and feed mainly on insects and spiders.

15. Dusky thrush

With dark streaks on its back and preferring open woodlands, the dusky thrush is a must see bird for any birding enthusiast. Where are dusky thrushes found? Mostly in open woodlands in Japan or China.

It is a member of the thrush family, Turdidae, which also includes the American robin and European blackbird. The dusky thrush is similar in size to the American robin, measuring 16 cm (6.3 in) in length and weighing 32 g (1.1 oz). The dusky thrush’s song is a series of flute-like notes that vary in pitch and intensity.

16. Dolphin gulls

Dolphin gulls are a species of gull found in coastal areas around the world. They are named for their distinctive white head and grayish body, which resemble a dolphin.

Dolphin gulls are opportunistic feeders and scavengers, eating anything from fish to insects to garbage. They are also known for their playful behavior, often swimming and diving close to humans.

17. Dunnock bird

Ever seen the European robin? The Dunnock bird is pretty much the same size as the European robin. It is also found in Europe, especially New Zealand, so if you are planning a bird watching trip, keep your eyes on the lookout for this small passerine bird.

You can find dunnock birds in gardens, hedgerows or woodlands. This Eurasian native is known for its high trilling notes.

18. Dwarf jay

The Dwarf Jay is a small, blue and black songbird that is found in the mountainous regions of Mexico. This bird is named for its diminutive size, measuring only 7-9 inches in length.

The Dwarf Jay is a shy and retiring bird that is seldom seen by humans. However, it is a common sight in the coniferous forests where it makes its home.

19. Dalat bush warbler

Dark brown and very vocal, the Dalat bush warbler is a small passerine bird that is endemic to the highlands of Vietnam. It is a member of the Old World warbler family, Sylviidae.

The species was first described by the British ornithologist John Gould in 1838. It is one of the most common birds in Dalat.

20. Dark-throated oriole

There are many types of orioles in the world. And one type that belongs to our list of birds that start with d is the dark-throated oriole.

Widely found in Southern Asia, this bird prefers tropical moist lowland forests. These migratory birds are sexually dimorphic. The male has black glossy upperparts with a yellow shoulder patch and yellow undertail, while the female has olive upperparts with darker wings and tail.

21. Dwarf bittern

Dwarf bitterns are shy, secretive birds that are difficult to see in the wild. They are related to little bitterns, and they share many of the same characteristics.

They have short stout necks and long pointed beaks. They live in marshes and wetlands, where they hunt for fish, frogs, and other small creatures.

22. Drakensberg rockjumper

Another group of birds starting with letter D are the drakensberg rockjumpers. Preferring the alpine grasslands of South Africa, this small has a black body and orange belly.

If you go birding in South Africa, train your binoculars on the rocks and trees where you are likely to spot all these birds. Note males and females are different in color.

23. Dalmatian pelicans

What is the rarest pelican? The Dalmatian pelican is one of the largest and heaviest flying birds in the world. These magnificent creatures have a wingspan of up to 11 feet and can weigh up to 30 pounds.

They are native to Eurasia, but can be found in other parts of the world as well. They typically live in wetlands near large bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. Dalmatian pelicans are very social birds and typically travel in large flocks. They forage for food by diving into the water to catch fish.

24. Dark chanting goshawk

Dark chanting goshawks are medium-sized birds of prey that are found in Africa. This raptor has a long tail, gray back, and barred underbelly.

The dark chanting goshawk feeds mainly on small mammals, but will also eat birds and reptiles. This hawk is known for its loud “peee-u” repetitive calls, which give it its common name.

25. Dark-eared myza

The dark-eared myza is a small passerine bird that is endemic to Indonesia. It is a member of the sunbird family, and is closely related to the golden-bellied myza.

The dark-eared myza is found in forests and woodlands, where it feeds on insects and nectar. It is a shy and elusive bird, which can be difficult to observe in the wild.

26. Dusky nightjar

The dusky nightjar is a small, secretive bird that is found in Costa Rica. It is difficult to see during the day, as it prefers to stay hidden in dense vegetation.

At night, however, the dusky nightjar becomes very active, and can be seen flying around in search of food. This bird is known for its distinctive call, which sounds like a loud “prurrr prureee”.

27. Dusky antbirds

Dusky antbirds are known for their piped whistles. Commonly found in Central and South America, this small bird exhibits sexual dimophism. Males are dark gray with white tipped wings.

They are usually found in forests and woodlands, and are most active during the day. Dusky antbirds are omnivorous, and eat a variety of insects, fruits, and seeds.

28. Dapple-throat

If the babbler and thrush ever had a baby, it would be the dapple-throat. Found in Eastern Africa, this small bird prefers dense and wet forests.

It is a member of the modulatricidae family which also includes the grey-chested babbler.

29. Dalat shrike-babbler

Birders in South Vietnam get to enjoy the sweet songs of the dalat shrike-babbler. This small bird is mostly found in the highlands. Little is known about its natural history, but it is thought to be insectivorous.

30. Dot eared coquette

Another common bird in Brazil is the Dot eared coquette. It is a small, sparrow-sized bird that can be found in open woodlands and thorn scrub habitats.

This passerine is sexually dimorphic with the males having a black cap and throat, white cheeks, and a thin, black line that extends from the base of the bill to the back of the head.

The females are light brown overall with buffy underparts and a pale throat. Both sexes have two white dots on their lower ear-covers (hence the name “dot eared coquette”).

31. Darwin’s flycatcher

Darwin’s flycatcher is a small songbird that lives in humid shrublands of Santo Cruz islands. This bird species is sexually dimorphic. Males have a dark back, red belly and crown while the females are gray with yellow bellies.

32. Double crested cormorant

Large coastal bird, the double-crested cormorant from the phalacrocoracidae family is a large water bird that is found in North America. This species is easily recognized by its black body, long neck, and double white or black crests during their breeding season.

The double-crested cormorant is a common sight along the coastlines of the United States and Canada, where it feeds on fish and aquatic invertebrates. It has a wingspan of up to 49 inches.

33. Dugand’s antwren

Dugand’s antwren is a small passerine bird in the antbird family, Thamnophilidae. It is found in woodlands and dense scrub from southeastern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, and northeastern Peru, south to central Brazil.

The upperparts are dark gray with fine white eye-stripes , and the underparts are pale for males. Females are similar in appearance but don a brown crown.

34. Dulit frogmouth

The Dulit frogmouth is a rare bird that can be found in the highlands of Borneo. This elusive creature is closely related to the nightjars, and is known for its large, frog-like mouth.

The Dulit frogmouth is brown or black in color, with a pale belly and characteristic white spots on its wings.

It feeds on insects, which it captures by hovering over them in midair. Due to its shy nature and remote habitat, the Dulit frogmouth is difficult to observe and little is known about its behavior.

35. Drab whistler

There is a bird that many people have never heard of and its name is the drab whistler. The drab whistler is a small brown bird that can be found in some Indonesian islands.

This bird is so named because of its unique call, which sounds like a whistle. The sounds range from “chew-chong” to “chew-weee. “The drab whistler is not considered to be a particularly striking bird, but it is nonetheless interesting and a great sight for any bird watcher.

36. Dull-mantled antbird

The dull-mantled antbird is a medium-sized bird found in the rain forests of Costa Rica. It is mostly black with a white patch on the back. Females do not have the patch. Note the striking red eyes.

This bird is difficult to see against the background of the forest, but it can be heard calling frequently, especially during the breeding season. This bird that starts with D feeds on insects, which it finds by searching through the leaves on the ground.

37. Dickcissel

Our last bird that starts with letter d is the dickcissel. Small and striking eye stripes, the Dickcissel is a small North American songbird. Adult males have a rufous shoulder, bright yellow eye-stripes, chest and grayish belly.

Females and young birds are much duller, typically with only a hint of yellow on their chests and eyes. Dickcissels are common in open grasslands and prairies, where they breed. They migrate to the southern United States and Mexico for the winter.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duchess_lorikeet

http://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/dalmatian-pelican-pelecanus-crispus