Backyard Birds Of The Pacific Northwest

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Post on Nov 23, 2024

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Backyard Birds of the Pacific Northwest: A Comprehensive Guide

The Pacific Northwest, with its lush forests, diverse waterways, and varied landscapes, boasts a vibrant array of bird species. This guide will explore some of the most common backyard birds you can expect to see in this beautiful region, offering tips on attracting them to your garden. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just starting your avian adventure, understanding the local avifauna is key to enjoying the region's natural beauty.

Common Backyard Birds of the Pacific Northwest

Identifying the birds in your backyard is a rewarding experience. Let's dive into some frequently spotted species:

1. Anna's Hummingbird ( Calypte anna):

This dazzling hummingbird is a year-round resident of the Pacific Northwest, known for its iridescent, emerald green plumage. They are particularly attracted to bright red flowers like fuchsia and honeysuckle. Attract them with: hummingbird feeders filled with sugar water (4 parts water to 1 part sugar), and planting vibrant, tubular flowers.

2. Northern Flicker ( Colaptes auratus):

A large woodpecker with a spotted back and a distinctive crescent-shaped breast band, the Northern Flicker is a common sight in many Pacific Northwest backyards. They are ground foragers, often searching for ants and other insects. Attract them with: suet feeders, especially those with insects added, and leaving some areas of your yard slightly unkempt to provide foraging opportunities.

3. Downy Woodpecker ( Dryobates pubescens):

The smallest woodpecker in North America, the Downy Woodpecker is a frequent visitor to backyard feeders. They are easily identified by their small size and black and white striped plumage. Attract them with: suet feeders, small nuts, and sunflower seeds.

4. American Robin ( Turdus migratorius):

A classic backyard bird, the American Robin is recognizable by its reddish-orange breast and brown back. They're often seen hopping across lawns searching for earthworms. Attract them with: a birdbath, a source of fresh water, and berry bushes like junipers and cotoneasters.

5. House Finch ( Haemorhous mexicanus):

These cheerful finches are common visitors to backyard feeders. Males have a bright red head and breast, while females are more subdued in brown and streaky plumage. Attract them with: nyjer seeds and sunflower seeds in tube or platform feeders.

6. Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus):

A tiny but energetic bird, the Black-capped Chickadee is a year-round resident, known for its cheerful "chick-a-dee-dee-dee" call. They are adept at caching food for winter. Attract them with: sunflower seeds, suet, and peanuts in feeders.

Creating a Bird-Friendly Backyard in the Pacific Northwest

Attracting birds to your backyard requires providing the essential elements they need to thrive:

• Food Sources: Offer a variety of feeders with different types of seeds, suet, and nuts. Consider providing a platform feeder for larger birds.
• Water Source: A birdbath or shallow dish of water is essential, especially during dry periods. Keep it clean and regularly refilled.
• Shelter: Provide dense shrubs and trees for birds to nest and seek refuge from predators. Consider leaving some leaf litter undisturbed for ground-dwelling birds.
• Nesting Sites: Birdhouses can attract cavity-nesting birds like chickadees and wrens. Choose houses appropriate for the species you're hoping to attract.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Birding in the Pacific Northwest

To enhance your birding experience, consider:

• Joining a local birdwatching club: Connect with experienced birders and learn more about local species and birding hotspots.
• Using a bird identification app: Apps like Merlin Bird ID can help you identify birds based on your sightings.
• Participating in citizen science projects: Contribute valuable data to ornithological research by participating in projects like eBird.

By following these tips, you can transform your Pacific Northwest backyard into a vibrant haven for birds, providing a rewarding and enriching experience for both you and the feathered residents of your neighborhood. Remember to be patient and observant; watching these beautiful creatures up close is a privilege. Happy birding!