19 Bird Drawing Ideas and References

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Practice drawing birds with these bird drawing ideas. I’m sharing a variety of bird drawings for all skill levels.

So whether you’re a bigger or advanced artist, you’re going to find a reference to match your skill level. If you see an art style that you like, make sure you check out the artist and like and comment on their work.

1. Pheasant

PEASANT BIRD
Artist Credit: sarahebutler_illustrator

The pheasant family is large, with over 30 species in all. Pheasants are found on every continent except Antarctica. This drawing of a pheasant looks amazing. Consider using different types of paper when drawing your bird.

2. Tree Sparrow

TREE SPARROW BIRD DRAWING IDEAS
Artist Credit: artbyrun

Tree sparrows are small birds with reddish-brown upperparts and gray underparts. Here’s a wonderful drawing of a tree sparrow. The artist did a great job drawing the texture of the feathers.

3. Finch Trio

BIRD TRIO
Artist Credit: alexhindleart

This trio of garden birds is actually available as an art print on Etsy. It features a colored pencil hand-drawn chaffinch, blue tit, and bullfinch.

4. Barn Swallow

BARN SWALLOW
Artist Credit: gigi.weston

I love drawing small birds like this barn swallow. This bird drawing is so detailed and well done. These adaptable little birds have even been known to build their nests inside man-made structures, like barns and bridges.

5. Snowy Owl

SNOWY OWL
Artist Credit: chatrasene

The snowy owl is a large, white owl of the typical owl family. Snowy owls are native to Arctic regions in North America and Eurasia. What I love about this snowy owl drawing is that it makes a great bird reference for beginners.

6. Owl Sketches

OWL SKETCHES
Artist Credit: noir_draw

Did you know that owls are nocturnal birds? This means that they are most active at night. If you want to get better at drawing owls, practice makes perfect, which is why it’s a good idea to do a few quick sketches daily.

7. Three Little Birdies

THREE BIRDS ON BRANCH
Artist Credit: whatcathydrewnext

Here’s another trio of birds that you can use for reference. These three little birdies would look great on a handmade greeting card.

8. Brown Flycatcher

BROWN FLYCATCHER
Artist Credit: birdsuzume

The artist of this brown flycatcher will actually be painting this bird using watercolor. Consider doing the same for your own drawing.

9. Work in Progress

BIRD IN PROGRESS
Artist Credit: myfineart.ie

This work in progress is absolutely stunning. Advanced artists will be inspired by this art piece. Color always adds a special touch to any drawing.

10. Sparrow on Branch

SPARROW ON BRANCH
Artist Credit: diebianca.bb_art

Drawing wildlife is such a relaxing and rewarding experience. Further improve your skills by making your bird stand on a branch.

11. Lovebirds

LOVEBIRDS DRAWING IDEA
Artist Credit: uliaevabacon

Who doesn’t love a pair of lovebirds? They are known for being very affectionate birds, and they often pair up with one specific partner. A lovebird drawing would make a great wedding gift.

12. Bird In Motion Sketches

BIRD FLYING SKETCHES
Artist Credit: kayoko9070

This drawing study showcases the back of a bird. As you can see, it shows the bird in different flying positions. This study is a great way to practice drawing birds.

13. Hummingbird Doodle

EASY HUMMINGBIRD DRAWING
Artist Credit: monatree.art

The hummingbird is the smallest bird in the world. It is also one of the fastest, and can fly up to 60 miles per hour. If you’re looking for a quick drawing idea, consider doing a simple hummingbird doodle.

14. Easy Bird Drawing

EASY BIRD DRAWING
Artist Credit: art_supplies_and_pain

Even if you’ve never drawn a bird before, it’s easy to get started with the right reference. Here’s a drawing that beginners can use as a reference. To switch things up a bit, consider adding color.

15. Bird Standing on Moon

BIRD ON MOON
Artist Credit: arlandria_art

I like how this bird is standing on a moon with flowers. This drawing of a bird standing on the moon is both whimsical and charming. I would definitely add some color to a cute drawing like this.

16. Forest Painting

BIRD IN FOREST WITH MOUSE
Artist Credit: harena_artwork

I just love the style of this artist. I recommend checking them out to see more creative works of art. If you enjoy drawing illustrations, let this piece inspire you.

17. Realistic Bird Drawing

REALISTIC BIRD DRAWING
Artist Credit: silentkw

I’m always amazed at artists that can make their drawings look so realistic. This beautiful bird was drawn by a talented tattoo artist.

18. Two Hummingbirds

CREATIVE HUMMINGBIRD DRAWING
Artist Credit: sketch_girl

You can see that the artist used their own creative vision to draw these two hummingbirds and it turned out beautiful. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box.

19. Puffin Sketch

PUFFIN DRAWING
Artist Credit: nat_morgs_art

This puffin sketch is the result of the artist trying out different drawing styles. Make sure you check them out to see more animal drawings.

Drawing birds can be a fun and rewarding experience, no matter your skill level. With these bird drawing ideas, you can explore different techniques until you find the one that works best for you.

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