Birds of the Southeastern U.S.

Greater Scaup

• An aquatic bird, the greater scaup (bluebill) migrates to the southeastern U.S. during the winter months. It measures 15 to 20 inches and has a blue bill, according to "Familiar Birds of North America." It appears in ponds and lakes of considerable size, as well as estuaries and ocean coves. These birds live in northern Florida, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi and southern Alabama, among other places.

Anhinga

• Also known as a water turkey, the anhinga is a large dark-colored bird that lives near bodies of water. It swims and catches fish with its bill, according to "Pond Life." The U.S. Geological Survey indicates that the anhinga has a lengthy, narrow neck and appears somewhat like a cormorant. It must perch and spread its wings to dry them.

Brown Pelican

• In North America, the brown pelican seldom appears outside the southeastern U.S. or the coast of California. It breeds in coastal Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas. These birds measure around 4 feet and boast an impressive bill, according to "Familiar Birds of North America." The brown pelican also has a throat pouch. After maturity, it makes little noise.

Northern Cardinal

• Despite its name, the northern cardinal commonly appears throughout the southeastern U.S. These bright red birds also live in parts of Arizona, the Midwest and the eastern region south of Maine. It can be found in forests, brush and gardens, as well as in the suburbs. It does not migrate. Several states have named the northern cardinal their state birds, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The states include North Carolina and Kentucky, among others.

Brown Thrasher

• Although they can be spotted in the Midwest, northeast and parts of southern Canada, the brown thrasher proves the most common in the southeast. These birds measure nearly a foot and have brown feathers with white streaks. They appear in Florida, Alabama and Louisiana, among other states.