Top 15 Types Of Birds In Virginia (With Pictures)

Curious about Virginia's avian diversity? Explore the top 15 birds, their unique traits, and stunning images—discover which ones frequent your backyard!

bird diversity in virginia

Virginia boasts a rich diversity of bird species that adorn its varied landscapes. Prominent among them is the American Robin, easily recognized by its rusty red breast, and a favorite due to its melodious song. Similarly, the state features both the Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers, distinguished by their unique patterns and pecking behaviors. The American Goldfinch, with its vibrant yellow color and preference for sunflower kernels, is a frequent visitor at local feeders. Not to be overlooked, the House Sparrow thrives in urban settings, adapting seamlessly to environments shaped by human activity. Discover more about the role each species plays in the Virginia ecosystem.

American Robin

bird with red breast

The American Robin, characterized by its rusty red breast and melodious song, is a common sight in various habitats across Virginia.

Both male and female robins display similar plumage, though females are slightly paler.

Renowned for their vibrant song, these birds enhance local ecosystems by consuming diverse insects and fruits, making them an essential part of Virginia's avian community.

Downy Woodpecker

small black and white

Downy Woodpeckers, distinguishable by their short bills and compact size, are a prevalent species throughout Virginia.

These small woodpeckers are easily identified by the red spot on males' heads, a feature absent in females.

Common in local habitats, they thrive on a varied diet of insects, seeds, and nuts, and are frequent visitors to backyard feeders filled with suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts.

Hairy Woodpecker

distinctive black and white

Hairy Woodpeckers, recognized by their striped heads and straight-backed posture, are a familiar sight across various Virginia habitats. These woodpeckers feature a striking black and white body and a chisel-like bill, perfect for pecking.

Males boast a red head patch. They thrive on suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. Listen for their sharp 'peek' and rattling calls in wooded areas.

American Goldfinch

bright yellow bird species

In Virginia, the American Goldfinch stands out with its vibrant yellow plumage and distinctive black cap. These small birds, particularly males, display a vivid yellow color that differentiates them from the duller yellow females.

American Goldfinches primarily feed on Nyjer seeds and sunflower kernels, adhering to a vegetarian diet. They are commonly spotted at bird feeders throughout the state, delighting local birdwatchers.

House Sparrow

common urban bird species

Shifting focus from the vibrant American Goldfinch, the House Sparrow offers a stark contrast with its more subdued coloration and urban prevalence.

Males display gray crowns and striking black bibs, while their rosy red plumage with brown streaks sets them apart. Females are less conspicuous with dull brown streaked appearances.

Common in urban areas, these sparrows adapt well to human environments.

House Finch

small red songbird species

Why are House Finches so prevalent in Virginia?

These adaptable birds, with rosy red males marked by brown streaks and similarly patterned females, thrive in urban areas.

They are commonly seen at bird feeders, attracted by their favored sunflower seeds.

House Finches' ability to live close to human habitation explains their frequent presence across Virginia, making them a familiar sight.

American Crow

intelligent black bird species

The American Crow, recognizable by its striking all-black plumage, is a common sight throughout Virginia. These large birds feature long wings and a broad tail.

They are known for their intelligence and complex social behaviors, often heard making their distinct 'Caw! Caw! Caw!' calls.

American Crows forage for a variety of foods and build bulky stick nests high in trees.

Song Sparrow

sweet melodic bird call

Among the diverse bird species in Virginia, the Song Sparrow stands out for its melodious chirping and distinctive markings. This medium-sized bird features brown streaks on a white chest, a streaked back, and a prominent central spot on its breast.

Found across various habitats like grasslands and gardens, they play an essential role in ecological balance by consuming seeds and insects.

White-breasted Nuthatch

distinctive black cap bird

Characterized by their striking black cap and bright white face, White-breasted Nuthatches are small yet notable members of Virginia's avian community. These birds exhibit a unique habit of walking headfirst down tree trunks.

Cavity nesters, they often occupy old woodpecker holes or artificial nest boxes. Their distinctive nasal call, sounding like 'yank-yank' or 'wha-wha,' echoes through Virginia's woodlands.

Red-winged Blackbird

distinctive bird with red

Shifting focus to another notable species, Red-winged Blackbirds are medium-sized birds renowned for their vivid shoulder patches and distinct vocalizations.

Common in wetlands, these blackbird species display striking sexual dimorphism: males feature bold black plumage with red and yellow patches, whereas females are more subdued brown birds.

Their diet mainly consists of seeds and insects, and they are noted for their territorial behavior during breeding.

European Starling

invasive bird species introduction

European Starlings, distinguished by their chunky black bodies and white-spotted plumage, are a common sight in Virginia's open habitats. These black birds, with long wings and short tails, forage for insects and seeds.

Known for their vocal mimicry abilities, European Starlings can imitate various sounds. They often gather in large flocks, particularly noticeable during migration seasons, enhancing their survival through collective vigilance and foraging efficiency.

Brown-headed Cowbird

brood parasite of birds

Moving from the familiar sight of European Starlings, the Brown-headed Cowbird presents a fascinating contrast with its unique approach to reproduction. Common birds in Virginia, these species are brood parasites.

Males display glossy black bodies with a brown head, while females are plain brown. They forage on the ground, not building nests, instead laying eggs in the nests of other bird species.

House Wren

tiny brown songbird species

Shifting from the intriguing Brown-headed Cowbird, the House Wren emerges as another notable bird species in Virginia, distinguished by its small size and melodious song.

These small, brown birds flaunt distinctive white eyebrows.

As insectivores, they feed primarily on beetles, caterpillars, and spiders, building dome-shaped nests intricately woven with twigs, grass, and feathers, showcasing their energetic behavior as they navigate their territory.

Mourning Dove

symbol of peace remembrance

The Mourning Dove is characterized by its pale brown and gray plumage and long, pointed tail. It is renowned for its soft, sorrowful cooing. These doves forage for seeds and are often seen in small flocks across Virginia's open habitats.

Known for their soft cooing calls and swift flight, Mourning Doves are a familiar backyard bird. They bring a serene presence to both rural and urban settings.

What Are the Differences Between the Bird Species in West Virginia and Virginia?

The types of birds in West Virginia and Virginia exhibit some differences due to their respective environments. While both states have a variety of bird species, West Virginia is home to more mountainous terrain, which attracts different types of birds than the flatter, coastal areas of Virginia.

Rock Pigeon

urban bird species common

While Mourning Doves are known for their gentle nature, Rock Pigeons exhibit a remarkable adaptability to urban settings.

Known as Rock Doves in some regions, these birds boast a diverse color range, thriving in cities due to their unique homing ability.

Commonly recognized by their cooing sounds and distinctive strut, Rock Pigeons are a familiar sight in urban environments around Virginia.