Did you know that Georgia is home to over 250 different bird species? In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common birds in our state. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birder, we are sure that you’ll find this information helpful!
Common Backyard Birds in Georgia
Northern mockingbirds
Mockingbirds are medium-sized songbirds with gray upperparts, white underparts, and black wings with white wingbars. They have long legs and tails, and their bills are thin and slightly curved.
Mockingbirds are found in open habitats such as woods, fields, orchards, and suburban areas. Their diet consists of insects, fruits, and berries.
Mockingbirds are about 11 inches long, with a wingspan of 16 inches. They weigh approximately one ounce.
Mockingbirds breed in the southeastern United States, including Georgia. Their nesting season is from March to July. Mockingbirds typically lay three to five eggs per clutch.
Mockingbirds are known for their ability to mimic the sounds of other birds, as well as mechanical noises. They are also aggressive defenders of their territories, and will chase away much larger birds such as hawks and crows.
Brown-headed Nuthatch
The Brown-headed Nuthatch is a small songbird with a big personality. This little bird is grayish-brown above and has a buffy breast with brown streaks. It has a black cap and a white line above its eye. The Brown-headed Nuthatch gets its name from its habit of wedging nuts and seeds into cracks in trees, then using its stout bill to crack them open.
Brown-headed Nuthatches are small birds, measuring only about four inches long. They have a wingspan of six to seven inches. These birds weigh between 11 and 15 grams.
The Brown-headed Nuthatch is found in the southeastern United States, from Texas to Virginia. It is a resident of mixed forests, deciduous woods, and pine forests.
The Brown-headed Nuthatch is a social bird and often forms flocks with other small birds. These birds are active and agile, moving quickly up, down, and around tree trunks and branches in search of food.
Eastern Towhee
(Pipilo erythrophthalmus), is a large sparrow. The adult has black upperparts with a rufous back, wings, and tail. It has white underparts with heavy black streaks on the sides, breast, and belly. There are also two white wing bars. It has a yellow eye-ring and a bill.
The legs and feet are pinkish brown. The female is similar to the male but lacks the yellow eye ring and often has a duller plumage. Juveniles have brown upperparts with buff streaks and underparts with buff streaks on the sides and breast.
The Eastern Towhee is found in woods, thickets and brushy areas. It forages on the ground for insects, caterpillars, berries and seeds. It will also come to bird feeders.
The Eastern Towhee is about 20 cm long with a wingspan of about 30 cm.
Eastern Bluebird
(Sialia sialis)
The Eastern Bluebird is a small thrush with blue upperparts, rusty-red sides, and a white belly. They have a black throat and head with white stripes above the eyes. Males and females look similar, but juveniles are paler overall with less blue on their wings and tail.
These birds are found in open woodlands, farmlands, and suburban areas across the eastern United States. Their diet consists of insects, berries, and fruits. In the winter, they will also eat tree buds and small mammals.
The Eastern Bluebird is about six to seven inches long with a wingspan of ten inches. They weigh between one and two ounces. Their habitat consists of open woodlands, farmlands, and suburban areas across the eastern United States.
These birds are found in trees, on power lines, or on fence posts. They will also nest in man-made nesting boxes. The Eastern Bluebird is a non-migratory bird.
Northern Cardinal
Northern Cardinals are fairly easy to identify. The male has a red body and black face, while the female is mostly brown with some red on her wings. Cardinals are seed-eaters, so they can often be found near bird feeders. They are also fairly large birds, measuring about nine inches in length.
Cardinals typically live in woods or thickets, but they can also be found in urban areas. They are not migratory birds, so they can usually be seen in the same area year-round. Cardinals are fairly active birds, and they often hop or run instead of walking.
Yellow-rumped Warbler
(Setophaga coronata) is a small songbird with a yellow rump and breast. It has a white belly and gray wings. The adult male has a black throat. The female has a streaked throat.
This warbler breeds in deciduous forests in the eastern United States. It winters in the southern United States and Central America. It is about five inches long.
The Yellow-rumped Warbler eats insects and spiders. It forages in trees and bushes. It sometimes hovers to pick food off of leaves. This warbler migrates south in the fall. It flies in flocks.
The Yellow-rumped Warbler nests in trees. The female builds the nest. She lays three to five eggs in it. The young hatch in about two weeks. Both parents feed the young.
American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch is a small songbird that is often seen in backyards and gardens.
These birds are easily recognizable by their bright yellow plumage and black wings. The American Goldfinch typically feeds on seeds, insects, and fruits. These birds are found in open woodlands and fields across North America.
The American Goldfinch is a social bird that often forms flocks with other birds. These birds are known for their cheerful songs which they often sing while in flight.
Tufted Titmouse
Tufted Titmice is a small songbird with gray upperparts and white underparts. They have black heads with white tufts of feathers on each side, which resemble eyebrows. This bird is often seen in woodlands and forests. Their diet consists of insects, spiders, berries, and nuts.
Tufted Titmice are around five to six inches in length and have a wingspan of around eight to ten inches. These birds are non-migratory and stay in their habitat year-round. Their behavior is mostly solitary, but they can be seen in pairs or small groups during the breeding season.
They are known to build nests made of twigs, moss, and other soft materials. Tufted Titmice are active during the day and are often seen perching on tree branches or foraging for food on the ground.
Carolina Chickadee
The Carolina Chickadee is a small songbird with a black cap and bib, white cheeks, gray back and wings, and a rust-brown belly. These birds are often seen in pairs or small flocks feeding on insects in trees. They will also visit backyard bird feeders for sunflower seeds.
Carolina Chickadees nest in cavities in trees and often use man-made birdhouses. These birds are non-migratory and can be found in woodlands, forests, and urban parks throughout the southeastern United States. Chickadees are active little birds that are constantly on the move in search of food.
They are also known for their boldness around humans and are not afraid to approach people in search of a handout. Carolina Chickadees are fun birds to watch and make great backyard visitors.
Downy Woodpecker
(Picoides pubescens)
The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest woodpecker in North America, measuring just six to seven inches in length. The adult male has a black back and white wings with black bars, a small patch of red feathers on the back of the head, and a white belly.
The adult female has a black back with white stripes, a small patch of red feathers on the back of the head, and a white belly. The juvenile has a black back with white spots, a small patch of red feathers on the back of the head, and a white belly.
The Downy Woodpecker feeds on insects, spiders, berries, and nuts. It is found in woodlands, parks, and gardens throughout North America. The Downy Woodpecker is a cavity nester, meaning it excavates its own nest hole in a tree.
Both the male and female take part in excavating the nest hole, which takes about two weeks to complete. The Downy Woodpecker is a solitary bird, but is often seen in pairs or small flocks during the winter months.
It is an agile flier and can be seen acrobatically clinging to tree trunks and branches as it searches for food. The Downy Woodpecker is a vocal bird, with a distinctive “chick-a-dee” call that is often heard in the woods.
American Robin
(Turdus migratorius)
The American Robin is a chatty bird that is easily identified by its bright orange breast. This thrush is the largest North American thrush. Robins are found in woods, gardens and parks throughout the United States and southern Canada. These birds forage on the ground for earthworms, insects and berries.
Robins are also known to eat fruits, especially cherries. In the fall, they fatten up on berries in preparation for their long journey south. Some robins stay north all year long, but most migrate to Mexico and Central America for the winter.
American Robins are interesting birds because they will often build their nests in unusual places, such as on top of light fixtures or in mailboxes. They will also build their nests in more traditional places like trees.
These birds are very protective of their young and will attack humans and animals that come too close to their nest. The female Robin lays three to five eggs at a time.
Both parents help to incubate the eggs, which hatch after about two weeks. The young birds are ready to leave the nest a few weeks later.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
(Archilochus colubris)
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a small bird with iridescent green upperparts and a white underbelly. The adult male has a ruby throat, while the female has a white throat with some spotting. These hummingbirds are about three inches long and weigh less than half an ounce.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds eat mostly insects, but will also feed on nectar from flowers. They are attracted to red, orange, and pink flowers. In the spring and summer, they can be found in woods and gardens across the eastern United States and southeastern Canada. In the winter, they migrate to Mexico and Central America.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are very territorial and will chase away other birds, including other hummingbirds, from their feeding areas. They are also known to steal nectar from the nests of bees and wasps. These tiny birds can beat their wings up to fifty times per second!
Eastern Phoebe
The Eastern Phoebe is a small songbird with drab gray-brown upperparts and light underparts. It has a white throat and black eye line. The bill is dark with a paler lower mandible. The legs and feet are brownish-black. This bird ranges from 13-15 cm in length with a wingspan of 20-22 cm.
The diet of the Eastern Phoebe consists mainly of insects such as beetles, ants, flies, and wasps. It will also eat spiders and other small arthropods. This bird forages in trees and bushes, often near water sources.
The Eastern Phoebe breeds in open woodlands, fields, and along streams. The nest is a mud structure with a grass-lined cup. It is built on ledges, tree stumps, logs, or rocks. This bird typically lays three to six eggs per clutch.
Carolina Wren
Carolina Wrens are one of the most common birds in Georgia. To identify a Carolina Wren, look for its rusty brown upperparts, white underparts with heavy brown streaks, and long tail that is often held upright. This bird is also known for its loud, cheerful song which consists of a rapid series of notes.
Carolina Wrens are insectivores and primarily eat beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. To find food, they forage on the ground or in low vegetation.
Carolina Wrens are small birds that measure between five and six inches in length. They have a wingspan of between eight and nine inches.
This bird is a year-round resident of Georgia and can be found in a variety of habitats including forests, swamps, gardens, and urban areas. Carolina Wrens are also known to nest in abandoned birdhouses.
Red-bellied Woodpecker
(Melanerpes carolinus) is a medium-sized woodpecker found in North and South America. It gets its name from the red patch on its belly, which can be hard to see depending on the angle and lighting.
The back is black with white bars, the wings are black with white spots, and the tail is black with white bands. The male has a red cap, while the female has a black cap with a white band. Juveniles have a brownish back and no red on their belly.
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is found in woods, both deciduous and evergreen, across the eastern United States and southern Canada. It is a common bird in Georgia. It is also found in parts of Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
The Red-bellied Woodpecker eats insects, nuts, and berries. It will also visit suet feeders.
Mourning Doves
Mourning doves are one of the most common birds in North America. They are easily identified by their long, pointed tail feathers and soft cooing calls. Mourning Doves are about 12 inches long and weigh about ounces.
Their diet consists mostly of seeds, but they will also eat insects. Mourning doves prefer open habitats such as fields, prairies, and golf courses. They build their nests in trees or on ledges, and usually lay two eggs.
Mourning doves are shy birds and will quickly fly away when they feel threatened. Although they are not considered endangered, their populations have declined in recent years due to habitat loss and hunting.
Indigo Bunting
The Indigo Bunting is a small songbird with a sleek, black body and bright blue wings. These birds are most often found in woodlands and forests, but they will also inhabit open fields and meadows. Their diet consists primarily of insects, but they will also eat berries and seeds.
These birds are relatively small, measuring only about five to six inches in length. Their wingspan is usually between eight and nine inches. Males are slightly larger than females and have a more vibrant blue plumage. Females tend to be more dull in coloration, with grayish-blue wings.
During the breeding season, Indigo Buntings build nests out of grasses, twigs, and leaves. They typically lay between three and five eggs per clutch. Both parents help to care for the young birds until they are old enough to fledge, or leave the nest.
Blue Jays
Blue Jays are one of the most common birds in Georgia. They are easily identified by their blue feathers and white underparts. Blue Jays are also known for their loud calls.
The diet of a Blue Jay consists mostly of insects and nuts. They will also eat fruits and berries. During the winter months, they will often eat acorns.
Blue Jays are medium-sized bird. They measure about 12 inches in length and have a wingspan of about 15 inches.
The habitat of a Blue Jay includes woods, gardens, and parks. They are also commonly found near human habitation.
The behavior of a Blue Jay can be described as curious and bold. They are known to approach humans and will often steal food from picnics. Blue Jays are also known to be aggressive towards other birds.
American Crow
American Crows is one of the most beautiful birds in North America. They have a black head, white throat, and red breasts. The female Crows are slightly smaller than the males and have brownish-black upperparts. These birds are usually found in woodlands near streams or ponds. Their diet consists mostly of insects and their larvae.
American Crows are also known to eat small fruits and berries. These birds are generally shy and prefer to stay away from humans. However, they will come close to people if there is food available. American Crows are relatively small birds. They typically range in size from about six to eight inches long. Their wingspan is usually between 12 and 16 inches wide.
American Crows typically weigh between one and two ounces. These birds are found in woodlands throughout the eastern United States. They generally prefer areas with dense vegetation and plenty of insects to eat. American Crowrs typically nest in trees or shrubs.
Chipping Sparrow
Chipping Sparrows are a small sparrow with a rufous cap and streaked upperparts. They have a white breast with dark streaks and a long, notched tail. Chipping Sparrows eat mostly seeds and insects. They build their nests in trees or shrubs, often near the ground. These sparrows are found in open woodlands, parks, and gardens. Chipping Sparrows are active and vocal birds. Their song is a high-pitched chip.
The Chipping Sparrow is a small sparrow measuring around five inches in length. The adult has a rusty brown cap with streaked upperparts, making it easily identifiable. It also has light underparts with dark streaks, and a long notched tail.
The diet of the Chipping Sparrow consists mostly of seeds and insects, which it forages for on the ground. It builds its nests in trees or shrubs, often quite close to the ground. This sparrow is found in open woodlands, parks, and gardens across North America.
The Chipping Sparrow is an active and vocal bird, with its song being a high-pitched ‘chip’. Although not currently considered to be at risk, the Chipping Sparrow’s populations have been in decline in recent years. Possible causes for this decline include habitat loss and fragmentation.
Brown Thrasher
The Brown Thrasher is the state bird of Georgia. It is a medium-sized songbird with rusty brown upperparts, pale gray underparts, and a long reddish-brown tail. The thrasher’s bill is curved and pointed, perfect for catching insects in flight or digging in the ground for food.
This bird can be found in woodlands, forests, and gardens throughout the state of Georgia. The Brown Thrasher is an omnivore and will eat just about anything, including insects, berries, and nuts.
The Brown Thrasher is a shy bird that is usually seen alone or in pairs. However, during the breeding season, they are often found in small groups. These birds are not migratory and will spend their whole lives in Georgia.
European Starlings
European Starlings are small to medium-sized birds with black feathers and yellow eyes. They are found in woodlands, meadows, and gardens. Their diet consists of insects, berries, and fruits. European Starlings are known for their aggressive behavior towards other birds and animals. They are also known to damage crops.
European Starlings are not native to North America but were introduced in the 1800s. Today, they are one of the most common birds in North America. European Starlings are considered to be nuisance animals by many people. However, some people enjoy having them around because of their beautiful singing voices.
European Starlings are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This means that it is illegal to kill them or to remove their nests. If you see a European Starling, you should report it to your local wildlife authorities.
Common Grackle
The common grackle is a large blackbird with a long tail and glossy feathers. It is found in woodlands and fields across North America. Grackles are social birds and often form large flocks. They eat insects, seeds, and fruits. Common grackles can be aggressive towards other birds and animals.
The common grackle is about 12 inches long with a wingspan of 18 inches. Males and females look similar, but males are slightly larger. Common grackles are black with a greenish-black sheen. They have yellow eyes and long, thin beaks.
Common grackles live in forests, fields, and wetlands. They are found throughout North America, from Alaska to Newfoundland. In the winter, grackles often congregate in large flocks near food sources.
Song Sparrow
Song Sparrows are one of the most widespread birds in North America. They are small sparrows with streaked brown upperparts and a rusty breast. The face is gray with a black streak through the eye. Their diet consists mostly of insects and seeds. Song Sparrows live in open habitats such as fields, meadows, and forest edges. They are usually found near the ground, but will sometimes perch in bushes or trees.
They are very secretive birds and are hard to spot. When they are alarmed, they will often freeze instead of flying away. Song Sparrows typically mate for life and have two to three broods per year. The female builds the nest which is usually a cup made of grass, leaves, and other plant material.
The nest is usually placed on the ground in a protected area such as under a bush. Song Sparrows are not currently considered to be at risk. However, their populations have declined in some areas due to habitat loss.
House Finch
The house finch is a common bird found in North America. These birds are small, usually measuring between five and six inches in length. The males are typically a reddish-brown color, while the females are more of a grayish-brown. House finches can be found in many different habitats, but they prefer areas with trees and shrubs.
These birds eat a variety of foods, but they are especially fond of seeds. House finches are social creatures and often build their nests close to other birds’ nests. These birds are not migratory, so they can be seen in Georgia all year long.
House Sparrow
House Sparrows are one of the most familiar birds around, and they’re also one of the sparrow species you’re most likely to see in your backyard. These plump little brown birds are often seen perching on power lines or gathered together on rooftops, chirping away. House Sparrows have a very distinct appearance with their grayish-brown plumage and pale gray underparts.
The males also have a black throat and a chestnut brown cap, while the females usually have a duller gray-brown plumage. These birds are relatively small, measuring only about six inches in length.
Despite their name, House Sparrows are not actually closely related to true sparrows. In fact, they belong to a different family of birds altogether. House Sparrows are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia but they have been introduced to many other parts of the world, including North America.
These birds are very adaptable and can live in a variety of habitats, from urban areas to farmlands.
What are common birds in Georgia?
There are many common birds in Georgia including robins, blue jays, cardinals, and finches. These birds can be found in a variety of habitats throughout the state. Robins are commonly seen in urban areas, while blue jays and cardinals are more likely to be found in wooded areas.
What bird is Georgia known for?
The state bird of Georgia is the brown thrasher. The brown thrasher is a small to medium-sized songbird with reddish-brown upperparts and dark streaks on its whitish underparts.
Do finches live in Georgia?
No, finches are not native to Georgia. They are originally from Africa and Eurasia. However, there is a small population of finches that live in the state of Florida. It’s possible that some of these birds may have made their way to Georgia, but they are not common in the state.
What kind of sparrows are in Georgia?
There are four types of sparrows that live in Georgia: the chipping sparrow, the house sparrow, the white-throated sparrow, and the tree sparrow. All four types are small birds with brown feathers and white belly. They all eat insects and seeds.
Bird Feeders
One of the best ways to attract birds to your backyard is by putting up a bird feeder. Not only will you get to enjoy watching the birds, but you’ll also be helping them out by providing a food source. When choosing a bird feeder, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
First, decide what type of birds you want to attract. Different types of birds prefer different types of food, so you’ll need to choose a feeder and food that’s appropriate for the birds you want to attract.
Second, think about where you’ll be placing the bird feeder. You’ll want to make sure it’s in a spot where the birds feel safe and where you’ll be able to enjoy watching them.
Finally, consider how often you’ll need to refill the bird feeder. Some feeders need to be refilled more often than others, so you’ll want to choose one that’s appropriate for your schedule.
Bird Watching
There are many different types of birds in the world, and bird watching is a popular hobby for people of all ages. Bird watching can be done in your own backyard, or you can go on a bird watching tour to see different kinds of birds in their natural habitat.
If you’re interested in starting this fun and rewarding hobby, here are a few tips to get you started:
- First, you’ll need to find a good spot to watch birds. If you live in an urban area, your local park or nature reserve is a great place to start. Otherwise, anywhere with trees and open spaces will do.
- Next, you’ll need to invest in a good pair of binoculars. This will help you get a better view of the birds you’re trying to watch.
- Finally, make sure you have a bird identification book. This will help you identify the different kinds of birds you see.