Winter Birds Seen at Feeders in Upstate NY
As an avid bird watcher in upstate NY, I have observed a variety of birds that frequent feeders during the winter months. These birds are well-adapted to the cold temperatures and rely on feeders as a crucial food source when natural food becomes scarce. In this response, I will provide a detailed overview of the winter birds commonly seen at feeders in upstate NY.
1. Black-capped Chickadees: One of the most common and delightful visitors to winter feeders is the Black-capped Chickadee. These small, friendly birds are easily recognizable by their black caps and white cheeks. They are known for their cheerful calls and acrobatic feeding behaviors. Chickadees are fond of sunflower seeds and suet, often seen snatching a seed and flying to a nearby branch to crack it open.
2. Blue Jays: With their striking blue plumage and distinctive crests, Blue Jays bring a splash of color to winter feeders. These intelligent and vocal birds are known for their raucous calls and bold personalities. Blue Jays have a varied diet and will readily visit feeders for sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet. They can be quite aggressive at feeders, often scaring away smaller birds.
3. Downy Woodpeckers: The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest and most common woodpecker in North America. These birds have a black and white pattern, with males sporting a small red patch on their heads. Downy Woodpeckers are adept at clinging to tree trunks and feed on suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. Their drumming sound can often be heard in winter as they search for insects beneath the bark.
4. American Goldfinches: While their vibrant yellow plumage may fade during winter, American Goldfinches remain a joy to behold at feeders. These small songbirds have a preference for nyjer (thistle) seed and can be seen perched on feeders or hanging upside down to access the seeds. Goldfinches often travel in flocks and their cheerful presence adds a touch of brightness to winter landscapes.
5. Hairy Woodpeckers: Similar in appearance to the Downy Woodpecker, the Hairy Woodpecker is slightly larger and lacks the red patch on its head. These woodpeckers have a strong bill and use it to excavate insects from tree bark. At feeders, they enjoy suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds. Hairy Woodpeckers are often seen clinging to the sides of trees or feeders, tapping away in search of food.
6. Dark-eyed Juncos: Dark-eyed Juncos, also known as “snowbirds,” are highly migratory birds that spend their winters in upstate NY. These small, plump sparrows have striking white bellies and dark gray or slate-colored backs. Juncos prefer feeding on the ground, pecking at seeds scattered below feeders. They are often seen in large flocks, hopping and foraging in the snow.
7. Red-breasted Nuthatches: The Red-breasted Nuthatch is a charming and energetic bird that can often be found upside down on tree trunks, probing for insects. During winter, they also visit feeders for suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds. With their distinct “yank-yank” calls, these birds add a delightful soundtrack to winter bird feeding.
8. Purple Finches: While not as common as some other species, Purple Finches occasionally visit feeders in upstate NY during the winter months. These finches have a reddish-pink hue to their plumage, especially on the males. They enjoy sunflower seeds and can be seen perched on feeders or nearby branches.
The winter birds commonly seen at feeders in upstate NY include Black-capped Chickadees, Blue Jays, Downy Woodpeckers, American Goldfinches, Hairy Woodpeckers, Dark-eyed Juncos, Red-breasted Nuthatches, and Purple Finches. Each of these species brings its own unique beauty and behaviors to the winter bird feeding experience. Observing and providing for these feathered visitors can be a rewarding and enjoyable activity during the colder months.