“The 34 Most Common Birds in the United States Ranked by Sightings Data” is a comprehensive article that presents a curated list of the most commonly seen birds in the country. With a focus on actual sightings data, this intriguing compilation unveils the top 34 species that grace yards and neighborhoods across the United States. From the majestic Northern Cardinal to the charismatic Blue Jay, this article encompasses a delightful array of feathered friends. Accompanied by insights into their habits, habitats, and preferred diets, this article serves as a valuable resource for both amateur and seasoned birdwatchers alike. In addition, the article also offers separate lists for winter and summer birds, as well as useful identification photos. To enhance the birdwatching experience, recommendations for binoculars and state-specific identification resources are included as well.
Winter Birds
Winter is a wonderful time to observe birds in your backyard, as many species seek out food and shelter in residential areas. Here are some of the most common winter birds you may spot:
1. Dark-eyed Junco
The Dark-eyed Junco is a small sparrow that is a familiar sight during the winter months. They have a dark gray body with a white belly, and their pink or yellow beak is distinctive. Dark-eyed Juncos can be seen hopping on the ground, feeding on seeds and insects.
2. American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch is a small finch with bright yellow plumage in the summer, but during the winter, the males lose their vibrant color and become a dull olive-gray. They are often seen perched on seed heads, feasting on seeds.
3. White-throated Sparrow
The White-throated Sparrow is a medium-sized sparrow with a striking white throat and a black and white striped head. They have a melodic song that is often heard during the winter months. White-throated Sparrows can be found foraging for seeds and insects on the ground.
4. Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a beautiful bird with bright red plumage and a distinctive crest on its head. They are a year-round resident in many areas, but their vibrant color stands out against the winter landscape. Northern Cardinals feed on seeds, berries, and insects.
5. Mourning Dove
Mourning Doves are a common sight at bird feeders throughout the year. They have a gentle and peaceful demeanor, with soft, gray-brown feathers and a long, pointed tail. Mourning Doves primarily feed on seeds, but they may also eat fruits and insects.
6. Downy Woodpecker
The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest and most common woodpecker in North America. They have a black and white barred pattern on their back and wings, and a white belly. Downy Woodpeckers can be seen clinging to tree trunks, searching for insects to eat.
7. Black-capped Chickadee
The Black-capped Chickadee is a small, energetic bird with a black cap and throat, and white cheeks. They are known for their distinctive “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call, which they use to communicate with others. Black-capped Chickadees feed on insects, seeds, and berries.
8. House Finch
The House Finch is a small finch with a bright red or orange coloring on the male’s head, chest, and belly. They are a common visitor to backyard feeders, where they can be seen eating seeds and fruits.
9. Blue Jay
The Blue Jay is a large, striking bird with blue feathers on its body and a crest on its head. They are known for their loud, screeching calls and their bold and curious nature. Blue Jays are omnivorous and will eat just about anything, from seeds and nuts to insects and small animals.
10. Tufted Titmouse
The Tufted Titmouse is a small bird with a crest on its head and a gray body. They have a distinctive call that sounds like “peter, peter, peter.” Tufted Titmice feed on insects, seeds, and berries, and can often be seen in trees and shrubs.
These winter birds are a delight to observe and attract to your backyard with the right food and habitat. By providing a variety of bird feeders, a fresh water source, and shrubs for cover, you can create a welcoming environment for these feathered friends.
Summer Birds
As the weather warms up and the days get longer, a new set of birds make their presence known in the summer months. Here are some of the most common summer birds you may encounter:
1. Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a year-round resident in many areas, but its vibrant red plumage truly shines in the summer. They have a distinctive crest on their head and a song that is often heard throughout the day. Northern Cardinals feed on seeds, fruits, and insects.
2. American Robin
The American Robin is a familiar sight in yards and parks during the summer. They have a reddish-orange breast and a grey back, and they can often be seen hopping on lawns, searching for worms and insects to eat.
3. Chipping Sparrow
The Chipping Sparrow is a small sparrow with a rusty cap on its head and a gray body. They have a distinctive song that sounds like a series of chips, hence their name. Chipping Sparrows feed on seeds and insects, and they can often be found foraging on the ground or perched in trees.
4. Song Sparrow
The Song Sparrow is a medium-sized sparrow with streaked brown plumage and a long tail. They are known for their melodic song, which they use to defend their territory and attract mates. Song Sparrows feed on seeds, insects, and berries.
5. Red-winged Blackbird
The Red-winged Blackbird is a common sight in wetlands and marshes during the summer. The males have black feathers with red and yellow shoulder patches, while the females are a streaked brown color. Red-winged Blackbirds feed on a variety of foods, including insects, seeds, and berries.
6. American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch is a small finch with bright yellow plumage in the summer. They are a common sight in fields and meadows, where they feast on seeds from plants like sunflowers and thistles.
7. Eastern Bluebird
The Eastern Bluebird is a small thrush with bright blue plumage on its back and wings, and a reddish-orange breast. They are a symbol of happiness and good fortune, and they are a popular sight in open fields and meadows. Eastern Bluebirds primarily feed on insects and berries.
8. Carolina Wren
The Carolina Wren is a small, round bird with reddish-brown plumage and a white eyebrow stripe. They have a beautiful song that can be heard throughout the day. Carolina Wrens feed on insects, spiders, and small fruits.
9. House Finch
The House Finch is a small finch with a red or orange head and chest on the male, and brown and streaked plumage on the female. They are frequently seen at bird feeders, where they eat seeds and fruits.
10. Northern Mockingbird
The Northern Mockingbird is a medium-sized bird with gray plumage and white patches on its wings. They are known for their ability to mimic the songs of other birds, as well as other sounds like car alarms and cell phone ringtones. Northern Mockingbirds feed on insects, fruits, and berries.
These summer birds bring color and song to the outdoors, and attracting them to your backyard is a joyous experience. By providing food sources like bird feeders and fruit-bearing plants, as well as fresh water and nesting sites, you can create a haven for these beautiful creatures.
Common Feeder Birds
Attracting birds to your backyard can be a rewarding and enjoyable pastime. One way to encourage birds to visit is by offering them a variety of foods at bird feeders. Here are some of the most common feeder birds you may see:
1. Mourning Dove
Mourning Doves are a frequent visitor to bird feeders, where they eat seeds such as millet and sunflower seeds. They have a peaceful and gentle demeanor, and their soft, gray-brown feathers make them a pleasant sight.
2. Northern Cardinal
Northern Cardinals are regulars at bird feeders, and their bright red plumage is always a delight to see. They prefer to eat seeds and fruits, and their powerful beaks make it easy for them to crack open sunflower seeds.
3. American Goldfinch
American Goldfinches are small finches with bright yellow plumage during the summer. They are often found at feeders, where they feed on nyjer (thistle) seeds. Their cheerful presence and lovely song add a touch of sunshine to any backyard.
4. House Finch
House Finches are frequent visitors to bird feeders, where they eat a variety of seeds and fruits. The males have a red or orange head and chest, while the females have brown and streaked plumage. Their melodious song is a common sound in residential areas.
5. Downy Woodpecker
Downy Woodpeckers are attracted to suet feeders, where they can feast on high-energy suet. They also eat insects, which they find by pecking at tree bark. These small woodpeckers have a black and white barred pattern on their wings and back.
6. Black-capped Chickadee
Black-capped Chickadees are frequent visitors to all kinds of bird feeders. They eat a variety of foods, including seeds, insects, and berries. These small birds have a black cap and throat, and their cheerful “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call is a delight to hear.
7. Blue Jay
Blue Jays are large and vibrant birds that can often be seen at feeders. They eat a variety of foods, including seeds, nuts, and insect eggs. Their bold and curious nature makes them a joy to observe.
8. Tufted Titmouse
Tufted Titmice are common visitors to feeders, where they eat seeds and insects. These small birds have a crest on their head and a gray body. Their distinctive “peter, peter, peter” call is easily recognizable.
9. White-breasted Nuthatch
White-breasted Nuthatches are attracted to suet feeders, where they can enjoy suet and insects. They have a unique ability to climb down trees headfirst, and their distinctive calls add a special charm to any backyard.
10. House Sparrow
House Sparrows are a familiar sight at bird feeders, where they eat a variety of seeds, grains, and scraps. They have a brown and streaked plumage and are known for their adaptability to human habitats.
These common feeder birds bring life and color to your backyard, and providing them with a variety of food options will keep them coming back for more. Remember to keep your feeders clean and well-stocked, and you’ll have a steady stream of feathered visitors to enjoy.
Habitats
Birds can be found in a wide variety of habitats, each suited to their specific needs. From woodlands to coastal areas, here are some common bird habitats you may encounter:
1. Woodlands
Woodlands are rich in biodiversity and provide a home for many bird species. Tall trees offer nesting sites and shelter, while the leaf litter on the forest floor provides a source of food for ground-dwelling birds. Woodland birds such as the Wood Thrush and Scarlet Tanager can be found in these habitats.
2. Forest Edges
Forest edges are the transition zones between open areas and the forest. These areas offer a mix of both open spaces and cover, making them attractive habitats for many bird species. Birds like the Eastern Bluebird and American Goldfinch are commonly seen in forest edge habitats.
3. Suburban Areas
Suburban areas, with their mix of residential neighborhoods and green spaces, are well-suited for birds that can adapt to human environments. Birds such as the Northern Cardinal and House Sparrow thrive in these habitats, taking advantage of bird feeders and nesting opportunities.
4. Wetlands
Wetlands, including marshes, swamps, and bogs, are home to a diverse array of bird species. These habitats provide abundant food and nesting opportunities, making them ideal for water-loving birds like the Great Blue Heron and American Bittern.
5. Grasslands
Grasslands are characterized by open, grassy areas with few or no trees. These habitats are well-suited for birds that nest on the ground, like the Bobolink and Eastern Meadowlark. Grassland birds also rely on these areas for foraging, as they provide a plentiful supply of insects and seeds.
6. Mountains
Mountainous regions support unique bird populations adapted to high elevations. Birds such as the Mountain Bluebird and Pine Grosbeak can be found in these habitats, where they nest in trees and forage for food in alpine meadows and rocky slopes.
7. Coastal Areas
Coastal areas, including beaches, salt marshes, and rocky shores, provide important feeding and nesting grounds for many bird species. Coastal habitats are home to birds such as the Piping Plover and Red Knot, which rely on these areas for food and shelter during migration.
8. Backyards
Backyards can be excellent habitats for birds, especially when they are equipped with bird feeders, bird baths, and native plants. Birds like the Northern Cardinal and Black-capped Chickadee are often seen in residential areas, taking advantage of the resources provided by backyard bird enthusiasts.
9. Parks
Parks and recreational areas can attract a wide variety of bird species due to the abundance of trees, open spaces, and water sources. Birds such as the Mallard and Northern Flicker are commonly spotted in parks, where they find food, shelter, and nesting sites.
10. Farmland
Farmland provides an important habitat for many bird species, especially those that rely on agricultural fields for foraging and nesting. Birds like the Red-winged Blackbird and Eastern Meadowlark can often be found in farmland habitats, taking advantage of the abundance of seeds and insects.
Birds are highly adaptable creatures, and they can be found in a variety of habitats across the United States. By understanding the specific needs of each species and providing suitable resources, you can create a welcoming environment for birds and enjoy their presence year-round.
Bird Food Preferences
Birds have diverse dietary needs, and their food preferences can vary depending on the species. Here are some common bird food preferences you may encounter:
1. Seeds
Seeds are a staple food for many bird species. Different bird species have specific seed preferences, with some favoring sunflower seeds, while others prefer nyjer (thistle) or millet seeds. Birds that primarily feed on seeds include American Goldfinches, House Finches, and Northern Cardinals.
2. Insects
Insects are an important source of protein for many bird species, especially during the breeding season when adults need to feed their young. Birds like the Downy Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird, and Black-capped Chickadee rely on insects as a significant part of their diet.
3. Fruits and Berries
Fruits and berries are a valuable food source for birds, providing them with essential vitamins and minerals. Many bird species, including Northern Cardinals, Eastern Bluebirds, and American Robins, enjoy feasting on a variety of fruits and berries.
4. Nectar
Nectar is a specialized food source for hummingbirds and a few other bird species. Hummingbirds have long bills and tongues that allow them to extract nectar from flowers. These tiny birds also eat insects for protein to supplement their diet.
5. Suet
Suet is a high-energy food made from animal fat and other ingredients. It is popular with woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other insect-eating birds. Suet provides birds with the extra energy they need, especially during the colder months.
6. Mealworms
Mealworms are the larvae of darkling beetles and are a favorite food of many insect-eating birds. Bluebirds, flycatchers, and wrens are just a few examples of birds that enjoy feasting on mealworms. They are packed with protein and provide a valuable food source, especially during the breeding season.
7. Vegetables
Some bird species, particularly waterfowl, enjoy eating vegetables such as lettuce, peas, and corn. Mallards and other ducks often feed on aquatic plants and grasses, while seed-eating birds like finches may occasionally sample vegetable offerings.
8. Fish
Fish-eating birds such as herons, egrets, and kingfishers require a diet rich in fish. They are skilled hunters and catch their prey by diving into water or wading in shallow areas. Ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water are important habitats for these bird species.
9. Small Mammals
Birds of prey, including hawks, falcons, and owls, feed on small mammals as a primary food source. These carnivorous birds have sharp beaks and talons that allow them to capture and consume rodents, rabbits, and other small animals.
10. Amphibians
Some bird species, like herons, egrets, and bitterns, feed on amphibians such as frogs and tadpoles. Their long legs and sharp beaks enable them to wade in water and spear their prey. Wetlands and marshes are important habitats for these bird species.
Birds have specific dietary needs based on their natural behaviors and adaptations. By providing a variety of food sources in your backyard, such as bird feeders and native plants that produce seeds and fruits, you can attract a diverse array of bird species and support their nutritional requirements.
Mourning Dove
Habitat
Mourning Doves can be found in a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, open fields, and suburban areas. They are adaptable birds that can thrive in both rural and urban environments. Mourning Doves prefer habitats with a mix of trees for nesting and open areas for foraging.
Feeding Preferences
Mourning Doves primarily feed on seeds, including those from grasses, weeds, and cultivated plants. They are attracted to bird feeders filled with millet, cracked corn, and sunflower seeds. In addition to seeds, Mourning Doves may also eat small fruits and insects.
Physical Characteristics
Mourning Doves are medium-sized birds with a plump body, a small head, and a long, pointed tail. They have soft, gray-brown feathers on their back and wings, a pale pinkish breast, and dark spots on their wings. Mourning Doves have a slender beak that is well-suited for eating seeds.
Behavior
Mourning Doves are gentle and peaceful birds that often stay in pairs or small flocks. They are ground feeders and can be seen foraging on the ground for seeds. Mourning Doves are known for their distinctive mournful cooing sounds, which they use to communicate with each other.
Interesting Facts
- Mourning Doves are one of the most widely distributed and abundant bird species in North America.
- These birds are monogamous and often mate for life.
- Mourning Doves can fly at high speeds, reaching speeds of up to 55 miles per hour.
- The mournful cooing sound of the Mourning Dove is often associated with peace and tranquility.
Photo
[Insert Mourning Dove photo here]
Northern Cardinal
Habitat
Northern Cardinals inhabit a variety of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and suburban areas. They are a year-round resident in many parts of the United States, and their vibrant plumage brightens up any habitat they occupy. Northern Cardinals prefer areas with dense shrubs and trees for nesting and foraging.
Feeding Preferences
Northern Cardinals primarily feed on seeds and fruits. They have a strong beak that is well-suited for cracking open seeds, including sunflower seeds, and they also eat berries such as dogwood and sumac. In addition to plant-based foods, Northern Cardinals may also eat insects and spiders.
Physical Characteristics
Male Northern Cardinals are known for their bright red plumage, black face mask, and distinctive crest on their head. Females have a more muted coloration, with a reddish-brown body and a touch of red on their wings and crest. Both males and females have a strong, cone-shaped beak.
Behavior
Northern Cardinals are highly territorial birds, and the males are known for their aggressive behavior towards other males during the breeding season. They have a sweet, lilting song that can be heard throughout the day, and they often sing from a high perch to defend their territory.
Interesting Facts
- Northern Cardinals were once primarily found in the southeastern United States, but their range has expanded northward over the past century.
- Only the male Northern Cardinal sings, and he uses his song to attract a mate and deter other males from encroaching on his territory.
- The bright red plumage of the Northern Cardinal is believed to serve as a sign of dominance and attractiveness to potential mates.
- Northern Cardinals are a popular state bird, representing seven states in the United States.
Photo
[Insert Northern Cardinal photo here]
American Robin
Habitat
American Robins can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, lawns, and gardens. They are a common sight in residential areas, searching for worms and insects on lawns. American Robins prefer open areas with short grass for foraging and nesting.
Feeding Preferences
American Robins feed primarily on insects and earthworms, which they find by searching through leaf litter on the ground or by listening for the sound of prey underground. They also eat berries and fruits, such as holly and sumac, especially during the winter months when insects are less abundant.
Physical Characteristics
American Robins are medium-sized birds with a reddish-orange breast, a gray back, and a distinct white eye ring. They have a long, slender beak that is well-adapted for probing the ground for invertebrates. Female American Robins have paler plumage compared to males.
Behavior
American Robins are known for their habit of hopping along lawns, pausing to listen and then quickly stabbing the ground with their beak to capture prey. They have a melodious song that can be heard throughout the day, particularly during the breeding season.
Interesting Facts
- American Robins are a familiar sight in many parts of the United States and are often associated with the arrival of spring.
- They are known for their ability to find earthworms by sensing vibrations in the ground, a behavior known as “worm charming.”
- American Robins are one of the few bird species that can eat both berries and insects, allowing them to switch their diet based on seasonal availability.
Photo
[Insert American Robin photo here]
American Crow
Habitat
American Crows are highly adaptable and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, fields, and urban areas. They are intelligent birds that have successfully adapted to human environments. American Crows prefer areas with trees for nesting and roosting.
Feeding Preferences
American Crows are omnivorous and have a varied diet. They eat a wide range of foods, including insects, fruits, seeds, small mammals, and carrion. They are opportunistic feeders and can often be seen foraging on the ground or in trees.
Physical Characteristics
American Crows are large, all-black birds with a stout body, strong legs, and a distinctive cawing call. They have a thick bill that is well-suited for cracking open nuts and tearing apart carrion. Despite their size, American Crows are agile fliers.
Behavior
American Crows are highly social birds that often congregate in large groups called murders. They are intelligent and have been observed using tools and solving complex problems. American Crows have a wide range of vocalizations, including a famous “caw-caw” call.
Interesting Facts
- American Crows are one of the most intelligent bird species, capable of problem-solving and tool use.
- They have been known to recognize human faces and remember individuals who pose a threat.
- American Crows are excellent mimics and can imitate the calls of other bird species and even human voices.
- They have a complex social structure, with family groups and hierarchical relationships within murders.
Photo
[Insert American Crow photo here]
Identify Backyard Birds by State
Birdwatching is a popular hobby that allows people to observe and appreciate the unique bird species that inhabit their local area. Here are some common backyard birds you can identify by state:
1. Alabama
- Northern Cardinal
- Mourning Dove
- Carolina Wren
- Carolina Chickadee
- House Finch
2. Alaska
- Black-capped Chickadee
- Dark-eyed Junco
- Common Redpoll
- Boreal Chickadee
- Northwestern Crow
3. Arizona
- Curve-billed Thrasher
- Gambel’s Quail
- Gila Woodpecker
- Cactus Wren
- Verdin
4. Arkansas
- Northern Cardinal
- Mourning Dove
- Carolina Wren
- Blue Jay
- Eastern Bluebird
5. California
- Anna’s Hummingbird
- Western Scrub-Jay
- California Quail
- Allen’s Hummingbird
- Northern Mockingbird
6. Colorado
- Black-capped Chickadee
- American Goldfinch
- Mountain Bluebird
- House Finch
- Say’s Phoebe
7. Connecticut
- Northern Cardinal
- American Goldfinch
- House Sparrow
- Tufted Titmouse
- White-breasted Nuthatch
8. Delaware
- Northern Cardinal
- American Goldfinch
- Carolina Wren
- Blue Jay
- Eastern Bluebird
9. Florida
- Northern Cardinal
- Mourning Dove
- Carolina Wren
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Loggerhead Shrike
10. Georgia
- Northern Cardinal
- Mourning Dove
- Carolina Wren
- Brown Thrasher
- Eastern Towhee
These are just a few examples of common backyard birds you may find in each state. Remember to consult a bird identification guide or website to learn more about the bird species specific to your area and how to recognize them based on their distinctive field marks, calls, and behaviors.
Birdwatching is a wonderful way to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty and diversity of our feathered friends. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced birder, there is always something new and exciting to discover in your own backyard. Happy birdwatching!
