42 Birds You Can See in WINTER in North America (2024)

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What sorts of birds can you discover in winter in North America?

winter birds

As you head exterior this winter, maintain your eyes open for which birds are round. As you will note, some species migrate right here simply throughout winter, whereas others will be noticed throughout any season.


#1. American Robin

winter birds in north america

  • A fantastic thrush that contains a rusty crimson breast and a darkish head and again.
  • Search for a white throat and white splotches across the eyes.
  • Each sexes are comparable, besides that females seem paler.

American Robins are probably the most acquainted winter birds in North America!

In winter, American Robins kind nomadic flocks of as much as 1000’s of birds. Their winter vary relies on climate and meals provide, however they frequently stay of their vary year-round.

Within the spring, they break up up, and you will note people guarding territories upfront of nesting.

American Robin Vary Map

american robin range map

Regardless that they’re considerable, American Robins not often go to hen feeders as a result of they don’t eat seeds. As an alternative, their weight loss plan consists of invertebrates (worms, bugs, snails) and fruit.

These birds additionally generally nest close to individuals. Search for an open cup-shaped nest that has 3-5 lovely, distinctive sky-blue colour eggs.

american robin eggs and nest


#2. American Tree Sparrow

winter birds in north america

  • Each sexes are rusty coloured on their spherical head. Their face is grey with a brown streak by their eyes.
  • The physique is grey with reddish-brown, white, and black streaks.

You’ll typically see American Tree Sparrows in small flocks, hopping on the bottom, searching for seeds within the grass or weeds. They’re widespread winter birds in North America.

Within the winter, this species likes to go to yard feeders trying to find small seeds, like millet, which have fallen to the bottom. Millet is available in most birdseed mixes, and lots of birds don’t eat it. So American Tree Sparrows are good to have round as a result of they’ll assist clear up your feeding space.

American Tree Sparrow Vary Map

american tree sparrow range map

American Tree Sparrows eat quite a bit! In actual fact, they’ve to soak up 30% of their physique weight in meals and water every day. Sadly, which means going a day with out consuming is normally a loss of life sentence for them.

Their music is a collection of clear opening notes adopted by a variably trilled melody.


#3. Cooper’s Hawk

winter birds in north america

  • Bluish-gray upperparts with pale undersides with dense reddish barring.
  • Black cap and crimson eyes.
  • Comparatively small, strongly hooked invoice.

These massive raptors are widespread winter birds discovered all through North America within the woods or on the sting of fields. Cooper’s Hawks are recognized for his or her flying agility. I see them typically at my home in high-speed chases by means of the cover, going after their prey.

Cooper’s Hawk Vary Map

Cooper's Hawk Range Map

Due to their unbelievable flying talents, these hawks primarily eat songbirds and are widespread in backyards round hen feeders. At my feeding station, I’ve noticed these hawks preying on Purple-winged Blackbirds, European Starlings, and Mourning Doves.

Visually, a Cooper’s Hawk seems to be extremely much like the Sharp-shinned Hawk. The BEST solution to inform these hawks aside is to have a look at the dimensions distinction. Cooper’s are bigger than Sharp-shinneds. But when they’re airborne, good luck determining which one you might be observing!

Types of birds of prey in West Virginia


#4. White-breasted Nuthatch

winter birds in north america

  • Each sexes look virtually the identical.
  • Males have a black cap on the highest of their heads.
  • Females show a lighter, extra grey crown.

Search for White-breasted Nuthatches all through North America in deciduous forests year-round. They adapt nicely to the presence of people and are sometimes seen in parks, cemeteries, and wooded backyards.

These birds are particularly widespread to see in winter visiting hen feeders. To draw nuthatches, use sunflower seeds, peanuts, suet, safflower seeds, and mealworms.

White-breasted Nuthatch Vary Map

White-breasted Nuthatches are extremely vocal AND make distinctive noises which are comparatively simple to determine! You might be more than likely to listen to a “yank” name, which is given at any time of 12 months. This loud and distinctive noise is commonly repeated a number of instances in a row. (Press PLAY to hear under)


#5. Mourning Dove

winter birds in north america

  • A largely grayish dove with massive black spots on the wings and an extended, skinny tail.
  • Search for pinkish legs, a black invoice, and a particular blue eye ring.
  • Women and men look the identical.

Mourning Doves are probably the most widespread birds seen in winter in North America.

These birds love visiting hen feeders! To draw them, attempt placing out their favourite meals, which embody millet, shelled sunflower seeds, nyjer seeds, cracked corn, and safflower seeds.

They’re most comfy feeding on the bottom, so be certain to throw some meals there, too.

Mourning Dove Vary Map

mourning dove range map

It’s widespread to listen to Mourning Doves even in winter. Hear for a low “coo-ah, coo, coo, coo.In actual fact, this mournful sound is how the dove bought its identify! Many individuals generally mistake this sound for an owl. (Press PLAY above!)


#6. Black-capped Chickadee

winter birds in north america

  • Search for a black cap and bib, white cheeks, buffy underparts, and grey again and wings.
  • Spherical physique with a brief neck and huge head.
  • Brief, skinny invoice.

These little winter birds are probably the most beloved species in North America, and it’s simple to see why! Black-capped Chickadees are sometimes described as “cute,” They’re tiny, with an outsized head that contains a black cap and bib.

Naturally, search for them in open deciduous forests, thickets, and cottonwood groves. Additionally they adapt simply to the presence of individuals and are widespread to see in backyards and parks all through the winter.

Black-capped Chickadee Vary Map

black capped chickadee range map

In actual fact, when you arrange a brand new hen feeder, chickadees will doubtless be the primary birds to go to, as they’re inquisitive about something new of their territory. One of the best meals to make use of are sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet. Their small dimension and athletic potential imply these birds can use nearly any sort of feeder!

These feeders will be particularly useful to Chickadees within the winter. To outlive chilly nights, Chickadees achieve about 10% in physique weight every day.


#7. Tufted Titmouse

winter birds in north america

  • A grayish hen with white underparts, a peach wash on the edges, and a crest on prime of its head.
  • Search for a black brow and huge, darkish eyes.
  • Women and men look the identical.

These acrobatic winter birds are generally seen in japanese North America in deciduous forests, together with backyards and metropolis parks. Tufted Titmice are sometimes seen flitting from tree to tree, searching for meals whereas hanging from branches the other way up or sideways.

Vary Map – Tufted Titmouse

tufted titmouse range map

Tufted Titmice go to hen feeders frequently, particularly in winter.

They’re shyer than different birds, they usually sometimes fly in rapidly, seize a seed, after which fly elsewhere to eat in personal. One of the best meals to draw them are sunflower seeds, however in addition they readily eat peanuts, safflower seeds, and suet.

You might also hear them close to your home giving their candy whistled “peter-peter-peter” music. 


#8. European Starling

  • Their plumage is black and seems to be shiny.
  • Breeding adults are darker black and have a green-purple tint.
  • In winter, starlings lose their glossiness, their beaks turn out to be darker, they usually develop white spots over their our bodies.

European Starlings are extremely widespread winter birds in North America.

However do you know these birds are an invasive species? Again in 1890, 100 starlings had been introduced over from Europe and launched in New York Metropolis’s Central Park. The person accountable (Eugene Schieffelin) had a mission to introduce the entire birds talked about in Shakespeare’s performs in North America.

European Starling Vary Map

starling range map

The remaining is historical past as starlings simply conquered the continent, alongside the best way out-competing lots of our lovely native birds. Their potential to adapt to human improvement, eat virtually something, and survive winter climate is uncanny to just about no different species.


#9. Brown-headed Cowbird

Types of black birds

  • Males have utterly black our bodies with a brown head (therefore the identify). In poor mild, it may be laborious to inform that the top is definitely brown.
  • Females are a plain brown colour. There may be slight streaking on the stomach and a black eye.

These blackbirds are widespread winter birds in elements of North America. They’re naturally present in grasslands, brushy thickets, prairies, and woodland edges.

Nevertheless, Cowbirds have vastly expanded their vary because of human improvement, they usually have tailored nicely to residential areas, pastures, orchards, and cemeteries.

Brown-headed Cowbird Vary Map

brown headed cowbird range map

Brown-headed Cowbirds are thought-about “brood parasites.”

Cowbirds have a really fascinating approach of reproducing. As an alternative of spending vitality constructing nests and elevating their younger, they let different birds do it for them! Females deposit their eggs INSIDE the nests of different species, which implies the “chosen” hen does all of the laborious work.

Types of black birds

#10. Downy Woodpecker

  • White under, white again, and black wings with white markings.
  • Black and white striped heads that characteristic a crimson nape in males.
  • Small woodpeckers with brief payments.

Downy Woodpeckers are widespread winter birds in North America!

You most likely acknowledge them, as they’re seen in lots of yards visiting hen feeders.

This woodpecker species is straightforward to draw. One of the best meals to make use of are suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts (together with peanut butter).

Downy Woodpecker Vary Map

As soon as you understand what to hear for, my guess is that you’ll begin listening to Downy Woodpeckers in every single place you go. Their calls resemble a high-pitched whinnying sound that descends in pitch in the direction of the top.


#11. Pine Siskin

  • Brown our bodies with heavy streaking and yellow edging on wings and tail.
  • Slim, sharp-pointed invoice.

Pine Siskins are winter birds sometimes present in blended evergreen or deciduous forests, however they are going to transfer to a brand new place searching for meals, like weedy fields, backyards, or gardens.

These energetic birds will be seen visiting hen feeders throughout the winter. They like to eat smaller seeds with out robust shells, akin to sunflower or Nyjer seeds.

Pine Siskin Vary Map

pine siskin range key

These small birds are very social and seek for meals in flocks whereas chirping nonstop to one another. They don’t even cease chattering when flying! 


#12. Darkish-eyed Junco

  • Clean greyish-black feathers.
  • White outer tail feathers that flash open, particularly in flight.
  • Rounded head and pink invoice.

Darkish-eyed Juncos are probably the most widespread winter birds in North America. To simply determine Darkish-eyed Juncos, search for a white flash from their tail feathers as they fly away.

Darkish-eyed Juncos have earned the nickname “Snowbirds” or “Winter birds” as a result of they solely seem in winter in lots of elements of their vary.

Darkish-eyed Junco Vary Map

dark eyed junco range map

Males sing a two-second loud, trilling music that may carry lots of of toes away. As well as, each sexes additionally sing softer songs which are a combination of warbles, trills, and whistles.


#13. Mallard

  • Males have a shiny inexperienced head, skinny white collar, darkish reddish-brown chest, yellow invoice, and a black rump with a white-tipped tail.
  • Females are mottled brown with orange and brown payments.

My guess is that just about everyone seems to be aware of the Mallard. These geese are probably the most widespread water birds you will note in winter all through North America!

In contrast to many forms of geese that migrate, Mallards sometimes keep of their vary year-round.

Mallard Vary Map

mallard duck range map

They’re extraordinarily comfy round individuals, which is why these adaptable geese are so widespread.

Mallards are present in just about any wetland habitat, regardless of the place it’s situated. We even discover these water birds in our swimming pool each summer time and should chase them away so that they don’t make a large number on our deck! 🙂

Whenever you consider a duck quacking, it’s virtually inevitably a feminine Mallard. If there’s a higher duck sound, we haven’t heard it! Apparently, males don’t quack like females however as a substitute make a raspy name.


#14. Canada Goose

  • Giant goose with an extended black neck and a distinctive white cheek patch.
  • Brown physique with a pale white chest and underparts.
  • Black toes and legs.

Canada Geese are widespread winter birds in North America.

I’m certain you most likely acknowledge them, as they’re very comfy dwelling round individuals and human improvement. Search for them wherever there are grasses or grains to eat, akin to lawns, parks, farm fields, and golf programs.

Canada Goose Vary Map

canada goose range map

Many Canada Geese are actually non-migratory. These non-migratory winter birds are the descendants of non-migratory geese launched to U.S. wildlife refuges by the lots of within the early 1900s.

Hear for all kinds of loud honks and cackles. They’ve even hissed at me for by accident approaching a nest too carefully.


#15. American Crow

american crow

  • A big hen that’s fully black with an iridescent sheen.
  • Lengthy black invoice, black legs, and black toes.

American Crows are adaptable winter birds that may be present in virtually each habitat in North America. The locations they inhabit embody woodlands, fields, rivers, marshes, farms, parks, landfills, golf programs, cemeteries, and neighborhoods.

American Crow Vary Map

american crow range map

American Crows are one of many smartest birds round.

For instance, they will use instruments, remedy issues, and acknowledge human faces. Evidently crows even do issues only for enjoyable! Critically, in the event you search the web, it’s simple to search out movies of them utilizing spherical objects to sled down roofs.

American Crows have a big vocabulary. Hear for any variety of caws, rattles, cackles, and clicks. The commonest sound is a “caw-caw.” (Hear under)


#16. Frequent Grackle

common grackle

  • Lanky, massive blackbirds which have an extended tail and lengthy invoice that curves barely downward.
  • Males are black general however have an iridescent blue head and bronze physique when seen in the best mild.
  • Females look comparable, besides they’re barely much less shiny than males.

Frequent Grackles are probably the most resourceful winter birds you’ll find in North America.

Their favourite meals are grains, akin to corn and rice, and they’re recognized to collect in monumental flocks in farm fields rising these crops. As well as, in addition they eat all kinds of seeds, acorns, fruits, bugs, spiders, frogs, fish, mice, different birds, and even rubbish!

Frequent Grackle Vary Map

common grackle range map

These massive, aggressive birds can turn out to be a nuisance once they arrive in massive flocks as they scare away smaller songbirds. Sadly, because of their athletic potential and willingness to eat most meals, they’re one of many more durable creatures to stop at yard feeding stations.

They are often particularly troublesome in winter once they collect in flocks with different blackbirds that generally quantity within the hundreds of thousands!


#17. American Goldfinch

  • In summer time, the males placed on shiny yellow plumage with black foreheads and black wings with white bars.
  • Summer season females are duller yellow beneath and olive above.
  • Winter birds are drab, unstreaked brown with blackish wings.

You most likely acknowledge these birds of their colourful summertime plumage, however goldfinches are widespread winter birds in North America, too. In winter, they placed on drab plumage that makes them more durable to identify.

And the most effective information is that American Goldfinches are comparatively simple to draw to your yard. They love feeding on sunflower seeds and Nyjer seeds.

Vary Map – American Goldfinch

american goldfinch range map

American Goldfinches are strict vegetarians. Their weight loss plan is solely manufactured from seeds with no bugs, which is uncommon within the hen world.

To determine them by sound, hear for a reasonably collection of musical trills and warbles.


#18. Home Sparrow

  • Chunky birds with spherical heads and stout payments.
  • Males have grey crowns, black bibs, white cheeks, chestnut necks, and chestnut backs with black strips.
  • Females are plain buffy brown with noticeable black, brown, and buff strips on their backs.

Home Sparrows are an invasive species that originated from the Center East. However now, they’re probably the most widespread winter birds in North America (and the world)!

Vary Map – Home Sparrow

house sparrow range map

Home Sparrows owe their year-round success to their potential to adapt and dwell close to people. Due to this, they’re virtually all the time present in city and suburban areas.

Home Sparrows will be heard throughout your complete planet. Listen the following time you’re watching the information abroad. Hear for a easy music that features plenty of “cheep” notes.


#19. White-crowned Sparrow

White-crowned Sparrow pic

  • Giant grayish hen with an extended tail and sometimes peaked head.
  • Daring black and white stripes on the top.
  • Small, orange to yellow or pinkish invoice.

The habitat of those winter birds modifications with the season.

Throughout the breeding season, White-crowned Sparrows are present in shrubbery habitats with open grassy areas. In winter, they like weedy fields, thickets, and backyards.

White-crowned Sparrow Vary Map

white crowned sparrow range map

If you wish to appeal to these birds to your feeding station in winter, use sunflower seeds. Simply be certain the meals is positioned on the bottom, as they gained’t fly as much as feeders. And having a brush pile will entice them to remain by giving them locations to cover and really feel protected.

White-crowned Sparrows are recognized for his or her lengthy migration journeys. This sparrow has been recognized to journey over 300 miles (483 km) in a single evening!

Males primarily sing, however every so often, so will females. Their music lasts just a few seconds. Hear under:


#20. White-throated Sparrow

  • Zonotrichia albicollisWhite-throated Sparrow
  • Plump physique with an extended tail and a reasonably small invoice.
  • Daring black and white stripes on the top and shiny yellow patches between the attention and invoice.
  • Grey face and breast with a neat white throat patch.

Search for these birds in winter in North America alongside the sting of forests. They get pleasure from scratching on the floor underneath leaves or choosing leaves up and transferring them out of the best way with their invoice.

White-throated Sparrow Vary Map

white throated sparrow range map

White-throated Sparrows readily go to hen feeders. You’ll be able to appeal to them by providing sunflower seeds or millet and ensuring a number of the meals finally ends up on the bottom, as they gained’t fly as much as feeders. And having a spot for them to cover and discover shelter will entice them to remain.

White-throated Sparrows sing a high-pitched whistle that’s simple to study. Simply hear for “Oh-sweet-Canada-Canada.


#21. Purple-breasted Nuthatch

  • Sitta canadensisRed-breasted Nuthatch Male and Female
  • Compact birds with very brief tails, virtually no necks, and sharp payments.
  • Males are blue-gray above and rusty under with black caps, white eyebrows, and black eyelines.
  • Females have grayer caps and pale, rusty underparts.

Purple-breasted Nuthatches are energetic winter songbirds in North America which have lovely coloring. Search for compact birds with virtually no neck and a brief tail.

These small birds breed in northern North America, the western mountains, and the higher northeast. However throughout winter, they will actually present up virtually anyplace.

These birds journey the place wanted to ensure they’ve sufficient meals. In some years, they’ve been seen as far south because the Gulf of Mexico and Northern Mexico!

Purple-breasted Nuthatch Vary Map

Purple-breasted Nuthatches are largely present in coniferous forests. Their most well-liked habitat contrasts sharply with White-breasted Nuthatches, preferring dwelling in deciduous forests.


#22. Home Finch

  • Males characteristic rosy crimson breasts and heads with streaky brown backs, bellies, and tails.
  • Females are brown general with blurry streaks down their bellies.
  • Conical payments and notched tails.

It’s widespread to see these birds in winter in areas with plenty of individuals. Search for Home Finches round buildings, backyards, parks, and different city and suburban areas.

Their authentic vary is within the western United States, however they had been launched in New York Metropolis within the Nineteen Forties after a failed try at promoting them as pets. Since then, they’ve unfold by means of a lot of North America.

Home Finch Vary Map

house finch range map

Home Finches are sometimes the primary birds to find new hen feeders. These birds are intensely curious and barely journey alone, so their arrival typically helps different birds discover your feeders, too! I see them consuming sunflower seeds and safflower seeds essentially the most in my yard.


#23. Bufflehead

bufflehead male female

  • Small geese with massive heads.
  • Males have white chests and flanks and a big white patch on their heads. Darkish again. Iridescent purple-green plumage on their face.
  • Females are largely brownish with a darker head. Search for the distinctive white cheek patch.

It’s laborious to misidentify these putting birds in winter. They breed within the far north however spend their winters in southern North America.

They spend as much as half their time foraging underwater, searching for aquatic invertebrates and crustaceans, which they eat whereas nonetheless submerged. After they dive, be affected person and maintain scanning the world for these small birds to resurface.

Bufflehead Vary Map

bufflehead range map

Total, Buffleheads are extra silent than different geese. In late winter to early spring, it’s potential to listen to the males make a squeaky whistle.


#24. Northern Cardinal

  • Males are a shocking crimson with a black masks and throat.
  • Females are pale orangish-brown with crimson on their crest, wings, and tail.
  • Each sexes have a crest on their head and a brief, thick invoice that’s good for cracking seeds.

Indubitably, the Northern Cardinal is without doubt one of the most well-known winter birds in japanese North America. Their colourful plumage makes them a preferred hen for winter panorama pictures and work.

Northern Cardinal Vary Map

northern cardinal range map

These brightly-colored birds will typically keep in an space year-round so long as they’ve sufficient meals and shelter. Feeders and areas of thick shrubs or brush can encourage them to remain in your yard by means of the winter.

Normally, you will note Cardinals in pairs, even within the winter. Pairs sometimes mate for all times and can stay collectively year-round.

The commonest music you’ll most likely hear is a collection of clear whistled melodies that sound just like the hen is saying “birdie-birdie-birdie” or “cheer-cheer-cheer.” (Hear under!)


#25. Purple Finch

purple finch male and female

  • Small, with a conical seed-eating invoice.
  • Males have a raspberry crimson head, breast, and again.
  • Females have distinguished streaks of white and brown under, with sturdy facial markings, together with a whitish eyebrow and a darkish line down the aspect of the throat.

Purple Finches are probably the most lovely winter birds in North America. Males are described as wanting like they had been dipped in raspberry juice.

Purple Finches use their huge beaks and tongues to crush seeds and extract the nut. That is excellent news as a result of they’ll additionally go to hen feeders! Your greatest likelihood to draw them is utilizing black-oil sunflower seeds. Having conifer bushes in your yard can also be a good way to encourage these finches to go to.

Purple Finch Vary Map

purple finch range map

These birds will be difficult to determine as a result of they appear extremely much like the extra widespread Home Finch. I’ve made this error many instances, believing that I noticed a Purple Finch when it was, the truth is, simply one other Home Finch.

To inform them aside, take a look at their again. The Purple Finch’s again has crimson coloring, whereas the again of a Home Finch has none.


#26. Eurasian Collared-Dove

  • A largely sandy grey hen with an extended, square-tipped tail.
  • Because the identify suggests, search for a black collar on the again of the neck.

Apparently, these winter birds are invasive to North America.

Sadly, someone launched Eurasian Collared-Doves to the Bahamas within the Seventies, and since then, they’ve quickly unfold. In actual fact, their inhabitants continues to be spreading!

Eurasian Collared-Dove Vary Map

Eurasian collared dove range map

One of many causes these birds colonized right here so rapidly is because of their consolation degree with people. They’ve thrived being round hen feeders and in city and suburban areas. It’s widespread to see them on the bottom or platform feeders consuming grains and seeds.

How do you inform them other than Mourning Doves?

At first look, Eurasian Collared-Doves look similar to Mourning Doves. Right here’s how you can inform them aside:

  • Mourning Doves are smaller and have black dots on their wings.
  • Eurasian Collared-Doves are bigger and have a black crescent round their neck.

#27. Blue Jay

  • Backs are lined in lovely blue feathers with black bars all through.
  • Their head is surrounded by a black necklace that has a blue crest on prime.
  • Women and men look the identical.

Blue Jays are recognized for his or her excessive intelligence.

Some individuals dislike Blue Jays, however I like their daring personalities. They’re fascinating to look at, to not point out their plumage is beautiful.

Blue Jay Vary Map

blue jay range map

These birds are additionally glorious mimics and steadily imitate hawks. They’re so good it’s laborious to inform the distinction between which hen is current. It’s thought that jays do that to deceive different birds into believing a hawk is current. Not a nasty plan if you wish to get a hen feeder all to your self!

Blue Jays are one of many noisier birds you’ll hear in winter in North America.

The commonest vocalization that I hear is their alarm name, which sounds prefer it’s saying “jeer.”


#28. Night Grosbeak

  • Coccothraustes vespertinus

Evening Grosbeak male and female

  • Each sexes have a big, thick, conical beak and are the dimensions of an American Robin.
  • Males are yellow and black with a distinguished white patch within the wings and a shiny yellow stripe over the attention.
  • Females are largely grey with white and black wings and a greenish-yellow tinge on the neck and their sides.

Night Grosbeaks are a colourful winter hen yow will discover in North America.

Throughout summer time, they’re discovered within the northern coniferous forests. However in winter, they are often discovered just about anyplace as they seek for meals.

Night Grosbeaks are recognized for his or her massive and robust invoice. They use these payments to crack open massive seeds that different birds are unable to open.

Night Grosbeak Vary Map

evening grosbeak range map

In actual fact, these finches will present up at feeders far south of their regular winter vary, which supplies a deal with for yard birders. You’ll be able to appeal to them with sunflower seeds positioned onto a big platform feeder, which supplies these birds ample room to land and eat.


#29. Purple-bellied Woodpecker

red bellied woodpecker

  • Placing black and white barred backs and pale bellies.
  • Males have crimson crowns and napes.
  • Females have crimson napes however lack the crimson crown.

These woodpeckers are a standard sight at feeders in North America, particularly throughout winter.

I see Purple-bellied Woodpeckers virtually each day in my yard. They love consuming peanuts, sunflower seeds, and suet (particularly standard throughout the winter months).

Purple-bellied Woodpecker Vary Map

red-bellied-woodpecker-range-map

Press PLAY under to listen to a Purple-bellied Woodpecker! One other nice solution to discover this woodpecker is to study its calls! It’s fairly widespread to listen to them in forests and wooded suburbs and parks. Hear for a rolling “churr-churr-churr.”


#30. Purple-shouldered Hawk

  • Adults have reddish-brown shoulders and underparts.
  • Tail and flight feathers are banded black and white.

Purple-shouldered Hawks are generally seen in North America in winter round hen feeders looking for squirrels.

These raptors are primarily forest dwellers. They’re widespread in suburban areas the place homes have been blended into woodlands.

Purple-shouldered Hawk Vary Map

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These hawks primarily eat small mammals however will feast on snakes, lizards, and amphibians when obtainable. When searching, these raptors drop onto their prey immediately from overhead, making their searching type distinctive.

You’ll be able to see this habits under, as a Purple-shouldered Hawk tries to catch a squirrel in my yard! Don’t fear; the hawk is unsuccessful.


#31. Frequent Redpoll

Common Redpoll male and female

  • Each sexes are small, white, and brown. Search for streaks on their sides and a small crimson patch on their brow.
  • Males differ from females and have a pale crimson vest on the chest and higher flanks.

Redpolls are solely seen in southern North America throughout winter. Throughout the breeding season, they’re discovered within the boreal forests of northern North America.

Redpolls journey in flocks of as much as a number of hundred birds. They transfer very quick, gathering seeds in weedy fields or small bushes one minute and swirling away in a mass of chattering birds the following.

Frequent Redpoll Vary Map

common redpoll range map

Hear under to the Redpoll music, which is a mix of single or repeated calls (“chit-chit-chit-chit”). Their name notes are a whistle that feels like “swee-ee-eet.”


#32. Snow Goose

snow goose

  • Most Snow Geese are all white with black tail feathers. However some people show a “blue morph,” whose heads are nonetheless white however our bodies are sooty grey.
  • Pink legs.
  • Pink invoice, which has a black patch on all sides.

Snow Geese spend their time within the continent’s northernmost areas throughout the breeding season, away from human civilization. Nevertheless, they’re considerable birds in elements of North America as a result of they migrate south for winter.

Snow Goose Vary Map

snow goose range map

Search for Snow Geese in winter in massive fields and our bodies of water. If they’re round, it’s normally not laborious to search out them, as they’re virtually all the time seen in large flocks accompanied by quite a lot of honking!

In actual fact, probably the most spectacular issues you’ll watch right this moment is the video under, which reveals an ENORMOUS flock of Snow Geese. It’s laborious to fathom what number of birds are touring collectively!


#33. Tundra Swan

tundra swan

  • White our bodies and really lengthy necks.
  • Black legs and invoice.
  • Small yellow spots in entrance of the eyes.

Throughout summer time, you’ll not see Tundra Swans close to individuals, as they spend the breeding season within the distant Arctic.

Search for them in southern North America in winter and through migration, the place they’re guests to massive our bodies of water. Additionally they go to farm fields in massive flocks, searching for meals.

Tundra Swan Vary Map

Tundra Swan Range Map
Cephas, CC BY-SA 4.0, by way of Wikimedia Commons

Tundra Swans kind long-term, devoted relationships. Usually, by the point they’re 2 or 3, they’ve discovered a companion. As soon as that occurs, these two birds will breed, feed, roost, and journey collectively year-round.


#34. Carolina Wren

  • Reddish-brown upperparts and buff underparts with white throats and eyebrows.
  • Lengthy, skinny payments and lengthy, upward-cocked tails.
  • Darkish barring on flight and tail feathers.

Carolina Wrens are most frequently seen in North America in winter. Regardless that they’re widespread, because of their secretive nature, they are often laborious to see when there’s foliage. Search for them in shrubby and bushy areas that present plenty of hiding locations.

In winter, these little birds love to make use of nest packing containers and different cavities for shelter. Including just a few to your property can encourage these birds to spend time close to your home.

Carolina Wren Vary Map

One of many BEST methods to look at Carolina Wrens is by attracting them to your feeders, particularly throughout the colder winter months. Carolina Wrens not often go to hen feeders throughout the summer time since loads of bugs are round for them to eat.

Carolina Wrens are sometimes heard earlier than being seen! Their music, which is barely sung by males, is normally three-parted and feels like they’re saying “tea-kettle tea-kettle tea-kettle.“


#35. Snowy Owl

Snowy Owl Male and Female

  • Grownup males vary from pure white to white with just a few darkish spots.
  • Grownup females are white with darker barring besides on their faces.
  • Vibrant yellow eyes.

Snowy Owls are arguably essentially the most spectacular winter birds you will note in North America.

Their white plumage stops virtually everybody of their tracks, each birders and non-birders alike! Though they’re largely white, females have horizontal darkish traces over most of their our bodies. Apparently, much like people, male Snowy Owls appear to get whiter with age. 🙂

Snowy Owl Vary Map

snowy owl range map

Snowy Owls migrate with the altering seasons. Throughout summer time, they mate and breed in northern North America on the tundra. However when winter arrives, these birds come south.

You by no means understand how far south Snowy Owls will journey. Most years, Snowy Owls solely seem as far down because the northern USA. However some years, there’s an “irruption” of Snowy Owls, and lots of extra birds than regular migrate south.


#36. Black-billed Magpie

  • Jay-like with lengthy tails and heavy payments.
  • Seems black with white wingtips, shoulders, and stomach.
  • Black feathers flash iridescent blue-green in the best mild.

It’s laborious to overlook these shiny birds in winter!

Black-billed Magpies demand your consideration. They’re very social, noisy, and cozy dwelling amongst individuals and are generally seen in smaller cities. Naturally, they dwell in open grasslands and plains and have a tendency to keep away from dense forests.

And in the best mild, you may see lovely blue iridescent feathers on the wings and tail.

Black-billed Magpie Vary Map

These colourful winter birds are extremely vocal. They typically give harsh calls or a raspy, chattering music that sounds a bit like “wock, wock wock-a-wock, wock, pjur, weer, weer.” See one chattering under.


#37. Steller’s Jay

steller's jay pic

  • It’s a bigger hen with a black head, rounded wings, and an extended tail. A tall black crest on the crown of the top helps determine them.
  • Each sexes are half black and half blue on their wings, bellies, and tails.

You will see the Steller’s Jay in evergreen forests in western North America. These daring birds, that are half blue, typically go to parks, campgrounds, and picnic areas.

On account of their daring black and blue coloration, they’re simple to identify in winter in North America.

Steller’s Jay Vary Map

stellers jay range map

This jay may be very clever, daring, and noisy. You’ll be able to appeal to this species to your yard feeders by offering peanuts or bigger seeds and suet.

The Steller’s Jays are sometimes nest robbers. They’ve even been recognized to assault or kill small grownup birds like nuthatches or juncos.


#38. Larger White-fronted Goose

greater white fronted goose

  • These geese are brownish with black spots on the stomach, white vents, white face patches, and white aspect strips.
  • Pinkish-orange invoice and orange legs.
  • In flight, a white “U” is seen on the base of the tail.

Larger White-fronted Geese are solely seen in southern North America in winter as they migrate south after breeding within the Arctic tundra. Search for these massive geese in massive flocks in wetlands, lakes, and farm fields.

Larger White-fronted Goose Vary Map

greater white fronted goose range map

Larger White-fronted Geese have INCREDIBLY sturdy household bonds. Mated pairs migrate with one another and keep collectively for a few years. Their offspring even stick round for longer than most different species, and it’s commonplace to see the younger with their mother and father by means of the following breeding season.


#39. Mountain Chickadee

  • Tiny with spherical stomach, massive head, and lengthy slim tail.
  • Grayish general with white cheeks, white eyebrows, and a black cap and throat.

Because the identify suggests, if you wish to discover one in all these birds in winter in North America, you will want to move to the mountains! Mountain Chickadees’ distinctive white eyebrows make them pretty simple to separate from different chickadees.

Mountain Chickadee Vary Map

mountain chickadee range map

Like different chickadee species, these birds are agile and curious. They’re most frequently seen flitting from tree to tree in coniferous forests, trying to find bugs, spiders, seeds, and nuts.

Their music is as cute as they’re. Just like different chickadees, they typically give a candy, whistled “fee-bee.” Hear under.


#40. Pine Grosbeaokay

Pine Grosbeak male and female

  • Giant, plump finches. Search for darkish grey wings with two white traces throughout the center.
  • Males are reddish pink and grey in colour.
  • Females and younger males are grayish with tints of reddish-orange or yellow on the top and rump.

Depend your self fortunate in the event you see a Pine Grosbeak! These birds should not sometimes seen round individuals.

Pine Grosbeaks will go to hen feeders, particularly throughout the winter. If you wish to appeal to them, attempt utilizing a hopper or platform feeder due to the hen’s bigger dimension. Fill the feeders with sunflower seeds.

If one lands in your feeders, they’re sometimes simple to determine since they are going to be larger than virtually all the opposite birds.

Pine Grossbeak Vary Map

pine grosbeak range map

Pine Grosbeaks are comparatively simple to search out and see because of their slow-moving (some individuals name sluggish) habits. As well as, they’re comparatively tame and never scared away simply.


#41. Anna’s Hummingbird

anna's hummingbird

  • Males are metallic inexperienced with iridescent pink feathers on the crown and throat and white eye-rings.
  • Females are metallic inexperienced above with some pinkish feathers on the throat.

Anna’s Hummingbirds are completely different from most hummers since they don’t migrate a lot, if in any respect. They’re present in western North America from summer time to winter.

These tiny birds are not any bigger than a ping-pong ball and weigh about the identical as a nickel.

Within the final 100 years, Anna’s Hummingbirds have expanded their vary with the planting of unique flowering bushes and shrubs.

Anna’s Hummingbird Range Map


#42. Hoary Redpoll

Hoary Redpoll male and female

  • Search for small crimson patches on the brow.
  • Males have a reddish-pink chest.
  • Females lack the reddish-pink chest.

The Hoary Redpoll breeds within the arctic tundra and may dwell and survive in freezing winter climate. Most individuals by no means see these finches as a result of not a lot civilization exists within the locations they dwell.

Hoary Redpoll Vary Map

hoary redpoll range map

These finches are uncommon guests to hen feeders since they spend summers up north. Nevertheless, Hoary Redpolls come south when the climate turns chilly, and meals availability is scarce. For those who’re extraordinarily fortunate, chances are you’ll spot one visiting your yard consuming Nyjer seeds or black-oil sunflower seeds.


Try these different guides to animals in North America!


Which of those winter birds have you ever seen earlier than in North America?

Go away a remark under!

Some vary maps under had been generously shared with permission from The Birds of The World, printed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

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