Backyard Birds Of Tennessee

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Post on Nov 27, 2024

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Backyard Birds of Tennessee: A Comprehensive Guide

Tennessee, with its diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to forests to wetlands, boasts a rich variety of birdlife. This guide explores some of the most common backyard birds you can expect to see in the Volunteer State, offering tips on attracting and identifying them.

Common Backyard Birds in Tennessee

Identifying the birds visiting your Tennessee backyard is a rewarding hobby. Here are some of the most frequently spotted species:

1. Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)

This vibrant bird, with its bright red plumage (males) and reddish-brown (females), is a year-round resident of Tennessee. They're known for their cheerful songs and are relatively easy to attract with feeders offering black oil sunflower seeds. Key identification features: Crest, conical bill, and distinctive song.

2. American Robin (Turdus migratorius)

A familiar sight across North America, the American Robin is a common visitor to Tennessee backyards, especially during the spring and summer months. They are known for their worm-eating habits and melodious songs. Key identification features: Reddish-brown breast, round body, and long legs.

3. Downy Woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens)

This small woodpecker is a frequent visitor to backyard feeders, particularly those offering suet. Their black and white plumage makes them easily identifiable. Key identification features: Small size, black and white striped back, and a preference for small insects.

4. Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)

With their striking blue, white, and black plumage, Blue Jays are unmistakable. They're known for their intelligence and boisterous calls. They can be attracted to feeders offering peanuts and sunflower seeds. Key identification features: Crest, blue plumage, and loud calls.

5. House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus)

These small finches are common in Tennessee backyards, often seen in flocks. The males have a reddish face and breast. They are attracted to feeders offering nyjer seeds and sunflower seeds. Key identification features: Streaked back, reddish face (males), and small size.

6. Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura)

These gentle doves are easily recognized by their mournful cooing. They are ground feeders, often found foraging for seeds in lawns and gardens. Key identification features: Long tail, slender build, and characteristic cooing sound.

7. Carolina Chickadee (Poecile carolinensis)

These tiny, energetic birds are a delight to watch. They are common year-round residents of Tennessee and are readily attracted to feeders offering sunflower seeds and suet. Key identification features: Small size, black cap and bib, and distinctive "chick-a-dee-dee-dee" call.

Attracting Birds to Your Tennessee Backyard

Creating a bird-friendly backyard requires some effort but yields wonderful rewards. Here are some tips:

• Provide food sources: Offer a variety of foods at different feeders, such as sunflower seeds, nyjer seeds, suet, and peanuts.
• Offer water: A birdbath or shallow dish of water is essential, especially during hot and dry periods. Consider a bubbler for added attraction.
• Plant native trees and shrubs: These provide shelter, nesting sites, and food sources for birds. Consider planting native berries and seed-bearing plants.
• Provide shelter: Dense shrubs and trees offer protection from predators and inclement weather. Consider adding birdhouses tailored to different species.
• Avoid using pesticides: Pesticides can harm birds directly or indirectly by reducing their food supply.

Further Exploration of Tennessee Birds

This guide only scratches the surface of Tennessee's avian diversity. For more in-depth information, consider exploring resources like:

• The Cornell Lab of Ornithology's All About Birds website: A comprehensive online resource for bird identification and information.
• Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA): Provides information on Tennessee's wildlife, including birds.
• Local Audubon Societies: These organizations often host bird walks and offer educational programs.

By following these tips and engaging with local resources, you can enhance your backyard's appeal to Tennessee's diverse bird population and enjoy hours of rewarding birdwatching. Remember to always observe birds responsibly and respect their natural habitats.