West Virginia is home to a wide variety of birds, including brown birds that are found in different parts of the state. Brown birds can be easily identified due to their brown or tan plumage, which offers camouflage from predators and blends in with their natural habitats.
These birds have adapted to various environments, ranging from forests, wetlands, grasslands, and even urban areas. Some of the most common brown birds found in West Virginia include the American Robin, Eastern towhee, Common Grackle, American Goldfinch, and House Sparrow.
In this article, we will discuss the different brown birds that are found in West Virginia and learn more about their physical characteristics, habitats, and behaviors.
1. Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is a beautiful bird, easily identified by its bright red plumage. It can be found in the eastern United States from Maine to Minnesota and south through Mexico and Belize.
Along with its striking colouration, it has a distinctive crest on its head and sharp black facial markings around the eyes.
Despite their small size (measuring 7-9 inches) they are very vocal birds – males sing persistently throughout springtime to attract mates or proclaim their territory.
They typically feed on insects, seeds and fruits but also enjoy suet at backyard bird feeders.
The female is less brightly coloured than her mate but still stands out among other songbirds due to her warm brownish-red feathers.
Cardinals pair for life so you may often see them together in your garden or neighbourhood park.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Cardinalis |
| Species | C. cardinalis |
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2. American Robin
The American robin is a migratory bird, belonging to the true thrush genus and Turdidae family.
It was named after its European counterpart due to the similar reddish-orange breast they both possess; however, they are not related closely.
This species can be seen through most of North America during winter months, as well as in parts of Mexico and Central America where it also breeds.
They have plump bodies with gray upperparts and white underparts that vary from yellow on their throats down to orange toward their bellies.
Robins feed on fruits such as berries or insects like worms which makes them an important part of ecosystems by helping disperse seeds naturally throughout these areas.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Genus | Turdus |
| Species | T. migratorius |
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3. American Goldfinch
The American goldfinch is a small North American bird in the finch family. Males are vibrant yellow with black wings and tail, while females are duller in colouration.
It migrates from mid-Alberta to North Carolina during breeding season, south of Canada–United States border to Mexico for its wintering grounds.
The only finch which undergoes complete molt every year, it displays sexual dichromatism where males have brighter colours than their female counterparts.
They feed mainly on seeds but also eat insects such as aphids and caterpillars when raising youngs; they often occur near thistles or other plants that produce viable seed heads.
Their call consists of an array of chirps and trills making them quite conspicuous.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Carduelinae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. tristis |
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4. Brown Thrasher
The brown thrasher is a member of the Mimidae family, along with catbirds and mockingbirds. It is found throughout much of North America in the eastern and central United States as well as southern and central Canada.
The only place that it does not inhabit is west of the Rockies or in Central Texas.
This bird can be identified by its reddish-brown back feathers, white underbelly and long tail that often drags behind it when walking on the ground hunting for food like insects, fruits or berries.
Its loud song consists of over 2000 different notes.
Brown Thrashers are known to build nests close to human activity which makes them easily accessible for observation making them a popular backyard species among many birdwatchers.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Mimidae |
| Genus | Toxostoma |
| Species | T. rufum |
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5. House Finch
The House Finch is a species of finch native to western North America and has been introduced in the eastern half of the continent as well as Hawaii.
It’s an average-sized finch with adults measuring 12.5 – 15 cm (5 – 6 inches) long and having wingspans between 20 – 25 cm (8 – 10 inches).
The upperparts are brown, while its underparts range from pale grayish white to yellow depending on subspecies.
Its face is streaked or spotted with reddish coloration; males typically have brighter plumage than females due to sexual dimorphism.
They’re mostly found near human habitations such as farms and gardens where they feed on grains, fruits, insects etc., making them very popular among birders who want something colorful for their backyard.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Carduelinae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. mexicanus |
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6. Dark-Eyed Junco
The Dark-eyed Junco is a species of small, grayish sparrows that are found across much of temperate North America and in the Arctic during summer.
It was formally described by Carl Linnaeus in 1766, who named it after its distinctive dark eyes.
This bird has a very variable appearance due to the many different subspecies it contains, making its systematics difficult to unravel.
The plumage varies from white or light gray on their underparts with slate grey backs and wings; black heads with white outer tail feathers; brown head stripes; yellow bills; pink legs and feet; as well as various shades between all these colours.
They also have considerable sexual dimorphism where males tend to be more colourful than females but share similar characteristics such as short tails and rounded bodies – both sexes being around 16 cm long when fully grown.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Junco |
| Species | J. hyemalis |
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7. Mourning Dove
The Mourning Dove is a breathtakingly beautiful bird. It has stunning gray and brown feathers with white tipped wings, giving it an elegant appearance. Its long tail also adds to its graceful look in flight.
A symbol of peace and serenity, they are abundant across North America and can be found in gardens or open fields throughout the year.
As well as being popular game birds for hunters, they feed on grains such as wheat and millet providing important food sources for wildlife species including foxes, coyotes, skunks and raccoons.
These doves have a distinctive cooing sound that can often be heard echoing through woodlands during summer evenings making them one of nature’s greatest treasures.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Columbiformes |
| Family | Columbidae |
| Genus | Zenaida |
| Species | Z. macroura |
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8. Red-Winged Blackbird
The red-winged blackbird is a beautiful bird found in most of North America and Central America.
Its distinct features include a glossy black body, with white shoulder patches and bright red wing coverts year round.
It prefers wetland habitats such as marshes, ponds, lakeshores and agricultural fields. During breeding season they inhabit grassy areas near water then move south for the winter months.
For food they mainly eat insects but also consume wild fruit or grains.
They are very social birds often seen in large flocks during migration times when their unmistakable “conk-la-ree” call can be heard echoing across the sky.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Agelaius |
| Species | A. phoeniceus |
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9. Carolina Wren
The Carolina wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus) is a medium-sized bird that can be found in the eastern United States, southern Ontario and northeast Mexico.
They typically live in dense shrubbery or thickets near open areas such as gardens, parks and woodland edges.
These birds are quite adaptable when it comes to nesting sites – they will build their nests anywhere from tree cavities to manmade boxes.
Their diet consists of insects, spiders and other invertebrates which they forage for on the ground or among vegetation.
The males have an unmistakable song made up of loud whistles interspersed with trills reminiscent of laughter; you’ll often find these cheerful little birds singing away during early morning hours.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Troglodytidae |
| Genus | Thryothorus Vieillot, 1816[2] |
| Species | T. ludovicianus |
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10. Eastern Towhee
The Eastern Towhee is a large New World sparrow, native to brushy areas of eastern North America. These birds have distinct black and white markings, with chestnut brown underparts.
They nest either low in bushes or on the ground beneath shrubs. Northern towhees are known for migrating south during the winter months.
In recent decades, taxonomy debates have left some questioning whether this bird should remain its own species or be grouped together with the Spotted Towhee as one species — Rufous-sided Towhee.
This lively songbird has a bubbly personality and can often be seen hopping around on branches looking for food such as insects, fruits and seeds.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Pipilo |
| Species | P. erythrophthalmus |
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11. Chipping Sparrow
The Chipping Sparrow is a small passerine bird found across most of North America. It has two subspecies, the eastern and western chipping sparrows which migrate seasonally to overwinter in warmer climates.
The birds are grey above with white underparts, have a rufous cap with black stripes and large eyes surrounded by light brown feathers.
They feed mainly on seeds but can also be seen eating insects during breeding season when raising their young chicks.
These intrepid little birds live in open grasslands such as prairies or meadows where they build cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs to raise their young family.
Their cheerful song often sounds like ‘chips’ hence its name; Chipping Sparrow.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Spizella |
| Species | S. passerina |
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12. Brown-Headed Cowbird
The Brown-headed Cowbird is a small, obligate brood parasitic icterid native to temperate and subtropical North America. It has a brown head with glossy black plumage on the body, wings and tail feathers.
During summer months it can be found in prairies, grasslands as well as open wooded areas but during winter they migrate southwards towards the United States of Mexico for warmer climate.
They are mainly insectivorous birds which feed on insects like caterpillars or beetles but also consume some grains too.
The female bird lays its eggs in nests of other species who then incubates them until hatching time thus leaving their own chicks uncared for by themselves.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Icteridae |
| Genus | Molothrus |
| Species | M. ater |
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13. Bewick’s Wren
The Bewick’s wren (Thryomanes bewickii) is a small, grey-brown bird native to North America. Measuring at around 14 cm long it has distinctive white markings on its face and tail giving it an attractive appearance.
It can often be found in thickets or scrubby areas as well as urban gardens and parks.
Its song is loud and melodious which makes them popular amongst ornithologists; they are known for their complex vocalisations composed of whistles, clicks, churrs and trills.
The Bewick’s Wren mainly feeds on insects but will also eat fruits if available during the colder months when food may otherwise be scarce.
This species of wren plays an important role in controlling insect populations making them beneficial inhabitants of our environment.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Troglodytidae |
| Genus | Thryomanes P.L. Sclater, 1862 |
| Species | T. bewickii |
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14. White-Throated Sparrow
The White-throated Sparrow is a small passerine bird of the New World sparrow family Passerellidae.
It has distinctive yellow and black stripes on its head, white throat and chest with grey back and wings, along with light brown legs.
The scientific name “Zonotrichia albicollis” comes from Ancient Greek for ‘band’ (ζώνη) referring to its distinctive striped crown, and Latin for ‘white neck’ (albus collum).
These birds are usually found in wooded areas such as coniferous forests or deciduous habitats in North America where they feed mainly on insects during summer months; transitioning to seeds during winter.
They build their nests near ground level using grasses, twigs or moss lined with feathers.
White-throated Sparrows may be solitary but also form flocks when migrating southward each fall season which typically occurs over mid-late October through November depending on location within range.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Zonotrichia |
| Species | Z. albicollis |
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15. Song Sparrow
The Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia) is a small, yet abundant bird found in North America.
They have brown upperparts with dark streaks and are white underneath, complete with a distinct dark brown spot on the breast.
Their cap is also brown and long roughed feathers can be seen sprouting from their neck area.
This sparrow species is highly variable and adaptable to many different environments including dry brush land, wetlands or open fields.
It has been noted that adult song sparrows will sing even during winter months when other birds remain quiet.
These energetic little animals make for great backyard companions as they flit about singing their lovely melodies.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Melospiza |
| Species | M. melodia |
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16. Eastern Phoebe
The Eastern Phoebe is a small passerine bird belonging to the genus Sayornis. It gets its name from Charles Lucien Bonaparte’s Muscicapa saya, and Ancient Greek ornis meaning “bird”.
The species’ alternative name ‘Phoebe’ comes from the Roman moon-goddess Diana, but also has been said to imitate their call.
Measuring up to 16 cm in length with a wingspan of 25–30 cm, they have grayish brown upperparts and pale underparts.
They are found near streams, woodlands and open fields where they hunt for insects such as flies, bees wasps etc., often catching them midair or by sallying out from perchs like branches or fences.
These birds make shallow cup nests made of grasses lined with mud which are built on cliffs ledges walls buildings bridges trees etc..
All in all this beautiful little bird is an interesting addition wherever you find it.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Sayornis |
| Species | S. phoebe |
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17. Purple Finch
The Purple Finch is a species of finch from North America, belonging to the Fringillidae family.
It’s also known as an “American Rosefinch” due to its resemblance in color and size to some European rosefinches.
Their plumage ranges from pinkish-purple on their heads and wings, with a light brown underside.
They are small birds that measure about 5-6 inches long with short thin beaks for eating seeds and insects.
In addition, they have thick round bodies which help them stay warm during cold winters in the northern parts of their range.
The Purple Finch has adapted well over time making it easier for them to survive even though there are increasing threats posed by humans such as deforestation or habitat destruction caused by development projects near their habitats.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Carduelinae |
| Genus | Haemorhous |
| Species | H. purpureus |
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18. Louisiana Waterthrush
The Louisiana Waterthrush is a small songbird found in North America. It has a brown back, white belly and buff flanks with black streaks on its chest.
This bird prefers wet areas such as streams and their surroundings, where it can feed on aquatic insects or forage along the shoreline of ponds or lakes.
The Louisiana Waterthrush migrates to Central America during winter months but returns to breed in eastern North America during summertime.
Its call sounds like “drip-drop” which helps distinguish it from the Northern waterthrush that makes more of a buzzing sound when calling out for food or mates.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Parkesia |
| Species | P. motacilla |
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19. Pine Siskin
The Pine Siskin is a small bird from the finch family, primarily found in North America. It has an irregular migratory range and was first described by American ornithologist Alexander Wilson in 1810.
The species gets its name pinus, which means “pine-tree” in Latin, due to its frequent presence near coniferous trees.
Pine siskins are known for their yellow wing bars and streaked chests as well as their perky mannerisms when perched on branches or flying around looking for food during colder months.
They feed mostly on seeds of weeds, grasses and other plants but can also be seen consuming insects at times during summertime nesting season.
Its loud calls often alert nearby birds of potential danger while they nest high up among pine tree limbs where predators cannot reach them easily.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Fringillidae |
| Subfamily | Carduelinae |
| Genus | Spinus |
| Species | S. pinus |
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20. Great Crested Flycatcher
The Great crested flycatcher is a large insect-eating bird belonging to the tyrant flycatcher family.
It has an extensive range across North America, inhabiting most of the eastern and midwestern parts of the continent. They are usually found in treetops but rarely come down to ground level.
Adults measure around 7 inches long with wingspans up to 12 inches wide and they have grayish brown heads with yellow throats and upper breasts while their backs tend to be olive green or grey mixed with black spots on some species.
Their tails are broad, reaching lengths up 8 inches long, often being cocked when perched as they search for insects below them in trees or shrubs.
The males also possess a crest which adds even more splash of colour during mating season.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Tyrannidae |
| Genus | Myiarchus |
| Species | M. crinitus |
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21. Field Sparrow
The Field Sparrow is a small bird that can be found across North America. It has a gray head with rust-colored crown and white eye-ring, while its upper parts are brown streaked with black and buff feathers.
Its breast is buff colored, belly white, and the tail forked. There are two color morphs of this species; one being darker in color than the other.
They measure about 140 mm long and weigh 12.5 grams on average; feeding primarily on seeds from grasses or weeds as well as insects during summer months.
The field sparrow’s song is often described as sweet whistles which it sings from an exposed perch like fence posts or trees tops.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Passerellidae |
| Genus | Spizella |
| Species | S. pusilla |
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22. Common Yellowthroat
The Common Yellowthroat is a small, New World Warbler found throughout North America. It has distinctive yellow and black plumage that earned it the nickname “Yellow Bandit” in the Midwest United States.
This species is highly adaptable and can be found inhabiting wetlands, grasslands, shrub-land habitats, as well as suburban areas.
The genus of this bird’s scientific name translates to mean ‘ground’ and ‘small bird’, which are fitting characteristics for such an elusive yet common little creature.
Its diet consists predominantly of insects but may also include other invertebrates like spiders or worms.
Overall the Common Yellowthroat makes an excellent addition to any backyard with its cheerful song.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Parulidae |
| Genus | Geothlypis |
| Species | G. trichas |
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23. Rose-Breasted Grosbeak
The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is a large, brightly coloured bird belonging to the Cardinal family. Males have black heads and wings, with white breasts boasting a bright rose patch.
Females are more muted in colouring being mostly buffy brown or greyish overall but still featuring the distinctive rose breast patch.The two sexes also exhibit marked sexual dimorphism.
These birds inhabit open woodlands across North America where they feed on seeds gleaned from foliage as well as fruits such as cherries and blueberries during their breeding season which runs from April through August each year.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Cardinalidae |
| Genus | Pheucticus |
| Species | P. ludovicianus |
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24. Northern Flicker
The Northern flicker is a woodpecker species found in North America, Central America, Cuba, and the Cayman Islands. This medium-sized bird is known for its unique migration behavior.
Over 100 common names are used to refer to the Northern flicker, one of them being “yellowhammer”. It is a beautiful bird with distinctive markings and a colorful plumage.
The Northern flicker is an important species in its ecosystem and plays a key role in maintaining a healthy balance in the environment.
Despite being a woodpecker, the Northern flicker has a diverse diet that includes insects, fruits, and seeds.
It is fascinating to observe this bird as it pecks at trees in search of food, communicates with its unique vocalizations and performs its incredible aerial displays.
The Northern flicker is truly a remarkable bird species that is worthy of our admiration and protection.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes |
| Family | Picidae |
| Genus | Colaptes |
| Species | C. auratus |
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25. Cedar Waxwing
The Cedar waxwing, also known as Bombycilla cedrorum, is a medium-sized bird found in North and Central America.
They have a mixture of brown, gray and yellow feathers on their body, and their wings have wax-like tips.
These birds prefer open wooded areas in Southern Canada for breeding, and during winter, they migrate to the Southern part of the United States, Central America, and the far.
The Cedar waxwing is a member of the waxwing family of birds or Bombycillidae family.
They are known for their distinctive crest on their head and a black mask-like area around their eyes.
These birds are social creatures and can often be seen in large flocks, sometimes even intermixing with other bird species.
Their diet consists mainly of fruit and insects, and they are important dispersers of fruit seeds.
The Cedar waxwing bird is a beautiful and fascinating creature to observe in the wild.Scientific classification:
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Bombycillidae |
| Genus | Bombycilla |
| Species | B. cedrorum |
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