Most Common Birds of Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be small in size, but it is home to a diverse array of bird species. Some of the most commonly seen birds in the state are American robins, Canada geese, northern cardinals, blue jays, and red-winged blackbirds.

We’ll show you the most common birds found in Rhode Island, as well as their pictures and important statistics. Only reliable sources were used to gather this information, which was then verified by an Ornithologist.

Common Backyard Birds in Rhode Island

Song Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Song Sparrows are small to medium-sized birds, measuring about 5-6 inches in length with a wingspan of 7-9 inches. They have brown upperparts and streaked underparts, with a prominent dark spot on their chest.

Their diet consists primarily of seeds and insects, which they forage for on the ground or low shrubs.

In Rhode Island, Song Sparrows can be found in a variety of habitats including marshes, fields, and suburban gardens.

During breeding season, they are territorial and will sing to mark their territory. They construct cup-shaped nests made of grasses and plant materials, usually located on the ground or low shrubs.

Male Song Sparrows will also perform courtship displays, such as flying high and then diving back down towards the female. Outside of breeding season, they may form small flocks with other sparrow species.

House Finch

House Finch

(Carpodacus mexicanus) can typically be identified by their red forehead and crown, brown back, and white underbelly. They are seed eaters, often found at bird feeders or in open fields foraging for food. On average, they measure about 5-6 inches in length with a wingspan of 8-11 inches.

In Rhode Island, House Finches can be found in a variety of habitats including suburban areas, open woodlands, and agricultural fields. They often form small flocks and are known for their musical songs. During mating season, males will display bright red feathers to attract a mate.

Both male and female work together to build their nest, usually in a tree or on a building ledge, and take turns incubating the eggs. After hatching, both parents help feed and care for the young until they are ready to leave the nest.

House Finch range map

American Goldfinch

American Goldfinch

American Goldfinch, also known as wild canaries, are small and vibrant birds with yellow bodies and black wings. They can be found in open woodlands, fields, backyards, and parks. Their diet consists mainly of seeds and insects.

During the winter, they flock together and can often be seen at bird feeders. In the spring, their breeding season, their coloring becomes more vibrant and males can often be seen displaying for females by flying high and singing.

Their nests are made of plant fibers and built in shrubs or trees. The female goldfinch will lay 3-5 eggs and both parents take turns incubating them for about two weeks before they hatch.

American Goldfinch range map

House Sparrow

House Sparrow

House Sparrows, one of the most common bird species in Rhode Island, can easily be identified by their small size, brown feathers with black stripes on their back, and a distinctive white cheek patch.

These birds primarily feed on seeds and grains, but will also eat insects and other small invertebrates.

They are often found in urban areas and around human dwellings, where they nest in cavities or man-made structures such as eaves or birdhouses.

In their natural habitat, these birds live in open areas with scattered shrubs and trees.

House Sparrows are social birds and can often be seen in flocks, foraging and communicating with each other through chirps and trills. They are also known to be aggressive towards other bird species, competing for resources and nesting sites.

House Sparrow range map

Downy Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker

Downy Woodpecker, the smallest woodpecker in Rhode Island, can be identified by its black and white barred back, the white underside with a black spot on its neck, and a small red patch on the back of its head. Its diet consists mainly of insects found in tree bark or picked off of plants, but it also eats nuts and berries.

This bird is about 6-7 inches in length and can be found in deciduous forests or residential areas with mature trees. Its behavior includes using its strong bill to hammer and drill into tree bark to find food, as well as clinging upside down on tree trunks while foraging. They also have a habit of storing excess food in tree crevices for later consumption.

Downy Woodpeckers are known to form pairs and nest in tree cavities, where they will raise their young. They may also use man-made birdhouses as nesting sites. These birds are often seen alone or with their mate, but may also be found in small flocks during migration or winter.

Gray Catbird – Dumetella carolinensis

Gray Catbird

The Gray Catbird is a medium-sized songbird with gray plumage, black cap, and a long tail. Its call is reminiscent of a cat’s meow, hence its name.

In terms of diet, the Gray Catbird primarily feeds on insects and fruits.

The average size of this bird ranges from 9-11 inches in length, with a wingspan of 13-15 inches.

In terms of habitat, the Gray Catbird can often be found in thick shrubs and dense vegetation, as well as urban areas and backyard gardens.

In terms of behavior, the Gray Catbird is known for its mimicking abilities, imitating the sounds of other birds and even non-avian animals. It is also known for its aggressive behavior towards intruders in its territory, often chasing them away with loud calls and physical attacks.

American Robin – Turdus migratorius

American Robin

In Rhode Island, the American Robin can be identified by its distinct reddish-orange breast and gray upperparts. It has a dark head with white eye-ring and yellow bill.

The American Robin primarily feeds on insects, berries, and fruits.

On average, these birds measure about 10 inches in length with a wingspan of 16 inches.

American Robins can be found in a variety of habitats ranging from open woodland areas to suburban backyard spaces.

In terms of behavior, American Robins are often seen foraging on the ground and also perching on high branches or telephone wires. They are known for their loud, cheerful song which can often be heard during dawn and dusk. These birds also engage in flocking behavior, especially during migration and winter.

American Robin range map

Northern Cardinal – Cardinalis

Northern Cardinals

The Northern Cardinal is a familiar sight in backyards and woodlands of Rhode Island. They have distinctive red feathers and a pointed crest on their heads. Males also have a black mask, while females have a brownish-red hue on their faces.

Their diet consists mainly of seeds and fruits, but they also eat insects, snails, and even small frogs.

On average, Northern Cardinals are about 8-9 inches in length with a wingspan of 10-12 inches.

In Rhode Island, they can be found in woodlands, swamps, or even city parks and backyard bird feeders.

Cardinals are typically solitary birds, but during breeding season they form monogamous pairs. They are also known for their loud and distinctive songs, which they use to defend their territory and attract mates.

Blue Jay

Blue Jays

Blue Jay’s can be identified by their blue bodies and crest on top of their heads. They have black accents on their wings and tails, and white underbellies. Blue Jays mainly eat nuts and seeds, but they will also eat insects and other small animals.

In terms of size, Blue Jays are about 9-12 inches in length with a wingspan of 12-13 inches.

In Rhode Island, Blue Jays can commonly be found in forests and suburban areas.

They are known for their loud calls and aggressive behavior towards other birds. Blue Jays have been known to steal food from smaller birds and will also cache excess food for later consumption.

Mourning Dove

Mourning Doves

(Zenaida macroura) is a small, slender dove with gray-brown upperparts, pinkish chest, and black spots on its wings. Its long, pointed tail has white edges. It has a black bill and yellow feet.

Mourning Doves primarily eat seeds and grains, foraging on the ground or in low vegetation.

Mourning Doves range in size from 10-12 inches in length with a wingspan of 14-18 inches.

In Rhode Island, Mourning Doves can be found in open habitats such as fields, farms, and residential areas. They often perch on telephone wires or fence posts.

Mourning Doves have a distinctive, soft cooing call. They often engage in courtship displays, including ground-dipping and wing-quivering. Pairs may mate for life and build their nests on branches or in trees, using twigs and grasses to construct a flimsy platform.

The female typically lays 2 eggs, which both parents help incubate for about two weeks before they hatch. The young fledge after around 10-14 days. Mourning Doves may have several broods in a breeding season.

American Crow

American Crow

(Corvus brachyrhynchos) can be identified by their glossy black feathers, yellow eyes, and distinct cawing call. In Rhode Island, they can commonly be found in open forests, fields, and even cities.

Their diet consists of a wide variety of foods including insects, grains, fruits, small animals, and garbage. American Crows can reach up to 20 inches in length and have a wingspan of around 40 inches.

In terms of behavior, these birds are highly social and often seen in large flocks. They have also been known to display problem-solving abilities, using tools to assist with finding food.

Additionally, they have complex communication methods and can remember individual human faces. However, they can also become pests due to their scavenging behavior.

Black-capped Chickadee

Black-capped Chickadee

Black-capped Chickadee, a small, energetic bird native to North America, can be identified by its black cap and bib, white cheeks, and gray back and wings. These birds are commonly found in deciduous and mixed woodlands throughout Rhode Island.

In the summer months, their diet consists mainly of insects and seeds, but in the winter they rely heavily on seeds and suet from bird feeders.

Black-capped Chickadees typically weigh about 0.5 ounces and have a length of 4-5 inches.

These social birds can often be seen flitting through tree branches in small groups, making high-pitched chick-a-dee calls. They are known for their boldness around humans and are not afraid to approach bird feeders.

Black-capped Chickadees also have the remarkable ability to hide seeds and insects for later consumption, a behavior known as “hoarding.”

Tufted Titmouse

tufted titmouse

Tufted Titmouse, a small songbird, can be identified by its gray upperparts and white underparts, with a distinctive black tuft on its forehead. It is known for its acrobatic foraging behavior, often hanging upside down to search for insects in tree branches.

In Rhode Island, it primarily feeds on insects and seeds found in deciduous and mixed forests, but will also visit a bird feeder for sunflower seeds or suet.

The Tufted Titmouse typically nests in tree cavities, but will also use nest boxes provided by humans. It often forms small flocks with chickadees and nuthatches during the non-breeding season.

European Starling

European Starling

European Starling, also known as Common Starling, can be identified by its glossy black feathers with speckles of white or green. These birds are omnivores and commonly eat insects, fruits, seeds, and grains. They have an average length of 8-9 inches and can be found in open fields, woodlands, parks, and urban areas.

In the winter, they may form large flocks and can be seen foraging on the ground. They are also known for their mimicry abilities, imitating sounds from other birds to predators to even human-made noises.

White-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch is a small bird with dark gray-blue upperparts and white underparts. It has a black cap, white face, and a long, pointed bill. Its diet consists of insects, nuts, and seeds.

In Rhode Island, White-breasted Nuthatches can be found in deciduous or mixed woodlands, particularly near pine trees. They are known for their acrobatic behavior, often seen hanging upside down while foraging on tree trunks and branches.

This bird typically moves up and down tree trunks in a characteristic “rocking” motion, as opposed to the sideways movement of most other species of nuthatches. It also has the unique habit of storing food items, such as acorns and suet, in tree crevices for later consumption.

White-breasted Nuthatches often form small flocks and can commonly be seen with chickadees and woodpeckers. They may also join mixed species feeding flocks during the winter months. Their vocalizations include whistled notes and a nasal “yank” call.

White-breasted Nuthatch range map

Barn Swallow – Hirundo rustica

Barn Swallows

The Barn Swallow is a small bird, typically measuring around 5.5-7.1 inches in length with a wingspan of 11-13 inches. They have long, pointed wings and a forked tail which allows them to fly gracefully and swiftly. Their upperparts are dark blue or brown with a reddish forehead and throat. They also have a distinct white patch on their cheeks and underparts.

In Rhode Island, the Barn Swallow can be found near open fields, barns, and other man-made structures where they build their mud nests. They primarily feed on insects which they catch in mid-air using their agile flight abilities.

During breeding season, Barn Swallows can be seen performing acrobatic displays as part of their courtship rituals. After mating, they form monogamous pairs and raise their young together.

Both parents help build the nest and hunt for food to feed their chicks until they are ready to leave the nest and become independent. Outside of breeding season, Barn Swallows gather in large flocks and migrate to warmer climates.

Palm Warbler – Setophaga palmarum

Palm Warbler

The Palm Warbler can be identified by its yellowish-brown upperparts, white underparts with faint streaks on the breast, and a yellow patch on its throat. It also has a distinctive bobbing motion while foraging on the ground.

This bird primarily feeds on insects and spiders, but will also eat fruits and seeds.

Palm Warblers are small birds, measuring around five inches in length with a wingspan of seven to eight inches.

In Rhode Island, the Palm Warbler can be found in open areas such as fields and marshlands during the breeding season. During winter, they migrate to southern parts of the United States and Caribbean.

During the breeding season, Palm Warblers display a territorial behavior and may also engage in distraction displays to protect their nests from potential predators. They build their nests on or near the ground, constructing it with grasses and other plant materials. Both the male and female will participate in incubating the eggs and caring for the young.

Palm Warbler range map

Rusty Blackbird – Euphagus carolinus

Rusty Blackbird

Identifying characteristics of the Rusty Blackbird include black-brown plumage with a metallic sheen, yellow eyes, and a long, pointed bill. In flight, their wings appear longer and narrower than other blackbirds.

Their diet consists primarily of insects and aquatic invertebrates such as crayfish and freshwater snails. They also eat berries and black oil sunflower seeds, particularly in the winter.

Rusty Blackbirds typically measure about 9-11 inches in length with a wingspan of 14-16 inches.

Their habitat includes freshwater wetlands, swamps, marshes, boreal forests, and open woodlands. They are often found foraging near water or in wet meadows.

In the breeding season, Rusty Blackbirds form large nesting colonies and can be quite vocal. Outside of the breeding season, they are often found in flocks with other blackbird species. They may also migrate long distances, sometimes forming mixed species flocks during migration.

The Rusty Blackbird population has experienced a steep decline in recent years, with estimates showing a loss of over 90% of their population since the 1960s. Conservation efforts are currently focusing on identifying and protecting vital breeding and wintering habitats for this species.

Rusty Blackbird range map

Dark-eyed Junco

Dark-eyed Junco

Dark-eyed Junco birds can be identified by their gray bodies and white outer tail feathers. They mainly eat seeds and insects. These birds are small, usually only measuring around six inches in length.

In Rhode Island, Dark-eyed Juncos can be found in forested areas, especially coniferous or mixed forests.

These birds typically form large flocks and can be seen scratching at the ground to find food. They have a variety of vocalizations, including a high-pitched trill. During mating season, males may perform flight displays to attract a mate.

Dark-eyed Juncos are common winter visitors to Rhode Island, with some staying year-round in the state. However, they do migrate to northern regions in the summer.

Black-capped Chickadees

Black-capped Chickadees

Black-capped Chickadees are small, stocky birds with black caps and bibs on their heads, white cheeks, and gray backs and wings. Their diet consists primarily of insects and seeds.

In Rhode Island, they can be found in deciduous or mixed forests as well as residential areas with bird feeders. They are playful and acrobatic, often hanging upside down while foraging.

They are also known for their memorable two-note call “chick-a-dee-dee.”

During the winter, they often form large flocks and can be seen frequenting bird feeders.

These social birds have a complex communication system and will even cache food for future use.

They have also been known to join mixed-species foraging flocks, sharing information and cooperating with other bird species.

In the breeding season, they establish and defend territories, with pairs remaining together for multiple years.

Their nests are typically found in cavities of trees or nest boxes, lined with soft materials such as hair or feathers.

Both male and female chickadees will help to incubate the eggs and feed the young.

Common Grackle

Common Grackle

Common Grackle, a member of the blackbird family, can be identified by its iridescent purple and green body and long, keel-shaped tail. In Rhode Island, they can typically be found in open areas near water sources, such as wetlands or agricultural fields.

Grackles primarily feed on insects and grains but will also eat fruits, frogs, and small fish. They are known to be aggressive defenders of their food sources and will chase away smaller birds to protect their territory.

Common Grackles range in size from 11-13 inches in length and have a wingspan of 16-21 inches. They are common throughout North America and can also be found in parts of Mexico and Central America.

In addition to their aggressive protection of food sources, Grackles are also known for their loud and varied vocalizations. They have been observed engaging in communal roosting behavior, often with other blackbirds, and can form large flocks during migration periods.

Common Grackle range map

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Red-bellied Woodpecker is a medium-sized bird with black and white stripes on its back, a red cap on its head, and a red wash on its belly. Its diet consists mainly of insects and nuts. In Rhode Island, it can be found in deciduous forests or suburban areas with trees.

It has behavior traits such as drumming on tree trunks to mark territory and using its chisel-like bill to dig into wood for food. It builds nests in tree cavities, where it also raises its young.

Red-bellied Woodpecker range map

Red-winged Blackbird

Red-winged Blackbird

The Red-winged Blackbird can be identified by its black feathers and distinctive red and yellow shoulder patches.

This bird typically feeds on insects, seeds, and grains.

They range in size from 7 to 9 inches in length.

In Rhode Island, they can commonly be found in marshlands and wetlands.

During mating season, males can often be seen performing aerial displays and singing loudly to attract a mate. They are also known for their aggressive behavior towards intruders in their territory.

Snow Bunting – Plectrophenax nivalis

Snow Bunting

The Snow Bunting is a small bird with a length of approximately six to seven inches. It has a white body with black markings on its wings and tail. Its bill is short and thick, and its legs are pink in color.

In the winter months, the Snow Bunting can often be found foraging on open ground for seeds and insects. During the breeding season, it can be found in tundra and coastal regions where it feeds on berries and arthropods.

The Snow Bunting is known to form large flocks during migration and in winter. It typically nests on the ground in open areas, such as grasslands or tundra.

In terms of behavior, the Snow Bunting is known for its loud, high-pitched songs and calls. It also has a habit of diving or “parachuting” downward before landing on the ground or a perch.

The Snow Bunting can be found in Rhode Island during the winter months, particularly along coastal areas. However, it is not a common sighting in the state.

Snow Bunting range map

White-throated Sparrow – Zonotrichia albicollis

White-throated Sparrow

The White-throated Sparrow is a medium-sized bird with a length of approximately five to six inches. It has a brown and gray body with white throat and yellow marks on its head. Its bill is short and conical, and its legs are pink in color.

In the winter months, the White-throated Sparrow can often be found foraging on the ground for seeds, berries, and insects. During the breeding season, it can be found in deciduous or coniferous forests where it feeds on insects and fruits.

The White-throated Sparrow typically nests on or near the ground in thick vegetation. It is known to form large flocks during migration and in winter.

In terms of behavior, the White-throated Sparrow is known for its musical songs and calls. It also has a habit of bobbing its tail up and down while foraging on the ground.

The White-throated Sparrow can be found in Rhode Island during the winter and breeding seasons, particularly in wooded areas and suburban gardens. It is a common sighting in the state.

White-throated Sparrow range map

What type of birds live in Rhode Island?

Some common birds that can be found in Rhode Island include American robins, blue jays, mourning doves, and northern cardinals. Other bird species that can be spotted in the state are chickadees, finches, crows, gulls, sparrows, and Canada geese.

Some seasonal visitors to the area include snow buntings, snow geese, and various types of waterfowl. Rhode Island is also home to a variety of shorebirds, including piping plovers, willets, sandpipers, and oystercatchers.

What is the largest bird in Rhode Island?

The largest bird in Rhode Island is the American white pelican, which can have a wingspan of up to 9.5 feet and weigh up to 18 pounds. These birds are often seen in large groups at coastal areas and estuaries, where they feed on fish.

They also nest in colonies on islands or sandbars near water. Some American white pelicans also migrate through Rhode Island during the winter. The second largest bird in Rhode Island is the great blue heron, with a wingspan of up to 6.5 feet and weighing up to 5.5 pounds.

What is one of the common birds that you can see in winter in Rhode Island?

The American Robin is a common sight during the winter months in Rhode Island. They can often be seen foraging for worms and insects on lawns, or gathering in large flocks to feed on berries in trees and shrubs. The American Robin is easily recognized by its bright orange breast and cheery song. Keep an eye out for these lively birds during the winter season in Rhode Island.

Are there puffins in Rhode Island?

The short answer is no, there are no puffins native to Rhode Island. Puffins are typically found in the northern Atlantic ocean, near Iceland, Maine, and Canada. However, there have been sightings of puffins off the coast of Massachusetts, which is relatively close to Rhode Island.

These sightings are rare and it is unclear if they were just passing through or if they had made their way south to establish a small colony.

Winter Birds in Rhode Island:

While not as abundant as during the warmer months, Rhode Island still offers birdwatchers the opportunity to spot a variety of winter birds. Some common sightings include American robins, blue jays, northern cardinals, and various types of sparrows. Other potential sightings include snow buntings, snow geese, and various waterfowl.