Massachusetts Bird Identification: From Backyard Birds to Seabirds

Massachusetts is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with its diverse landscape and climate supporting over 400 species of birds. The state's varied habitats, from coastal beaches to dense forests, make it an ideal location for spotting a wide range of bird species.

In Massachusetts, you can spot birds like the Black-capped Chickadee, a year-round resident that's known for its distinctive "chick-a-dee-dee" call, as well as the American Robin, which can be seen in backyards and parks throughout the state. The Eastern Bluebird is another common sight in Massachusetts, with its bright blue and orange plumage.

If you're near the coast, keep an eye out for seabirds like the Common Tern, which can be seen diving for fish in the waters off Massachusetts' shoreline. The Osprey is also a common sight near the ocean, with its impressive diving skills and distinctive nesting platforms.

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The Northern Cardinal is a year-round resident in Massachusetts, found throughout the eastern half of the state. Its bright red plumage makes it a stunning sight to see.

The Black-capped Chickadee is also a year-round resident in Massachusetts, appearing at a frequency of 45-48% in backyards. They're most comfortable in areas with dense vegetation.

Both of these birds can be attracted to your backyard with the right food. Fill your feeder with hulled sunflower seeds, black oil sunflower seeds, and berries to entice the Northern Cardinal. The Black-capped Chickadee loves peanut butter and suet, too.

Here are some key stats for these year-round residents:

The Northern Cardinal is one of the most common and popular backyard birds in the eastern half of the United States, and it's a year-round resident in Massachusetts.

They're a beautiful bird, with a vibrant red plumage that's hard to miss.

One thing to note is that the Northern Cardinal is relatively large, measuring between 8.3-9.1 inches in length.

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The Black-Capped Chickadee is a year-round resident in many areas throughout the United States, including Alaska and southern Canada.

These small birds are members of the Chickadee family and are known for their distinctive black caps and white breasts.

They typically measure between 4.7-5.9 inches in length and have a wingspan of 6.3-8.3 inches.

Black-capped Chickadees are common visitors to backyards in Massachusetts, particularly during fall and winter when they forage for snacks in suets and bird feeders.

Their diet consists of small insects, nuts, seeds of small bushes, and berries, with a preference for black-oil sunflower seeds, suet, and peanut butter.

You can attract these birds to your backyard by filling your feeder with hulled sunflower seeds, black oil sunflower seeds, and berries.

They are naturally curious and may even take seed from your hand if you offer it to them.

In terms of nesting habits, Black-capped Chickadees typically make their homes in holes that are either natural or made by woodpeckers, which they then line with moss and grass.

The female lays 6-8 white or light cream eggs with brownish or reddish speckles, which she warms while the male protects the nest and brings food to her.

Here's a summary of some key facts about the Black-Capped Chickadee:

Crows and Corvids are fascinating birds that can be found year-round in Massachusetts. They're known for their intelligence and problem-solving skills.

One of the most interesting things about crows and corvids is their ability to mimic other birds and even humans. Blue jays, in particular, are known to mimic other birds, animals, and even humans. They're quite clever and can be a lot of fun to watch.

If you're looking to attract crows and corvids to your yard, try offering them whole peanuts. Blue jays love whole peanuts and will fly away with them, leaving the feeders alone for a while.

Here are some species of crows and corvids that can be found in Massachusetts:

Blue jays are also known to be loud and noisy, but other birds trust them to notify them when there's danger around. They're quite protective of their territory and will mob hawks and owls to alert the other birds.

The White-breasted Nuthatch is a common backyard bird found year-round throughout Massachusetts.

They're a small bird, actually the largest nuthatch in North America, and have a distinctive appearance with a black cap on top of their heads and white on either side and on their bellies.

Their nests are built in tree cavities or holes made by woodpeckers at least 15 feet above the ground, using materials like grasses, twigs, mosses, and bark fibers.

Females build the nests, and they only have one brood per year, consisting of 5 to 9 white eggs with reddish brown spots.

The eggs are incubated by the females, while the males feed them during this time.

After the young leave the nest, both parents feed them until they're ready to fend for themselves.

The White-breasted Nuthatch is a seed-eating bird that visits most seed feeders and likes mixed seed blends, black sunflower seeds, peanut butter, peanuts, or suet.

They're known for grabbing a seed and immediately flying off to eat it or cache it in a nearby tree.

Their call sounds like a squeaky wheel, a unique and recognizable sound that's a delight to hear.

American Robins are a common sight in Massachusetts backyards, hopping around the grass looking for worms, insects, and other invertebrates.

These birds have distinctive red bellies, yellow beaks, and brown or dark gray backs, wings, and tails. They also have a unique, fragmented eye line.

You'll find American Robins in forests, farms, parks, fields, and golf courses, and they're not picky about their surroundings - they'll even hang out in urban settings. They're mostly seen in parks, phone lines, fences, and backyards.

American Robins adore mealworms and chopped fruit, but seeds aren't their thing. They also love playing in birdbaths, so make sure you have one or two in your backyard!

Here are some fun facts about American Robins:

Pigeons and doves are stout-bodied birds with short necks and short slender bills with a fleshy cere.

Eight species have been recorded in Massachusetts, which is a good number considering their adaptability.

The Rock pigeon, Columba livia, is one species that has been spotted in the state, and it's known to be quite widespread.

The European turtle-dove, Streptopelia turtur, and the Eurasian collared-dove, Streptopelia decaocto, are also residents, although they're considered rare.

Here are some of the species of pigeons and doves found in Massachusetts:

Plovers and lapwings are small to medium-sized birds with compact bodies, short thick necks, and long, usually pointed, wings. They can be found in open country worldwide, mostly in habitats near water.

These birds are quite diverse, with 11 species recorded in Massachusetts alone. Some of the most common species include the Northern lapwing, Black-bellied plover, and Killdeer.

The Killdeer, for example, is a common sight in open areas with little vegetation. It's a medium-sized bird with a distinctive black and white pattern on its belly.

Here are some of the species of plovers and lapwings found in Massachusetts:

Seabirds are a fascinating group of birds that can be found in Massachusetts, and they're a great example of year-round residents. Some seabirds, like auks, are able to fly and live on the open sea, only coming ashore to nest.

Auks are superficially similar to penguins due to their black-and-white colors, upright posture, and some of their habits. They're only distantly related to penguins, however.

Nine species of auks have been recorded in Massachusetts, including the Dovekie, Common murre, and Atlantic puffin. These birds are able to fly and live on the open sea, only coming ashore to nest.

Here are some of the auks you might spot in Massachusetts:

Gulls, terns, and skimmers are another type of seabird that can be found in Massachusetts. They're typically gray or white, often with black markings on the head or wings.

Thirty-five species of gulls, terns, and skimmers have been recorded in Massachusetts, including the Black-legged kittiwake, Ivory gull, and Common tern. These birds have stout, longish bills and webbed feet.

Here are some of the gulls, terns, and skimmers you might spot in Massachusetts:

Loons are quite interesting birds. They're the size of a large duck, and their plumage is largely gray or black with spear-shaped bills.

One thing that's notable about loons is that they're aquatic birds, which means they're well-suited to life in the water. They swim well and fly adequately, but they're not exactly built for life on land.

If you're in Massachusetts, you might be able to spot one of the four species of loons that have been recorded there. Here are a few species you might see:

The White-Throated Sparrow is a small bird, measuring only 6.3-7.1 inches in length.

They have a distinctive appearance, with brown backs and white underbellies, and a white stripe on the back of their necks. Their brown eyes and gray bills are also noteworthy features.

These birds are social creatures and can often be seen in large flocks during migration. In Massachusetts, they're common residents, especially during the winter months.

Their nests are small, typically around 4 inches in diameter and 2 inches deep, and are built on the ground or just above it, usually in bushes or under bushes for cover. The female White-Throated Sparrow builds the nest out of grasses, twigs, pine needles, and rootlets.

Their diet consists mainly of insects, seeds, and berries. In the winter, they'll visit bird feeders, where they particularly enjoy black oil sunflower seeds and millet.

The incubation period for White-Throated Sparrow eggs is 11 to 14 days, and the young will stay in the nest for around a week to two weeks after hatching.

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Thrushes and Allies are a group of passerine birds that occur mainly in the Old World, but some species can be found in Massachusetts. They are plump, soft plumaged, small to medium-sized insectivores or sometimes omnivores, often feeding on the ground.

Many Thrushes have attractive songs, which can be a delight to hear. Some species, like the Wood Thrush, have a distinctive song that sounds like a series of whistled notes.

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Twelve species of Thrushes have been recorded in Massachusetts, including the Eastern Bluebird, which is a common sight in backyards and parks. The American Robin, on the other hand, is a year-round resident that can be seen foraging for food on lawns and sidewalks.

Here are some of the Thrush species that can be found in Massachusetts:

The American Robin is known for its brown back and red breast, making it a striking sight in the winter months.

The cardinals and their allies are a fascinating group of birds. They're typically associated with open woodland and have strong bills that help them eat seeds.

One of the most recognizable birds in this group is the Northern cardinal, which has a distinctive red plumage.

The cardinals and their allies are known for their distinct plumages, with the sexes often having different colors and patterns.

In Massachusetts, eleven species of cardinals and allies have been recorded.

Here's a list of some of the birds you might spot in this group:

Waterbirds are a diverse group of birds that can be found in Massachusetts, and they're often a delight to spot. The family Anatidae, which includes ducks, geese, and swans, is particularly well-represented in the state.

These birds are adapted to an aquatic existence, with webbed feet, bills that are flattened to a greater or lesser extent, and feathers that are excellent at shedding water due to special oils. This is especially noticeable in species like the Common shelduck, which has a distinctive flattened bill.

Some of the most common waterbirds in Massachusetts include the Canada goose, the American black duck, and the Common eider. These birds can often be found in wetlands, lakes, and rivers throughout the state, and are a joy to observe.

Here are some of the waterbirds that can be found in Massachusetts:

Waterfowl are incredibly diverse, with over 48 species recorded in Massachusetts alone. These birds are perfectly adapted to an aquatic existence, with webbed feet and bills that help them navigate and forage in the water.

Their feathers are special too, coated with oils that help them shed water, keeping them dry and warm. This adaptation is crucial for their survival, especially during harsh winter months.

Some of the most common waterfowl species in Massachusetts include the Canada goose, American black duck, and Common eider. These birds can often be spotted in wetlands, ponds, and coastal areas.

Here are some of the most notable waterfowl species in Massachusetts:

These birds play a vital role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystem, and it's essential to appreciate and protect them. By learning more about these incredible creatures, we can better understand the importance of preserving their habitats and ensuring their survival.

In the world of waterbirds, there are some truly unique species that catch our eye. One such group is the stilts and avocets, belonging to the family Recurvirostridae.

These birds are known for their impressive leg span, with some species having extremely long legs. The Black-necked stilt, for instance, has long legs that it uses to wade through shallow waters in search of food.

One of the most distinctive features of stilts and avocets is their bill shape. The avocets have long, up-curved bills, while the stilts have long, thin, straight bills. This unique bill shape allows them to forage for food in different ways.

Two species of stilts and avocets can be found in Massachusetts: the Black-necked stilt and the American avocet.

Here's a quick rundown of these species:

Boobies and gannets are medium-large coastal seabirds that plunge-dive for fish. They can be found in various parts of the world, including Massachusetts, where four species have been recorded.

The Masked booby, Brown booby, and Red-footed booby are all classified as sulids, which is the same family as the gannets. This group is distinct in its feeding habits, relying on plunge-diving to catch fish.

The Northern gannet, on the other hand, is a unique species within the sulid family. Its distinct characteristics set it apart from the boobies.

Here's a list of the four species recorded in Massachusetts:

Pelicans are large water birds with a distinctive pouch under their beak. This pouch is a key feature that sets them apart from other birds.

They have four webbed toes, like many other birds in the order Pelecaniformes.

Two species of pelicans have been recorded in Massachusetts: the American white pelican and the Brown pelican.

Kingfishers are medium-sized birds with distinctive features. They have large heads, long, pointed bills, short legs, and stubby tails.

One species of kingfisher has been recorded in Massachusetts, the Belted kingfisher.

Birds of Prey in Massachusetts are a sight to behold. Many species of hawks, eagles, and kites can be found in the state, with 15 species recorded.

These birds have distinctive features, such as large, powerful hooked beaks and strong legs with powerful talons. They also have keen eyesight, which helps them spot prey from afar.

Some common species of birds of prey in Massachusetts include the White-tailed kite, Golden eagle, and Bald eagle. The Red-tailed hawk is also a common sight, known for its distinctive red tail.

Here's a list of some birds of prey found in Massachusetts:

Skuas and jaegers are medium to large birds with gray or brown plumage, often featuring white markings on their wings. They have distinctive hooked tips on their bills and sharp claws on their webbed feet.

These birds are strong fliers, capable of acrobatic maneuvers. Five species have been recorded in Massachusetts.

Some notable species include the Great skua, South polar skua, Pomarine jaeger, Parasitic jaeger, and Long-tailed jaeger. The Great skua and South polar skua are listed as rare sightings (R) in Massachusetts.

Here are the five species found in Massachusetts:

Birds of Prey are a fascinating group of birds that have adapted to a life of hunting and predation. They can be found in various forms, including hawks, eagles, kites, owls, and falcons.

One of the most distinctive features of birds of prey is their sharp talons, which they use to grasp and kill their prey. For example, hawks and eagles have powerful talons that are perfect for tearing flesh from their prey.

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Some birds of prey are diurnal, meaning they hunt during the day, while others are nocturnal, meaning they hunt at night. Owls, for instance, are nocturnal birds of prey that have large forward-facing eyes and ears, which help them navigate and hunt in the dark.

Birds of prey can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to grasslands. In Massachusetts, for example, there are 15 species of hawks, eagles, and kites, including the White-tailed kite and the Golden eagle.

Here are some examples of birds of prey found in Massachusetts:

Falcons, on the other hand, are diurnal birds of prey that kill with their beaks instead of their talons. In Massachusetts, there are eight species of falcons, including the American kestrel and the Peregrine falcon.

Falcons are known for their speed and agility, reaching speeds of up to 242 miles per hour during their characteristic hunting dive.

Shrikes are passerine birds known for their unique hunting habits. They catch other birds and small animals, and then impale the uneaten portions of their bodies on thorns.

Their beaks are hooked, similar to those of typical birds of prey. This adaptation allows them to tear flesh and catch prey.

Two species of shrikes have been recorded in Massachusetts. These birds are an interesting example of the diversity of birds of prey.

Here are the two species of shrikes found in Massachusetts:

Chimney Swifts are a unique bird species that can be easily overlooked due to their plain appearance. They're covered in dark brown plumage that fades to a lighter gray on the throat and chin.

One of the most distinctive features of Chimney Swifts is their stubby, cylindrical bodies and quick, stiff wingbeats, earning them the nickname "cigars with wings." Their long wings, short tails, and wide (but small) beaks are also notable characteristics.

Chimney Swifts are often found nesting in chimneys and other vertical structures, like air vents, wells, caves, and hollow trees. They're not picky about their surroundings and can be found in urban and suburban areas.

Their diet consists mainly of insects, with a whopping 95% of their food coming from live insects. If you're looking to attract Chimney Swifts to your area, forget about stocking up on dried mealworms and crickets – instead, fill your feeder with live feeder insects.

Here are some key stats about Chimney Swifts:

Some species of birds migrate through Massachusetts, such as the warblers, which can be identified by their distinctive songs and yellow or orange plumage.

These birds often travel in large flocks, making them easier to spot in the state's forests and fields.

Birds like the Ruby-throated Hummingbird migrate alone, and can be identified by their bright red throat patch and iridescent feathers.

Cuckoos are a fascinating group of birds that can be found in various parts of the world. The family Cuculidae includes cuckoos, roadrunners, and anis, and they are characterized by their slender bodies, long tails, and strong legs.

Their size varies, but one thing is common among cuckoos - they are brood parasites. In other words, they lay their eggs in the nests of other birds, which then raise the cuckoo chicks as their own.

Some cuckoo species are quite rare, like the Common cuckoo, which has been spotted in Massachusetts. The Yellow-billed cuckoo and Black-billed cuckoo are also found in Massachusetts, and they are both non-native species.

Here are three cuckoo species that have been recorded in Massachusetts:

Oystercatchers are large, obvious, and noisy plover-like birds. They have strong bills used for smashing or prying open molluscs.

One species of oystercatcher has been recorded in Massachusetts.

Sandpipers and allies are a fascinating group of birds that can be found in Massachusetts.

The Scolopacidae family is a large and diverse group, comprising 45 species of small to medium-sized shorebirds.

These birds can be found in various habitats, including the coast, where they feed on small invertebrates picked out of the mud or soil.

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Different lengths of legs and bills enable multiple species to feed in the same habitat without direct competition for food.

Some species, like the Upland sandpiper, Bartramia longicauda, are listed as (n) indicating they are native to Massachusetts.

Other species, like the Eskimo curlew, Numenius borealis, are considered possibly extinct, but not flagged as such by MARC.

The majority of these species are migratory, traveling to and from Massachusetts each year.

Here's a list of some of the sandpipers and allies found in Massachusetts:

Shearwaters and petrels are a fascinating group of migratory birds. These medium-sized birds are characterized by united nostrils with a medium septum and a long outer functional primary.

The Procellariids are the main group of true petrels, and Massachusetts has recorded 11 species of these birds. One of the most interesting things about shearwaters and petrels is their ability to migrate long distances. Take the Cory's shearwater, for example, which breeds in the Mediterranean and Atlantic islands.

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The Cory's shearwater, Calonectris diomedea, is a common sight in Massachusetts. This bird is known for its distinctive call, which sounds like a loud, mournful whistle. Shearwaters and petrels are also known for their unique breeding habits, with many species nesting on remote islands.

Some species of shearwaters and petrels are endangered, including the Bermuda petrel, Pterodroma cahow, which has a rare and limited range. The Bermuda petrel is a critically endangered species, with fewer than 300 individuals remaining in the wild.

Ibises and spoonbills are part of the Threskiornithidae family, which includes birds with long, broad wings and elongated bodies.

Their necks are particularly long, and their legs are rather long as well.

These birds have distinctive bills - ibises have decurved bills, while spoonbills have straight and flattened bills.

Three species of ibises and spoonbills have been recorded in Massachusetts: the White ibis, Glossy ibis, White-faced ibis, and Roseate spoonbill.

Here are the four species found in Massachusetts:

Longspurs and snow buntings are a unique group of passerine birds that can be found in open grassy areas. They're often associated with the New World sparrows, but they have some key differences.

The Calcariidae family, which includes longspurs, is made up of five species that have been recorded in Massachusetts. One of these species is the Lapland longspur, Calcarius lapponicus.

Longspurs are typically found in open grassy areas, and they're a great example of how birds adapt to their environments.

The thick-billed longspur, Rhyncophanes mccownii, is one of the five species found in Massachusetts. It's a bit of a rare bird, but it's definitely worth spotting if you're out in the field.

Here's a list of the five species of longspurs and snow buntings found in Massachusetts:

Western Massachusetts is home to a diverse range of bird species, including the Black-capped Chickadee, which is a year-round resident and can be found in backyards and woodlands.

The region's mountains and forests provide a habitat for birds like the Common Raven, which is known for its distinctive call and can be heard echoing through the valleys.

The Connecticut River Valley, which runs through Western Massachusetts, is a key migration route for many bird species, including the American Golden-Plover, which can be seen during its spring and fall migrations.

The American Goldfinch is a vibrant bird species found in Massachusetts. They have bright yellow backs, yellow bellies, and black wings with white wing bars, making them relatively easy to spot.

These birds are fond of flood-prone areas with dense vegetation and are particularly drawn to thistle and milkweed plants.

If you're interested in attracting American Goldfinches to your yard, consider filling your feeder with seeds from goldenrods, dandelions, and asters. They also love black oil sunflower seeds and Nyjer thistle.

In the wild, American Goldfinches mostly feed on buds, seeds, maple sap, and the bark of young twigs. They're vegetarians, which means they don't eat insects or worms, except by accident.

Here are some specific seeds to include in your feeder to attract American Goldfinches:

The Downy Woodpecker is a delightful bird to spot in Western Massachusetts. It's the smallest North American Woodpecker in the region, measuring 5.5–6.7 inches in length.

Their black wings feature white checkered-like spots, and their black and white striped heads have a distinctive red crest.

Downy Woodpeckers are quite easy to recognize, thanks to their unique coloring.

You'll often see them visiting backyard feeders throughout the year, but they're especially common during winter. They love shelled peanuts, sunflower seeds, millet, and suet.

Here are some key stats about the Downy Woodpecker:

Their wingspan is quite impressive, ranging from 9.8 to 11.8 inches.

The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is a common sight in Western Massachusetts, and for good reason - it's a stunning bird to behold. Males are bright green with a ruby-red throat and a black facial stripe.

These tiny birds are incredibly fast, capable of flying up to 35 miles per hour. They can also fly up, down, sideways, and even backward.

If you're lucky enough to have a Ruby-Throated Hummingbird visit your backyard, be sure to appreciate its impressive hovering skills - it's like a tiny helicopter feeding at your feeder. The female usually lays 2 tiny white eggs in a nest made of thistle, spider silk, and pine resin.

The nest is incredibly small, about 2 inches wide and 1 inch deep, and is often found in trees about 40 feet high on branches. It takes the female around a week to make this tiny home.

The incubation period for the eggs is 12-14 days, and the young birds will stay in the nest for around 18-22 days.

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Nuthatches are small woodland birds with a unique ability to climb down trees head first, a skill that sets them apart from other birds.

They have distinctive physical characteristics, including big heads and short tails. Their powerful bills and feet are well-suited for this upside-down climbing.

Two species of nuthatches have been recorded in Massachusetts: the Red-breasted nuthatch and the White-breasted nuthatch.

Here are the two species found in Massachusetts:

Treecreepers are small woodland birds, brown above and white below. They have thin pointed downcurved bills, which they use to extricate insects from bark.

One species of treecreeper has been recorded in Massachusetts, specifically the Brown creeper, Certhia americana.

These birds have stiff tail feathers, similar to woodpeckers, which they use to support themselves on vertical tree trunks and limbs.

Here is a list of the treecreeper species mentioned in the article:

Western Massachusetts is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 species documented in the region. Many of these birds can be found in the state's diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and backyards.

The American Robin is a common sight in Western Massachusetts, particularly in spring and summer when it's easy to spot in lawns and gardens.

The region's forests are home to many species of woodpeckers, including the Pileated Woodpecker, which is known for its distinctive red crest.

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The Connecticut River Valley is a critical stopover point for many migratory birds, including warblers and tanagers.

The region's wetlands, such as the Quabbin Reservoir, are essential habitats for waterfowl like the American Black Duck.

The best time to spot birds in Western Massachusetts is during the spring and fall migrations, when many species can be seen in large numbers.