Top 15 Types Of Birds In New York State (With Pictures)

Highlighting New York's top 15 bird species, discover the vibrant colors and unique behaviors that make each one truly captivating.

birds of new york

New York State is home to a diverse range of bird species with unique features. The Northern Cardinal, known for its vivid crimson males and fawn-toned females, is particularly striking. The American Goldfinch exhibits a fascinating color change from muted brown in winter to bright yellow in the spring. The Blue Jay captures attention with its lavender-blue plumage and distinctive crest. Common Grackles shine with iridescent feathers in purple, green, and blue hues. Each bird contributes distinctively to the local ecosystem, adapting to urban and rural environments alike. Exploring these species further reveals fascinating aspects of their behavior and ecological roles.

Northern Cardinal

vibrant red bird species

The Northern Cardinal, distinguished by its vivid crimson plumage in males and subtler fawn tones in females, is a prominent avian species in New York State.

Recognizable by its black face mask that extends to the upper chest, this bird features a striking brick-colored crest and bright coral-colored beak, making it a quintessential example among the Birds of New York.

American Goldfinch

small north american bird

Shifting focus to another vibrant resident of New York, the American Goldfinch displays a dynamic seasonal change in coloration, enchanting birdwatchers with its vivid transformations.

Common birds in the region, these finches shift from a muted winter brown to a brilliant lemon yellow in summer.

Importantly, their beaks turn a striking bright orange during the spring molt, enhancing their recognizable appearance.

Blue Jay

vibrant bird in forest

Renowned for their striking lavender-blue plumage, Blue Jays are a mesmerizing sight in New York's avian landscape. These birds exhibit long tail feathers and a distinctive crest, enhancing their vivid appearance.

With black bills and legs complementing their barred wings and tails, the vocal Blue Jays are not just a visual treat but also a lively presence, mimicking various bird calls.

American Crow

common black bird species

American Crows, primarily black birds, are distinguished by the reddish neck and shoulder areas in males, setting them apart from their raven counterparts.

Known for their intelligence and adaptability, these birds thrive in diverse environments.

Unlike ravens, they do not fluff throat feathers when calling. Their iridescent plumage and long, pointed wings are highlighted by pale yellow wing bars and distinctive red shoulder patches.

Common Grackle

glossy black iridescent bird

While the American Crow is a familiar sight across diverse landscapes, another notable avian resident of New York State is the Common Grackle, known for its striking iridescent plumage and distinctive pale yellowish eyes. These birds showcase a mesmerizing mix of purple, green, and blue in their feathers.

Females, though smaller and less shiny, maintain the species' characteristic long legs and dark bills.

Red-winged Blackbird

common north american bird

The Red-winged Blackbird, easily recognized by the vivid red shoulder patches on males, flourishes mainly in the wetlands and marshes of New York State. These small birds exhibit iridescent black plumage with hints of purple or green.

Females are less conspicuous with their blackish brown feathers. Known for their striking vocalizations during mating season, they are a distinctive presence in aquatic landscapes.

Eastern Bluebird

small vibrant blue bird

Renowned for their striking blue plumage and rusty orange breast, Eastern Bluebirds are a cherished sight in New York State's open woodlands, meadows, and farmlands.

These birds, while not typical water birds, thrive in habitats that may include nearby water sources which support their diet of insects, fruits, and berries.

They symbolize happiness and favor nesting in cavities like old woodpecker holes.

Bald Eagle

symbol of american freedom

Majestically soaring through New York State's skies, the Bald Eagle is distinguished by its striking white head and tail against a dark brown body.

This national symbol of the United States thrives near water, utilizing its nearly 7-foot wingspan to expertly snatch fish with sharp talons.

Once endangered, their populations have rebounded dramatically, thanks to rigorous conservation efforts.

Peregrine Falcon

swift and agile hunter

Peregrine Falcons, noted for their breathtaking dives, are among the fastest birds in the world. Sporting distinctive dark blue-gray feathers and barred undersides, they utilize their short wings for rapid, agile flight.

With a wingspan of about 3.3 to 3.6 feet, these raptors excel in mid-air hunting, capturing birds with sharp talons. Conservation efforts have successfully revived their once endangered populations.

Great Blue Heron

majestic wading bird species

The Great Blue Heron is a stately bird with a commanding presence. It stands out with its impressive 6-7 foot wingspan and striking blue-gray plumage. Found near waters like lakes and rivers, these birds that breed exhibit intricate courtship behaviors.

Expert fishers, they skillfully use their long, sharp beaks to snatch prey, making them formidable hunters and a fascinating species to observe in New York State.

Snowy Owl

beautiful white arctic bird

Snowy Owls, with their striking white feathers and mesmerizing yellow eyes, are a remarkable sight in New York State's winter landscape. These large owls boast a wingspan of up to 5 feet and their wings have black markings.

During their long-distance migrations, they can be spotted in coastal areas of New York, primarily feasting on lemmings and other small mammals.

Red-tailed Hawk

majestic bird of prey

While the Snowy Owl commands attention during the colder months, the Red-tailed Hawk is an equally impressive presence in New York State's skies throughout the year.

Known for its striking red tail feathers, this hawk boasts a wingspan of up to 4 feet. It plays an important role in ecosystem balance by controlling rodent populations, thanks to its superb hunting skills and sharp eyesight.

Black-capped Chickadee

adorable bird with cap

Flitting through the forests and backyards of New York State, the Black-capped Chickadee charms observers with its distinctive black cap and bib, accompanied by a melodious 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call.

This small, active forager belongs to one of the two species adept at caching food for winter survival, showcasing a remarkable adaptation to the region's varying seasonal challenges.

Tufted Titmouse

small grey bird species

Perched prominently in the deciduous forests of New York, the Tufted Titmouse captivates birdwatchers with its distinctive crested head and melodious calls. This small songbird sports a gray upper body, white underparts, and striking black markings on its forehead.

Known for their 'peter-peter-peter' song, these birds are also cavity nesters, often occupying old woodpecker holes or birdhouses.

What Types of Birds Can Be Found in Both New York State and New York City?

New York State and New York City are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including numerous types of birds in New York City. Common species in both areas include the American Robin, Northern Cardinal, and Rock Pigeon. There are also many species of waterfowl and shorebirds that can be found in the region.

American Robin

common north american bird

The American Robin is a large songbird known for its round body and melodious song. It is commonly seen throughout New York State. Notable for their dark gray-brown wing feathers and vibrant orange-red breasts, these birds are active foragers. Their diet includes insects, fruits, and berries, making them versatile feeders.

American Robins are also skilled nest builders. They craft their homes from mud, grass, and twigs in a sturdy and intricate manner.