Top 5 Backyard Birds in Pennsylvania (With Pictures)
Love nature and are curious about the Backyard Birds that live in Pennsylvania? You’re in the right place! We’re going to talk about the top 5 birds you’ll likely see, sharing details on what they look like, where they live, and how to bring them to your yard. You’ll see clear pictures to help you identify these birds. This will make your birdwatching more fun and informative.
Here we’ll learn about 5 different types of Backyard Birds Found in Pennsylvania!!
Pennsylvania is full of different backyard birds you can see right outside your door. The Northern Cardinal shows off its bright colors while the Song Sparrow sings happily. These birds not only make the state beautiful but also bring joy to anyone who sees them. In this article, we’ll learn about some of Pennsylvania’s top backyard birds, getting ready for a closer look at the most famous types.
The Keystone State is a paradise for bird lovers, home to over 435 bird species. This rich diversity keeps bird watchers entertained all year round. No matter if you’re a big fan or just like hearing them outside your window, Pennsylvania has many birds waiting for you to spot and appreciate.
Pennsylvania hosts a variety of birds throughout the year. Some, like the hummingbirds, visit during certain seasons, while others, like the Blue Jays, stay all year. Knowing about each bird’s unique features and habits helps bring them to your backyard. This way, you can enjoy watching these wonderful creatures up close.
1. Northern Cardinal
In Pennsylvania, the Northern Cardinal brightens many backyards with its vibrant red colors. This northern cardinal (cardinalis cardinalis) is famous for its beautiful songs. You can often see them either singing on feeders or flying around the yard.
Unmistakable Crimson Beauty
The males of the cardinal bird in Pennsylvania are a stunning bright red. The females, on the other hand, sport a more subtle brownish red. It is this unique color palette that stands out, making them easy to spot.
Melodious Serenades
In Pennsylvania, the Northern Cardinal’s songs fill the air with joy. Their tunes are complex and varied, turning your backyard into a beautiful space. Their singing is truly captivating.
Feeder Favorites: Attracting Cardinals
If you want to see northern cardinals visiting, place sunflower and safflower seeds in your feeders. They love these seeds and will often come by for a meal. This turns your yard into a favorite spot for them.
2. American Robin
The American Robin (Turdus migratorius) is often seen on Pennsylvania‘s lawns. It is known for its round body and orange underparts. These robin birds have gray upperparts, an orange breast, and a white patch around the eyes.
Early Harbingers of Spring
American Robins are a sign that spring is near in Pennsylvania. They look for worms and bugs, then hide in the woods during winter. Setting up a birdbath and planting fruit trees can bring these lively birds to your yard.
3. Blue Jays
The blue jay is an easily seen bird in Pennsylvania backyards. Their bright, blue feathers make them stand out. Bird fans in the Keystone State often love watching these bold and loud birds.
Striking Plumage and Bold Personalities
Blue jays have big, blue crests and white faces. They are colorful and easy to spot. They are loud and not afraid to show themselves, flying around and calling out. This makes them fun to watch for people who enjoy birds.
Vocalization and Mimicry
Blue jays love to talk, from loud calls to sweet sounds. They can also copy other species. This makes these Backyard Birds of Pennsylvania even more interesting as they live and interact in Pennsylvania’s backyards.
Enticing Blue Jays to Your Feeders
To bring blue jays to your yard, offer their favorite foods. This includes peanuts, sunflower seeds, and suet. Put feeders in places with trees and branches for them to sit on. This will make your yard a welcoming place for these smart and beautiful birds.
4. Mourning Dove
The Mourning Dove’s soft, sorrowful cooing is a common sound in many Pennsylvania backyards. Their sleek tails and wings create a whistle as they fly, showing off their elegance. With gray-brown bodies, black spots, and long tails edged in white, they bring a gentle, calming feeling.
Soft Cooing and Soothing Presence
The Mourning Dove’s call is a calming “coo-OO-oo-oo-oo,” bringing peace to the outdoors in Pennsylvania. These zenaida macroura have a serene and simple presence. They often sit quietly on feeders or flutter softly around.
Feeding Habits and Preferences
Mourning Doves mostly feed on the ground, enjoying seeds scattered there or in feeders. To draw them to your Pennsylvania yard, offer millet, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn on the ground or in a feeder. Their love for the ground and friendly nature make them perfect for any backyard bird setup.
5. Melodious Song Sparrow
The Song Sparrow is a common sight in Pennsylvania backyards. It moves through shrubs and finds food on the ground. It’s not just their appearance, though. The Song Sparrow is a beautiful song that many find joyful and complex.
Song Sparrows don’t look flashy, but they are all about their songs. The birds sing lively tunes all year long. This adds joyful music to the outdoors. They’re a favorite among those who love birds and nature.
Habitat and Nesting Preferences
Song Sparrows like dense areas near water like marshes. They need these spots for hiding and nesting. To bring them to your yard, plant thick bushes and lay out seeds and insects. Their songs make any outdoor area in Pennsylvania feel welcoming.
Read More Bird Articles:
| How to Attract Hummingbirds? |
| Birds in Minnesota |
| How Long Do Sparrows Live |
| Black Birds With White Wings |
| Backyard Birds in Georgia |
Photographing Pennsylvania’s Backyard Birds
Taking photos of Pennsylvania’s backyard birds is both rewarding and enriching. It shows the beauty in our own spaces. It’s important to have the right camera and know how to use it. Also, we must take photos in ways that don’t harm the birds.
Camera Gear and Settings
For photographing backyard birds in Pennsylvania, you need a good camera. Mirrorless cameras, like the Sony a7Riii, are popular because they are light and focus well. Knowing your bird’s habits helps you take great shots. This kind of photography needs you to be quick and ready for the right moment.
Using your phone to take pictures of birds in Pennsylvania is doable but has limits. Phones might not take clear photos of faraway birds. They might also have trouble making the background blurry to make the bird stand out. With better equipment and the right settings, you can get amazing photos.
Ethical Bird Photography Practices
If you love photographing backyard birds in Pennsylvania, be sure to be kind and careful. Try not to bother the birds, especially when they are tired and need rest during migration. With a little thought and care, you can enjoy taking photos and not disrupt their lives.
Whether you’re just starting or have been taking nature photos for a while, photographing birds can be special. Use the right gear and be respectful. This way, you’ll capture the wonderful world of our backyard birds in Pennsylvania. And you might inspire others to love nature too.
