Forests, Fields, Waterways, and Brushy, Scrubby Areas

Waterways

Birdwatchers commonly scan the shorelines of rivers, lakes, and beaches to check out waterfowl. But during the warm weather months, as you recreate on the lake or river, keep an eye out for swallows, swifts and Purple Martins, as they catch flying insects with their beaks. They can soar at heights of 150 feet or higher, while some may actually skim the surface of the water.

Fields

Grains and seeds from grasses and crops make prairies, plains, farmland and ranches ideal for birds. These open-area birds also feel welcome in big suburban backyards as well as parks. Look for birds of the blackbird family, which include the Red-winged Blackbird, orioles, meadowlarks and the European Starling. You may also find the American Goldfinch foraging for thistle, along with some sparrow species.

Brushy and scrubby areas

Semi-open brushy and scrubby areas provide plenty of food and cover for songbirds, which makes these areas excellent birding spots. Look for colorful birds like the Indigo or Painted Bunting, along with birds of the corvid species like Scrub Jays and the Black-billed Magpie.

Forests

At all levels of the forest, you’ll find songbirds aplenty. The Pine Grosbeak can be found foraging on the forest floor or perched in the lower branches. If you’re stopping for a picnic lunch in the northern forests, the Canada Jay may draw near for a handout.

Raise your eyes upward from the base of the tree trunks and you may find birds that live off the insects and beetles living in and under the bark of the tree. These birds include nuthatches, woodpeckers, and creepers. Raise your eyes even higher to the treetops and you might spot colorful warblers, the Cedar Waxwing, or the striking Scarlet Tanager.