Backyard Birds Of Long Island

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Post on Dec 24, 2024

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Backyard Birds of Long Island: A Comprehensive Guide for Birdwatchers

Long Island, with its diverse habitats ranging from coastal beaches and salt marshes to suburban gardens and forests, offers a fantastic opportunity for birdwatching. This guide explores the common backyard birds you can expect to see, providing tips for attracting them to your own little slice of Long Island paradise.

Common Backyard Birds of Long Island

Long Island's diverse ecosystem supports a wide variety of avian species. Here are some of the most frequent visitors to backyard feeders and gardens:

House Finches (Haemorhous mexicanus):

These vibrant birds are a common sight year-round. Males sport a bright crimson forehead and breast, while females are more subdued, exhibiting streaky brown plumage. They readily visit feeders, particularly those offering sunflower seeds. Pro-tip: Offer nyjer seed in a specialized feeder to attract even more house finches.

American Goldfinches (Spinus tristis):

These small, cheerful birds are easily identifiable by their bright yellow plumage in the summer and their olive-brown winter attire. They favor thistle (nyjer) seed and often nest in weedy areas. Attract them by: planting sunflowers and goldenrod, providing thistle feeders, and leaving some tall weeds undisturbed in a corner of your yard.

Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis):

A Long Island favorite! The vibrant red males and their slightly duller, but still beautiful, brown-red female counterparts are striking additions to any backyard. They are readily attracted to sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and suet. Consider: planting berry-producing shrubs like viburnum to provide a natural food source.

Downy Woodpeckers (Dryobates pubescens):

These tiny woodpeckers are common year-round residents. They are easily identified by their black and white plumage and small size. They'll happily visit suet feeders and are often seen foraging for insects on trees. To attract them: install suet feeders and leave some dead trees or branches standing as foraging sites.

Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata):

These intelligent and boisterous birds are known for their striking blue, white, and black plumage. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming a variety of seeds, nuts, and insects. They're not shy and will readily visit feeders, often dominating the space! Tip: Offer a variety of foods to keep them happy and encourage a diverse bird community.

Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura):

With their soft cooing calls and gentle nature, mourning doves are a peaceful addition to any backyard. They primarily feed on seeds and readily visit ground feeders. Attract them by: scattering seeds on the ground or providing a shallow dish feeder.

Creating a Bird-Friendly Backyard on Long Island

Attracting these beautiful birds requires creating a welcoming habitat. Here are some key steps:

• Provide a Variety of Feeders: Offer different types of feeders to cater to various bird species' preferences.
• Offer Fresh Water: A birdbath is essential, especially during warmer months. Keep it clean to prevent disease.
• Plant Native Shrubs and Trees: Native plants provide food and shelter for birds. Consider viburnum, dogwood, and oak trees.
• Minimize Pesticide Use: Protect birds from harmful chemicals.
• Provide Shelter: Dense shrubs and trees offer protection from predators and harsh weather.

Beyond the Common Birds: Exploring Long Island's Avian Diversity

While the birds mentioned above are frequently seen, Long Island boasts a much richer avian tapestry. Depending on the season and location, you might spot species like:

• Red-bellied Woodpeckers
• Brown Creepers
• Northern Flickers
• Various warbler species (during migration)
• Osprey (near coastal areas)

By following these tips and embracing a nature-friendly approach to your landscaping, you can transform your Long Island backyard into a thriving haven for a multitude of bird species. Happy birdwatching!

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