Birds are a fascinating part of wildlife, showcasing an astonishing variety of species that grace different parts of our planet.

Among these, birds that start with J represent a unique segment, boasting common names and exotic species.

This blog post delves into the diverse world of these birds, presenting a list of species that begin with this letter.

We’ll explore 20 most common birds, such as the Jackdaw and the Japanese Quail, known for their distinctive features and behaviors.

Additionally, we’ll introduce 100 more birds, providing insights into less familiar species that contribute to the richness of birds’ diversity.

Join us as we discover these incredible creatures, each with its own story and place in the natural world.

20 Most Common Birds Starting with J

1. Jackdaw

The Jackdaw (Corvus monedula) is a small, sleek bird with a distinctive silvery sheen to the back of its head. Known for its bright, curious eyes and social nature, it often forms large, noisy flocks.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Jackdaw, Corvus monedula
• Physical Description: A small, black bird with distinctive pale eyes and a silver-grey nape.
• Habitat: Open woodlands, urban areas, and cliffs.
• Geographical Range: Throughout Europe and parts of Asia.
• Interesting Facts: Jackdaws are known for their problem-solving abilities and complex social structures.

2. Jack Snipe

The Jack Snipe (Lymnocryptes minimus) is a small, elusive wader known for its bobbing motion when standing. This bird is rarely seen due to its incredible camouflage and secretive nature.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Jack Snipe, Lymnocryptes minimus
• Physical Description: Small, stocky bird with a short bill and brown, black, and buff cryptic plumage.
• Habitat: Marshy meadows and wetlands.
• Geographical Range: Widespread across northern Europe and Asia; winters in southern Europe and Africa.
• Interesting Facts: Jack Snipes perform a unique ‘drumming’ sound with their tails, not their voices, during their courtship flights.

3. Japanese Quail

The Japanese Quail (Coturnix japonica) is a small ground-nesting bird primarily known for its role in commercial egg production. Its mottled brown plumage offers excellent camouflage in its natural brushy habitats.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Japanese Quail, Coturnix japonica
• Physical Description: Small bird with a mottled brown appearance and a distinctive facial pattern.
• Habitat: Grasslands, agricultural fields, and other open, scrubby areas.
• Geographical Range: Native to East Asia, has been introduced worldwide.
• Interesting Facts: They can lay over 300 eggs annually, making them popular in farming.

4. Java Sparrow

The Java Sparrow (Lonchura oryzivora), also known as the Java Finch, is a robust, gregarious bird easily recognized by its pink beak and the black-and-white features on its head.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Java Sparrow, Lonchura oryzivora
• Physical Description: A stout bird with a grey body, white cheeks, and a pink bill.
• Habitat: Open grasslands and cultivated areas.
• Geographical Range: Originally from Indonesia, it was widely introduced elsewhere.
• Interesting Facts: They are considered a pest in some areas due to their taste for grain, leading to extensive control measures.

5. Jungle Babbler

Jungle Babblers (Turdoides striata) are noisy and sociable birds. They are often seen moving in groups through forests and gardens. They are dull grey-brown in color with a yellow bill, making them more heard than seen.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Jungle Babbler, Turdoides striata
• Physical Description: Grey-brown birds with a lighter underbelly and dark eyes.
• Habitat: Dense forest and shrubby gardens.
• Geographical Range: Throughout the Indian subcontinent.
• Interesting Facts: Known locally as “Seven Sisters” due to their habit of moving in groups of seven.

6. Jungle Bush Quail

The Jungle Bush Quail (Perdicula asiatica) is a small, elusive bird, often found scurrying through underbrush. With its mottled brown plumage, it blends seamlessly into the dry scrub environments it prefers.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Jungle Bush Quail, Perdicula asiatica
• Physical Description: Small, ground-dwelling bird with mottled brown and black plumage that provides camouflage.
• Habitat: Dry grasslands and open scrub forests.
• Geographical Range: Found across the Indian subcontinent.
• Interesting Facts: They are secretive, flushing only when almost stepped on.

7. Jungle Crow

Known for its adaptability, the Jungle Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos) has a large, robust build and a powerful beak. These birds are incredibly resourceful and can be found in various habitats.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Jungle Crow, Corvus macrorhynchos
• Physical Description: Large, solid black crow with a stout bill and a harsh call.
• Habitat: Wide-ranging, from woodlands to urban areas.
• Geographical Range: Across South Asia and Southeast Asia.
• Interesting Facts: Their intelligence is demonstrated through their complex social behavior and ability to use tools.

8. Jungle Myna

Jungle Mynas (Acridotheres fuscus) are members of the starling family, known for their ability to mimic sounds. They have a glossy black appearance with distinctive yellow eye patches.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Jungle Myna, Acridotheres fuscus
• Physical Description: Glossy black body with a yellow patch behind the eye and a slight crest on the head.
• Habitat: Forest edges and urban areas.
• Geographical Range: South and Southeast Asia.
• Interesting Facts: They are highly adaptable and can thrive near human habitation, often seen perched on grazing animals.

9. Junglefowl

The Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus) is the wild ancestor of domestic chickens. It sports vibrant plumage with a golden-orange crest and is known for its striking appearance and loud call.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Red Junglefowl, Gallus gallus
• Physical Description: Brightly colored with a red face, golden-orange crest, and a dark tail.
• Habitat: Dense tropical and subtropical forests.
• Geographical Range: Southeast Asia and parts of South Asia.
• Interesting Facts: The genetic ancestor of all domestic chickens was first domesticated thousands of years ago in Asia.

10. Junco

Juncos, specifically the Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis), are small, unassuming birds whose appearance belies their adaptability and resilience. They are commonly seen in backyards and forest areas across North America.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Dark-eyed Junco, Junco hyemalis
• Physical Description: Small birds with various color forms, typically having a slate-gray body and a white belly.
• Habitat: Coniferous and mixed forests, often visiting urban settings.
• Geographical Range: Found throughout North America.
• Interesting Facts: They are known for their distinct “snowbird” behavior, often signaling the change of seasons as they move to lower elevations in winter.

11. Junin Grebe

The Junin Grebe (Podiceps taczanowskii) is a critically endangered water bird known for its unique adaptations to high-altitude lake environments. Its appearance is striking, with dark upper parts and silvery-grey below.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Junin Grebe, Podiceps taczanowskii
• Physical Description: Medium-sized grebe with a slender neck, dark upperparts, and silvery-grey underparts.
• Habitat: Restricted to high-altitude freshwater lakes.
• Geographical Range: Endemic to Lake Junin in the Peruvian Andes.
• Interesting Facts: This species is threatened by habitat degradation and depends on conserving its lake habitat for survival.

12. Juniper Titmouse

The Juniper Titmouse (Baeolophus ridgwayi) is a small, unobtrusive bird with a soft grey body and a crest that it often raises. Known for its quiet demeanor, it is a year-round resident of arid landscapes.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Juniper Titmouse, Baeolophus ridgwayi
• Physical Description: Small, gray bird with a prominent crest and a stout bill.
• Habitat: Juniper woodlands and other arid scrublands.
• Geographical Range: Found in the southwestern United States.
• Interesting Facts: They are known for their acrobatic foraging skills and can often be seen hanging upside down to glean insects from branches.

13. Javan Hawk-Eagle

The Javan Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus bartelsi) is an iconic bird of prey endemic to the Indonesian island of Java. Renowned for its striking appearance, it features a long crest and a robust build.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Javan Hawk-Eagle, Nisaetus bartelsi
• Physical Description: Medium-sized eagle with brown and cream plumage, a long crest, and piercing eyes.
• Habitat: Tropical rainforests.
• Geographical Range: Restricted to the island of Java, Indonesia.
• Interesting Facts: It is the national bird of Indonesia and plays a crucial role in the region’s cultural and natural heritage.

14. Javan Kingfisher

The Javan Kingfisher (Halcyon cyanoventris) is notable for its vivid blue and brown plumage and sharp, penetrating call. It is a skilled hunter, often seen diving into water from a perch.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Javan Kingfisher, Halcyon cyanoventris
• Physical Description: Brightly colored kingfisher with blue upperparts, white throat, and chestnut head.
• Habitat: Near rivers, lakes, and coasts in wooded areas.
• Geographical Range: Found throughout the island of Java and parts of Bali.
• Interesting Facts: Despite its vibrant appearance, it remains elusive and is often heard before it is seen, thanks to its loud calls.

15. Javan Myna

The Javan Myna (Acridotheres javanicus), also known as the White-vented Myna, is highly adaptable and intelligent. It has a sleek black body, a distinctive white vent, and an engaging nature.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Javan Myna, Acridotheres javanicus
• Physical Description: Black plumage with white wing patches, under-tail coverts, yellow beak, and legs.
• Habitat: Urban areas and forests.
• Geographical Range: Native to Java and Bali, introduced populations exist across Southeast Asia.
• Interesting Facts: This myna is known for its ability to mimic various sounds and for successfully adapting to urban environments.

16. Javan Plover

The Javan Plover (Charadrius javanicus) is a small shorebird with modest plumage that blends seamlessly into its beach surroundings. It is a critical species for studies on habitat conservation.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Javan Plover, Charadrius javanicus
• Physical Description: Small, sandy-colored bird with simple yet effective camouflage.
• Habitat: Sandy beaches and tidal flats.
• Geographical Range: Limited to the island of Java and surrounding islets.
• Interesting Facts: The Javan Plover is often studied for its nesting behaviors and adaptability to changing shoreline environments.

17. Javan Pond Heron

The Javan Pond Heron (Ardeola speciosa) is striking in breeding plumage, transforming from a modest brown to a vibrant white and maroon. It is a common sight in wetlands, where it expertly catches fish.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Javan Pond Heron, Ardeola speciosa
• Physical Description: Typically brown with white and maroon breeding plumage; short-legged.
• Habitat: Freshwater wetlands, rice fields, and marshes.
• Geographical Range: Predominantly found across Java and Bali.
• Interesting Facts: Its transformation during the breeding season is so dramatic that it can appear to be a completely different species.

18. Javan Trogon

The Javan Trogon (Apalharpactes reinwardtii) is a rare and beautiful forest bird featuring a vivid green, blue, and red palette. It is elusive and highly prized by birdwatchers for its striking appearance.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Javan Trogon, Apalharpactes reinwardtii
• Physical Description: Brightly colored with green upperparts, blue wings, and a red belly.
• Habitat: Montane forests.
• Geographical Range: Endemic to the mountainous regions of western Java.
• Interesting Facts: Due to its specific habitat requirements and stunning appearance, it symbolizes Java’s natural beauty.

19. Javanese Lapwing

The Javanese Lapwing (Vanellus macropterus) was a unique bird known for its distinct appearance and behaviors. Unfortunately, it is now considered extinct, highlighting the critical need for conservation.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Javanese Lapwing, Vanellus macropterus
• Physical Description: Previously noted for its large wings and striking black and white plumage.
• Habitat: Open grassy plains.
• Geographical Range: Historically found in Java, now extinct.
• Interesting Facts: The extinction of the Javanese Lapwing is a stark reminder of the impacts of habitat loss and human encroachment on wildlife.

20. Javanese Cuckooshrike

The Javanese Cuckooshrike (Coracina javensis) is a modestly colored bird with a robust body and a strong bill. It is adept at catching insects in flight and is a resident of the lower mountain forests of Java.

• Common Name and Scientific Name: Javanese Cuckooshrike, Coracina javensis
• Physical Description: Gray plumage overall with a slightly darker head and lighter underparts.
• Habitat: Montane and lower mountain forests.
• Geographical Range: Endemic to the island of Java.
• Interesting Facts: Unlike many other cuckoo shrikes, the Javanese variety is known for its solitary habits and preference for dense foliage, which makes it a challenge to spot.

100 Additional Birds Starting with J

Here is the list with serial numbers starting from 21:

21. Jackson’s Francolin
22. Jackson’s Hornbill
23. Jackson’s Widowbird
24. Jackson’s Weaver
25. Jacana
26. Jamaican Blackbird
27. Jamaican Euphonia
28. Jamaican Lizard-Cuckoo
29. Jamaican Oriole
30. Jamaican Owl
31. Jamaican Pewee
32. Jamaican Tody
33. Jamaican Vireo
34. Jamaican Woodpecker
35. Jameson’s Firefinch
36. Jambu Fruit Dove
37. Jandaya Parakeet
38. Japanese Accentor
39. Japanese Bush Warbler
40. Japanese Green Woodpecker
41. Japanese Grosbeak
42. Japanese Night Heron
43. Japanese Paradise Flycatcher
44. Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker
45. Japanese Reed Bunting
46. Japanese Robin
47. Japanese Sparrowhawk
48. Japanese Thrush
49. Japanese Tit
50. Japanese Waxwing
51. Jerdon’s Baza
52. Jerdon’s Bushlark
53. Jerdon’s Leafbird
54. Jerdon’s Nightjar
55. Jocotoco Antpitta
56. Johnson’s Tody-Flycatcher
57. Johanna’s Sunbird
58. Juba Weaver
59. Juan Fernández Firecrown
60. Juan Fernández Tit-Tyrant
61. Jungle Nightjar
62. Jungle Owlet
63. Jungle Prinia
64. Junin Canastero
65. Junin Rail
66. Jankowski’s Bunting
67. Jerdon’s Bushchat
68. Jerdon’s Courser
69. Jerdon’s Minivet
70. Jet Antbird
71. Jet Manakin
72. Jewel-babbler
73. Jocotoco Antpitta
74. Johnson’s Tody-Flycatcher
75. Johnston’s Francolin
76. Johnston’s Genet
77. Jocotoco Antpitta
78. Johanna’s Sunbird
79. Juba Weaver
80. Juan Fernández Firecrown
81. Juan Fernández Tit-Tyrant
82. Jungle Nightjar
83. Jungle Owlet
84. Jungle Prinia
85. Junin Canastero
86. Junin Rail
87. Javan Owlet
88. Javan Blue Flycatcher
89. Javan Frogmouth
90. Javan Cochoa
91. Javan Cuckooshrike
92. Javan Leafbird
93. Javan White-eye
94. Javan Whistling Thrush
95. Javan Woodcock
96. Javanese Jungle Flycatcher
97. Jerdon’s Babbler
98. Japanese White-eye
99. Japanese Snipe
100. Jabiru
101. Japanese Cormorant
102. Japanese Seabird
103. Java Sunbird
104. Javanese Storm-Petrel
105. Javanese Sea-Eagle
106. Javanese Swiftlet
107. Javanese Swift
108. Javanese Thrush
109. Javanese Yellow Magpie
110. Japanese River Kingfisher
111. Japanese Honey Buzzard
112. Japanese Hawk Owl
113. Japanese Sea Hawk
114. Java Finch
115. Java Hawk
116. Jungle Falcon
117. Jungle Warbler
118. Jujuy Brushfinch
119. Julián Chiví
120. Junin Grebe (distinct from Junin Rail)

Summing Up

Birds that start with J are as diverse as they are fascinating. From the common Jackdaw to the exotic Javan Hawk-Eagle, each bird brings its unique traits and behaviors to the forefront of our exploration.

Through this detailed list, we have journeyed across continents and habitats, uncovering the rich biodiversity of these bird species.

Whether you are a birdwatcher or a curious reader, understanding these birds enriches our appreciation for nature’s complexity and beauty.

Let’s continue to support and protect these magnificent creatures, ensuring they thrive in their natural habitats for generations to come.