Common Backyard Birds in Wisconsin

This article, “Common Backyard Birds in Wisconsin,” is a valuable resource that offers a wealth of information on the various bird species found in Wisconsin. Drawing from data collected through the citizen science program eBird, this guide provides pictures and identification tips for each bird species mentioned. Notably, the Black-capped Chickadee takes the lead as the most common bird in Wisconsin, closely followed by the American Crow and American Robin. In addition to bird profiles, the article also covers bird watching in Wisconsin, recommending products and sharing birding locations. For those eager to learn more, joining a local bird group is encouraged, and the article offers great tips on attracting birds to one’s backyard. Furthermore, it touches on other bird-related topics such as bird feeders, selecting binoculars, and bird identification techniques. Whether you’re an avid bird watcher or simply curious about the feathered inhabitants of Wisconsin, this article is a wonderful guide to help you explore the enchanting world of backyard birds.

Common Backyard Birds in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is home to a diverse array of bird species, with many of them commonly found in backyards across the state. Here are some of the most frequently seen birds in Wisconsin:

Black-capped Chickadee

The Black-capped Chickadee is the most common bird in Wisconsin. With its small size and distinctive black cap, it is easily recognizable. This species can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodland areas and suburban gardens. They are known for their acrobatic feeding behavior and their ability to hang upside down on branches while foraging for insects and seeds.

American Crow

The American Crow is another bird that is commonly found in Wisconsin. Known for its glossy black feathers and raucous cawing calls, the American Crow is a highly intelligent and adaptable species. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including urban areas, farmland, and forests. They often form large flocks and are known for their communal roosting behaviors.

American Robin

The American Robin is a familiar sight in Wisconsin, especially during the spring and summer months. With its bright orange breast and melodic song, the American Robin is highly recognizable. These birds can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, parks, and suburban gardens. They are known for their habit of pulling earthworms out of the ground and are often seen hopping along lawns in search of food.

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Bird Watching in Wisconsin

If you’re interested in bird watching, Wisconsin is a fantastic place to indulge in this hobby. The state’s diverse habitats, from forests and wetlands to prairies and lakeshores, offer a wide array of bird species to observe. Here are some key aspects of bird watching in Wisconsin:

Recommended Products

To enhance your bird watching experience, there are several products that can be helpful. Binoculars are an essential tool, allowing you to see birds up close and observe their behavior and plumage details. A field guide is also a valuable resource, providing information on bird identification, range maps, and species’ natural history. Additionally, a camera with a telephoto lens can help capture beautiful images of the birds you encounter.

Birding Locations

Wisconsin boasts numerous birding hotspots, where bird enthusiasts can find a rich variety of species. Horicon Marsh, in particular, is a popular destination known for its wetland habitat and abundance of waterfowl. Other notable locations include the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, Peninsula State Park, and the Mississippi River Valley. Each of these areas offers unique birding opportunities and the chance to spot both common and rare species.

Joining a Local Bird Group

For beginners or anyone looking to connect with fellow bird enthusiasts, joining a local bird group can be a great idea. These groups often organize field trips, bird walks, and workshops, providing valuable opportunities to learn from experienced birders and discover new birding locations. Wisconsin has several active bird clubs and organizations that cater to bird watchers of all skill levels.

Attracting Birds to Your Backyard

If you prefer bird watching from the comfort of your own backyard, there are steps you can take to attract birds. Providing food, water, and shelter can create an inviting habitat for a variety of species. Bird feeders stocked with different types of seeds will attract a wide range of birds, including sparrows, finches, and woodpeckers. Planting native vegetation and providing nesting boxes can also help attract birds and provide them with suitable habitats.

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Bird Feeders and Foods

Bird feeders play an essential role in attracting and providing nourishment for a variety of bird species. Understanding the different types of bird feeders, the foods to offer, and where to place them can greatly enhance your bird watching experience.

Types of Bird Feeders

There are several types of bird feeders available, each designed to accommodate different bird species and feeding preferences. Some common types include:

• Tube feeders, which are filled with seeds and have multiple feeding ports.
• Hopper feeders, which have a larger seed capacity and are gravity-fed.
• Platform feeders, which are flat trays that can accommodate a variety of foods, such as seeds, fruits, and suet.
• Nyjer feeders, which are specifically designed for offering small Nyjer seeds loved by finches.

Common Bird Foods

When it comes to feeding birds, providing a variety of foods is key to attracting different species. Some commonly offered bird foods include:

• Black oil sunflower seeds, which are favored by many songbirds.
• Safflower seeds, which are less attractive to squirrels and can deter unwanted visitors.
• Nyjer seeds, which are preferred by finches, such as Goldfinches and House Finches.
• Fruit, such as sliced oranges or apples, which can attract orioles and other fruit-loving birds.
• Mealworms, which are a great source of protein and can be offered to attract insect-eating birds like Bluebirds and Warblers.
• Suet, a high-energy food made from animal fat, is particularly sought after by woodpeckers and nuthatches.

Bird Feeder Placement

The location and placement of your bird feeders can greatly impact their effectiveness in attracting birds. Here are some tips to consider:

• Place feeders in an area where birds will feel safe and secure, away from potential predators.
• Keep feeders at least 10 feet away from trees or structures where squirrels or other animals can jump onto them.
• Position feeders in a location where they are easily visible from a window or a comfortable viewing spot.
• Providing a mix of different feeder types and food offerings can attract a greater variety of bird species.

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Selecting Binoculars for Bird Watching

Having a good pair of binoculars is essential for bird watching. The right binoculars can enhance your viewing experience by allowing you to observe birds in detail from a safe distance. When selecting binoculars for bird watching, consider the following factors:

Types of Binoculars

There are two main types of binoculars: porro prism and roof prism. Porro prism binoculars have a Z-shaped optical path, while roof prism binoculars have a straight-through path. Both types have their advantages, but roof prism binoculars generally offer a more compact design and are often preferred by bird watchers.

Features to Consider

When choosing binoculars, consider the following features:

• Magnification: Bird watching binoculars typically have magnifications ranging from 7x to 10x. Higher magnifications can make it harder to keep the image steady, especially without a tripod.
• Objective Lens Diameter: The objective lens diameter determines how much light the binoculars can gather. A larger objective lens diameter allows for better low-light performance.
• Field of View: A wider field of view allows you to see more of the landscape or the bird without having to move the binoculars as much.
• Close Focus Distance: This refers to how close the binoculars can focus. A closer focus distance is advantageous when observing birds at close range.
• Weight and Size: Consider the weight and size of the binoculars, especially if you plan on carrying them for long periods.

Choosing the Right Magnification

When it comes to magnification, there is a trade-off between power and stability. Higher magnifications, such as 10x, allow for detailed views of birds but can be harder to steady without a tripod. Lower magnifications, such as 7x or 8x, offer a wider field of view and greater stability. For most bird watching situations, a magnification of 8x is recommended, providing a good balance between detail and stability.

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Bird Identification Techniques

Properly identifying birds is an essential skill for every bird watcher. There are several techniques and resources that can help in the process of bird identification:

Field Guides and Apps

Field guides are invaluable resources that provide detailed descriptions, illustrations, and range maps of various bird species. They often include information on behavior, habitat, and vocalizations. Many field guides are available as printed books, but there are also numerous birding apps that offer the same information in a digital format. These apps often include additional features like photo collections and bird call recordings.

Physical and Behavioral Traits

Observing physical and behavioral traits can aid in bird identification. Pay attention to features such as size, shape, coloration, beak shape, and any distinctive markings. Birds’ behaviors, such as feeding techniques, flight patterns, and preferred habitats, can also give clues about their identity. Using a combination of these traits can greatly narrow down the possibilities when identifying a bird.

Bird Calls and Songs

Birds communicate through a variety of vocalizations, including calls and songs. Learning to recognize these sounds can be a powerful tool in identifying birds, especially when visual identification is challenging. Field guides and birding apps often include audio recordings of bird calls and songs, which can help bird watchers familiarize themselves with various species’ vocalizations.

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Black-capped Chickadee

The Black-capped Chickadee is the most common bird in Wisconsin. Here is some specific information about this charming little bird:

Description

The Black-capped Chickadee is a small songbird, measuring about 5 to 6 inches in length. It has a black cap and bib, white cheeks, and a grayish-white body. Its wings and tail are a darker gray, and it has a short black bill. Overall, it has a cute and distinctive appearance that makes it easily recognizable.

Habitat and Distribution

Black-capped Chickadees can be found throughout Wisconsin, from forests and woodlands to suburban gardens and parks. They are generally non-migratory birds, meaning they do not travel long distances during the winter months. Their range extends across much of North America, particularly in the northern half of the continent.

Feeding and Behavior

Black-capped Chickadees are extremely active and agile birds. They have a varied diet that includes insects, seeds, berries, and small fruits. During the winter, they rely more heavily on seeds and berries, and they are regular visitors to bird feeders stocked with sunflower seeds. They are known for their acrobatic foraging skills, often hanging upside down from branches while searching for insects or seeds.

Interesting Facts

• Black-capped Chickadees have a unique vocalization, often described as their namesake call: “chick-a-dee-dee-dee”. This vocalization is used for communication within their flock and can vary in tone and rhythm to convey different messages.
• While they are primarily insectivorous birds during the breeding season, Black-capped Chickadees can also cache food in tree cavities or other hiding spots, creating a “pantry” for leaner times.
• These birds are highly curious and will investigate new objects or changes in their environment. This behavior, known as neophobia, helps them assess potential threats or food sources.

Pictures

[Insert black-capped chickadee pictures here]

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American Crow

The American Crow is a common and easily recognizable bird found throughout Wisconsin. Here is some specific information about this intelligent species:

Description

The American Crow is a large, all-black bird with a stout body and a wingspan of approximately 2.5 feet. It has a distinctive thick bill and strong legs. Although it appears black at first glance, close observation reveals shades of blue and purple in its glossy feathers.

Habitat and Distribution

American Crows are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, farmlands, suburbs, and urban areas. They are widespread across North America and can be found throughout Wisconsin. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in diverse environments, making them one of the most successful bird species on the continent.

Feeding and Behavior

American Crows are opportunistic omnivores, meaning they eat a wide range of foods, including insects, small mammals, fruits, seeds, garbage, and carrion. They are known for their intelligence and complex social behaviors. Crows are often seen foraging on the ground or in flocks, and they communicate with a variety of calls and vocalizations.

Interesting Facts

• American Crows are highly intelligent birds and have been known to use tools and solve complex problems. They can drop nuts onto roads and wait for passing cars to crack them open, demonstrating their resourcefulness and ability to adapt.
• Crows are highly social birds and are often seen in large flocks called murders. These flocks provide protection, increased foraging efficiency, and social interactions among individual crows.
• They have a varied repertoire of calls and vocalizations, including loud cawing sounds, soft cooing sounds, and even mimicry of other animals and human voices.

Pictures

[Insert American Crow pictures here]

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American Robin

The American Robin is a familiar and beloved bird that is widely distributed throughout Wisconsin. Here is some specific information about this iconic species:

Description

The American Robin is a medium-sized songbird, measuring about 9 to 11 inches in length. It has a plump body with a gray-brown back and a distinctive bright orange breast. Its head is black with a white eye ring, and it has a yellow bill and legs. Male and female robins have similar plumage, although males generally have brighter colors.

Habitat and Distribution

American Robins can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, parks, gardens, and suburban areas. They are widespread across North America and are commonly seen throughout Wisconsin. During the breeding season, they can be found in open areas with ample food resources, while in the winter, they may gather in larger flocks and seek out areas with available berries.

Feeding and Behavior

American Robins are mainly insectivorous, feeding on earthworms, insects, and other small invertebrates. They are known for their habit of pulling earthworms out of the ground, often seen hopping along lawns or fields in search of their next meal. They also consume various fruits and berries, particularly during the winter months when insects are in shorter supply.

Interesting Facts

• The American Robin is closely associated with the arrival of spring, often considered a harbinger of the season. Their return from wintering grounds is a widely anticipated sign of warmer weather to come.
• While robins are known for their red-orange breast, young robins have a speckled appearance, with spots on their breast and a mottled back, providing camouflage for their vulnerable early stages of life.
• Robins often defend their territories and nests fiercely, and they will mob potential predators and dive-bomb them to protect their eggs or young.

Pictures

[Insert American Robin pictures here]

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Other Common Backyard Birds in Wisconsin

In addition to the Black-capped Chickadee, American Crow, and American Robin, Wisconsin is home to many other bird species commonly seen in backyards. Here are a few more notable species:

Blue Jay

The Blue Jay is a striking bird with its vibrant blue plumage, prominent crest, and distinctive black markings. Known for their noisy calls and bold behavior, Blue Jays can be found in forests, woodlands, and residential areas. They are opportunistic feeders and have a varied diet that includes insects, seeds, nuts, and fruits.

Northern Cardinal

The Northern Cardinal is a stunning bird with its bright red plumage and distinctive crest. Males are a vibrant red, while females are a more subdued brown color with red accents. These birds can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and parks. They are regular visitors to backyard feeders and are known for their beautiful songs.

Mourning Dove

The Mourning Dove is a graceful and gentle bird that is frequently seen in Wisconsin. Its plumage is a soft gray-brown, and it has a long, pointed tail. Mourning Doves can be found in a variety of habitats, including farmlands, urban areas, and open woodlands. They are ground feeders and are often seen foraging for seeds on the ground or perched on power lines.

House Finch

The House Finch is a small songbird known for its varied plumage colors, ranging from yellow and orange to red. Originally native to the western United States, they have expanded their range and are now common in Wisconsin. House Finches can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, urban areas, and gardens. They are commonly seen at bird feeders, feeding on seeds and occasionally fruits.

Downy Woodpecker

The Downy Woodpecker is a small, black-and-white woodpecker that is often seen in Wisconsin. It has a black-and-white striped head, a white breast, and a black back with white spots. Downy Woodpeckers are commonly found in woodlands, parks, and suburban areas. They feed on insects and tree sap and are known for their drumming behavior on tree trunks or other resonant surfaces.

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Resources for Bird Watching in Wisconsin

For those interested in exploring the world of bird watching in Wisconsin, there are various resources available to enhance your experience. Here are some recommended resources:

Websites

• Wisconsin Society for Ornithology (www.wsobirds.org): This website provides information on birding events, conservation efforts, and birding hotspots in Wisconsin. It also offers resources for bird identification and birding tips.
• eBird (www.ebird.org): eBird is a citizen science program that allows birders to record and share their bird sightings. The website provides access to a vast database of bird observations in Wisconsin and around the world.

Books

• “The Birds of Wisconsin” by Samuel D. Robbins: This comprehensive guide covers the birds of Wisconsin, providing detailed information on identification, distribution, and natural history.
• “Birds of Wisconsin Field Guide” by Stan Tekiela: This portable guide features full-color illustrations and concise descriptions of 120 bird species commonly seen in Wisconsin.

Apps

• Merlin Bird ID: Developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, this app allows users to identify birds using photos, sounds, or a series of questions. It also provides range maps and bird call recordings.
• Audubon Bird Guide: This app includes a comprehensive database of birds, along with photos, range maps, and audio recordings. It also features personalized birding activities and a birding journal.

Local Events and Workshops

Many local bird clubs, nature centers, and conservation organizations in Wisconsin organize birding events, workshops, and field trips. These events provide opportunities to learn from experienced birders, explore new birding locations, and connect with like-minded individuals. Check local listings or websites for upcoming events in your area.

Field Guides

In addition to the recommended books mentioned earlier, there are numerous field guides available that cover bird species in Wisconsin and the broader region. Field guides offer detailed information on bird identification, including plumage, size, range, and habitat preferences. Some popular field guides include “National Geographic Field Guide to Birds of North America” and “The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Eastern North America.”

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In conclusion, Wisconsin offers a wealth of opportunities for bird watching enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced birder, the state’s diverse habitats and abundant bird species provide endless discoveries. With the right knowledge, equipment, and resources, you can immerse yourself in the fascinating world of birds and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of Wisconsin. So grab your binoculars, head outdoors, and start exploring the incredible avian diversity that awaits you in the Badger State. Happy birding!