Purple Martins
Purple Martins are one of North America’s most beloved birds. A member of the swallow family, these birds are aerial insectivores that eat flying insects and often nest in bird houses.
Their populations have declined in recent years due to a number of factors, including widespread use of pesticides and collisions with man-made structures. In addition, aggressive introduced species such as European starlings and house sparrows compete with martins for their nesting cavities.
Woodpeckers
Woodpeckers are omnivorous birds that eat a variety of foods, including insects, fruits, and nuts. They nest in tree cavities and spend most of their lives in trees.
Both sexes use rhythmic pecking to establish territories and attract mates. These sounds are often augmented by drumming on hollow wood or metal, which they call “drumming.”
Jays
The latest National Geographic field guide claims that there are 990 species of birds in North America. That’s a lot of birds.
Jays are raucous birds that make a booming call when threatened or annoyed, often displaying a black-and-white patterned head.
Jays are omnivorous and can be found in most habitats. They store seeds, nuts and berries for winter use.
Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are one of the most common birds in North America. They can be found in many habitats, including deserts, forests, and along the coasts.
They are also threatened by over-harvesting, invasive species, and climate change. In fact, a new study has revealed that since 1970, the number of birds in North America has declined by more than 29 percent.
Crows
Crows are the most common type of birds found in America. They can be found in a variety of places such as parks, cemeteries, backyards and even forests.
These birds can be identified by their large heads and short tails. They also have long legs and chisel-like bills. Males have a red patch on the back of their head.
Cardinals
One of the most familiar birds in America, the cardinal is a popular state bird, sports mascot, and winter holiday symbol. This red beauty can be seen throughout much of the eastern and central United States as well as in southern Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of Mexico.
Cardinals are granivorous and eat plant seeds, fruits, and insects as they are available. This dietary flexibility helps them stay in the same area year-round.
Chickadees
Chickadees are small, brown-capped birds that can be found in forests, backyards, and parks across North America. They belong to the genus Poecile, which also includes similar-looking members in Europe known as tits or titmice.
These birds are social and live in flocks. To keep track of changes in their flock and remember locations of food caches, they rely on a process called neuroplasticity.
Sparrows
A new study reveals that many of the most common birds in North America are disappearing at an alarming rate. The numbers of some of our most familiar and popular birds have plummeted by as much as 80%, researchers said Thursday.
Sparrows are taking the biggest hits, according to the new study. Habitat loss is a big reason. Climate change and pesticide use also are major culprits.
Warblers
Warblers, a group of small songbirds ranging in size from three to 10 inches long, are adapted for hunting insects. They are found in many habitats, including gardens, woodlands, and marshes.
In North America, there are more than 50 species of warblers. Some are migratory, while others are permanent residents.
Ducks
There are more than 800 different bird species in the United States. Some are permanent residents, while others migrate across the continent.
Many of these birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. But many are also facing threats. One example is the passenger pigeon, which once boasted hundreds of millions of birds.
