Halloween is just around the corner, and not everyone has the time (or patience) for an elaborate costume. However, with their distinct looks and quirky personalities, birds make the perfect inspiration for quick, low-effort costumes using items you likely already own. Here are five low-effort, bird-inspired Halloween costumes that are easy, fun, and sure to get noticed.
Red-winged Blackbird
- All Black Outfit
- Red Scarf or Shawl
- Noise Maker, Like a Whistle
Red-winged Blackbirds are one of the most iconic birds in North America, famous for their bright red shoulder patches and unique calls. Use a simple black outfit as your base, then add a splash of red with a scarf or shawl to mimic their striking epaulets. Carry a whistle or small noise maker to mimic their distinctive “call” like the real bird.
Raven
- All Black Outfit
- Shiny Trinkets (think coins, bottlecaps and tiny bits of foil)
- Edgar Allen Poe Book
Ravens are curious, clever, and notoriously attracted to shiny objects. An all-black outfit creates a sleek, mysterious look and a small book of Poe gives a literary twist that hints at the raven’s darkly poetic reputation. Get into character with a squawky “Nevermore!” and selective trinket sharing with only your most trusted friends.
Bald Eagle
- All Brown Outfit
- Bald Head or White Cap
- American Flag
- Yellow Socks & Shoes
Embody one of America’s most iconic birds with a simple brown outfit, an American flag accessory, and a natural bald head or white cap to suggest the mature eagle’s iconic look. Bonus points if you can accurately mimic their chirps and squawks—most movies get it wrong!
Blue Jay
- Blue Jacket & Jeans
- White Undershirt
- Sunglasses
- Assertive Attitude
- Bag of Unsalted In-Shell Peanuts
Blue Jays are colorful, confident, and notoriously sassy—a personality you can easily channel in your costume. Blue outerwear with a white undershirt mimics their vibrant plumage, while sunglasses, peanuts, and a bold attitude complete the look. This costume is as much about personality as it is about clothing, making it perfect for those who want to have fun without fuss.
Gull
- Grey and White Outfit
- Sunglasses
- French Fries or Chips
- Flip Flops
For a humorous, casual costume, channel a gull. A simple grey-and-white outfit works as the plumage while sunglasses and sandals give you that cheeky coastal look. Notoriously, gulls are expert thieves despite our best efforts not to feed them. Get into character by seeing if you can steal a friend’s snack before getting caught, too.
Seek Out Spooky Inspiration
Halloween doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By taking inspiration from these birds, you can put together a costume that’s quick, clever, and fun, all while celebrating the colorful creatures we love to spot in our yards and parks.
Still seeking inspiration? Take a walk at a local Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuary to see which birds might spark your next costume idea—you might just find your feathered alter ego waiting in the trees.
Stay Connected
Don't miss a beat on all the ways you can get outdoors, celebrate nature, and get involved.