Maryland is home to many beautiful and unique species of birds, including the Bluebird. These birds are a beloved sight in the state and can be seen in many different habitats. Bluebirds in Maryland are especially noteworthy for their bright blue plumage and melodious songs.
The Eastern Bluebird, Tree Swallow, and Mountain Bluebird are all species of Bluebirds that can be seen in the state. Not only are Bluebirds a pleasurable sight to behold, but they also provide an invaluable service to Maryland’s ecosystems by eating large numbers of insects.
Marylanders can help support these birds by providing birdhouses and other nesting materials in their yards.
1. Eastern Bluebird
The Eastern Bluebird is a small bird found in North America. It is a migratory thrush, which means that it moves from one region to another in order to find suitable habitats for its nesting and breeding. This bird can be found in open woodlands, farmlands, and orchards.
It is easily identified by its bright-blue breeding plumage on the male, which can be seen clearly when perched on a wire or open perch. This is why the Eastern Bluebird is a favorite of many birders, as it is easy to spot and admire in its natural habitat.
The Eastern Bluebird is a beautiful species of bird that is a joy to observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Sialia |
| Species | S. sialis |
2. Blue Jay
The blue jay is a member of the Corvidae family, found in North America. It can be found in the majority of the eastern and central United States, with some eastern populations migrating seasonally.
In addition, blue jays are known to inhabit Newfoundland, Canada, and have breeding grounds throughout southern Canada. They are known to be particularly populous in the American Midwest, where they can be seen in backyards, parks, and other areas with access to food.
Blue jays are also known for their intelligence, and can be seen in the wild using tools to reach food. They are also known to be fiercely territorial, and can often be heard loudly announcing their presence in an area.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Corvidae |
| Genus | Cyanocitta |
| Species | C. cristata |
3. Tree Swallow
The tree swallow is a migratory bird of the family Hirundinidae. It is found in the Americas and was first described in 1807 by French ornithologist Louis Vieillot as Hirundo bicolor. This species has since been moved to its current genus, Tachycineta.
Within this genus, however, its phylogenetic placement is debated. The tree swallow is a small bird with a blue-green upper body, white underparts, and black wings. It feeds mainly on insects, which it catches in mid-air.
During the breeding season, it builds a cup-shaped nest out of grass and feathers and lays a clutch of two to seven eggs.
It is a strong flier and migrates between its wintering grounds in the southern United States and its breeding grounds in Canada and the northern United States. The tree swallow is a popular species for birdwatchers and ornithologists due to its bright colors and active behavior.
Its conservation status is Least Concern due to its large population and wide distribution.
Despite this, its numbers have been declining in recent years due to habitat loss and other human-caused disturbances. In terms of its phylogenetic placement, the tree swallow has been the subject of debate.
Some taxonomists believe it belongs in the genus Tachycineta, while others suggest that it should be placed in the genus Hirundo. This debate reflects the difficulty in accurately defining the relationships between different species of birds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Tachycineta |
| Species | T. bicolor |
4. Indigo Bunting
The indigo bunting is a small, migratory bird that belongs to the cardinal family, Cardinalidae. It breeds in the summer in southern Canada and northern Florida, and in the winter it flies south to southern Florida and northern South America.
During its migration, the indigo bunting usually travels at night, using the stars as a guide. This bird is a seed eater, relying on a variety of seeds to sustain itself.
It is a crucial species in many ecosystems, as it helps pollinate plants and disperse seeds, which helps maintain the balance of the environment.
The indigo bunting is also an important species to watch, as its population numbers can tell us a lot about the health of the ecosystem it inhabits.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. cyanea |
5. Barn Swallow
The barn swallow is one of the most widespread species of birds in the world. Its range covers an astonishing 251 million square kilometers, covering every continent except Antarctica. This makes it the passerine with the greatest distribution in the world.
It is a very distinct species, with blue upperparts and a long, deeply forked tail. These features are part of what makes the barn swallow easily distinguishable from other species of swallows.
Its ability to thrive in a diverse array of habitats, from urban areas to open meadows, is another factor in its widespread success. The barn swallow is an important species for many ecosystems, as it eats large amounts of insects, helping to control pest populations.
It is also a popular bird for birdwatchers, as its beautiful colors and unique tail shape make it a pleasure to observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Hirundo |
| Species | H. rustica |
6. Black-Throated Blue Warbler
The black-throated blue warbler is a small, beautiful passerine bird, belonging to the New World warbler family. This species can be found in the interior of deciduous and mixed coniferous forests in eastern North America, where it breeds during the warmer months.
When winter arrives, the black-throated blue warbler migrates to islands scattered throughout the Caribbean and Central America. This species is an important member of the ecosystem, as it helps to maintain the balance of the forest by consuming insects and other pests.
Additionally, its beautiful song adds to the natural beauty of the forests. As a result, the black-throated blue warbler is a beloved species by birdwatchers and conservationists alike.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. caerulescens |
7. White-Breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch is a species of bird that belongs to the nuthatch family Sittidae. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 15.5 cm in length. This species is known for its agility while climbing up, down, and around tree trunks and branches.
Its distinctive call—a nasal yank—is often heard in woodlands across North America. They have a white underside, a grey back, a black head with a white stripe running along the back of the head, and a long, pointed bill.
They can often be seen hanging upside down on tree trunks and branches, searching for insects, caterpillars, and spiders. In the winter, they often feed on seeds, nuts, and acorns.
The white-breasted nuthatch is an important species in North American forests, helping to keep insect and spider populations in check.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. carolinensis |
8. Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a species of small songbird that is native to North America. It is easily identified by its distinct blue-gray plumage. The bird is small in size, measuring between 4.3 and 5.1 inches in length and weighing between 0.2 and 0.4 ounces.
Its wingspan ranges from 6.3 to 7.5 inches, and its bill is typically black in color.
The blue-gray gnatcatcher is known for its long tail, which is usually a darker shade than the rest of its body. The bird is found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, savannahs, and shrublands.
It prefers open areas with low vegetation, and it often forages for insects on the ground. The blue-gray gnatcatcher is a migratory species, and it can be found throughout the United States and Canada during different times of the year.
It is also found in parts of Mexico and the Caribbean. The blue-gray gnatcatcher eats mostly insects, and it will also eat spiders and other small invertebrates. It is an important part of the local ecosystem, as it helps to control insect populations.
The bird also plays an important role in seed dispersal, which helps to promote the growth of native plants. The blue-gray gnatcatcher is an important part of the North American avian population, and it is a species of conservation concern.
It is threatened by habitat loss due to human activities such as logging and urban development. The bird is also vulnerable to changes in the climate, as well as to the introduction of non-native species.
Conservation efforts are needed to protect the blue-gray gnatcatcher and its habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Polioptilidae |
| Genus | Polioptila |
| Species | P. caerulea |
9. Red-Breasted Nuthatch
The red-breasted nuthatch is a small songbird that is easily recognized due to its distinctive coloration. The upper parts of its body are a beautiful blue-grey, while its underparts are a warm cinnamon color.
Its throat and face are white and it has a black stripe that runs through its eyes. Additionally, it has a straight grey bill and a black crown on its head. Its call is unique and has been likened to a tin trumpet, as it is high-pitched and nasal.
The red-breasted nuthatch is a beautiful bird species that is easily identified by its unique markings and call.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sittidae |
| Genus | Sitta |
| Species | S. canadensis |
10. New World Warblers
The New World warblers are a family of passerine birds that make up the Parulidae family and are exclusive to the Americas.
These birds, which are also known as wood-warblers, are small in size and brightly colored, and they live in a variety of habitats such as forests, woodlands, and shrublands.
They are not related to Old World warblers or Australian warblers, which are both subfamilies of the Sylviidae family. Old World warblers are found in Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia, while Australian warblers are found only in Australia.
New World warblers have diverse diets and can eat a variety of insects, seeds, fruits, and other vegetation. They are generally monogamous and build nests near the ground or in trees. They are well-adapted to their environment and can often be heard singing sweet melodies.
New World warblers are important to their ecosystems as they help control insect populations and disperse seeds. They are also a popular subject for bird watchers, as they are fairly easy to spot and identify due to their bright colors.
Unfortunately, their populations are declining due to habitat loss and degradation, as well as competition from introduced species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
11. Blue Grosbeak
The blue grosbeak is a bird from the Cardinalidae family, which is native to North America. It has a medium size, with the male having a bright blue color and two brown wing bars.
This bird is mainly migratory, meaning that it will travel long distances between its winter and breeding grounds. During winter, the blue grosbeak can be found in Central America, while it breeds in northern Mexico and the southern United States.
This bird is an important species, as it helps to maintain a healthy balance in the environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Passerina |
| Species | P. caerulea |
12. Cerulean Warbler
The cerulean warbler is a small songbird found in the family of Parulidae. It is a long-distance migrant, breeding in eastern North American hardwood forests. This means that it migrates to and from the same regions, and has a specific breeding habitat.
This particular species is known to winter on the eastern slope of the Andes in South America, preferring subtropical forests.
From its breeding grounds in North America, it travels a great distance to reach the subtropical forests in South America, where it spends the non-breeding season.
The cerulean warbler is a unique species, as it is able to make long-distance migrations to and from different continents each year. It is a hardy species that is able to withstand the rigors of long-distance flight and changing weather conditions.
The cerulean warbler is truly an amazing species, and its ability to make this long-distance migration is a testament to its hardiness and adaptability.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. cerulea |
13. Cardinalidae
Cardinalidae is a family of birds that is only found in the New World and includes cardinals, grosbeaks, and buntings. This family also consists of other genera, such as the tanager-like Piranga and the warbler-like Granatellus.
The Piranga genus includes tanager-like birds such as the Scarlet Tanager, the Summer Tanager, and the Western Tanager. The Granatelli genus includes warbler-like birds such as the Blue-black Grassquit, the Black-throated Mango, and the Antillean Grassquit.
All of these birds are small to medium-sized passerines, with the Scarlet Tanager being the largest at around 18-20 cm. in length. They have strong beaks, short legs, and usually colorful plumage.
They feed mainly on seeds, fruits, and insects, and can often be found in open woodlands, grasslands, and shrublands. These birds are important seed dispersers, which helps promote the growth of vegetation in their habitat.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
14. Cliff Swallow
The cliff swallow, also known as the American cliff swallow, is a species of bird that belongs to the family Hirundinidae. This family is composed of passerine birds, which are small to medium-sized birds defined by their unique ability to perch and walk on the ground.
The family Hirundinidae includes both swallows and martins, which are closely related species of birds. The cliff swallow is a small, migratory bird that is found in open habitats including grasslands, meadows, and fields.
It has a buff-colored forehead and a dark blue-black crown, with a white throat and a pale tan-brown breast. The wings and tail of the cliff swallow are brownish-black in color, and the wings have a distinctive, forked shape.
This species of bird typically feeds on flying insects, such as flies and beetles, which it captures in mid-air. The cliff swallow builds its nests in colonies, usually consisting of several dozen birds. The nests are built with mud and lined with feathers and grass.
The nests are often found on cliffs, hence the name of the bird. The cliff swallow is a vocal species, and its song consists of a series of twittering and chirping noises. It is a common species, found in most of North and South America.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Petrochelidon |
| Species | P. pyrrhonota |
15. Belted Kingfisher
The belted kingfisher is a unique and easily identifiable species of water kingfisher native to North America. It stands out from other species in the same family thanks to its large size and distinctive plumage.
Historically, all kingfishers were classified under the family Alcedinidae. However, recent scientific studies have suggested that this family should be divided into three distinct subfamilies: Alcedininae, Halcyoninae, and Cerylinae.
This is in order to better reflect the evolutionary relationships between different species of kingfishers. While the exact number of species of kingfishers is still unknown, it is estimated that there are around 90 species spread across the globe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Genus | Megaceryle |
| Species | M. alcyon |
16. Purple Martin
The purple martin is a species of bird belonging to the swallow family, Hirundinidae, which is found in North America. It is the largest species of swallow found in the region and is easily recognizable by its distinctive purple color.
However, despite its name, purple martin, the bird is not actually purple in color. It is brownish-black in color, with a hint of purple and blue in its feathers. The purple coloration is actually a result of the reflection of light, which gives it a purplish hue.
The purple martin is a migratory bird, which means that it spends the winter months in the southern parts of its range and travels back to the northern parts during the summer months. It is a sociable bird and forms large colonies during the breeding season.
It feeds on insects and other small invertebrates, which it catches in flight. The purple martin is an important bird species in North America, as it provides pest control and helps to keep insect populations in check.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Hirundinidae |
| Genus | Progne |
| Species | P. Subis |
17. Common Starling
The common starling is a species of passerine bird belonging to the Sturnidae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and western and central Asia, but has been introduced to North America, Australia, New Zealand, and many other parts of the world.
It is also known as the European starling in North America and simply as the starling in Great Britain and Ireland. The common starling is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring around 20 cm in length with a wingspan of around 40 cm.
Its plumage is glossy black with a metallic sheen, although this can vary depending on the season. The wings and tail are short and pointed, and the bill is conical and pointed.
The common starling is an adaptable bird and can be found in a wide range of habitats, from urban parks to open fields and woodlands. It is an omnivore, feeding on a variety of insects, seeds, fruit, and other small animals.
It is often seen in large flocks, and its vocalizations are loud and recognizable.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Sturnidae |
| Genus | Sturnus |
| Species | S. vulgaris |
18. Common Grackle
The common grackle is a species of bird belonging to the Icteridae family, which is made up of blackbirds, orioles, and meadowlarks. It is found in large numbers throughout much of North America and was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758.
The common grackle is a large bird, with a long, dark bill, pale yellow eyes, and a long tail. There are three distinct subspecies of the common grackle, each of which has its own unique characteristics.
The common grackle is a social bird that is often seen in large flocks and can be heard making loud, raucous calls. They are omnivorous, meaning they feed on both plant and animal material, including grains, insects, and berries.
They are also known to eat eggs and nestlings of other birds. The common grackle is a widespread and successful species and is a common sight across much of North America.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. quiscula |
19. American Robin
The American robin is a species of migratory bird that is part of the true thrush genus and the Turdidae family, which is a wider family of thrushes. 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 belongs to the Old World flycatcher family. The American robin is a widely distributed species in North America and is one of the most common birds found on the continent. It is an omnivorous bird, which means that it feeds on both animal and plant material.
It is a medium-sized bird, with a wingspan of around 25 cm and a body length of around 20 cm. The male American robin has a bright orange-red breast, while the female has a duller brownish-red breast.
The American robin is considered a highly influential species in North America, especially in the early spring when it is one of the first birds to announce the arrival of warmer weather.
It is an important species in the ecosystem, helping to disperse seeds and control insect populations. It is also a popular species among birdwatchers and is often the subject of many birding sessions.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
20. Great Blue Heron
The great blue heron is a majestic bird that is found in many areas of North and Central America, as well as South America, the Caribbean, and the Galápagos Islands.
It is a member of the heron family, Ardeidae, and is characterized by its large size and its love for wading in the waters near lakes, ponds, marshes, and other wetlands.
The bird has a slender, grayish-blue body that can reach up to four feet in length and a wingspan of six feet. It has a long, sharp beak and long legs that allow it to wade in shallow waters.
The great blue heron is an omnivore, meaning that it feeds on both plants and animals, such as small fish, frogs, insects, and other aquatic life. They can be found near the shores of almost any body of open water.
The great blue heron is a majestic sight to behold as it slowly wades through the water, searching for its next meal. It is an important part of many wetland ecosystems, and its presence is a sign of a healthy environment.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Ardea |
| Species | A. herodias |
21. American Goldfinch
The American goldfinch is a small bird that belongs to the finch family native to North America.
It is a migratory species, commonly found in mid-Alberta and North Carolina during the breeding season, and from just south of the Canada–United States border to Mexico during the winter months.
This species is a popular backyard bird, particularly during the winter when it visits feeders for essential sustenance. The American goldfinch is easy to identify due to its yellow plumage, black wings, and white tail feathers.
Males, in particular, are brightly colored during the summer months, with the bright yellow fading to a duller tone in the winter. The bird is known for its cheerful song, typically heard during the spring and summer months.
In terms of diet, American goldfinches primarily feed on seeds, and occasionally insects. During the breeding season, they often feed on small insects, such as aphids, which are beneficial to plants.
During the winter, they rely on feeders filled with sunflower seeds, thistle, and nyjer. American goldfinches are social birds, often found in small flocks, and they are highly territorial when nesting.
They tend to nest in shrubs or trees, usually close to the ground, and the female builds the nest with materials such as twigs, grasses, and rootlets. Both parents take part in the feeding of the young.
Overall, the American goldfinch is an important species in North America, playing a vital role in the ecosystem. They are a beautiful sight to behold and are beloved by many birdwatchers throughout the continent.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
22. House Finch
The House Finch is a species of finch that belongs to the Fringillidae family, which is a family of birds that includes sparrows, buntings, and other types of finches.
It is native to western North America, but it has been introduced to the eastern half of the continent and to Hawaii. The House Finch is part of the genus Haemorhous, which also includes two other American rosefinches.
This genus is made up of species that are mostly found in North America and have a diet that consists mainly of seeds and fruit. The House Finch can be identified by its red head and breast, its grayish-brown back, and its white belly.
It is a small bird, usually measuring just four to five inches in length. The House Finch is a social bird, often seen in flocks, and it is attracted to bird feeders. Its song is a rapid series of warbles and trills.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
23. Tufted Titmouse
The tufted titmouse is a species of small songbird that is found across North America. It belongs to the family of tit and chickadee birds. It is a very small bird with a black crest on its head and a grey-brown body.
The tufted titmouse is usually found in woodlands and forests, but it can also be found in suburban gardens and parks. The black-crested titmouse is found in central and southern Texas and was previously considered to be a subspecies of the tufted titmouse.
However, the black-crested titmouse is now recognized as a separate species called Baeolophus atricristatus. This species has a more distinct black crest, darker plumage, and a longer tail than the tufted titmouse.
It is also found in scrub and grasslands, rather than in forests. Both species of titmice are social birds that form flocks and are active during the day. They feed on insects, seeds, and berries and can often be heard singing their distinctive “trip” call.
Both species are important members of their ecosystems, helping to control insect populations and disperse seeds.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Paridae |
| Genus | Baeolophus |
| Species | B. bicolor |
24. Northern Parula
The northern parula is a species of warbler, which is a type of small songbird. This species is found in North America, ranging from southern Canada in the north all the way down to Florida in the south.
The northern parula breeds only in the eastern part of North America, where it makes its home in woodlands and wetlands.
During the summer months, they can be found in the deciduous forests and swamps of the eastern United States and Canada, as well as in the wooded areas of the Appalachian Mountains.
In winter, they migrate to the southeastern United States and Mexico. The northern parula is a small bird, typically growing to no more than four inches in length.
Its plumage is mostly yellowish-green, with a white patch on the throat and a black band running across the lower breast. The male has a blue-grey cap on its head, while the female is a duller shade.
The northern parula is a great singer, and its song often consists of a few high-pitched notes followed by a trill. The northern parula is an important species for the ecology of its range, as it helps to pollinate plants and disperse seeds.
It also feeds on a variety of insects, providing a valuable source of food for other species. As a result, it is important to conserve this species and its habitat in order to maintain the balance of the ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Setophaga |
| Species | S. americana |
25. Red-Winged Blackbird
The red-winged blackbird is a type of passerine bird, a songbird with a strong, thin beak. It belongs to the family Icteridae, which includes blackbirds, orioles, meadowlarks, and cowbirds. This species is widespread throughout North America and much of Central America.
It is a medium-sized bird that is black in color with bright red-and-yellow shoulder patches. Its tail is usually black with white edges. The male has a distinctive song, with a rich variety of whistles and trills, that he sings from a high perch during the breeding season.
The female is much less vocal but can still be heard making high-pitched warbles and chirps. Red-winged blackbirds are found in open grasslands, marshes, swamps, farmland, and along the edges of woodlands.
They feed mainly on insects and other small invertebrates, as well as grains and berries. They nest in dense marsh vegetation, often making large colonies. The red-winged blackbird is an important part of our natural environment and one that many of us are lucky to experience.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
26. Little Blue Heron
The little blue heron is a small species of heron found in the genus Egretta. It has a unique two-toned bill, with a dark coloration on the top and a light coloration on the bottom.
Juveniles of the species are entirely white, which gives them a strong resemblance to the snowy egret. During the breeding season, adult little blue herons develop different coloration on the head, legs, and feet, with a darker shade than the juveniles.
This helps them stand out and attract mates. The little blue heron is a unique and beautiful species that is a delight to observe in the wild.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Pelecaniformes |
| Family | Ardeidae |
| Genus | Egretta |
| Species | E. caerulea |
27. Brown-Headed Cowbird
The brown-headed cowbird is a member of the icterid family, which is found in temperate and subtropical North America. This small bird is an obligate brood parasite, meaning that it relies on other bird species to incubate its eggs and raise its chicks.
It is a permanent resident in the southern parts of its range, while the northern birds migrate to the southern United States and Mexico during the winter months, typically returning to their summer habitat between March and April.
This species does not build its own nests but instead lays its eggs in the nests of other bird species. The host bird often unknowingly raises the cowbird chick as its own, which can potentially out-compete the host’s own chicks for food and attention.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Molothrus |
| Species | M. ater |
28. Gray Catbird
The gray catbird is a species of bird commonly found throughout North and Central America. It is a medium-sized bird belonging to the mimid family and is the only member of its genus, Dumetella.
Its greyish-brown feathers make it easily recognizable, and its name is derived from its distinctive call, which resembles the meowing of a cat. This bird is an omnivore and feeds on a variety of foods including insects, fruits, and berries.
It often forages in shallow waters, or on the ground. It has an unusually varied vocal repertoire and has been known to mimic the calls of other birds. The gray catbird is a solitary species, and pairs only during the breeding season.
It builds its nest in shrubs or low trees, and the female usually lays three to five eggs. After hatching, the young birds stay with their parents until they are ready to fly.
Overall, the gray catbird is an interesting and unique species, and its wide distribution makes it a popular bird for birdwatchers. Its varied diet, vocal range, and solitary nature make it an interesting bird to observe.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Dumetella |
| Species | D. carolinensis |
29. Rusty Blackbird
The Rusty Blackbird is a species of blackbird that is native to North America. It is a medium-sized bird that is closely related to grackles, and it prefers wet, forested areas.
During the breeding season, the Rusty Blackbird can be found in northern Canada, in both boreal forests and muskeg, which is a type of wetland. In the wintertime, it migrates further south, to the United States.
The Rusty Blackbird is one of the most threatened birds in North America, as the population has declined by 90% since the 1970s.
This decrease is largely due to the destruction of its wetland habitats and the decline of its preferred food sources, such as insects, berries, and grain.
Conservation efforts are underway to help the Rusty Blackbird population recover, but more needs to be done to protect this species.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Euphagus |
| Species | E. carolinus |
30. Brewer’s Blackbird
Brewer’s blackbird is a species of bird that can be found in the New World. It is a medium-sized bird, approximately 18 cm in size. The bird has a black body with a purplish head and yellow eyes. It is named after the renowned American ornithologist Thomas Mayo Brewer (1814-80).
Brewer was one of the first to study the fossil record of birds, and he wrote extensively on the subject. He also described and named many species of birds in the New World, including the Brewer’s blackbird.
The bird is found in open woodlands and grasslands, where it feeds on insects, grains, and fruits. It makes a harsh, grating call, which is usually heard in the morning and evening.
The Brewer’s blackbird is an important part of the New World’s avian community, and it is a species that deserves to be better known and appreciated.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Euphagus |
| Species | E. cyanocephalus |
31. Boat-Tailed Grackle
The boat-tailed grackle is a type of songbird, belonging to the family Icteridae. This species is a permanent resident in the southeastern United States, primarily living along the coasts.
Boat-tailed grackles are medium-sized birds with glossy black feathers with a distinctive long, slender tail. They are highly vocal and their calls can often be heard in the early morning and late afternoon.
The grackle’s diet consists of insects, seeds, and fruits found in marshlands and open woodlands. They are also known to forage for food in urban areas and other human-altered landscapes.
Boat-tailed grackles are social birds, often forming large flocks to feed and roost together. They are also very territorial, defending their territory from other birds.
The boat-tailed grackle is an important species in the southeastern United States, and its presence is a sign of a healthy ecosystem.
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Quiscalus |
| Species | Q. major |
Conclusion
Blue birds are an important species in Maryland. They provide important ecosystem services, such as pest control, and are a keystone species in the state, providing habitat for other species.
Maryland is home to a large and diverse population of bluebirds, and they are a species that is an important part of the state’s ecology.
With help from conservation efforts and support from the public, bluebird populations can continue to thrive in Maryland for generations to come.