Welcome to North Auburn, a small town nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains! This area is home to a variety of birds, ranging from small songbirds to large raptors, and provides many wonderful opportunities for bird-watching.
In the spring and summer months, visitors can enjoy the sight of colorful warblers, tanagers, and even woodpeckers. During these months, raptors such as hawks, eagles, and owls can be seen soaring through the sky.
With so many birds to observe, North Auburn is a great place to explore the beauty of the natural world..
1. Red-Winged Blackbird
Source: Wikipedia
The red-winged blackbird is a species of bird belonging to the family Icteridae, which includes many species of blackbirds, meadowlarks, orioles, and other similar birds. This bird can be found in a wide range of habitats throughout North America and Central America.
It is characterized by its glossy black feathers, a bright red shoulder patch, and yellow wing bars. It often sings from perches in tall trees or shrubs. The red-winged blackbird is a gregarious species, often found in large flocks.
It feeds on grains, insects, and other small invertebrates. During the breeding season, males are highly territorial, defending their turf against other males. They display their red and yellow plumage, making loud vocalizations in an effort to attract females.
Females build nests in trees, shrubs, or reeds near water. They lay several eggs, which are incubated by both parents. After hatching, the young are fed and cared for by both parents. Red-winged blackbirds are beneficial to humans, as they help to control insect populations.
They are also a popular bird to observe, as they are relatively common and easy to spot. These birds are usually fairly tolerant of humans, allowing people to observe them closely without disturbing them.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
2. Northern Flicker
The northern flicker or common flicker is a bird that belongs to the woodpecker species. This species is native to most of North America, as well as parts of Central America, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands.
This species is distinct from other woodpecker species because it is one of the few that migrate. The bird is considered medium-sized, slightly larger than a robin, and has a brown back with black spots, a white belly, and a yellow patch on the neck.
Its wings are barred black and white, and its tail is barred with black and white. The northern flicker also has a distinctive call that is described as sounding like “wicka-wika-wika”.
The northern flicker is an omnivore, meaning it eats a variety of food sources, including insects, fruits, and nuts. It has a unique foraging style, as it will often use its beak to flake off bark on trees to uncover insects.
This species will also visit bird feeders, and can often be seen on the ground searching for food. The northern flicker is a migratory species, meaning it moves between different habitats in order to find food and suitable nesting sites.
It will generally migrate south for the winter and return north in the spring. The northern flicker is an important part of the North American ecosystem, and its presence is important to the balance of the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Colaptes |
| Species | C. auratus |
3. American Goldfinch
The American goldfinch is a small bird found in North America and is a part of the finch family. It has a migratory nature, which means it changes its location during different times of the year. During the breeding season, it is found from mid-Alberta to North Carolina.
During the winter, it is seen just south of the Canada-United States border and into Mexico. This behavior of changing its location is an adaptation which helps it to survive in different climatic conditions.
The American goldfinch has a unique coloration with bright yellow and black plumage. It is mostly seen in open fields, meadows, and gardens and is known to feed on the seeds of weeds and flowers. The American goldfinch is a common species and is not considered endangered.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
4. Yellow-Rumped Warbler
The yellow-rumped warbler is a species of bird that is native to North America. It is a regular species, meaning that it is not considered rare or endangered. It can be observed in a variety of habitats, from forests to open fields, and is found in all regions of the continent.
It is quite small in size, with a yellow rump, gray head, and white throat. The yellow-rumped warbler is an important species for birdwatchers, as it is easy to spot and identify. It is an active songbird and is often seen foraging in the underbrush for insects to eat.
It is also a popular migratory species, with many of the birds traveling south in the winter to warmer climates. In addition to being a common sight on the continent, the yellow-rumped warbler is also a popular species in captivity.
It is kept as a pet for its bright feathers, cheerful singing, and its ability to adapt to life in a cage. It also makes an interesting and entertaining companion for birdwatchers, as it is easy to observe and interact with.
Overall, the yellow-rumped warbler is a regular bird species that is regularly seen throughout North America. It is an important species for birdwatchers and a popular pet for those who keep birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. coronata |
5. Downy Woodpecker
The Downy Woodpecker is a species of woodpecker found in North America. It is the smallest species of woodpecker, with a length of between 14 and 18 cm.
This species is found mainly in forested areas across the United States and Canada but does not inhabit deserts in the southwest or the northern tundra. The Downy Woodpecker has adapted to many different types of forests, including deciduous, coniferous, and mixed forests.
It is a year-round resident of these areas and feeds on both insects and seeds. The Downy Woodpecker is an important part of the American and Canadian ecosystems, as it helps to keep insect populations in check and disperses seeds, thus aiding in the regeneration of forests.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Dryobates |
| Species | D. pubescens |
6. White-Breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is a type of bird that is part of the Sittidae family of nuthatches. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 15.5 cm in length. This species of bird is easily recognizable by its white underparts, and its gray or brown upperparts.
Its head is darker than its body, and its bill is sharply pointed. The white-breasted nuthatch is primarily found in coniferous forests, but can also be seen in deciduous forests, woodlands, and even urban parks.
It is a very active bird, often seen climbing up and down trees in search of food. It feeds mainly on insects and spiders, but can also eat nuts, berries, and seeds. Its bold, distinctive call is often heard in the woods and serves as a way to alert other birds of its presence.
The white-breasted nuthatch is an important species in the ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations, and disperses seeds, which helps to ensure the survival of the forests where it lives.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
7. Red-Tailed Hawk
The red-tailed hawk is a species of bird that is found in many parts of North America, from the northern regions of Alaska and Canada to the southern parts of Panama and the West Indies. It is a bird of prey, which means that it hunts other animals for food.
This species is part of the Buteo genus, which is one of the most common genera of birds found in North America and around the world. The red-tailed hawk has a distinct appearance. It has a brownish-red tail, as well as a brownish-red back and wings.
The head is usually a light brown or white color, and the underside of the hawk is a pale cream color. Its wingspan can reach up to four feet in length, and it can weigh up to three pounds.
The red-tailed hawk typically preys on small mammals, such as rabbits, squirrels, and mice. It also eats birds, reptiles, and insects. The hawk hunts from a perch, using its sharp eyesight to spot its prey. It then swoops down to catch its target in its talons.
The red-tailed hawk is also capable of soaring for long periods of time, which helps it to cover large areas in search of food. The red-tailed hawk is an important part of the North American ecosystem.
It helps to keep the populations of small mammals in balance, which helps to maintain the health of other species in the environment. It is also an important part of the food chain, providing sustenance to larger predators such as eagles and owls.
The red-tailed hawk is also a symbol of strength and power, with its impressive wingspan and hunting skills.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. jamaicensis |
8. Red-Bellied Woodpecker
The red-bellied woodpecker is a species of bird belonging to the Picidae family of woodpeckers. It is a medium-sized bird, with a wingspan of approximately 12 inches and a body length of 8-10 inches.
Its most distinguishing feature is its red belly, which stands out against its white and black back. The red-bellied woodpecker is native to the eastern United States, including Florida and Canada.
It is a migratory species and can be found in most parts of the east coast during the summer months. It forages for food on tree trunks, branches, and logs, using its sharp beak to peel the bark off trees and look for insects and grubs.
During the winter months, it will move further inland in search of food and shelter.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. carolinus |
9. Eastern Towhee
The eastern towhee is a species of large sparrow native to North America. It is a member of the New World sparrow family and is closely related to the spotted towhee. Up until recently, the two species were considered to be one single species known as the rufous-sided towhee.
However, due to debates among taxonomists, they are now classified as separate species. The eastern towhee’s preferred habitat is dense shrubbery across the eastern parts of North America.
Here, these birds can find plenty of shelter and food sources, allowing them to thrive in these regions. They often build their nests within dense vegetation or shrubs, allowing them to remain hidden from predators.
During the breeding season, the eastern towhee will typically feed on insects, seeds, and fruits. Additionally, the eastern towhee is known to be quite vocal, often making loud calls and singing during the day.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Pipilo |
| Species | P. erythrophthalmus |
10. Red-Headed Woodpecker
The red-headed woodpecker is a species of bird that is found throughout temperate North America. It is a mid-sized woodpecker, with its body growing to around 9 inches in length. Its feathers are predominantly red, with black and white markings on its wings and tail.
It has a white face with a black moustache-like stripe and a pointed red crest on its head. The red-headed woodpecker’s breeding habitat is found in open country across southern Canada and the east-central United States.
This includes deciduous and coniferous forests, swamps, and orchards. It prefers areas with tall trees that have large cavities that can be used to make nests for breeding.
This bird feeds mainly on insects, such as beetles, caterpillars, and ants, that it finds by drumming on dead trees and branches. The red-headed woodpecker is an important species to the North American ecosystem, as it plays a role in controlling insect populations.
They are also an important seed disperser, as they consume large quantities of acorns and other fruits, which they then spread through their droppings. They also provide important nesting sites for other species of birds, such as bluebirds and chickadees.
Unfortunately, due to habitat loss and competition from invasive species, the population of the red-headed woodpecker has been declining in recent years. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure that these birds continue to thrive in their natural habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Melanerpes |
| Species | M. erythrocephalus |
11. American Redstart
The American redstart is a species of songbird, belonging to the family of New World warblers. It is a migratory bird, found in various regions of North and Central America. The American redstart is known for its vibrant black and orange feathers, which give it its name.
It is most commonly found in wooded habitats, such as woodlands, forests, and wetlands. The American redstart is not related to the Old World redstart, which is a species of Old World flycatcher belonging to the family Muscicapidae.
The Old World redstart is native to Europe and Asia and is characterized by its reddish-brown feathers. This species is also found in wooded habitats but prefers more open areas, such as parks and gardens.
Despite their similar names, the American Redstart and the Old World Redstart are not related. However, both species are migratory birds, and can often be found in the same areas.
Both species are also popular among birdwatchers, due to their vibrant coloration and distinctive songs.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. ruticilla |
12. American Coot
The American coot, also referred to as a mud hen or pouldeau, is a bird belonging to the family Rallidae. It is a species that is often mistaken for a duck due to its similar appearance.
However, American coots are actually only distantly related to ducks and they fall into a separate order altogether. The American coot is a medium-sized water bird that has a distinctive white bill and a dark-gray body.
They are typically found in wetlands such as marshes, ponds, and lakes. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects, small fish, and aquatic plants. American coots are very social and often gather in large flocks. They are very vocal, making loud, deep croaking sounds as they fly.
They are also strong fliers and can easily cover long distances in search of food. American coots are a popular game bird in some areas.
They are hunted for their meat, which is often described as having a mild flavor. Overall, the American coot is an interesting and unique bird that is distantly related to ducks, but belonging to a separate order.
Its social nature and vocalizations make it an enjoyable species to watch in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Gruiformes |
| Family | Rallidae |
| Genus | Fulica |
| Species | F. americana |
13. Hairy Woodpecker
The Hairy Woodpecker is a species of bird that is found mainly in North America. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 250 mm in length and 380 mm in wingspan.
In 2020, the estimated population of the hairy woodpecker was around 9 million individuals, making it one of the least concerned species according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
This species of woodpecker is widely distributed throughout North America and can be found in various habitats such as deciduous and coniferous forests, suburban and even urban areas.
The Hairy Woodpecker is a fantastic example of conservation success, as its population has remained relatively stable despite its wide range and the numerous threats it faces, such as loss of habitat and competition for food.
The IUCN lists this species as a species of least concern, which is an indication that it is not under threat and its population is likely to remain stable in the foreseeable future.
The Hairy Woodpecker is a beautiful bird that can bring a lot of joy to bird watchers and nature lovers alike.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Leuconotopicus |
| Species | L. villosus |
14. Cooper’s Hawk
Cooper’s hawk is a species of hawk that is found in North America. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 15-20 inches from head to tail. Its wingspan can range from 24 to 35 inches, and its weight averages about 16 ounces.
Cooper’s hawks are most commonly found in wooded areas, especially near open fields. They can also be found in urban parks and other areas with large trees. The bird is native to the continent, ranging from Canada to Mexico.
They are a very adaptable species and can be found in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and marshes. Cooper’s hawks are carnivores, and their diet consists primarily of small mammals, such as mice and voles, and sometimes songbirds.
They will also feed on carrion, lizards, and insects. The hawks typically hunt from a perch or while hovering, and will often vigorously pursue their prey. They are considered to be very agile and fast flyers and can reach speeds up to 50 mph.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Accipiter |
| Species | A. cooperii |
15. Brown-Headed Cowbird
The brown-headed cowbird is a type of bird that is native to North America. It is a small bird, belonging to the icterid family. It is an “obligate brood parasitic” species, meaning that it does not build its own nest, but instead lays its eggs in the nests of other species.
This bird is a permanent resident in the warmer parts of its range, such as the southern United States and Mexico, while the northern birds migrate south during the winter. In the spring, they migrate back to their summer habitats.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Molothrus |
| Species | M. ater |
16. Mallard
The mallard or wild duck is a species of duck that is very widely distributed. It is found in temperate and subtropical areas of the Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa.
The mallard has been introduced to other regions, such as New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa.
This introduction has been done both intentionally, for the purpose of sport hunting, and unintentionally, through the accidental release of captive birds. The mallard is generally considered to be a medium-sized duck, with a wingspan of about one meter.
It is generally dark brown in color, with a yellow bill and chestnut brown head.
The male mallards tend to be more colorful than the females, with a bright green head and neck and white spots on their wings. The mallard is an omnivore, meaning it feeds on both plant and animal matter.
Its diet typically consists of aquatic plants, insects, snails, and other small aquatic animals. It also eats grains, nuts, and seeds. The mallard is a highly adaptable bird and is found in a variety of habitats. It is commonly seen in wetlands, lakes, and ponds.
It also inhabits grasslands, agricultural fields, and urban areas. The mallard is a social bird, often found in large flocks. During the breeding season, the male mallards will perform a courtship display to attract a mate.
The females will lay an average of 8-10 eggs per clutch and incubate them for around 28 days. The chicks are precocial, meaning they are born with their eyes open and able to walk and feed shortly after hatching.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Anseriformes |
| Family | Anatidae |
| Genus | Anas |
| Species | A. platyrhynchos |
17. Pine Siskin
The pine siskin is a small North American bird, belonging to the finch family. It is a migratory bird, which means it travels to different regions in different seasons.
In the winter, the pine siskin has a very unpredictable range, meaning it can be found in some areas one year, but not the next. The pine siskin is a small bird with an olive-brown back, yellowish underparts, and a streaked breast.
It has a forked tail, a short, pointed bill, and yellow wing bars. Its call is a high-pitched “zee-zee-zee”, and its song is a long trilling warble. During the winter, the pine siskin lives in flocks and feeds mainly on seeds.
It is found in many different habitats, including evergreen and coniferous forests, woodlands, and urban parks. The pine siskin is a common winter resident in the northern and western United States, and also in much of Canada.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. pinus |
18. Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker
The yellow-bellied sapsucker is a species of woodpecker that primarily inhabits the northeastern United States and Canada. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring between 7.5-10 inches in length with a wingspan of up to 17 inches.
Its plumage is mostly black and white with a bright yellow belly, giving it its distinct name.
Male yellow-bellied sapsuckers also feature a red crown and throat. The yellow-bellied sapsucker is mainly found in coniferous or mixed forests with ample amounts of dead or dying trees.
It spends its days foraging for food in tree bark and branches, searching for insects, fruits, and sap. It is well known for its ability to drill holes in tree bark to access the sap stored within.
This sap is then consumed by the sapsucker, as well as other avian species. The yellow-bellied sapsucker is a monogamous species, typically forming a pair in the spring before beginning the breeding season.
During this time, they will build a nest in a dead tree or snag, often using the same nesting site for several years. The female will lay between 3-6 eggs, which are incubated by both parents before hatching.
The chicks are cared for by both parents until they are ready to fledge. The yellow-bellied sapsucker is a unique and important species of bird in its range. It plays an important role in its ecosystem, helping to disperse seeds and control insect populations.
Unfortunately, its numbers have been declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation, making it an important species to protect and conserve.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Sphyrapicus |
| Species | S. varius |
19. Sharp-Shinned Hawk
The sharp-shinned hawk, commonly known as a sharpie, is a small member of the hawk species, found in the United States and Canada. Males are the smallest hawks in the region, but the species still averages larger than some of its Neotropical relatives, such as the tiny hawk.
Sharp-shinned hawks are typically characterized by a short, wide bill, a long tail, and sharp-looking talons. They are agile hunters, capable of quickly maneuvering through dense foliage to capture their prey.
These birds of prey feed mainly on small birds and mammals, and their diet also includes insects, lizards, and other small creatures. Sharp-shinned hawks are highly adaptable and can be found in woodlands, open fields, and even in some urban areas.
They are often seen perched in trees, watching for their next meal, or soaring over open fields in search of food.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Accipiter |
| Species | A. striatus |
20. Red-Shouldered Hawk
The red-shouldered hawk is a medium-sized species of the buteo family. It has a vast breeding range that stretches from eastern North America, all the way along the coast of California and northern to northeastern-central Mexico.
This species is a permanent resident in most of its range, with some northern birds migrating to central Mexico. This migration is typically seen in the winter months when the weather becomes colder and food sources become scarce.
The red-shouldered hawk is a versatile hunter and is able to feed on both small mammals and birds, as well as large insects. It is also a great aerial hunter, using its keen eyesight to spot its prey from a great distance away.
This species is a valuable part of the ecosystem in its range, helping to keep the populations of certain small animals in check.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Buteo |
| Species | B. lineatus |
21. Common Grackle
The common grackle is a type of bird from the icterid family, which is found in abundance throughout North America. First identified by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, the common grackle has three subspecies.
All adult common grackles share the same physical traits: a long and dark beak, pale yellow eyes, and a long tail. They are generally considered to be quite striking in appearance, and can be easily identified in flocks due to their loud and raucous calls.
The most common habitat of the common grackle is in open woodlands or scrublands. They are also found in urban parks and gardens, where they often come to feed on insects, seeds, and fruits.
Common grackles are quite adaptable to changing habitats and can be seen in a variety of places, including suburban and city areas.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. quiscula |
22. Eastern Meadowlark
The eastern meadowlark is a type of blackbird that is closely related to the western meadowlark. It is medium in size and its coloring is similar to its relative. Its range extends from eastern North America to northern South America, where it is the most common in the East.
The eastern meadowlark is found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, open forests, pastures, and croplands. It typically feeds on insects, seeds, and berries.
It is an important seed disperser and pollinator, and its presence is an indication of healthy ecosystems. The eastern meadowlark is also an important component of the food web, as it is a primary food source for various predators, such as hawks and owls.
This species is considered to be of least concern by conservationists, but their populations are declining due to habitat loss and degradation. It is important to protect their habitats in order to ensure the survival of the eastern meadowlark and other species in the area.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Sturnella |
| Species | S. magna |
Conclusion
Birds in North Auburn are an integral part of the local ecosystem. They provide food for other animals, help pollinate local plants, and provide a source of beauty and joy to the local community.
With the right conservation and management, birds in North Auburn can continue to thrive and provide benefits to the local community for many years to come.