Backyard Birds Of Pa

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Post on Nov 03, 2024

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Backyard Birds of Pennsylvania: A Guide to Common Feathered Friends

Pennsylvania boasts a diverse landscape, from rolling farmlands to dense forests, providing a haven for a wide variety of bird species. If you're a bird enthusiast or simply enjoy the charm of feathered visitors in your backyard, you're in for a treat. Let's explore some of the most common backyard birds you're likely to encounter in the Keystone State.

Common Backyard Birds in Pennsylvania

1. Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis): This striking red bird, with its black mask and prominent crest, is a year-round resident in Pennsylvania. Their cheerful song is a welcome sound in the winter months. Look for: Males are bright red, while females are a duller reddish-brown.

2. Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata): A bold and boisterous bird, the blue jay is easily recognized by its striking blue, white, and black plumage. They are intelligent birds known for their mimicry and often gather in noisy flocks. Look for: Their distinctive crest and blue wings.

3. American Robin (Turdus migratorius): A true harbinger of spring, the robin is a familiar sight in Pennsylvania backyards. These plump, brown-backed birds with their orange breasts are known for their melodious song. Look for: Their orange chest and white throat.

4. House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus): These small, sparrow-like birds have become a common sight in Pennsylvania backyards. The males are bright red, while the females are a duller brown. Look for: The males' striking red coloration.

5. Downy Woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens): This tiny woodpecker is a common resident of Pennsylvania's woodlands and backyards. They are known for their acrobatic skills and their habit of drilling for insects. Look for: Their small size and black and white checkered patterns.

6. Chickadee (Poecile carolinensis): This adorable little bird is a year-round resident of Pennsylvania. They are known for their distinctive "chick-a-dee-dee-dee" call and their bold, black-capped heads. Look for: Their small size and black cap and bib.

7. Goldfinch (Spinus tristis): This brightly colored bird is a welcome sight in Pennsylvania backyards, especially during the summer months. The males are a striking yellow, while the females are a more muted olive-green. Look for: Their bright yellow plumage and black wings.

8. Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura): This peaceful dove is a common sight in Pennsylvania backyards. Their gentle cooing is a calming sound, often heard in the mornings and evenings. Look for: Their long tail and gray and brown plumage.

9. Eastern Towhee (Pipilo erythrophthalmus): This black and white bird is a ground-dwelling species often found in the underbrush. They are known for their loud "drink-your-tea" call. Look for: Their black head, white belly, and reddish-brown sides.

10. Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus): This small, active bird is a common sight in Pennsylvania's woodlands and backyards. They are known for their distinctive "chick-a-dee-dee-dee" call and their bold black cap and bib. Look for: Their black cap and bib, and white cheeks.

Attracting Backyard Birds to Your Yard

• Provide food: Set up feeders with a variety of seeds, suet, and nectar to attract different species.
• Offer water: Birds need water for drinking and bathing. Provide a shallow birdbath or a small pond.
• Plant native trees and shrubs: These provide shelter and nesting sites.
• Avoid using pesticides: Pesticides can harm birds and their food sources.
• Keep your cat indoors: Cats are natural predators of birds and can cause significant harm.

Tips for Birdwatching in Your Backyard

• Use binoculars: Binoculars will help you see the details of the birds you're watching.
• Observe from a distance: Try to avoid getting too close to the birds, especially during nesting season.
• Be patient: Birds can be shy, so be patient and wait for them to come to you.
• Keep a journal: Note the different species you see, the dates, and any interesting behaviors.

By following these tips and providing a hospitable environment, you can enjoy the company of these fascinating creatures in your backyard. Remember to appreciate the diversity and beauty of Pennsylvania's avian population, and you'll be rewarded with hours of captivating birdwatching.