Did you know that Pennsylvania is home to an impressive 435 species of birds? With its diverse natural habitats covering over 46,000 square miles, Pennsylvania offers a birdwatcher’s paradise like no other. From the majestic Northern Cardinal to the charming American Robin, the state is teeming with fascinating feathered creatures waiting to be discovered.
Key Takeaways:
- Pennsylvania is home to 435 species of birds.
- The state’s diverse natural habitats make it a paradise for birdwatchers.
- The Northern Cardinal and American Robin are among the most common birds found in Pennsylvania.
- Each bird has unique characteristics that make it fascinating to observe and appreciate.
- Exploring the birds of Pennsylvania offers a rich and rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts.
Most common birds of Pennsylvania
When it comes to birdwatching in Pennsylvania, there are some birds that you are almost guaranteed to see. These common birds can be found throughout the state, from city parks to rural forests. We have compiled a list of the most commonly seen birds in Pennsylvania, based on the latest data from eBird sightings. Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting out, knowing these species will enhance your birding experience in Pennsylvania.
- Northern Cardinal
- American Robin
- Blue Jay
- Mourning Dove
- American Crow
- Song Sparrow
- American Goldfinch
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Downy Woodpecker
Each bird on this list has its own unique features and behaviors that make it easily identifiable. Whether it’s the vibrant red plumage of the Northern Cardinal, the melodious song of the American Robin, or the bold blue feathers of the Blue Jay, these birds capture the essence of Pennsylvania’s diverse avian population.
To help you get better acquainted with these common birds, we have provided detailed information about their appearance, behavior, and unique characteristics. Whether you encounter them on a leisurely stroll in a local park or during an adventurous hike in the wilderness, these birds will surely capture your attention and spark a sense of wonder.
Observing and identifying these common birds of Pennsylvania can be a thrilling experience for birdwatchers of all levels. So grab your binoculars, head outdoors, and let the beauty of Pennsylvania’s feathered wonders unfold before your eyes.
Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal, scientifically known as Cardinalis cardinalis, is a beautiful and commonly seen bird in Pennsylvania. Its vibrant red plumage makes it easily recognizable and a favorite among birdwatchers. In fact, this stunning bird holds the title of the state bird in seven different states!
But it’s not just the male cardinals that dazzle with their crimson feathers; female Northern Cardinals are also noteworthy. They possess a more subdued combination of gray and red tones, allowing them to blend in with their surroundings while still maintaining their elegant charm.
One interesting fact about Northern Cardinals is that both males and females are accomplished singers. While the males are known for their rich, melodic songs, the females also have their own unique repertoire. They use their vocalizations to communicate with their mates or to warn them of potential threats in their territory.
When observing a Northern Cardinal, you’ll notice its medium-sized build, measuring approximately 8.75 inches in length. This bird weighs around 1.6 ounces and has a wingspan of 12 inches, allowing it to glide effortlessly through the air.
| Description | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 8.75 inches |
| Weight | 1.6 ounces |
| Wingspan | 12 inches |
The Northern Cardinal’s beauty, melodious songs, and widespread presence make it a beloved bird not just in Pennsylvania but across its range. Keep an eye out for these stunning creatures during your birdwatching adventures, and don’t forget to listen to their enchanting songs that bring joy to nature enthusiasts everywhere.
American Robin
The American Robin is a popular bird in Pennsylvania, easily recognized by its dark gray upperparts and brick red and white underparts. It is the second most common bird in the state. These birds forage for worms and bugs on lawns and other open grassy areas, as well as eat berries. They measure about 10 inches in length, weigh 2.7 ounces, and have a wingspan of 17 inches.
The American Robin, scientifically known as Turdus migratorius, is a familiar sight in Pennsylvania. This thrush species has become a symbolic harbinger of spring, with its arrival marking the changing season. The American Robin’s melodious song fills the air, adding a delightful soundtrack to the awakening of nature.
Characteristics of the American Robin
The American Robin boasts distinctive plumage that sets it apart. Its dark gray back and head contrast beautifully with its brick red breast and white belly. This colorful combination makes it relatively easy to identify. Additionally, robins have a vibrant yellow beak and a white ring around their eyes.
With their long legs, slender bodies, and strong wings, American Robins are well-suited for their foraging habits. They are known to hop and run across lawns, using their sharp eyesight to spot potential prey. The robins’ diet mainly consists of earthworms and insects, which they locate by sight or by listening for the sounds of prey moving underground.
| American Robin | |
|---|---|
| Length | Approximately 10 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 2.7 ounces |
| Wingspan | Approximately 17 inches |
These sociable birds are often seen in flocks during the winter months, which allows them to benefit from collective protection and enhanced foraging efficiency. As the weather warms, they disperse into pairs and begin nesting activities. American Robins are skilled architects, constructing sturdy cup-shaped nests made of twigs, debris, and mud. They tend to build their nests in trees, on ledges, or even on man-made structures such as porch lights or mailboxes.
Did you know? Despite its name, the American Robin is not a robin at all in the European sense. It belongs to the Thrush family and is closer in relation to the European Blackbird.
The American Robin’s mellow warbles and chirping melodies add joyous notes to Pennsylvania’s soundscape. Whether it’s their vibrant colors, delightful vocals, or their role as a sign of the changing seasons, American Robins hold a special place in the hearts of bird lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. So, keep an eye out for these cheerful, feathered visitors during your Pennsylvania birdwatching adventures.
Blue Jay
The Blue Jay is a common, intelligent, and noisy bird found in Pennsylvania. With its vibrant blue feathers, it is easily recognizable and adds a pop of color to any birdwatching experience. Blue Jays can be spotted foraging for food in trees and at feeders, often competing with other birds for their share.
Known for their raucous calls, Blue Jays make a variety of vocalizations to communicate with each other and establish their presence. Their distinctive “Nyeah! Nyeah! Nyeah!” call echoes through the trees, creating a unique and recognizable sound in the avian chorus.
Measuring approximately 11 inches in length with a weight of around 3 ounces, Blue Jays are medium-sized birds with a wingspan of 16 inches. Their compact yet strong build allows them to navigate through the trees with agility and precision.
These intelligent birds are quick learners and have been known to mimic the calls of other bird species, as well as imitate human voices and sounds. Their inquisitive nature and ability to adapt to different environments have made them a favorite among birdwatchers in Pennsylvania.
“The Blue Jay’s vibrant blue plumage and lively presence bring joy to any birdwatching excursion.” – Birdwatching Enthusiast
Mourning Dove
Mourning Doves are a common sight in Pennsylvania, with their plain brown and gray feathers and long, pointed tails. These doves feed on seeds and can often be seen foraging on the ground in open areas. Their mournful cooing sound is often mistaken for an owl’s hoot. Mourning Doves measure about 12 inches in length, weigh 4.2 ounces, and have a wingspan of 18 inches.
| Species | Measurement | Weight | Wingspan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mourning Dove | About 12 inches | 4.2 ounces | 18 inches |
The Mourning Dove, scientific name Zenaida macroura, is well-adapted to Pennsylvania’s diverse landscapes. Its subtle plumage helps it blend into its surroundings, while its long tail aids in agile flight. The mournful cooing of the Mourning Dove adds a melodic ambiance to the Pennsylvania sky.
American Crow
The American Crow, scientifically known as Corvus brachyrhynchos, is a large, all-black bird commonly found in Pennsylvania. With its distinctive appearance and vocal nature, the American Crow is easily recognizable and often catches the attention of birdwatchers.
This intelligent and adaptable bird is known for its wide range of vocalizations, but it is most recognized for its loud and distinctive “Caw! Caw!” call. This call can be heard echoing through the trees as the American Crow communicates with other crows in its flock or warns of potential threats.
The American Crow has a diverse diet and is highly opportunistic when it comes to foraging for food. It can be seen scavenging for carrion, feeding on fruit, seeds, insects, and even small animals. Their resourcefulness and ability to adapt to different environments have contributed to their success as a species.
American Crows are known to build bulky stick nests high in trees. These nests serve as their homes, providing shelter and protection for themselves and their young. They are skilled builders, creating sturdy structures that withstand challenging weather conditions.
With a length of about 17.5 inches, a weight of 1 pound, and an impressive wingspan of 39 inches, the American Crow stands out among other bird species in Pennsylvania. Its striking black feathers and strong presence make it a captivating bird to observe in its natural habitat.
When encountering an American Crow, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and observe its behavior. Whether you spot it foraging for food or soaring through the sky, the American Crow is a fascinating bird that adds to the diverse avian population of Pennsylvania.
Song Sparrow
The Song Sparrow is a charming little bird that can be easily spotted in Pennsylvania’s brushy habitats. These small sparrows are typically brown with streaked patterns on their feathers, allowing them to blend seamlessly with their surroundings. They are known for their melodious song, which is a delightful addition to the sounds of nature.
Song Sparrows are opportunistic feeders, foraging for seeds and insects on or near the ground. Their preferred habitats include fields, wetlands, and the edges of forests, where they can find ample food and cover. These versatile sparrows are also adept at adapting to suburban areas and can often be found in gardens and parks.
Building cup-shaped nests on or near the ground, typically in shrubs or low trees, is a common practice for Song Sparrows. These nests provide protection for their eggs and young while also being conveniently located for easy access to food sources.
Measuring approximately 6.25 inches in length and weighing around 0.7 ounces, these tiny sparrows have a wingspan of about 8.25 inches. Despite their small size, Song Sparrows contribute significantly to the bird population of Pennsylvania, adding their unique beauty and enchanting songs to the state’s avian diversity.
American Goldfinch
Discover the beauty of the American Goldfinch, a small and vibrant finch species that is a delightful sight in Pennsylvania’s weedy fields, parks, and backyards. With its bright yellow plumage, this finch is easily recognizable and adds a splash of color to its surroundings.
The American Goldfinch is known for its diet consisting primarily of seeds from various low plants and trees. They also visit feeders, where they can often be seen perched while enjoying their meal. Their preference for seeds makes them especially fond of sunflowers, dandelions, thistles, and other plants that produce tiny seeds.
When it comes to nesting, American Goldfinches show remarkable craftsmanship. They construct tightly woven cup nests high in shrubs or low trees, using plant fibers, moss, and spider silk. Their nests are so secure and tightly woven that they can hold water without leaking. This adaptation helps protect the eggs and nestlings during heavy rain.
This finch measures about 5 inches in length, weighs 0.46 ounces, and possesses a wingspan of 9 inches. Despite their small size, American Goldfinches are agile flyers and are often seen gracefully flitting from one location to another.
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 5 inches |
| Weight | 0.46 ounces |
| Wingspan | 9 inches |
If you want to attract American Goldfinches to your backyard, consider planting native plants that produce small seeds. Providing thistle or nyjer feeders can also entice them to visit regularly.
The American Goldfinch is a true delight for birdwatchers, capturing our attention with its vibrant colors and aerial acrobatics. Spotting these cheerful finches adds a touch of brightness to any birding expedition and brings joy to all who appreciate the wonders of nature.
Red-bellied Woodpecker
The Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) is a common and adaptable bird found throughout Pennsylvania. With its striking plumage and unique behavior, it is a favorite among birdwatchers. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of the Red-bellied Woodpecker and discover why it captivates the hearts of many nature enthusiasts.
Foraging and Feeding
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is known for its versatile diet, which includes seeds, nuts, insects, and other small creatures. It uses its strong bill to peck into tree trunks and branches, searching for hidden food sources. This woodpecker also has a unique feeding behavior – it can extend its long tongue up to two inches past the tip of its bill, allowing it to extract insects from crevices in the wood.
Nesting and Habitat
These woodpeckers nest in tree cavities, often creating new openings each year. They prefer habitats with a mix of large trees and open spaces. Forests, woodlands, and suburban areas provide suitable environments for nesting and foraging. The Red-bellied Woodpecker also has a preference for dead trees, as they offer excellent opportunities for cavity excavation.
The Call of the Red-bellied Woodpecker
If you’re out in the woods and hear a distinct “Qwerr!” call, chances are it’s the Red-bellied Woodpecker. This vocal bird uses its call to communicate with others, mark its territory, or signal a potential threat. Once you become familiar with its unique call, you’ll be able to spot this woodpecker more easily.
The Red-bellied Woodpecker, with its vibrant colors and lively behavior, adds a touch of excitement to any birdwatching experience. Its adaptability to various habitats and resourceful foraging techniques make it one of Pennsylvania’s most intriguing avian residents.
Quick Facts about the Red-bellied Woodpecker:
- Length: Approximately 9.25 inches
- Weight: Around 2.2 ounces
- Wingspan: Approximately 16 inches
- Feeding habits: Forages for seeds, nuts, insects, and other food on tree trunks and branches
- Nesting behavior: Creates cavities in trees for nesting and prefers habitats with a mix of large trees and open spaces
- Distinctive call: Characterized by a “Qwerr!” call for communication and territorial marking
Downy Woodpecker
The Downy Woodpecker, scientifically known as Dryobates pubescens, is a fascinating species of woodpecker found in North America. Despite its small size, it is widely distributed and highly adaptable, making it a common sight in various habitats.
Downy Woodpeckers typically measure about 6.75 inches in length, weigh 0.95 ounces, and have a wingspan of 12 inches. While they may be the smallest woodpecker in North America, they are certainly not lacking in charm or character.
These woodpeckers are known for their distinctive black and white plumage, with a white belly, black wings adorned with white spots, and a black tail. The male features a small red patch on the back of its head, while the female lacks this feature.
One of the remarkable traits of the Downy Woodpecker is its ability to forage for insects, seeds, and suet both on trees and bushes as well as at feeders. They use their specially adapted bill to drum on tree trunks and probe for food, taking advantage of their strong grip and short tail for balance.
Downy Woodpeckers are cavity nesters, making use of natural or excavated tree cavities to create their nests. They are skilled architects, shaping their homes to suit their needs and providing a safe environment for raising their young.
When it comes to vocalizations, these woodpeckers communicate through a sharp “pik!” call, which is often followed by a drumming sound. This percussive drumming serves various purposes, including territory defense and courtship displays.
| Size | Weight | Wingspan |
|---|---|---|
| 6.75 inches | 0.95 ounces | 12 inches |
If you’re fortunate enough to spot a Downy Woodpecker during your birdwatching adventures, take a moment to appreciate its delicate size and intricate patterns. These charming birds are a testament to the beauty and diversity of nature.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania is a true haven for birdwatchers, offering an incredible variety of bird species and diverse habitats to explore. From the striking beauty of the Northern Cardinal to the lively antics of the Blue Jay, each bird contributes its own special charm to the vibrant avian tapestry of the state.
Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy immersing yourself in the wonders of nature, Pennsylvania’s birds will never cease to captivate you. With binoculars in hand, venture out to discover the rich array of feathered creatures that call this state home, and embark on a truly unforgettable journey.
From the tranquil forests to the bustling wetlands, Pennsylvania’s diverse habitats provide the perfect backdrop for birdwatching enthusiasts to witness the marvels of nature. Whether you’re marveling at the breathtaking colors of the Northern Cardinal or admiring the intelligence of the Blue Jay, every bird encounter in Pennsylvania is a testament to the remarkable beauty and diversity found in our feathered friends.
FAQ
What are the most common birds found in Pennsylvania?
What is the Northern Cardinal?
What is the American Robin?
What is the Blue Jay?
What is the Mourning Dove?
What is the American Crow?
What is the Song Sparrow?
What is the American Goldfinch?
What is the Red-bellied Woodpecker?
What is the Downy Woodpecker?
As our Editor-in-Chief, James plays a pivotal role in ensuring the quality and integrity of our content. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, James oversees the editorial process here at A Place for Animals. With years of experience in content editing, James ensures that every piece of content meets our high standards of accuracy and clarity. Under James’ guidance, you can rest assured that the content you read is informative and impeccably crafted.
