Birds in the Eastern Hemisphere are some of the planet’s most diverse and fascinating creatures. From the majestic bald eagle of North America to the brilliant red-breasted robin of Europe, the variety of bird species that inhabit the Eastern Hemisphere is genuinely inspiring.
Bird watching is one of the most popular hobbies in the region, and birders from all over the world flock to the Eastern Hemisphere to observe and appreciate its many avian residents.
From colorful tropical species to majestic raptors, the birds of the Eastern Hemisphere are indeed a sight to behold.
24 Birds to Watch in Eastern
The Eastern region of the United States is a treasure trove for birdwatchers, boasting a diverse array of avian species that captivate enthusiasts year-round.
From the rugged coastlines of Maine to the swamps of Florida and from the rolling Appalachian Mountains to the expansive Great Lakes, this region encompasses a rich tapestry of habitats that support a wide variety of bird life.
Here are 24 Birds to Watch in Eastern.
1. American Goldfinch
The American goldfinch is a small bird from the finch family found in North America.
It has a migratory lifestyle and moves from mid-Alberta to North Carolina during the breeding season and from just south of the Canada-United States border to Mexico during the winter.
In the summer, the bird can be found in more northern locations; during the winter, it moves to more southern areas. This is done to take advantage of the different climates and food sources in other parts of the continent.
The American goldfinch is known for its bright yellow feathers and cheerful song, making it a familiar sight and sound in many parts of North America.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
2. American Robin
The American robin is a migratory bird that belongs to a group of birds called the true thrush, which is part of the wider thrush family called Turdidae.
It has been named after the European robin due to its reddish-orange breast, although the two species are not closely related. The European robin is a member of the Old World flycatcher family.
This bird is a migratory species found in North America, Mexico, and Central America during summer. It will migrate to the southern United States, parts of Central America, and the Caribbean during the winter.
The American robin is an omnivore known to eat various foods, including fruit, insects, worms, and even small lizards. It is also known to feed on other birds’ eggs and nestling and take advantage of any food sources.
The American robin has been featured in many films, books, and songs. It is considered a symbol of beauty and freedom in North America.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
3. White-breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is a species of bird belonging to the nuthatch family (Sittidae). It is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 15.5 cm in length. This bird species is recognizable by its white chest and back, black he, ad, and blue-gray wings.
It has a sharp, pointed bi, and its legs are a pale yellow. The white-breasted nuthatch is a non-migratory bi that stays in the same area year-round.
It is found in the United States, extending from the Midwest to the east coast and from the Great Lakes to the Gulf Coast. It is also found in parts of Canada and Mexico.
The thripbird species is an active forager, often seen running up and down tree trunks and branches searching for food. Its diet consists mainly of insects, nuts, seeds, and berries sharp bill primary open tree bark and crevices to find food.
The white-breasted nuthatch is an essential species in its ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations, and its presence is often used to indicate healthy forests.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
4. Northern Cardinal
The northern cardinal is a beautiful and birfromto the genus Cardinalis. It is known by many names, such as the redbird, common cardinal, red cardinal, or simply cardinal.
It is easily recognizable by its bright red plumage, which is why it is called the “redbird.” The northern cardinal is a prevalent backyard bird, frequently seen hopping around for food or singing its melodic song.
It is a social bird often seen in pairs or small groups. It is found throughout the eastern United States and parts of Canada. The northern cardinal has also been introduced to Hawaii and parts of the West Coast, where it can sometimes be seen in suburban areas.
The northern cardinal is a valuable part of the ecosystem, providing an important food source for other wildlife, and is a beloved part of many birdwatchers’ lives.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Cardinalis |
| Species | C. cardinalis |
5. Downy Woodpecker
The Downy Woodpecker is a bird species in the woodpecker family and is considered the smallest in North America.
Its length ranges from 14 to 18 cm, and it primarily inhabits forested areas throughout the United States and Canada, apart from desert regions in the Southwest and the northern tundra. Generally, they are found in deciduous and coniferous forests, ks, and gardens.
These birds have a red patch on the back of their heads, white stripes on their black wingsandth a white belly and black back.
They feed on insects, fruits, and nuts and are known for their loud call and characteristic tapping or drumming, which they use to find food and build nests.
The Downy Woodpecker is an integral part of the North American ecosystem, as it helps control pest populations, such as ants, beetles, and caterpillars. The Downy Woodpecker is a common sight in North America and symbolizes good luck and happiness.
It is a protected species in many areas and is considered a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dryobates |
| Species | D. pubescens |
6. Song Sparrow
The song sparrow is a medium-sized bird from the New World sparrow family. It is native to North America and is one of the most numerous, versatile, and resilient species of sparrows in the region.
Its abundance is attributed to its wide range of habitat preferences and ability to adapt to different environments. Various habitats are found, from wetland areas to grasslands, meadows, and even urban areas.
Its variability also allows it to survive various temperatures, from cool, temperate climates to hot, humid climates. Furthermore, its adaptability enables it to adjust its diet and behavior according to the food and other resources available in its habitat.
This allows it to take advantage of various food sources, including insects, seeds, berries, and even human-provided food. The song sparrow is a thriving species thanks to its abundance, variability, and adaptability.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Melospiza |
| Species | M. melodia |
7. Red-winged Blackbird
The red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) is a passerine bird species of the family Icteridae. It is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring 17–21 cm (6.7–8.3 in) in length and having a wingspan of 33–43 cm (13–17 in).
The adult male is easily identified by its glossy black plumage, bold red shoulder patches, yellow wing bars, and tail edges.
The adult female is mainly a duller brownie but has the same yellow wing bars. Red-winged blackbirds are a widespread species throughout most of North America and much of Central America.
They are adaptable, inhabiting various habitats such as wet meadows, marshes, and grasslands. They are also familiar visitors to agricultural fields and urban parks.
Red-winged blackbirds migrate to the southern United States and Mexico during winter, forming large flocks. Red-winged blackbirds are omnivorous and feed mainly on insects, but they also eat other invertebrates, spiders, grains, and fruits.
They are often seen in open areas, foraging in the fields, or along roadsides.
They are also familiar visitors to bird feeders, where they can be seen eating sunflower seeds and other bird seed mixes. Red-winged blackbirds are very vocal birds, with both males and females singing to defend their territories, attract mates, and maintain contact with their flock.
The male’s song is familiar during the breeding season and consists of short, sharp whistles. The female’s song is a series of low, melodic trills.
Overall, the red-winged blackbird is a common and well-known bird species found across various North and Central America habitats. They are highly adaptable species often seen in urban parks and agricultural fields.
With their handsome plumage and loud vocalizations, red-winged blackbirds are attractive and entertaining birds to watch.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
8. Eastern Bluebird
The Eastern Bluebird is a North American migratory thrush, meaning it is a medium-sized bird that travels long distances seasonally.
It is found in open woodlands, farmlands, and orchards, its preferred habitats due to the abundance of food and the visibility of potential predators.
The most striking feature of the Eastern Bluebird is the bright-blue breeding plumage of the male, which is easily visible when perched on a wire or open perch.
This feature makes the Eastern Bluebird particularly attractive to birders, who can quickly spot them and appreciate their beauty. The Eastern Bluebird is a species that thrives in open habitats, and its conservation is of utmost importance.
Without proper protection, this species could potentially become extinct. Fortunately, organizations such as the North American Bluebird Society are doing their part to protect and conserve the species by monitoring and preserving its habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. sialis |
9. American Crow
The American crow is a bird species belonging to the Corvidae family. It is commonly found in many parts of North America. The American crow is the counterpart of Eurasia’s carrion and hooded Croatia, and all three species share the same environmental niche.
The American crow is a large passerine bird, a perching bird more significant than a sparrow. American crows feed on various things, such as insects, small animals, fruit, and carrion.
They are omnivores and scavengers, and they are known to steal food from other animals. They are also known to cache foottoto have a supply of food available wheitod is scarce.
American crows are highly intelligent, solving puzzles and recognizing individual humans. They have strong family bonds, and they live in large social groups. The American crow plays an essential role in the ecosystem.
They help to spread the seeds of plants, and they help to keep insect populations in check. In addition, they act as scavengers, helping to clean up the environment and prevent the spread of disease.
American crows are often seen in urban areas and are known to frequent parks and open areas. They are also commonly found in agricultural areas, such as fields and pastures. They can be found in various habitats, from forests to grasslands.
Overall, the American crow is an important species of bird that plays a vital role in the environment. It is a common species that can be found throughout much of North America.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Corvus |
| Species | C. brachyrhynchos |
10. Blue Jay
The blue jay is a type of bird that belongs to the Corvidae family and is native to eastern North America. Its range extends throughout most of the eastern and central United States, with some eastern populations being migratory.
Additionally, blue jays can be found in Newfoundland and Cana as permanent residents, while breeding populations are found in other areas of southern Canada. Blue jays are easily recognizable due to their distinctive blue plumage and white chests.
They have a loud call and are often seen in large flocks. Blue jays have a broad diet, which includes seeds, nuts, fruits, insects, and other small animals. They are known to store food in caches for later use, a behavior known as “scatter hoarding.”
They are also known for their intelligence and curiosity, often investigating novel objects within their environment. Blue jays are essential to the ecosystem, acting as keystone species for the forests they inhabit.
As omnivores, they provide an essential source of nutrients for many other species. They are also crucial for seed dispersal, as the canto move large seeds long distances.
This helps to promote tree species diversity within an area and is essential for a healthy forest.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
11. House Sparrow
The house sparrow is a species of bird belonging to the family Passeridae. It is one of the world’s e most widespread and abundant birds, found on every continent except Antarctica. This tiny bird typically measures 16 inches and weighs 24-39.5 g.
Females and juveniles have a pale brown to grey coloration, while males have distinct black, white, and brown markings that are more colorful and brighter.
The house sparrow is a common sight in many urban areas, where it feeds on the seeds and insects found in gardens and parks. These birds also congregate in large flocks and can be seen gathering around bird feeders.
They are known to be quite vocal, and their cheerful chirps are often heard in the early morning hours.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passeridae |
| Genus | Passer |
| Species | P. domesticus |
12. Dark-eyed Junco
The dark-eyed junco is a species of birbelonginggs to the junco family, a group of small, grayish sparrows native to the New World.
This bird is widely distributed across much of the temperate regions of North America, and in the summer, it can be found as far north as the Arctic. This species is highly variable and shares many characteristics with the fox sparrow.
Even though it has been studied extensively, the systematics of the dark-eyed junco are still not completely understood.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Junco |
| Species | J. hyemalis |
13. Tufted Titmouse
The tufted titmouse is a species of small songbird native to North America and belongs to the tit and chickadee family. The bird species can be identified by their tufted head, gray back, pale underside, and black forehead.
It is found in woodlands and forests and is known for its call, which sounds like “peter-peter-peter.” It is also known for its acrobatic flying abilities, allowing it to catch insects in the air. The tufted titmouse has a subspecies, the black-crested titmouse.
This subspecies is found in central and southern Texas and is easily distinguished by its black crest. However, this subspecies is now considered to be a separate species and is known as Baeolophus atricristatus.
This species has a black crest that extends to its neck, while the tufted titmouse’s crest only extends up to its forehead. In addition, the black-crested titmouse has a darker gray back and a yellowish underside.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Baeolophus |
| Species | B. bicolor |
14. Red-bellied Woodpecker
The red-bellied woodpecker is a woodpecker species found in the family Picidae. It is medium-sized compared to other woodpeckers and can be spotted across various habitats.
This species is mainly found in the eastern United States, but its range extends from Florida in the south to Canada in the north. It is a widespread species among birdwatchers and is primarily known for its loud drumming sound during mating season.
The red-bellied woodpecker can be identified by its distinctive red head and neck and its white and black patterned wings. This species is also known for its unique ability to climb trees and feed on various insects and larvae.
They are often seen in wooded areas and on large trees where they can find plenty of food. As they are widely distributed, they are common in many parks and gardens.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. carolinus |
15. White-throated Sparrow
The white-throated sparrow is a type of bird belonging to the family of New World sparrows called Passerellidae. This species is a passerine bird, a songbird that can perch and walk on the ground.
The white-throated sparrow is identified by its white throat and gray and black stripes on its head. It can be found in North America and typically lives in open woodlands, thickets, and hedgerows.
The white-throated sparrow can be seen foraging for seeds, insects, and berries in the underbrush during the summer. In winter, the birds congregate in large flocks in wooded areas.
The white-throated sparrow is a vital seed disperser and can help maintain a healthy and diverse plant population in its native habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Zonotrichia |
| Species | Z. albicollis |
16. Carolina Wren
The Carolina wren is a species of wres native to the eastern half of the United States of America, the extreme south of Ontario, Canada, and the extreme northeast of Mexico. It is a common bird and can be seen year-round in the regions it inhabits.
These birds are small, measuring about five inches in length, and have a distinct, loud call that can be heard in wooded areas. They are brown with a white belly and have a long, curved bill.
Carolina wrens feed mainly on insects, but they will also eat seeds and berries. They build their nests in cavities, like tree stumps or old birdhouses, and create a new one each breeding season.
These birds are an essential part of the ecosystem, as they help to control insect populations.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Troglodytidae |
| Genus | Thryothorus |
| Species | T. ludovicianus |
17. Common Grackle
The Common Grackle is an icterid bird that is native to North America and is found in large numbers. It was first described in 1758 by Carl Linnaeus, a famous naturalist. The Common Grackle is distinguished by its long, dark bill, pale yellow eyes, and long tail.
This bird has three different subspecies, each with its distinct features. The Common Grackle can be found in open fields, woodlands, and near bodies of water but is most commonly seen in urban and suburban areas.
It is an omnivore, meaning it feeds on both plants and animals. Its diet consists of insects, grains, fruits, and small vertebrates. The Common Grackle is a highly social biroftenbe seen in large flocks.
It has a loud, harsh call that can be heard for miles and is known for being quite aggressive when defending its territory.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. quiscula |
18. Northern Flicker
The northern flicker, also known as the familiar flicker, is a species of woodpecker found in many parts of North America. It is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring 11 to 14 inches long, with a wingspan of 17 to 20 inches.
It is easily identifiable by its bright red or yellow undersides highlighted by black spots. The northern flicker is one of a few woodpecker species that migrate, moving from place to place seasonally.
They can be found in many parts of North America, including parts of Central America, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands. The northern flicker has various calls, the most common being a loud, repeated “wick-a-doodle-do.”
They also make a loud, raspy sound when drumming on trees or other objects. They use their long, pointed bills to dig for food in the ground and feed on insects, spiders, fruits, and berries.
They can be found in various habitats, including open woodlands, parks, and gardens. The northern flicker is an integral part of the ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations, and its droppings act as fertilizer for plants.
It is also an essential food source for many other bird species, including owls, hawks, and crows. The northern flicker is a vital bird species, and it is necessary to protect their habitats so they can continue to thrive.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Colaptes |
| Species | C. auratus |
19. Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The ruby-throated hummingbird is a species of hummingbird that is well known for its long-distance migrations. These birds can be found in Central America, Mexico, and Florida during the winter months.
However, come the summer, they migrate to Canada and other parts of Eastern North America to breed. This migration is a remarkable feat, given the small size of the ruby-throated hummingbird. They can cover up to 500 miles in a single journey.
During their migrations, these birds must rely on their instinct and sense of direction to reach their destination. These birds can be identified by their unique red throats and wingspan of 3-4 inches.
They feed on small insects and nectar from flowers, making their diet quite diverse. The ruby-throated hummingbird is a beautiful sight to see and an important species in the ecosystem.
By migrating to different areas, they help spread pollen and seeds, which allows plants to reproduce and ultimately contributes to a healthy environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Clade | Strisores |
| Order | Apodiformes |
| Family | Trochilidae |
| Genus | Archilochus |
| Species | A. colubris |
20. Northern Mockingbird
The northern mockingbird is a species of mockingbird found in North America. It is a permanent resident, but some individuals may migrate south during extreme weather.
Northern mockingbirds are rarely seen in Europe, suggesting that these birds do not journey across the ocean very often. The northern mockingbird is easily recognized by its distinct song, which combines a variety of other birds’ songs and calls.
They are also known for their intelligence and ability to mimic their environment’s sounds. The northern mockingbird is common in yards and parks, where they feed on insects and fruits. They are also known to nest in trees and shrubs.
The northern mockingbird is a species of incredible beauty and an essential part of the North American ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Mimus |
| Species | M. polyglottos |
21. Chipping Sparrow
The Chipping Sparrow is a small bird that is found throughout North America. It belongs to the family of birds known as Passerellidae, which consists of over two hundred species.
The Chipping Sparrow is widespread, meaning that it can be found in many different places, and is pretty tame, meaning that it will not flee when humans come close. This makes it a common sight across much of its range.
There are two main subspecies of the Chipping Sparrow, the Eastern and Western Chipping Sparrow. The Eastern Chipping Sparrow is found in the eastern parts of North America, while the Western Chipping Sparrow is found in the western parts.
The two subspecies are similar in appearance but differ in head and back color. The Eastern Chipping Sparrow has a chestnut head and back, while the Western has an olive head and back.
Both subspecies have a white and black striped throat and a white belly.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Spizella |
| Species | S. passerina |
22. Hairy woodpecker
The hairy woodpecker is a type of bird native to North America and is considered to be of medium size. It has an average length of 250 mm with a wingspan of 380 mm. Despite its size, it has an impressive population of almost nine million individuals, as estimated in 2020.
This is why the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies it as a species of most minor concern. The hairy woodpecker is spread across a large area of North America, which is why it has such a large population.
It is known for its distinctive black-and-white markings, which make it easy to identify in its natural habitat. The diet of the hairy woodpecker consists mainly of insects and other invertebrates, as well as fruits and nuts.
Its habitats are typically wooded areas, where it can find plenty of food. By having such a large population and covering a wide range of habitats, the hairy woodpecker is a species that is not in danger of extinction.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Leuconotopicus |
| Species | L. villosus |
23. Rock Pigeon
The rock dove, also known as the rock pigeon or common pigeon, is a bird species belonging to the Columbidae family.
It is the wild ancestor of the domestic pigeon and can be commonly seen in cities worldwide due to the large number of escaped domestic pigeons living in the wild.
These escaped birds have caused the wild pigeon population to increase significantly and have become a familiar sight in urban environments. The rock dove is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring between 30 and 35 centimeters in length.
It has a grey, blue-grey, or black plumage with two black bars on its wings. Its head is grey with a whitish patch on its neck, and its tail is usually white. The rock dove is a sociable bird, often living in large flocks and nesting in colonies.
It is also highly adaptable to urban environments, often making its home on the ledges of buildings. The diet of the rock dove consists mainly of seeds, grains, and other plant material. It can also supplement its diet with insects and other small creatures.
The rock dove is a ground-feeding bird, but it will also take food from bird tables and feeders. The rock dove is a hardy bird that lives in many different environments worldwide.
Its adaptability has allowed it to become one of the most common birds in the world, and there are estimated to be over 400 million rock doves worldwide. It is an integral part of the ecosystem, providing food for other animals and helping to disperse seeds.
It is also a popular research subject due to its adaptability and wide range.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Columba |
| Species | C. livia |
24. Baltimore Oriole
The Baltimore oriole is a small species of icterid blackbird native to eastern North America. It is a migratory bird, breeding in the region during the warmer months.
The bird’s name is derived from its striking resemblance to the colors on the coat-of-arms of Lord Baltimore, a 17th-century British nobleman.
The male Baltimore oriole has a bright orange breast, black head and back, white wing bars and belly, and a distinctive orange and black tail. The female is a duller version of these colors, with olive-brown on the head and wings. Both sexes have a long, pointed bill.
The Baltimore oriole is a widespread songbird, and its sweet, flirty song is often heard in gardens and parks. It is also a critical pollinator; its diet consists mainly of insects, fruit, and nectar.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Icterus |
| Species | I. galbula |
Conclusion
The birds of Eastern North America are a diverse and unique group that helps to keep the region’s ecosystems healthy.
From the tiny hummingbirds and warblers to the majestic bald eagles, these birds play an essential role in the lives of people and animals alike. They provide beauty and song and offer us a glimpse into the wonders of nature.
With careful conservation efforts, these birds will continue to bring us joy for many years.