Backyard Small Birds In Washington State

mnccertified

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Jan 16, 2025

40 visitor like this post

Share

Backyard Small Birds in Washington State: A Comprehensive Guide

Washington State boasts a vibrant avian population, offering backyard birdwatchers a fantastic opportunity to observe a diverse range of species. From the tiny hummingbird to the cheerful chickadee, understanding which birds frequent your yard and how to attract them is key to enjoying this rewarding hobby. This guide will explore common small birds found in Washington backyards, tips for attracting them, and resources for further learning.

Common Backyard Birds in Washington

Washington's diverse habitats support a wide variety of small bird species. Here are some of the most common you're likely to encounter:

Common Year-Round Residents:

• House Finch ( Haemorhous mexicanus): Easily identifiable by their reddish-brown plumage (males more intensely colored), these are very common visitors to backyard feeders. They're quite adaptable and readily consume seeds.

• American Robin ( Turdus migratorius): A classic North American bird, the American Robin is a frequent sight in Washington yards, especially during spring and summer. They enjoy earthworms and berries.

• Downy Woodpecker ( Dryobates pubescens): The smallest woodpecker in the state, Downy Woodpeckers are known for their black and white markings and their fondness for suet and insects.

• Northern Flicker ( Colaptes auratus): While larger than the Downy Woodpecker, Flickers are often seen foraging on the ground for ants. They also enjoy suet and nuts.

• Black-capped Chickadee ( Poecile atricapillus): These tiny, energetic birds are a joy to watch. They readily visit feeders, especially for sunflower seeds and suet.

• Dark-eyed Junco ( Junco hyemalis): Often found foraging on the ground, these birds are easily recognized by their dark head and breast. They are common at feeders, especially during winter.

Seasonal Visitors:

• Rufous Hummingbird ( Selasphorus rufus): A dazzling hummingbird with bright reddish-orange plumage, the Rufous Hummingbird migrates through Washington, providing a spectacular burst of color. They require hummingbird feeders with sugar water.

• Western Tanager ( Piranga ludoviciana): A vibrant yellow and red bird, the Western Tanager is a summer visitor, often seen in trees and shrubs. They prefer insects and berries.

• Warblers: Various warbler species, known for their diverse plumage and lively songs, migrate through Washington. Attracting them requires providing a diverse range of plants and insects. Look for species like the Yellow Warbler or Wilson's Warbler.

Attracting Small Birds to Your Backyard

Creating a bird-friendly backyard involves providing food, water, shelter, and nesting sites:

• Food: Offer a variety of food sources such as sunflower seeds (black oil sunflower seeds are a favorite), nyjer seeds, suet, and fruit. Consider a variety of feeders to cater to different bird preferences.

• Water: A birdbath is essential, especially during dry spells. Keep the water clean and fresh. Consider a water feature with moving water for added attraction.

• Shelter: Plant native shrubs and trees to provide cover and nesting sites. Evergreen trees offer protection during winter.

• Nesting Sites: Avoid disturbing potential nesting areas. Providing nesting materials like small twigs, grass, and hair can be helpful.

Identifying Birds in Washington State

There are many resources available to help you identify the birds in your backyard:

• Field Guides: Purchase a field guide specific to Washington State birds. These guides provide detailed descriptions and illustrations to aid identification.

• Online Resources: Websites like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's All About Birds and eBird offer extensive information on bird identification, distribution, and behavior. Apps such as Merlin Bird ID can help identify birds from photos.

Conclusion

Backyard birdwatching in Washington State is a rewarding and enriching experience. By understanding the common birds in your area and creating a welcoming habitat, you can attract a diverse array of feathered friends to your yard, providing hours of entertainment and connection with nature. Remember to be a responsible birdwatcher, respecting their natural behaviors and habitats. Enjoy the beauty and wonder of the small birds of Washington!