In this informative article, readers will discover the 34 most common birds in the United States, ranked by actual sightings data. From the Mourning Dove to the Northern Cardinal, these feathered friends can often be spotted in yards and neighborhoods, particularly when lured with bird food and a refreshing bird bath. The article not only highlights the year-round common birds but also includes separate lists for winter and summer, accompanied by captivating photos and detailed identification information. For those eager to invite these delightful creatures into their own yards, the article also provides handy tips and even recommends the best bird watching binoculars. The data used in this article is graciously provided by the citizen science birding program, eBird.
Year-round Common Birds in the United States
Bird watching is a popular hobby for many nature enthusiasts across the United States. Whether you’re an experienced birder or just starting out, there are a few birds that you’re likely to see throughout the year. These birds can be spotted in yards, neighborhoods, and even in urban areas. They can easily be attracted with bird food and a bird bath. In this article, we will explore the top five most common birds in the United States throughout the year: the Mourning Dove, Northern Cardinal, American Robin, American Crow, and Blue Jay.
Common Birds in Winter
Winter is a season where many birds migrate to warmer climates, but there are still some species that can be seen during this time. These birds are typically equipped to handle the harsh winter conditions and can be a delight to watch. Some common birds that can be spotted during the winter months include the Dark-eyed Junco, the Black-capped Chickadee, and the White-throated Sparrow.
Common Birds in Summer
Summer is a vibrant season filled with the chirping sounds of birds. Trees are full of leaves, flowers are in bloom, and birds are busy building nests and raising their young. Many migratory birds are also present during the summer months. Some common birds that can be observed in the United States during the summer include the Barn Swallow, the Song Sparrow, and the Yellow Warbler.
1. Mourning Dove
Identification
The Mourning Dove is a medium-sized bird with a slender body and a long, pointed tail. It has a grayish-brown plumage with a pinkish hue on its breast. Its wings have black spots and a white edge, which is noticeable during flight. The male and female have similar appearances, but the male usually has a slightly brighter plumage.
Habitat and Behavior
Mourning Doves can be found throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada. They are commonly seen in open habitats such as fields, parks, and gardens. They also frequent bird feeders, where they feed on seeds and grains. These birds are known for their mournful cooing sound, which is often heard in the early morning and evening.
Interesting Facts
- Mourning Doves are the most hunted migratory game bird in North America.
- They can reach speeds of up to 55 miles per hour in flight.
- Mourning Doves are one of the few bird species that can drink water by sucking it up rather than tipping their heads back.
2. Northern Cardinal
Identification
The Northern Cardinal is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive crest on its head. The male has bright red plumage, a black face mask, and a reddish-orange beak. The female, on the other hand, has a duller plumage with a reddish hue on her wings and tail. Both genders have prominent crests.
Habitat and Behavior
Northern Cardinals can be found throughout the eastern and central parts of the United States. They prefer habitats with dense shrubs, such as woodlands, gardens, and parks. They are known for their loud and melodious whistle-like songs, which can be heard year-round. Male Cardinals are known for their territorial behavior and will fiercely defend their breeding territories.
Interesting Facts
- Cardinals are one of the few bird species that mate for life.
- Male Cardinals are known for feeding their mates during courtship and incubation.
- Northern Cardinals are the state bird of seven states in the United States.
3. American Robin
Identification
The American Robin is a medium-sized songbird with a plump body and a long, thin beak. It has a grayish-brown back, a rust-colored breast, and a white belly. The male and female have similar appearances, with the male usually having a slightly brighter plumage.
Habitat and Behavior
American Robins can be found throughout North America, from Alaska to Mexico. They are commonly seen in open areas such as lawns, fields, and gardens. They are known for their distinctive, melodious song, which is often associated with the arrival of spring. American Robins are known for their diet of earthworms, which they often find by cocking their heads to listen for the sound of movement in the ground.
Interesting Facts
- American Robins are one of the first bird species to lay eggs in the spring.
- They are excellent parents and will fiercely defend their nests from predators.
- American Robins have been known to build their nests on man-made structures such as window ledges and electrical boxes.
4. American Crow
Identification
The American Crow is a large, all-black bird with a sturdy build and a squared-off tail. It has a sharp, pointed beak and strong legs for walking and hopping on the ground. Its shiny black feathers have a greenish-purple iridescence in the sunlight.
Habitat and Behavior
American Crows can be found throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They are highly adaptable and can be seen in a variety of habitats, including forests, parks, and urban areas. They are known for their intelligence and complex social behavior. Crows are often seen feeding in groups and are opportunistic feeders, consuming a wide variety of food, including carrion, insects, fruits, and even small animals.
Interesting Facts
- Crows are one of the most intelligent bird species, capable of problem-solving and tool use.
- They have a complex system of communication, with different calls and vocalizations for different purposes.
- Crows have been observed engaging in playful behavior, such as sliding down snow-covered roofs.
5. Blue Jay
Identification
The Blue Jay is a medium-sized bird with a crested head and a sturdy build. It has bright blue feathers on its upper body, a white face, and a black collar around its neck. Its wings and tail have black and white bars.
Habitat and Behavior
Blue Jays can be found throughout the eastern and central parts of the United States. They prefer habitats with large trees, such as forests, woodlands, and parks. Blue Jays are known for their noisy calls and mimicry skills, imitating the calls of other birds. They are also highly intelligent and have been observed caching food for later consumption.
Interesting Facts
- Blue Jays are known for their bold and aggressive behavior, often chasing away other birds from their territory.
- They have a varied diet, feeding on acorns, nuts, fruits, insects, and even small vertebrates.
- Blue Jays have been known to mimic the vocalizations of hawks as a form of protective deception.
Conclusion
Bird watching is a fascinating hobby that allows us to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of avian creatures. The Mourning Dove, Northern Cardinal, American Robin, American Crow, and Blue Jay are just a few of the many bird species that can be seen throughout the year in the United States. By understanding their identification, habitat, behavior, and interesting facts, we can enhance our bird watching experiences and develop a deeper appreciation for these common birds in our surroundings. So grab your binoculars, set up a bird feeder, and start exploring the world of bird watching today!
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