Top 15 Types Of Birds In Upstate Ny (With Pictures)

Discover the top 15 stunning bird species in Upstate NY, complete with vivid images that capture their unique beauty and allure.

birds in upstate ny

Upstate New York boasts an impressive array of avian species, each contributing its charm to the area's vibrant ecosystem. Among them, the Northern Cardinal, known for its brilliant red plumage and distinctive black mask, remains a perennial favorite. The lively Blue Jay, with its vivid blue crest, and the cheerful American Goldfinch, sporting bright yellow feathers, are both common backyard visitors. Also notable are the Black-capped Chickadee, with its recognizable call, and the Tufted Titmouse, marked by a unique crest. These birds, along with others like the Song Sparrow and Common Grackle, highlight the region's rich bird life. Exploring further will uncover even more fascinating species.

Northern Cardinal

vibrant red songbird species

The Northern Cardinal, distinguished by its vivid red plumage and striking black mask, is a perennial resident of Upstate New York. These year-round residents are frequent visitors to backyard seed feeders, particularly drawn to black sunflower seeds.

As a quintessential bird of the Eastern US, Northern Cardinals bring vibrant color and life to New York State's avian landscape, delighting birdwatchers throughout the seasons.

Blue Jay

vibrant bird with crest

Following the vibrant Northern Cardinal, the Blue Jay also captivates with its striking blue crest and lively presence in Upstate New York. Often found in backyards, these intelligent birds frequent platform feeders, savoring peanuts and black sunflower seeds.

Providing a suitable habitat with these food sources enhances their presence, making Blue Jays a beloved sight in the region's diverse avian landscape.

American Goldfinch

bright yellow songbird species

Why do American Goldfinches captivate birdwatchers in Upstate New York?

These small songbirds with their bright yellow plumage and distinctive white patch on their tails are a delightful sight.

Commonly found in backyards with ample seed sources, American Goldfinches charm observers with their undulating flight patterns and sweet, twittering calls, adding vibrant life and color to the local avian landscape.

Black-capped Chickadee

a small bird species

Shifting focus, another charming avian resident of Upstate New York is the Black-capped Chickadee, known for its striking black cap and lively calls.

This small bird species, found throughout the State year-round, thrives with a varied diet of insects, seeds, and berries.

Their distinctive 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call and friendly demeanor make them a favorite among birdwatchers in New York.

Tufted Titmouse

small gray songbird species

The Tufted Titmouse, with its distinctive crest and playful nature, is a common sight in the landscapes of Upstate New York.

This small bird, marked by a black patch above its beak and a charming crest, frequents backyard seed feeders year-round.

Attracted to mixed seed blends, it remains a beloved figure in New York's avian community, enhancing local biodiversity with its presence.

Mourning Dove

symbol of peace s sorrow

Mourning doves, often recognized by their soft cooing calls, are a familiar presence in upstate New York throughout the year. These lightweight birds, weighing between 3.0-6.0 ounces, are year-round residents, frequently seen perched on wires or on the ground.

Their soothing presence enhances the peaceful atmosphere of backyard birdwatching in upstate NY, making them a cherished part of the local avian community.

Downy Woodpecker

small black and white bird

One commonly encountered year-round resident in upstate New York is the Downy Woodpecker, the smallest woodpecker in North America. Recognizable by its black cap, this small woodpecker frequents backyard feeding stations and bird feeders, enjoying a diet of mixed seeds.

Their presence, feeding on insects, seeds, and berries, marks them as valuable visitors, enhancing the ecological balance at these sites.

Red-bellied Woodpecker

vibrant red headed tree climber

Frequently spotted in Upstate NY, Red-bellied Woodpeckers are recognized by their striking red caps and black and white barred backs. These distinctive birds are skilled climbers, often found on tree trunks during their breeding season.

Both sexes participate in excavating nest cavities, showcasing their adaptability. Their presence is marked by loud, rolling calls, echoing through the forests, signaling their territory and presence.

White-breasted Nuthatch

unique bird with distinct markings

The White-breasted Nuthatch, easily identified by its black cap and bib, is a familiar and year-round resident of Upstate New York.

This bird, an avid insect feeder, thrives in deciduous forests and woodland edges.

At bird feeders, they are often seen foraging for sunflower seeds, making them a common sight in the region's backyards and natural settings.

House Sparrow

common urban bird species

Introduced to North America in 1851, the House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a highly adaptable bird species common in urban and suburban areas.

This non-native species nests in various cavities and has a diverse diet that includes seeds, grains, and insects.

Male sparrows are recognizable by their black bibs and gray caps, distinguishing them visually in their bustling urban environments.

American Crow

intelligent black bird species

Renowned for their intelligence and adaptability, American Crows are common across North America and are easily identified by their short, rhythmic caws.

Thriving in diverse habitats, these omnivorous birds are year-round residents in New York, making them a familiar sight in open areas, near human habitation, and occasionally at bird feeders, where they forage for sunflower seeds and peanuts.

Song Sparrow

melodic bird with stripes

Song Sparrows, distinguished by their melodious tunes, are prevalent throughout upstate New York and adapt well to both wild and residential areas. These year-round residents feature brown coloration with streaks on a white breast.

Attracting them to backyard habitats, bird feeders filled with mixed seeds are popular. Their melodious songs enhance the charm of upstate New York's avian community.

Common Grackle

gregarious iridescent blackbird species

While Song Sparrows charm us with their melodious tunes, the Common Grackle captivates with a striking iridescent display of purple, blue, and green hues in sunlight.

This medium-sized blackbird with yellow eyes and a long, keel-shaped tail thrives in open habitats.

Their diet is diverse, feeding on insects, seeds, grains, fruits, and small vertebrates, showcasing their adaptability and varied culinary preferences.

Dark-eyed Junco

small bird with mask

The Dark-eyed Junco, known scientifically as Junco hyemalis, is a prevalent small sparrow in Upstate NY. It is distinguished by its contrasting dark hood and bright white belly. This migratory bird thrives on a diet of seeds and insects, often spotted foraging on the ground or visiting backyard feeders.

Their distinct trill song adds a melodic charm to the region's avian chorus.

What Types of Birds Can Be Found in Upstate NY and New Hampshire?

Upstate NY and New Hampshire boast a diverse range of bird species. In New Hampshire, birdwatchers can spot a variety of wildfowl, including the common loon, bald eagle, and eastern bluebird. Upstate NY is home to various songbirds such as the American robin and wood thrush. Explore the types of birds in New Hampshire for a rewarding birdwatching experience.

Eastern Bluebird

symbol of hope

Moving from the ground-dwelling Dark-eyed Junco, we encounter the vibrant Eastern Bluebird, Sialia sialis, celebrated as New York's state bird. This bird, recognizable by its blue top and rusty chest, thrives across New York, attracted to tray feeders brimming with mealworms.

With a length of 6.3 to 8.3 inches and weighing around 1 ounce, its distinctive coloring makes it a favorite for backyard birdwatchers.