Alabama, with its diverse habitats ranging from forests and mountains to coastal plains and swamps, boasts a vibrant avian population. Attracting and identifying these feathered friends can be a rewarding hobby, connecting you with the natural beauty of the state. This guide explores common backyard birds in Alabama, offering tips for attracting them and resources for further identification.
Common Backyard Birds You'll Find in Alabama
Alabama's diverse ecosystems support a wide array of bird species. Here are some of the most frequently seen visitors to backyard feeders and gardens:
Common Year-Round Residents:
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Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis): This iconic bird, with its vibrant red plumage (males) and distinctive crest, is a year-round resident across Alabama. They're easily attracted to feeders offering sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and suet.
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Carolina Chickadee (Poecile carolinensis): A small, active bird with a black cap and bib, the chickadee is a frequent visitor to feeders, particularly those offering sunflower seeds and nyjer seeds. They're known for their cheerful "chick-a-dee-dee-dee" call.
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Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor): Similar in size to the chickadee, the titmouse has a gray body, a crest, and a rusty-brown tinge on its flanks. They readily visit feeders and are also fond of suet.
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Downy Woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens): The smallest woodpecker in Alabama, the downy woodpecker is a frequent visitor to backyard trees, searching for insects. They'll also visit feeders offering suet.
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Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata): Known for their intelligence and bold blue, white, and black plumage, blue jays are common visitors to feeders, particularly those offering peanuts and acorns.
Migratory Birds Frequenting Alabama Backyards:
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American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis): These bright yellow birds (males) arrive in Alabama in spring and summer, adding a splash of color to backyards. They favor nyjer seeds in feeders.
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Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula): Tiny and active, these kinglets are migratory birds that visit Alabama during the winter months. They often forage in shrubs and trees.
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Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos): While present year-round, their numbers increase during migration. Known for their exceptional mimicry skills, they are common in backyards and readily forage on the ground.
Attracting Birds to Your Alabama Backyard
Creating a bird-friendly environment is key to attracting a variety of species. Here are some tips:
Provide Food Sources:
- Feeders: Offer a variety of seeds (sunflower, nyjer, cracked corn, millet), suet, and peanuts to cater to different bird preferences.
- Natural Food Sources: Plant native trees, shrubs, and flowers that produce berries and seeds. Consider planting sunflowers, coneflowers, and other nectar-rich plants.
Offer Water:
- Birdbath: A shallow birdbath provides a crucial water source for drinking and bathing. Keep it clean and regularly refilled.
- Drippers or Fountains: Moving water is particularly attractive to birds.
Provide Shelter:
- Trees and Shrubs: Offer dense cover for nesting and protection from predators.
- Brush Piles: These provide shelter and foraging opportunities.
Minimize Threats:
- Cats: Keep cats indoors to protect birds.
- Pesticides: Avoid using harmful pesticides that can kill birds or their food sources.
Identifying Alabama Birds: Resources
Several resources can help you identify the birds you spot in your backyard:
- Field Guides: Numerous field guides are available, featuring illustrations and descriptions of Alabama birds.
- Online Resources: Websites like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's All About Birds offer detailed information, photos, and sounds of various bird species.
- Local Audubon Societies: Connect with your local Audubon chapter for bird walks, identification workshops, and other resources.
By creating a welcoming habitat and utilizing the resources available, you can enjoy the vibrant birdlife that enriches Alabama backyards. Happy birding!
