Backyard Birds of Pennsylvania: Identify, Attract & Enjoy 50+ Species (2024)

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Your Pennsylvania backyard hosts a delightful array of feathered friends!

From the vibrant Northern Cardinal’s whistle to the raucous calls of Blue Jays, you’ll be serenaded by nature’s symphony.

Keep an eye out for American Robins hopping across your lawn, Mourning Doves cooing softly, and American Crows acting as nature’s cleanup crew.

Identify birds by size, shape, color patterns, behavior, and habitats.

Attract more avian visitors with bird feeders, water features, native plants, and shelter.

Summer brings colorful songbirds, while winter ushers in juncos and woodpeckers.

And you might even spot majestic raptors soaring overhead – a hint of the fascinating world of backyard birds awaiting exploration.

Common Backyard Birds

In your Pennsylvania backyard, a feathered symphony awaits! From the vibrant Northern Cardinal‘s whistle to the Blue Jay’s raucous calls, these common birds bring life to your outdoor space.

Watch as American Robins hop across your lawn, searching for worms, while Mourning Doves coo softly from nearby trees. American Crows, nature’s cleanup crew, may join the party too.

In winter, enjoy the antics of Dark-eyed Juncos and White-throated Sparrows at your bird feeders. Come summer, listen for the cheery songs of Gray Catbirds and Chipping Sparrows.

Year-round residents like the energetic Downy Woodpecker and curious Tufted Titmouse will keep you company through all seasons.

With a little effort, your backyard can become a haven for these feathered friends, transforming bird watching into a daily adventure.

Bird Identification Tips

To accurately identify backyard birds in Pennsylvania, focus on key visual cues such as size, shape (including tail, bill, wing, and body), and color patterns (primary, secondary, and distinctive markings).

Additionally, observe their behavior (foraging on the ground or in trees, flocking habits, and feeding preferences) and the habitats they frequent (woodlands, parks, grasslands, or wetlands) to further refine your identification skills.

Size and Shape

Now that you’ve identified your common backyard visitors, it’s time to refine your bird identification skills. Start with size and shape, essential aspects that help distinguish Pennsylvania’s diverse bird species. Observe:

• Wingspan: From the tiny Ruby-throated Hummingbird to the majestic Bald Eagle.
• Beak length and shape: Think of a Downy Woodpecker’s chisel-like bill versus a Northern Cardinal’s seed-cracking beak.
• Body length: Compare a petite Chickadee to a stately Great Blue Heron.
• Tail shape: Notice the forked tail of Barn Swallows or the fan-like spread of Wild Turkeys.

Color Patterns

After noting size and shape, focus on a bird’s color patterns. Many species have distinctive plumage that aids in identification.

Look for primary colors, like a Northern Cardinal’s vibrant red, and secondary hues, such as the subtle gray on a Mourning Dove’s wings. Pay attention to unique markings, like the Cedar Waxwing’s black mask and yellow-tipped tail.

Behavior and Habitat

Observe bird behavior and habitat to sharpen your identification skills. Watch for nesting sites in tree cavities or birdhouses, and note migration patterns that bring seasonal visitors. Listen for distinctive vocalizations like the Northern Cardinal’s "cheer-cheer-cheer." Study foraging behaviors:

1. Ground feeders like robins hunt worms
2. Finches cling to feeders for seeds
3. Woodpeckers drill into bark for insects

Attracting Birds to Yards

To attract a diverse range of birds to your backyard in Pennsylvania, provide essential resources:

Bird feeders with varied seed types, water features for drinking and bathing, native plants for food and shelter, and areas of long grass or brush piles for cover.

These elements create a welcoming habitat that supports the needs of common backyard birds such as Northern Cardinals, Blue Jays, and American Robins, as well as seasonal visitors like Gray Catbirds in summer and Dark-eyed Juncos in winter.

Bird Feeders

After mastering bird identification, your next step is setting up bird feeders. Different feeder types cater to various species:

Feeder Type	Seed Preference	Best For
Tube Feeder	Black-oil sunflower	Finches, Chickadees
Platform Feeder	Mixed seeds	Cardinals, Jays
Nyjer Feeder	Thistle seeds	Goldfinches

Place feeders near cover but away from predators. Clean regularly to prevent disease spread. To deter pests, use squirrel-proof feeders or spicy seed blends.

Water Features

Just like your bird feeders, a water feature can be a magnet for feathered friends. Think of it as a birdy oasis!

Keep the water depth shallow, flow gentle, and temperature cool. Clear, accessible water is key—birds need to see and reach it easily.

A simple birdbath or small fountain can turn your yard into the neighborhood’s coolest hangout for everything from robins to warblers.

Native Plants

Transform your backyard into a bird paradise by planting native species. Pennsylvania’s vibrant cardinal flowers, fragrant mountain mint, and cheerful black-eyed susans beautify your landscape and provide nourishment for our feathered friends.

Shelter and Cover

After planting native species, don’t forget to provide shelter.

Birds need nesting structures, dense shrubs, and natural cavities for protection and raising their young.

Leave brush piles for small birds to hide from predators, and maintain patches of tall grasses for cover and seeds.

These simple steps create a haven where your feathered friends feel safe, fostering a sense of belonging in your backyard bird community.

Seasonal Bird Visitors

As the seasons change in Pennsylvania, so does the composition of your backyard bird community.

Some species arrive for summer breeding, others escape colder northern climates in winter, and a resilient group calls your yard home year-round.

Understanding these seasonal patterns can enhance your birdwatching experience and help you tailor your backyard to attract and support a diverse array of avian visitors throughout the year.

Summer Birds

As summer warmth embraces Pennsylvania, you’ll welcome a vibrant array of feathered friends.

American Robins hop across your lawn, searching for juicy worms.

Gray Catbirds serenade you with their playful mimicry.

Common Grackles and Red-winged Blackbirds gather at feeders, their iridescent plumage shimmering.

Chipping Sparrows build cozy nests in your shrubs, their simple trills a soundtrack to lazy afternoons.

These summer visitors thrive on insects, seeds, and the safe havens you provide.

Winter Birds

As winter arrives, you’ll notice a new cast of feathered visitors frequenting your backyard. Dark-eyed Juncos, White-throated Sparrows, and Downy Woodpeckers are common sights at winter feeders. Learn to identify these hardy winter residents by their distinctive plumage and behaviors. Winter birding offers a chance to appreciate the amazing adaptations that allow these avian athletes to survive Pennsylvania’s chilly months.

Year-round Residents

You’ll find a diverse group of year-round residents in Pennsylvania’s backyards. These hardy birds have adapted to:

• Thrive in various habitats
• Exploit different food sources
• Nest and breed locally

From vibrant cardinals to industrious woodpeckers, they bring constant splashes of color and life to your surroundings. Appreciating their resilience and uniqueness deepens your connection to nature.

Birds of Prey

Pennsylvania is home to several species of birds of prey.

You may spot turkey vultures and black vultures soaring overhead or perched in trees.

Hawks like the northern harrier can be seen hunting over fields.

Majestic golden eagles and our national symbol, the bald eagle, are also found in the state, particularly in rural and mountainous areas.

Though not as commonly seen as smaller backyard birds, these birds of prey are present in Pennsylvania.

Turkey Vulture

You’re sure to spot the unmistakable Turkey Vulture soaring overhead with its impressive six-foot wingspan and distinctive red, featherless head. Often mistaken for hawks, these scavengers use their keen eyesight and sense of smell to locate carrion. Observe their rocking flight pattern and listen for their grunting calls while hiking Pennsylvania’s woodlands and fields.

Black Vulture

You’ll often spot the black vulture soaring on thermals with its wings held in a slight V-shape. These scavengers:

• Thrive across the eastern US, Mexico, and into South America
• Nest in dark areas like caves, hollow trees, and abandoned buildings
• Primarily eat carrion but will prey on eggs, newborn animals, and garbage

Their keen sense of smell helps them locate decaying meat from miles away. Watching their effortless glides is a treat for backyard birders.

Northern Harrier

You’ve likely spotted the Northern Harrier‘s distinctive V-shaped silhouette gliding low over fields and marshes.

This slender hawk relies on keen vision and hearing to locate small mammal prey.

Watch for the female’s larger size and brownish plumage as she quarters, flying back and forth hunting.

Males are gray above with black wingtips.

Listen for their rasping calls during breeding season when they construct nests on the ground.

Golden Eagle

Golden Eagles are magnificent raptors frequenting Pennsylvania primarily during migration (Source). Their habitat varies from shrublands to coniferous forests (Source). Golden Eagles thrive in open areas where they hunt small mammals like jackrabbits and cottontails . For their conservation:

1. Manage livestock grazing to preserve prey habitats .
2. Guarantee minimal habitat destruction.
3. Avoid pesticide use (Source).

Bald Eagle

You’ll be fortunate to spot the majestic bald eagle, a symbol of American pride. These powerful raptors hunt near lakes and rivers, diving for fish or scouring shorelines for carrion. Witness their impressive wingspans and distinctive white heads as they soar gracefully overhead.

Wingspan	6-8 feet
Height	28-40 inches
Weight	6-14 pounds
Lifespan	20-30 years
Conservation Status	Least Concern

Owls in Pennsylvania

Owls are fascinating raptors that can be spotted in Pennsylvania’s backyards and natural areas. The state is home to species like the iconic Barn Owl, the diminutive Eastern Screech-Owl, the powerful Great Horned Owl, the striking Snowy Owl (a winter visitor), and the distinctive Barred Owl with its distinctive "Who cooks for you?" call.

Barn Owl

The Barn Owl, a ghostly avian presence, captivates with its eerie:

1. Screech echoing through the night
2. Facial disk enhancing nighttime hearing
3. Silent wingbeats hunting rodents
4. Nest sites in abandoned structures

This nocturnal raptor thrives in open habitats, effortlessly traversing the darkness. Embrace its enchanting mystery as it soars through your rural Pennsylvania backyard.

Eastern Screech-Owl

As the name suggests, the Eastern Screech-Owl is a vocal bird often heard in wooded suburbs and parks.

These pint-sized raptors nest in tree cavities or nest boxes, feeding on small mammals, birds, and insects.

Learn their distinctive whinnying call to spot them camouflaged on tree branches by day.

Preserving dead trees and installing nest boxes helps boost their backyard presence.

Great Horned Owl

The great horned owl‘s large size and distinctive ear tufts make it an imposing sight. Favoring woodlands and suburban areas, these raptors hunt mammals, birds, and reptiles at night with incredible stealth. Listen for their deep, resonant hoots echoing through the darkness—you may spot one perched stoically near their large stick nest. Their intense yellow eyes are unmistakable.

Snowy Owl

You’re in for a treat if you spot Pennsylvania’s largest owl – the snowy owl! These arctic predators migrate south in winter, favoring open coastal and grassland habitats. Watch as they perch patiently, then dive for small mammals like voles. Help conserve this majestic raptor by supporting programs protecting their tundra breeding grounds.

Barred Owl

Venturing into the nighttime woods, you may hear the distinctive "Who cooks for you?" call of the barred owl. This striking raptor:

• Hunts small mammals, birds, reptiles at night
• Nests in tree cavities or abandoned nests
• Has streaked brown and white plumage
• Exhibits courtship behaviors like calling and mate-feeding

With its distinctive vocalizations and phantom-like presence, the barred owl adds an air of mystery to Pennsylvania’s forests.

Passerine Bird Species

You’re likely familiar with several passerine bird species that frequent backyards in Pennsylvania, such as the iconic American Crow with its distinctive "caw" call and bold behavior.

The ubiquitous Rock Pigeon found in urban areas.

The gentle cooing Mourning Dove often seen perching on wires or foraging on the ground.

And the cryptic Common Nighthawk known for its dramatic aerial displays at dusk.

While the American Crow and Rock Pigeon thrive in human-modified environments, the Mourning Dove and Common Nighthawk require more natural habitats, making their presence indicative of a backyard’s ecological value.

American Crow

Speaking of intelligent birds, the American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) is a fascinating resident. These all-black birds are omnivores, eating insects, seeds, and even scavenging roadkill. Known for their problem-solving abilities and social nature, crows congregate in family groups year-round. Keep an eye out for their distinctive "caw" call echoing through neighborhoods and parks.

Fish Crow

You’ll recognize the Fish Crow’s distinct nasal "ca-ca" calls. These smaller cousins of American Crows thrive near:

1. Coastal areas
2. Wetlands
3. Suburban neighborhoods

Their varied diet includes fish, insects, and scavenged food. Protect Fish Crows by preserving wetland habitats and avoiding pesticide use.

Rock Pigeon

You’ll commonly find the rock pigeon, a familiar city bird, in urban and suburban areas. These hardy birds nest on buildings, under bridges, and in parks. Their diet consists of seeds, grains, and human-provided food scraps. Known for their cooing calls and flocking behavior, rock pigeons breed year-round but peak in spring and summer.

[MARKDOWN TABLE]:

Characteristic	Description
Behavior	Flocking, cooing calls, humans as food source
Habitat	Urban areas, buildings, parks, bridges
Diet	Seeds, grains, food scraps
Breeding	Year-round, peaks in spring/summer
Migration	Non-migratory, sedentary populations

Mourning Dove

You’ll often hear the mournful cooing of mourning doves before spotting their plump, grayish-brown bodies perched nearby. These abundant backyard birds readily nest on platforms or in vegetation. Listen for their distinctive "coo-oo, coo, coo, coo" call and wing whistles as they take flight.

Common Nighthawk

Speaking of distinctively unique birds, you’ll want to look out for the Common Nighthawk, an insect-eating nocturnal bird with unusual behaviors. Although drab in color, their aerial acrobatics at dusk and dawn are a treat to witness. These long-distance migrants have fascinating habits worth learning about to fully appreciate their presence.

Waterfowl and Waterbirds

You’ll likely encounter various waterfowl and waterbirds while observing backyard birds in Pennsylvania.

Keep an eye out for the striking Common Loon with its black head and white belly.

The small and compact Pied-billed Grebe is often seen swimming low in the water.

The long-necked and slender Double-crested Cormorant perches on logs or rocks.

The large and graceful Tundra Swan migrates in V-formations.

The non-native but decorative Mute Swan is found in urban ponds and lakes.

Common Loon

The majestic Common Loon, with its striking black-and-white plumage and haunting calls, is a species of special concern across its breeding range.

In Pennsylvania, these migratory waterbirds frequent large lakes and reservoirs, where their distinctive yodeling echoes across the waters during nesting season.

Monitor their conservation status.

Protect their aquatic habitats.

Enjoy glimpsing these diving specialists during spring and fall migrations.

Pied-billed Grebe

You’ll often spot the pied-billed grebe, a small water bird, paddling across ponds and lakes. Known for its:

1. Slender brown body
2. Chicken-like beak
3. Habit of diving and swimming underwater
4. Distinctive black ring around its bill

These grebes are excellent divers, pursuing fish and aquatic insects in the shallows. Observe them during migration or when raising their fuzzy chicks in spring.

Double-crested Cormorant

The Double-crested Cormorant, a waterbird with a distinctive hooked bill and slender body, often seen swimming with just its snake-like neck above water. These skilled divers feast on fish, migrating to find open waters. Observe their impressive wing-drying pose on docks or shorelines. Although abundant now, their conservation gains insight into protecting aquatic ecosystems.

Tundra Swan

You may encounter the Tundra Swan during its impressive Arctic-to-East Coast migration or while wintering in wetlands. Appreciate this elegant waterfowl’s pristine white plumage and sonorous calls. Support wetland conservation to protect essential Tundra Swan habitats and migratory routes. Their presence signals healthy ecosystems worth preserving for future generations.

Mute Swan

You’ll likely spot the majestic Mute Swan along rivers, lakes, and marshes in Pennsylvania. Distinctive with its:

1. Graceful curved neck
2. Bright orange bill
3. White plumage
4. Large size (up to 5 feet long)

   This non-native species was introduced from Europe, and its populations require monitoring to prevent impacts on native ecosystems and wetland habitats.

Other Notable Birds

Among the other notable birds you may encounter in Pennsylvania are:

The Chimney Swift, a small, sooty-colored bird that nests in chimneys and flies with stiff, bowed wings.

The Belted Kingfisher, a striking blue and white bird found along waterways.

The Eastern Phoebe, a flycatcher often seen perched on fences and low branches.

The Eastern Kingbird, a boldly-patterned bird that aggressively defends its territory.

The Horned Lark, a small songbird of open fields.

Chimney Swift

You’ll often spot the Chimney Swift, a bird uniquely adapted to urban environments. Its cigar-shaped body and long, curved wings allow for impressive aerial maneuvers as it hunts insects on the wing. Listen for its high-pitched twittering as these birds nest and roost in chimneys and other man-made structures.

Belted Kingfisher

You’ll often spot the striking belted kingfisher perched on a branch near a stream or river, keeping a watchful eye for fish. These blue and white birds dive headfirst into the water to catch their prey. Kingfishers nest in burrows along eroded banks and migrate to warmer regions during winter. Unfortunately, habitat loss threatens these adept anglers.

Eastern Phoebe

You’ll often spot the Eastern Phoebe, a small flycatcher, perched on fences or wires. Its crisp "fee-bee" call and constantly bobbing tail make it easy to identify. With its olive-brown upperparts and pale underside, this feathered friend hunts insects on the wing, sallying from its lookout. Enjoy the Eastern Phoebe’s energetic sallies around yards and parks.

Eastern Kingbird

You’ll often spot the striking Eastern Kingbird perched on utility wires or fence posts, hawking insects on the wing. These feisty flycatchers vigorously defend their territory, even mobbing larger hawks and owls! Listen for their loud, sputtering calls during spring migration as they arrive from Central and South America to breed across Pennsylvania.

Horned Lark

Distinctive and charming, the Horned Lark’s tinkling song often announces its presence before you spot its streaky brown plumage atop short grass or bare ground. Watching their buoyant, undulating flight or witnessing their long migrations across open fields and prairies is a treat. These ground-dwelling birds relish seeds and insects, thriving in sparsely vegetated habitats.

Birding Hotspots in Pennsylvania

To fully experience Pennsylvania’s avian diversity, you should explore the state’s renowned birding hotspots. From lush state parks teeming with migratory songbirds to expansive wildlife refuges harboring majestic raptors and waterfowl, these destinations offer ample opportunities for birdwatchers of all levels to observe and appreciate nature’s feathered wonders.

State Parks

If you’re seeking diverse habitats and excellent birding opportunities, Pennsylvania’s state parks are a must-visit. From the lush forests of Ohiopyle to the sprawling wetlands of Presque Isle, these protected areas offer a haven for countless avian species. Many parks actively promote bird conservation, with educational programs and guided walks enhancing your birding experience.

Nature Reserves

Nature reserves are essential sanctuaries for birds. You’ll find immersive experiences at places like:

1. Presque Isle State Park’s Gull Point Nature Reserve
2. Briar Bush Nature Reserve in Lancaster County
3. Gifford Pinchot State Park’s Nature Reserve

Many offer guided bird walks and educational programs focused on conservation initiatives like habitat restoration for threatened species.

Wildlife Refuges

Explore wildlife refuges for an immersive birdwatching experience in Pennsylvania. These protected havens prioritize habitat conservation and bird protection, ensuring a thriving ecosystem. Follow refuge management guidelines and birdwatching ethics to responsibly observe diverse avian species in their natural habitats. Refuges offer unique opportunities to appreciate nature’s wonders while supporting important conservation efforts.

Birding Trails

You’ll find designated birding trails ideal for spotting avian species. These curated routes offer:

• Prime habitats and viewing spots
• Informative signage and trail maps
• Potential for rare or migratory sightings

Guided birding tours by local experts enhance the experience. Attend birding festivals celebrating Pennsylvania’s diverse birdlife.

Local Hotspots

You may find local hotspots by joining birding clubs to learn prime locations. Purchase binoculars and a field guide for good viewing and identification. Hone your photography skills to capture stunning bird portraits. Stay informed about rare sightings and seasonal migrations for a chance to spot elusive species.

Hotspot	Features	Peak Season
John Heinz NWR	Wetlands, Meadows	Spring/Fall Migration
Bartram’s Garden	Urban Oasis, Riverfront	Year-round
Valley Forge NHP	Mature Forests, Meadows	Breeding Season
Tinicum Wildlife Preserve	Tidal Marshes, Mudflats	Winter Waterfowl
Peace Valley Park	Lake, Woodlands	Year-round

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)