Did you know that Ohio is home to more than 350 different species of birds? In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the most common birds in our state. These birds can be found in many different habitats, including forests, wetlands, and urban areas. Keep reading for a closer look at these fascinating creatures!
Common Backyard Birds of Ohio:
House Sparrow
House Sparrows possess a hefty physique and short necks, with males flaunting black throats and darker crowns on their brown-toned upperparts. Females usually have lighter throat colors and paler crown hues. They’re avid seedeaters but will also consume insects when available. House Sparrows forage around open spaces on the ground tactically, often congregating in social flocks over urban or agricultural areas where they nest inside man-made or natural cavities.
The House Sparrow is a hardy, small bird that can be found in both cities and rural areas. It boasts a stout body with brown upperparts and pale underparts coupled with a short neck. The male of the species has an ebony throat paired with darker colored crown while female birds typically have lighter throats and crowns than their counterparts!
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Tufted Titmouse
Glamorously adorned with a long, erect crest on its head, the Tufted Titmouse is an eye-catching small bird measuring 5 to 6 inches in length. These social songbirds are native to woodlands and gardens where they feed on insects, spiders, nuts and berries while traveling together in small flocks. Plush gray upperparts that contrast against their white underbelly gives way to a black cap atop of their heads – making them truly one of nature’s gems!
The Tufted Titmouse is a distinguishable bird due to its attractive gray upperparts, white underparts, and black cap. What truly makes this species stand out however is the long crest on its head that often stands erect. Found throughout Ohio all year round in woodlands, gardens and even urban areas, these social creatures typically fly in small flocks while feeding on insects, spiders as well as berries or nuts. With such a wide range of locations to spot them at any given time – you won’t have trouble seeing the beauty of this remarkable creature!
American Goldfinch
The Eastern goldfinch, commonly known as the American goldfinch or wild canary, is a tiny migratory bird belonging to the finch species. During breeding season it ranges from mid-Alberta to North Carolina and in winter its range extends southward starting just beyond Canada’s border all the way down towards Florida. Male and female are almost indistinguishable except for minor differences in size and hues of coloration.
Goldfinches are a small species of bird, with the average individual measuring 4 inches in length and no more than an ounce in weight. The coloration is similarly uniform among all goldfinches; they feature black caps and wings, yellow bodies, white undersides and typically have a tail of alternating black/white patterns.
Goldfinches can be found in woodlands, fields, and gardens due to their fondness of thistle seeds. They will also supplement with other small varieties like dandelion, cosmos, and sunflower seeds. During the cold winter months when there is a shortage of seeds available they switch to an insect-based diet for sustenance.
Female goldfinches diligently create cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs, utilizing a mixture of fluffy plant down, spider webs and other delicate items. On average, four to six eggs are laid inside each nest.
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Carolina Wren
Native to the eastern United States, from Maine to Florida and stretching west towards Texas, the Carolina wren is a small songbird that can be spotted in wooded areas near streams or swamps. With its rusty-brown plumage and black streaks along its backside atop of a white belly; this timid bird has become quite popular thanks to its willingness for close contact–right in your backyard!
The Carolina wren builds nests primarily on ground level within cavities found in trees and logs. This feathered friend feeds upon insects, spiders, snails as well as fruits like berries. So keep an eye out while exploring outdoors – you may just spot one of these unique birds among nearby foliage!
Song Sparrow
The striking Song Sparrow is easily recognizable in North America and can vary from small to medium-sized sparrows. A gray breast with a central dark spot, blackish mark behind each eye, two whitish wingbars, pink bill with the tip being dark in color are all features that make up this bird’s unique appearance. Furthermore, females tend to be slightly smaller than males but their plumage remains fairly similar throughout genders.
Song Sparrows delight in a diverse diet of insects and seeds. During the more temperate months, they feast upon beetles, caterpillars, grasshoppers, crickets as well as spiders. As we plunge into autumn and wintertime however their palette changes to focus on seed consumption; from grains to sedges and even forbs! Fruits are welcomed treats during the cold season too!
Northern Cardinals
As Ohio’s year-round, feathered residents, Cardinals boast a beautiful red plumage that is particularly vibrant in the males, which showcase a bold black mask and an especially showy crest. These sweet songbirds inhabit woodlands, gardens and backyards alike; they feast on insects as well as seeds while constructing their homes within trees or bushes.
Often spotted traveling in pairs or small flocks – singing their delightful melodies throughout every season – it’s no wonder why these birds are so loved by people all over America!
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Common Grackle
The dazzling Common Grackle belongs to the blackbird family and is natively situated in North America. With their lustrous black feathers, long tail, and a size discrepancy between gender — males reach up to 15 inches — these birds are easily identifiable. A diet comprised of mostly insects with additional fruits or seeds offers them leverage when foraging through fields and meadows in search of sustenance.
During the mating season, Common Grackles gather in pairs or small family groups. The female then begins construction of her nest using a variety of natural materials such as twigs, grass and other foliage atop trees or shrubs where they remain social with one another.
White-breasted Nuthatch
(Sitta carolinensis)
The White-breasted Nuthatch is a small but mighty songbird with a striking appearance. They boast black caps, white faces and chests, blue gray backs wings and tails – males and females look alike! Weighing in at an ounce or less, these five inches long birds are true masters of their craft; using strong beaks to crack open acorns or other hard nuts for nourishment. But that’s not all – you can often see them scaling up tree trunks headfirst during the search for food!
If you happen to spot a White-breasted Nuthatch, then be sure to listen for its loud yet nasal call of “yank yank yank!” or the high twittering sound it also emits – both of which help these birds keep in contact with their brethren. They are mainly found residing among mature trees and nest inside holes within tree trunks or walls throughout the eastern United States. Plus, they provide great entertainment as they hop around on branches and even hang upside down at times!
American Crow
Standing at a whopping 40cm in length, American crows are easily distinguishable by their black feathers and can be spotted amidst open woodlands, fields and near water. These omnivorous birds have an appetite for insects, small mammals, berries as well as carrion – all of which they consume with gusto!
Not only are these creatures intelligent; according to experts they often work together to solve problems too. In addition to being spirited problem-solvers, American crows possess the spirit of fierce protectors; making sure that any intruders stay away from their territory.
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Red-winged Blackbird
You can easily recognize the Red-winged Blackbird due to its striking red and yellow shoulder patches that are visible on both sexes. The male’s vibrant shades will be more pronounced while the female is a dark brown color with pale streaks across her body and wings. This bird makes its home in open areas like marshes, ponds, and meadows throughout North America.
Red-winged Blackbirds are often noticed for their melodious songs, which can be heard reverberating from treetops or power lines. These birds mainly feast on insects like dragonflies and grasshoppers, with the occasional berry or seed thrown in to the mix! In summertime months, you may even observe them catching bugs midflight.
With a powerful call of “konk-la-ree,” Red-winged Blackbirds are known for their protective nature and will fiercely defend their mating grounds from interlopers. Males have been witnessed flaunting their wings, singing to the skies, or even dive bombing trespassers – so if you hear this unmistakable sound coming from a nearby marsh, then you can be sure that one of these brave birds is close by!
House Finch
The house finch is an adept songbird, with a short tail and pointed bill. The adult males boast impressive red plumage on their heads, chests and backs, accompanied by brown streaks along the sides of their bodies. Females and juveniles demonstrate more subdued colouring – gray-brown feathers featuring streaked breasts.
These birds are commonly spotted in open fields, suburbs and parks; feasting upon seeds, grains or insects which they have foraged from nearby vegetation or unearthed from beneath leaf litter. House finches fashion nests out of twigs and leaves atop trees or shrubs to raise their younglings each season – often taking residence atop power lines or fences posts between nesting periods! Surprisingly these little birds aren’t intimidated by humans at all: quite frequently approaching people for food!
Blue Jay
Blue Jays are commonplace in North America, easily recognizable by their vibrantly blue bodies and crests on the tops of their heads. Furthermore, these birds may be distinguished from other similar species due to their loud calls that can often be heard echoing through suburban areas. Blue Jays feast mainly upon acorns, nuts, and seeds; however during springtime they will supplement this diet with insects as well!
With a body length of around 12 inches long complemented by a wingspan spanning 16 inches wide – it’s no wonder why these beautiful creatures have become so popular amongst bird watchers. Breeding season for Blue Jay’s typically take place in trees where they lay between two or six eggs at once making them an intriguing subject to observe year-round!
Blue Jays usually prefer to inhabit woodlands or forests that border open spaces, but can also be seen in suburban locations. Depending on the season, their behavior fluctuates drastically; during mating season they are often territorial and hostile towards other species, yet outside of it they come together in groups to scavenge for meals while mimicking the cries of neighboring birds.
Mourning Doves
Ohio is home to the most beloved bird on our continent, Mourning Doves. Easily identified by its grayish-brown feathers and long pointed tail, these birds can reach up to 13 inches in length. They typically feed on seeds while perched atop fences or power lines with their mates – as they are known for their lifelong partnerships!
The female usually lays two eggs which hatch after 2 weeks of incubation before fledging another 14 days later. Though you may find these feathered friends circling around all year round, spring and summer bring more of them than usual – a sight that’s sure not to be forgotten!
Downy Woodpecker
The Downy Woodpecker is a small black bird with white wing tips and belly, featuring an eye-catching red patch on their head. They inhabit woodlands all over North America, where they typically make nests in trees – making them quite the aerial acrobat!
With its soft, downy feathers and distinct black-and-white patterned plumage, the Downy Woodpecker is one of North America’s tiniest woodpeckers. The bird measures in at only six inches long and weighs a mere two ounces! As for food sources, these woodland creatures can be found pecking away at tree bark to uncover insects beneath the surface. They also have a small red patch on their heads – how striking!
Carolina Chickadee
The Carolina chickadee is a diminutive songbird with distinct markings. It has a black cap and bib, gray back, wings, and tail; on the other hand its sides and belly are white in color. With an oversized head accompanied by an abbreviated bill it’s no wonder these birds can be found across woodlands of the Eastern United States! Not only do males appear similar to females but juveniles also have somewhat duller plumage making them easy to distinguish from adults.
Carolina chickadees, small birds measuring only four to five inches in length with a wingspan of six to seven inches and weighing just half an ounce, are known for their unique diet. Not only do they feast on insects, spiders and other tiny invertebrates; these feathered friends also consume seeds and berries! Foraging primarily occurs in trees or shrubs where they fly out from the perch to grab food items mid-air or pick them up right off the leaves or branches.
Northern Flicker
The Northern Flicker, a member of the woodpecker family and native to North America, is easily recognizable with its brown body adorned in black bars, white underparts and an unmistakable red patch on their heads. For male flickers there’s also a distinguishing black mustache! These birds can be spied living within woods, open fields or even suburban backyards.
Flickers are usually ground feeders that consume a wide range of insects, berries, and seeds. They will also flock to birdfeeders in search of nuts or suet. Along with their impressive wingspan (24-26 inches) these birds measure about 15 inches in length. Northern Flickers typically nest inside tree cavities but often make use of man-made nesting boxes too; both parents help incubate the eggs and care for the hatchlings afterwards.
These solitary creatures may move around individually most times, however on occasion they can be seen mingling within small flocks during winter months—sometimes even roosting communally in large groups!
Flickers are known to live a diurnal lifestyle, and their resounding “wick-a-wick-a-wick” or “kee-yer” calls echo through numerous backyards before they’re spotted.
European Starlings
European Starlings are small and rotund with short legs, boasting black feathers that gleam iridescently in shades of green, blue, and purple. The adult male’s head is embellished by two white spots on each side. They share a similar size to the American Robin bird species; their diet mainly consists of insects during spring and summer while shifting to fruits and seeds come fall/winter season.
European Starlings prefer open habitats accompanied by trees; they inhabit woods, fields gardens or parks alike – making them an easily accessible avian friend you can encounter!
European Starlings are incredibly social creatures, flying in large flocks and even settling down during the breeding season to build nested homes in surrounding trees. Each nest contains between three and seven eggs per clutch – a testament to their resilient nature!
Red-bellied Woodpecker
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is an easily recognizable avian found in the state of Ohio, standing out with its striking red belly, black and white stripes on its back, and a peculiarly shaped black cap. Growing to nearly nine inches long, this bird’s diet consists mainly of insects that it finds by pecking at bark – making forests their preferred habitat but suburban areas are also not uncommon for them.
The woodpecker is a remarkably lively creature, habitually observed on the move between trees or even gripping onto branches while it feeds upside down. Its distinctive call has become quite renowned too; it sounds like an energetic drumming beat!
American Robin
(Turdus migratorius)
The American Robin is a member of the true thrush bird species, and it belongs to Turdidae – the wider thrush family. It’s named after its European cousin which has an identical reddish-orange chest, although they aren’t closely related; The European robin is part of the Old World flycatcher family. This gorgeous songbird can be found throughout North America in abundance during winter season since they tend to migrate farther south than Gray-cheeked Thrush or Bicknell’s Thrush.
Predators such as hawks, cats and snakes constantly threaten adult robins – not to mention their vulnerable eggs and nestlings. Despite this significant pressure, the American Robin is one of North America’s most abundant bird species with an estimated population of over 300 million!
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Eastern Bluebird
The majestic eastern bluebird is nothing short of spectacular. With its luminous azure back and head, rust-colored wings, tail feathers and pristine white underparts, it’s a truly captivating sight! Males and females look virtually identical in this species which measures around six to seven inches long from beak to tail with a wingspan reaching nine to eleven inches wide.
The eastern bluebird’s diet is made of up insects like grasshoppers, crickets and beetles, as well as various fruits and berries. These vibrant birds can be found in open woodlands, farmlands and even some suburban areas—as well as at backyard bird feeders during the colder months. Their nests are built into tree cavities or nest boxes; with each clutch containing three to seven eggs on average!
Native to both Missouri and New York, the eastern bluebird is a beloved state bird. Thankfully, these birds have not yet been classified as endangered – despite their dwindling numbers due to decreasing habitats.
Chickadees
Chickadees are easily identifiable thanks to their signature black caps and bibs, white cheeks, grey-toned wings and tail. Females have a brownish cap as opposed to the males’ black one. These tiny songbirds can be found throughout North America in woodlands and forests where they tirelessly search for their meals of insects, spiders, seeds and nuts – often while hanging upside down!
The curious and friendly chickadee is a sight to behold, often approaching people or even perching on their head or shoulder. These birds play an essential role in our environment as they help keep insect populations under control. Wintertime offers the best chance of spotting these delightful creatures since they are searching for food stockpiles before winter arrives. Chickadees not only bring joy with their presence but also offer invaluable contributions to nature – making them truly irreplaceable!
Pine Warbler – Setophaga pinus
The aesthetically pleasing Pine Warbler is a small, yet stout songbird with yellowish-olive feathers adorning its upper body and whitish underparts. Its back is marked by dark streaks while the male enjoys a gorgeous black cap atop of his bright yellow head featuring an eye line. Females’ plumage tends to be paler in comparison, with less distinct head markings.
This species inhabits coniferous forests across the eastern United States and Canada; nesting in tree cavities or nest boxes for optimal protection from predators during breeding season as they lay four to six eggs on average per clutch. Known as insectivores, Pine Warblers nourish mostly on caterpillars. Foraging for food by snatching insects from needles and leaves, these birds are non-migratory and remain in their breeding range all year round – though some may opt to venture lower into the mountains during colder days.
Discreet dwellers of the high branches of trees, it’s hard to spot a Pine Warbler but you can certainly hear them when spring comes along; belting out its melodious warbling song that echoes through treetops!
Chipping Sparrow – Spizella passerine
With a pale brown back, gray chest and white belly, the Chipping Sparrow is an unassuming small bird that measures approximately five inches in length. An unmistakable black line marking their eyes topped with a dark brown cap serves as its identifying feature. They have short pointed beaks which they use to feed on grasshoppers, beetles, caterpillers and other insects during summer months or will resort to eating seeds from trees or weeds when winter arrives.
The Chipping Sparrow is a well-known bird in North America, predominantly inhabiting open spaces with some trees like parks and yards. They build small nests out of twigs and grasses, making them very tolerant to living near humans. During the warmer seasons of spring and summer, you will find yourself recognizing this species by their distinct three or four note song which resembles “chip-chip-chirp”. A delightful companion for anyone who loves nature!
Killdeer – Charadrius vociferus
The killdeer is a member of the plover family, which also includes sandpipers. This wading bird stands about nine inches tall and has an impressive wingspan extending sixteen inches long. Its upper body features mottled brown-and-white patterns while its underparts are predominantly white with black streaks on its breast and sides. Not to mention it possesses an unmistakable orange complexion on its legs that complements the black stripe running across their eyes as well as a bill made entirely out of ebony! To complete this marvelous creature’s appearance listen for its iconic call sounding like “killdeer”!
The North American, Central American and Caribbean regions are the natural home of Killdeers. They breed in open areas with little vegetation such as fields, golf courses or beaches before migrating to wintering grounds located further south in Mexico, the US and Central America. In terms of diet they primarily feed on insects like beetles, grasshoppers and crickets but can also consume small invertebrates such as snails or earthworms for sustenance.
The killdeer is a ground-dwelling bird, and the female builds her nest in an excavated indentation on the earth. Both parents incubate their four eggs for approximately 28 days until they hatch. In just three short weeks, these little ones are ready to take flight!
Dark-eyed Junco – Junco hyemalis
The Dark-eyed Junco is a small sparrow with an impressive slate-gray back and pristine white belly. It has a stunningly dark bill, eyes, and legs that contrast its otherwise light gray head. Measuring about six inches long in total body length with an eight to ten inch wingspan, this bird’s beauty reaches further than just looks alone!
During the summer months you can find them breeding in open woodlands; however when winter rolls around they tend to migrate towards fields or forests – even near bird feeders if lucky enough! In Ohio these birds are most often seen amongst trees or fields but can sometimes be spotted closer by at nearby bird feeders.
Dark-eyed Juncos relish a diet of seeds and insects, but shift to mostly insects during the summer. To draw these feathered friends into your yard, offer them a bird feeder with an assortment of seed mix, millet and sunflower seeds in it.
White-throated Sparrow – Zonotrichia albicollis
The white-throated sparrow is a diminutive, stout bird with an elongated tail. Its feathers boast of grayish brown hues on the upper parts and pristine whites at its stomach region. The male has yellow streaks across its cheeks above a blushing pink bill, pale rosy legs and dark chestnut eyes – similar to that of the female albeit usually larger in size than her counterpart.
With its distinctive white throat stripe, the white-throated sparrow is omnipresent in woodlands and brushy areas throughout most of North America. This bird prefers to nest on or near the ground using fallen logs or stumps as their base. The pale yellowish-brown songbird has a diet consisting mainly of insects and black oil sunflower seeds. It can be quite shy but surprisingly friendly if given food by humans; it even builds nests in the eaves of houses!
Flocking together during winter months, these birds are delightful sights when they flock around feeding stations and other areas where seed is provided for them.
Rufous Hummingbird – Selasphorus rufus
The vibrant red-orange feathers of the Rufous Hummingbird make it a spectacular sight to behold. This beautiful hummingbird is one of North America’s most widespread species, living from Alaska and western Ohio all the way down to northern Mexico in its breeding season. When winter comes around, this migratory bird heads south for warmer climates such as Mexico and Central America where they spend their days until spring returns.
The eye-catching Rufous Hummingbird is sexually dimorphic, which means males and females display different plumage. The male has fiery red-orange feathers on its back, tail, and flanks with a white throat and chin framed by light grey underparts. Meanwhile, the female exhibits paler greenish-gray upperparts in contrast to her soft white underside that is dotted with rufous (reddish brown) markings along her sides and flanks.
Brown-headed Nuthatch – Sitta pusilla
With its large head, short tail and stout bill, the Brown-headed Nuthatch is a distinctively small songbird. Males and females are similar in appearance – greyish-brown on top with pale undersides coupled with an unmistakable black cap along with white facial features. This species can be found mainly within forests of the southeastern United States.
Brown-headed Nuthatches are incredibly sociable birds that travel in pairs or small flocks. You can spot them foraging actively among trees with their sharp bills, usually hanging upside down to find insects. They also dine on nuts and sunflower seeds! These feathered friends build their nests in cavities of trees, typically old woodpecker holes – they use acorns or other items as props to open the entranceway into their nest. Brown-headed Nuthatches always make themselves known by making a constant loud “tsee-tsee” sound!
White-winged Crossbill – Loxia leucoptera
The strikingly distinctive white-winged crossbill is a small songbird that stands out for its large, slightly bent bill. Depending on the gender, it can be identified by either an eye-catching red plumage or a more muted greenish-brown color. Fortunately, these birds are native to North America and frequent coniferous forests where they feed upon seeds of pine cones and other cone trees.
The white-winged crossbill is a small but prevalent bird native to North America, typically reaching six inches in length and having an eight to ten inch wingspan. What makes them particularly unique is their feeding habits; they use their crossed bills to separate pine cones, enabling access to the seeds inside. Fortunately, it has been declared that this species’ population is stable.
What kinds of birds live in Ohio?
Home to a wide variety of avian species, Ohio has no shortage of feathered friends. Robins, bluebirds, cardinals, finches and an array of ducks and geese are just some that can be seen frequently throughout the state. The diverse bird population awaits discovery by all who venture outside in this beautiful area!
What birds are most common in Ohio?
Ohio is home to a captivating variety of birds, with American Robins, Northern Cardinals and Mourning Doves making up the majority – nearly 60% – of our feathered population. Other delightful species that Ohioans can admire include Blue Jays, Downy Woodpeckers and Black-Capped Chickadees.
What are song birds in Ohio?
Ohio is a haven for songbirds, boasting over 400 species that can be found in its beautiful landscape. The most common of these birds include the American robin, the northern cardinal and the blue jay. For those looking to spot something more rarer during their bird-watching adventures may come across yellow-breasted chats, scarlet tanagers or even brown thrashers!
How many bird species are native to Ohio?
Ohio is rich in bird species, containing 211 avian residents ranging from migratory to non-migratory birds. Our diverse habitats foster an abundance of wildlife and provide the perfect home for many feathered friends such as crows, blue jays, and cardinals alike. From lush forests to bustling wetlands and rolling grasslands, Ohio’s varied environment allows its native bird population to soar!
Ohio is a paradise for bird watchers, as it’s home to several uncommon aviators like the bald eagle and the peregrine falcon. There are plenty of ways to enjoy bird-watching in Ohio; whether you’re looking for wildlife tours, guided hikes or a peaceful spot to sit back and observe nature, it has something for everyone!
Bird Feeders
Calling all feathered friends! If you want to bring birds of a feather together in your backyard, the solution is simple: install a bird feeder. With countless designs and sizes ideal for local species, you’ll be sure to find one that catches their eyes—and taste buds. Don’t forget though – regular maintenance is key if you’d like those guests coming back. Common food choices include sunflower seeds, peanuts or suet which will surely satisfy even the pickiest eater’s appetite.
