Bird Egg Identification Chart

You know that moment when you spot a nest tucked away in a tree and can’t help but peek inside? Bird eggs come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors, each telling a small story about the bird that laid them. Whether it’s the bright blue of a robin’s egg or the speckled shell of a sparrow, these little details can be fascinating to explore.

This reference is here to help you make sense of what you find, giving you a closer look at the variety of bird eggs out there. So next time you’re out in nature or just looking in your backyard, you’ll have a better idea of which bird might be calling those eggs home.

Table of Contents

For bird watchers and researchers, below is a comprehensive chart detailing the characteristics of bird eggs for various species. It includes information on egg size, color, markings, and shapes. This chart assists in identifying and differentiating between the eggs of various bird species.

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape
American Robin	27 x 19 mm	Blue	Usually unmarked	Oval
House Sparrow	21 x 15 mm	White, pale blue, or green	Brown speckles or spots	Short and oval
Northern Cardinal	26 x 19 mm	Whitish, grayish, or bluish	Brown, gray, or purple spots	Oval
Bald Eagle	73 x 55 mm	Dull white	Sometimes faint markings	Oval to elliptical
Mallard Duck	60 x 42 mm	Pale green to blue	Usually unmarked	Oval
European Starling	30 x 21 mm	Pale blue	Usually unmarked	Oval
Peregrine Falcon	52 x 41 mm	Reddish-brown or cream	Dark brown spots	Rounded oval
Osprey	62 x 47 mm	Cream with brown spots	Heavily marked	Oval
Killdeer	38 x 28 mm	Buff	Black or brown spots	Pointed oval
Eastern Bluebird	21 x 16 mm	Blue	Occasionally unmarked	Oval
Red-winged Blackbird	24 x 18 mm	Pale blue or gray	Dark brown spots	Oval
Barn Swallow	19 x 14 mm	White	Brown speckles	Oval
Great Horned Owl	56 x 47 mm	White	Usually unmarked	Nearly spherical
American Kestrel	35 x 29 mm	Pale buff	Heavily marked with brown	Oval
Mourning Dove	22 x 17 mm	White	Unmarked	Elliptical

How to Identify Bird Eggs

Learning to identify bird eggs can be an enjoyable and educational activity. Here are some easy steps and tips to help you identify various bird eggs.

Observe the Size and Shape: Egg size and shape can vary a lot among bird species. Note the dimensions and whether the egg is oval, round, or almost spherical. Remember, even within a species, there can be small differences in size and shape.
Examine the Color: Bird eggs come in many colors, from white and blue to green and brown. The base color can give clues about the species. Some eggs may change color a bit as they age, so keep this in mind.
Look for Markings: Many bird eggs have unique markings like spots, speckles, or blotches. These patterns can help identify the species. However, the intensity and spread of these markings can vary even among eggs from the same nest.
Consider the Nest Location: Different birds build their nests in specific places. Knowing where you found the egg can help narrow down the possibilities. For example, ground-nesting birds often have eggs with camouflage patterns, while tree-nesting birds’ eggs may look different.
Check the Egg Texture: The texture of the eggshell can also provide clues. Some eggs are smooth, while others may feel slightly rough or shiny. This detail is often overlooked but can be important for correct identification.
Beware of Common Mistakes: One common mistake is mixing up eggs due to similarities in color and size among different species. Always check multiple features, like nest location, markings, and texture, to avoid errors.

By paying attention to these factors and being aware of common mistakes, you can successfully identify bird eggs and learn more about the birds in your care.

Types of Birds Eggs

Bird eggs come in many types, each with unique features that make bird egg identification interesting. In the following points, we’ll explore some of the common types, highlighting their distinct shapes and the birds that lay them.

Oval Eggs: Common among birds like robins and sparrows, these eggs are easily identifiable by their oval shape. They are widely observed in many backyard nests.
Round Eggs: Seen in birds like owls, round eggs are almost perfectly spherical. This shape is typical in species that nest in sheltered environments.
Pointed Eggs: Found in birds like the guillemot, pointed eggs have a unique shape that prevents them from rolling off cliffside nests, ensuring their safety.
Conical Eggs: Laid by some shorebirds, conical eggs are pointed at one end and round at the other. This shape helps them stay in place on rocky ground, minimizing movement.
Elongated Eggs: Characteristic of birds like the hummingbird, elongated eggs are long and narrow, fitting snugly in the nest. This design is perfect for the confined spaces of small nests.

These varied types of eggs highlight the amazing diversity in the bird world.

Small Bird Egg Identification

When it comes to small bird egg identification, many people overlook some fascinating details. For instance, smaller eggs often have unique markings and colors that can change slightly as they age.

Using a bird egg ID chart can make this process much easier and more accurate.

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape
House Sparrow	21 x 15 mm	White, pale blue, or green	Brown speckles or spots	Short and oval
Eastern Bluebird	21 x 16 mm	Blue	Occasionally unmarked	Oval
Barn Swallow	19 x 14 mm	White	Brown speckles	Oval
American Kestrel	35 x 29 mm	Pale buff	Heavily marked with brown	Oval
Mourning Dove	22 x 17 mm	White	Unmarked	Elliptical

Also read: House Sparrow Egg Id Chart

Large Bird Egg Identification

Large bird egg identification can be intriguing, especially since these eggs often have distinct features not seen in smaller eggs. The texture and size of the egg can give important clues, making it easier to bird egg identify and distinguish between species.

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape
Bald Eagle	73 x 55 mm	Dull white	Sometimes faint markings	Oval to elliptical
Osprey	62 x 47 mm	Cream with brown spots	Heavily marked	Oval
Peregrine Falcon	52 x 41 mm	Reddish-brown or cream	Dark brown spots	Rounded oval
Great Horned Owl	56 x 47 mm	White	Usually unmarked	Nearly spherical
Mallard Duck	60 x 42 mm	Pale green to blue	Usually unmarked	Oval

Also read: Blue Bird Egg Identification Chart

Identify Bird Eggs by Color

Color can be a key factor in bird egg recognition, as many species have unique and vibrant egg colors. These color clues can greatly aid in identifying bird eggs.

To illustrate, here’s a table that outlines the egg colors and other identifying features of various bird species:

Bird Species	Egg Color	Markings	Egg Size	Shape
American Robin	Blue	Usually unmarked	27 x 19 mm	Oval
House Sparrow	White, pale blue, or green	Brown speckles or spots	21 x 15 mm	Short and oval
Mallard Duck	Pale green to blue	Usually unmarked	60 x 42 mm	Oval
European Starling	Pale blue	Usually unmarked	30 x 21 mm	Oval
Red-winged Blackbird	Pale blue or gray	Dark brown spots	24 x 18 mm	Oval
Northern Cardinal	Whitish, grayish, or bluish	Brown, gray, or purple spots	26 x 19 mm	Oval
Killdeer	Buff	Black or brown spots	38 x 28 mm	Pointed oval

Identifying Bird Eggs by Size

Identifying bird eggs by size can be precise. Egg size often matches the bird’s body size and habitat. Researching birds and their eggs pictures online can give visual clues and improve your identification skills.

Here’s a table that shows various bird species and their egg sizes:

Bird Species	Egg Size
American Robin	27 x 19 mm
House Sparrow	21 x 15 mm
Northern Cardinal	26 x 19 mm
Bald Eagle	73 x 55 mm
Mallard Duck	60 x 42 mm
European Starling	30 x 21 mm
Peregrine Falcon	52 x 41 mm
Osprey	62 x 47 mm
Killdeer	38 x 28 mm
Eastern Bluebird	21 x 16 mm
Red-winged Blackbird	24 x 18 mm
Barn Swallow	19 x 14 mm
Great Horned Owl	56 x 47 mm
American Kestrel	35 x 29 mm
Mourning Dove	22 x 17 mm

Also read:

Regional Bird Egg Identification

Bird eggs can be very different depending on the region. This is due to the local environment and the bird species in the area. Using a printable bird egg ID chart can make identifying eggs much easier.

Below are detailed tables for various regions. Each table highlights unique features and lesser-known facts to help you identify bird eggs accurately.

Virginia Bird Eggs Identification

Virginia’s diverse landscapes, from coastal plains to forested mountains, support a wide variety of bird species. These birds’ eggs are formed in response to the specific environmental conditions they inhabit. The temperate climate and varied vegetation in Virginia provide ideal nesting conditions.

Here’s a look at some bird species and their eggs found in Virginia:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
Northern Cardinal	26 x 19 mm	Whitish, grayish, or bluish	Brown, gray, or purple spots	Oval	Cardinals often hide their nests in dense bushes.
Eastern Bluebird	21 x 16 mm	Blue	Occasionally unmarked	Oval	Bluebirds like to nest in open fields with some trees.
American Robin	27 x 19 mm	Blue	Usually unmarked	Oval	Robins’ eggs are known for their bright blue color.

Pacific Northwest Bird Egg Identification

The Pacific Northwest is known for its dense forests and wet climate. These conditions create unique nesting environments for various bird species. The abundant rainfall and lush vegetation provide ample nesting materials.

Here’s a look at some bird species and their eggs found in the Pacific Northwest:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
Bald Eagle	73 x 55 mm	Dull white	Sometimes faint markings	Oval to elliptical	Among North American birds, bald eagles create the most massive nests.
Osprey	62 x 47 mm	Cream with brown spots	Heavily marked	Oval	Ospreys are known for their diving hunting technique.
Peregrine Falcon	52 x 41 mm	Reddish-brown or cream	Dark brown spots	Rounded oval	No bird in the world is faster than the peregrine falcon.

Midwest Bird Egg Identification

The Midwest’s varied ecosystems, from prairies to wetlands, host a wide range of bird species. The eggs of these birds often reflect their unique habitats and lifestyles. The open grasslands and freshwater sources provide specific conditions for nesting.

Here’s a look at some bird species and their eggs found in the Midwest:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
Killdeer	38 x 28 mm	Buff	Black or brown spots	Pointed oval	Killdeer eggs blend in well with their ground nests.
House Sparrow	21 x 15 mm	White, pale blue, or green	Brown speckles or spots	Short and oval	House sparrows often nest close to humans.
Mourning Dove	22 x 17 mm	White	Unmarked	Elliptical	Mourning doves have a distinctive cooing sound.

Irish Birds Eggs Identification

Ireland’s varied environments, from coastal cliffs to lush meadows, greatly influence the characteristics of bird eggs found in the region. The high humidity and mild temperatures of Ireland’s climate help maintain moisture levels needed for bird embryo development.

Here’s a guide to some common Irish birds and their eggs:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
European Starling	30 x 21 mm	Pale blue	Usually unmarked	Oval	Starlings are known for their impressive group flying patterns.
Barn Swallow	19 x 14 mm	White	Brown speckles	Oval	Barn swallows build their nests with mud and grass.
Great Horned Owl	56 x 47 mm	White	Usually unmarked	Nearly spherical	Great horned owls are fierce predators. These birds can capture prey that is bigger than they are.

Eastern Bird Egg Identification

The eastern regions of North America host a diverse range of bird species, each with distinct egg characteristics shaped by their specific environments. The varying climates, from humid coastal areas to cooler mountainous regions, impact egg features such as shell thickness and coloration for camouflage.

Here’s a detailed look at some common eastern bird species and their eggs:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
Red-winged Blackbird	24 x 18 mm	Pale blue or gray	Dark brown spots	Oval	During breeding season, red-winged blackbirds are extremely protective of their territory.
American Kestrel	35 x 29 mm	Pale buff	Heavily marked with brown	Oval	Kestrels are well-known for their ability to hover while hunting.
Eastern Bluebird	21 x 16 mm	Blue	Occasionally unmarked	Oval	Eastern bluebirds are cavity nesters. They often use man-made nest boxes.

Australian Bird Eggs Identification

Australia’s diverse environments, from coastal regions to arid outback, are home to a variety of bird species. The unique conditions of these habitats influence the characteristics of bird eggs. The dry climate and unique flora and fauna shape the nesting strategies of Australian birds.

Here’s a look at some bird species and their eggs found in Australia:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
Superb Fairywren	13 x 9 mm	Pale blue or white	Reddish spots	Oval	Superb fairywrens are known for their bright blue feathers.
Laughing Kookaburra	46 x 33 mm	White	Usually unmarked	Oval	The loud, laughing call of kookaburras is widely recognized.
Emu	134 x 89 mm	Dark green	Unmarked	Elliptical	Emu eggs are one of the largest bird eggs. Only ostrich eggs are larger.

American Bird Egg Identification

Across the United States, from deserts to dense forests, the environment significantly impacts the characteristics of bird eggs. Temperature variations and habitat types influence factors like egg color and shell thickness to provide the best chances for survival.

Here’s a look at some bird species and their eggs found in various parts of America:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
American Robin	27 x 19 mm	Blue	Usually unmarked	Oval	You can often find robins hopping across lawns in search of worms.
Bald Eagle	73 x 55 mm	Dull white	Sometimes faint markings	Oval to elliptical	Bald eagles boast a wingspan that can reach up to 7.5 feet.
Red-winged Blackbird	24 x 18 mm	Pale blue or gray	Dark brown spots	Oval	Male red-winged blackbirds have bright red and yellow shoulder patches.

Ireland Bird Egg Identification

Ireland’s rich and varied habitats, from coastal cliffs to green meadows, support a wide range of bird species. The eggs of these birds are influenced by the unique environmental conditions they inhabit.

Each egg has distinct features that reflect adaptation to these ecological niches. The humidity and mild temperatures of Ireland’s climate help maintain the moisture levels required for the development of bird embryos.

Here’s a look at some bird species and their eggs found in Ireland:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
European Starling	30 x 21 mm	Pale blue	Usually unmarked	Oval	Starlings can mimic other birds and sounds.
Barn Swallow	19 x 14 mm	White	Brown speckles	Oval	Barn swallows migrate long distances. They make the trek from North America all the way to South America.
Great Horned Owl	56 x 47 mm	White	Usually unmarked	Nearly spherical	Great horned owls have a powerful grip. They can crush bones.

Also read: Owl Egg Id Chart

Ontario Bird Egg Identification

Ontario’s diverse habitats, including vast forests, wetlands, and lakes, support a wide array of bird species. The seasonal climate and abundant water sources play crucial roles in the nesting and egg-laying behaviors of Ontario’s birds.

Here’s a look at some bird species and their eggs found in Ontario:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
Northern Cardinal	26 x 19 mm	Whitish, grayish, or bluish	Brown, gray, or purple spots	Oval	Cardinals are known for their bright red feathers and distinctive crest.
Eastern Bluebird	21 x 16 mm	Blue	Occasionally unmarked	Oval	Eastern bluebirds often return to the same nesting sites each year.
American Robin	27 x 19 mm	Blue	Usually unmarked	Oval	One of the first birds to lay eggs in the spring is the American robin.

Ohio Bird Egg Identification

Ohio’s diverse environments, from hardwood forests to extensive wetlands, host many bird species. The state’s mix of urban and rural areas shapes the nesting behaviors of these birds. The Great Lakes’ influence also plays a role.

Here are some interesting and lesser-known facts about bird species and their eggs found in Ohio:

Bird Species	Egg Size	Egg Color	Markings	Shape	Unique Fact
Killdeer	38 x 28 mm	Buff	Black or brown spots	Pointed oval	Killdeer use a “broken-wing” act. This distracts predators from their nests.
House Sparrow	21 x 15 mm	White, pale blue, or green	Brown speckles or spots	Short and oval	House sparrows are known for their adaptability to urban areas.
Mourning Dove	22 x 17 mm	White	Unmarked	Elliptical	In one year, mourning doves can have several broods.

These tables provide specific details on bird eggs found in different regions. They help you to identify them accurately while also learning unique facts about each species.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve got the basics of bird egg identification down, why not take it a step further? Grab a notebook or your phone, head outside, and start spotting some eggs on your own. Use the charts and tips you’ve learned here as your guide.

Don’t be afraid to get curious and take your time observing, each egg you find is a small glimpse into the life of a bird. The more you explore, the more you’ll learn and enjoy the world of birds right in your own backyard.