In this informative article, readers will discover a delightful array of 26 backyard birds that call Vermont home. Whether it’s the vibrant Northern Cardinal, the spirited American Goldfinch, or the majestic Bald Eagle, this piece explores the common and beloved bird species found in Vermont. Some of these feathered friends are year-round residents, while others grace the state with their presence during migration. The article also emphasizes the joy and importance of attracting birds to your own backyard, providing valuable insights on different types of bird feeders and revealing the best birdwatching hotspots throughout Vermont. While an exact count of bird species remains unknown, the official state list has documented an impressive 388 species. So, get ready to dive into the fascinating world of Vermont’s backyard birds, complete with their scientific names, enchanting descriptions, and helpful tips on luring them to your feeders.
Year-round Residents
1. Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus)
The Black-capped Chickadee is a small, friendly bird that is a common sight in Vermont yards throughout the year. With its black cap and bib, white cheeks, and gray back, it is easy to identify. These little birds are known for their cheerful songs and can often be seen flitting from branch to branch in search of insects and seeds. They are attracted to sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet, so be sure to include these in your feeders to attract them to your yard.
2. American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis)
The American Goldfinch is a vibrant and beautiful bird that is known for its bright yellow plumage, especially during the breeding season. They are commonly seen in Vermont throughout the year, except during molt. Goldfinches are seed-eaters, so providing them with a steady supply of nyjer seed and sunflower chips will attract them to your feeders. They are also known to feed on dandelion and thistle seeds in the wild.
3. Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)
The Northern Cardinal is a striking bird with its brilliant red plumage and distinctive crest. These birds are a year-round resident in Vermont and can often be found in backyards with their mate. Cardinals are seed-eaters and are attracted to sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and cracked corn. They also enjoy fruit and suet, so offering a variety of feed will help draw them to your yard.
4. Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens)
The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest and most common woodpecker in Vermont. With its black and white plumage, it can be easily mistaken for a larger, more aggressive species such as the Hairy Woodpecker. Downy Woodpeckers are attracted to suet and will also feed on insects and seeds. Providing suet feeders and woodpecker-friendly feed will help to attract these charming birds to your yard.
5. White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis)
The White-breasted Nuthatch is a small bird with a big personality. With its distinct black and white markings and long, pointed bill, it is easily recognizable. These birds are acrobatic climbers that are often seen spiraling down tree trunks headfirst. They are attracted to sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet, so including these in your feeders will entice them to visit your yard.
6. Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)
The Blue Jay is a striking bird with its vibrant blue plumage and prominent crest. These birds are known for their intelligence and inquisitive nature. They are often seen in small groups and can be quite vocal. Blue Jays are attracted to sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet, and will also eat insects and nuts. Providing a variety of feed and water sources will help to attract these beautiful birds to your yard.
7. Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis)
The Red-breasted Nuthatch is a small bird with a unique appearance. With its bluish-gray back, rusty-red breast, and distinctive call, it is easily identified. These birds are skilled climbers and can often be seen upside down on tree trunks. Red-breasted Nuthatches are attracted to sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet, so including these in your feeders will help to attract them to your yard.
8. Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura)
The Mourning Dove is a gentle and peaceful bird that is a common sight in Vermont. With its delicate appearance, soft cooing call, and brownish-gray plumage, it is easily recognized. These birds are ground feeders and are commonly seen feeding on seeds scattered on the ground. Mourning Doves are attracted to platform feeders and will also feed on millet, cracked corn, and safflower seeds.
9. Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor)
The Tufted Titmouse is a small, lively bird with a distinctive tufted crest. With its gray upperparts, white underparts, and prominent black eye-line, it is a charming visitor to Vermont yards. These birds are seed-eaters and are attracted to sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet. Providing feeders with these offerings will help to attract Tufted Titmice to your yard.
10. Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis)
The Dark-eyed Junco is a small sparrow-like bird that is commonly seen in Vermont during the winter months. With its dark gray upperparts, white underparts, and pinkish bill, it is easily identifiable. These birds are ground feeders and are attracted to millet and cracked corn. Providing a platform feeder or scattering seed on the ground will help to attract Dark-eyed Juncos to your yard.
Migratory Visitors
1. Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris)
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a tiny and colorful bird that is a summer visitor to Vermont. With its iridescent green feathers, red throat (in males), and rapid wingbeats, it is a delight to watch. These birds have a high metabolism and feed on nectar from flowers and sugar water from feeders. Providing hummingbird feeders filled with a solution of four parts water to one part sugar will attract these beautiful birds to your yard.
2. Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula)
The Baltimore Oriole is a vibrant and melodious bird that migrates to Vermont during the summer months. With its bright orange plumage, black head and wings, and sweet song, it is a favorite among birdwatchers. These birds are attracted to fruit, nectar, and jelly, so providing orange halves, oriole feeders, and grape jelly will help to attract them to your yard.
3. Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus)
The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is a stunning bird with its black and white plumage and bright red breast (in males). These birds migrate to Vermont during the summer months and are known for their beautiful songs. Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are attracted to sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and fruit, so providing these feed options will help to attract them to your yard.
4. Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea)
The Indigo Bunting is a small, brightly colored bird that migrates to Vermont during the summer months. With its vibrant blue plumage and melodic song, it is a joy to observe. These birds are seed-eaters and are attracted to nyjer seed, sunflower seeds, and millet. Providing these seeds in your feeders will entice Indigo Buntings to visit your yard.
5. Yellow Warbler (Setophaga petechia)
The Yellow Warbler is a small, lively bird with bright yellow plumage and a melodic song. They migrate to Vermont during the summer months to breed and raise their young. These birds are insectivores and are attracted to suet, mealworms, and fruit. Planting flowers that attract insects and offering suet will help to attract Yellow Warblers to your yard.
6. American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla)
The American Redstart is a striking bird with its black and orange plumage and distinctive tail-fanning behavior. These birds migrate to Vermont during the summer months and are often seen flitting among the trees in search of insects. American Redstarts are insectivores and are attracted to suet, mealworms, and fruit. By providing a variety of feed options, you can attract these beautiful birds to your yard.
7. Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor)
The Tree Swallow is a graceful bird with its sleek, iridescent blue-green plumage and acrobatic flying style. These birds migrate to Vermont during the summer months to breed and raise their young. Tree Swallows are insectivores and are attracted to suet, mealworms, and fruit. Providing these food sources will help to attract Tree Swallows to your yard.
8. Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
The Barn Swallow is a familiar bird with its distinctive forked tail and graceful flight. They migrate to Vermont during the summer months to breed and raise their young. Barn Swallows are insectivores and are attracted to flying insects. Providing a water source, such as a birdbath, will help to attract Barn Swallows to your yard.
9. Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica)
The Chimney Swift is a unique bird with its slender body, long wings, and rapid, erratic flight pattern. They migrate to Vermont during the summer months to breed and raise their young. Chimney Swifts are insectivores and are attracted to flying insects. Offering a variety of feeders, including suet and mealworms, will help to attract Chimney Swifts to your yard.
10. Eastern Phoebe (Sayornis phoebe)
The Eastern Phoebe is a small, friendly bird with a bobbing tail and distinctive “phoebe” call. They migrate to Vermont in the spring to breed and raise their young. Eastern Phoebes are insectivores and are attracted to flying insects. Offering a variety of feeders with suet and mealworms will help to attract Eastern Phoebes to your yard.
Attracting Birds to Your Yard
1. Choosing the Right Bird Feeders
When it comes to attracting birds to your yard, choosing the right bird feeders is important. Different species of birds have different feeding habits, so it’s important to provide a variety of feeder types. Tube feeders are great for attracting small finches and chickadees, while platform feeders are ideal for ground-feeding birds like juncos and doves. Suet feeders are perfect for woodpeckers and nuthatches, while hummingbird feeders will attract these tiny, quick creatures.
2. Selecting Birdseed and Food
Selecting the right birdseed and food is crucial for attracting a variety of birds to your yard. Black oil sunflower seeds are a favorite among many species, including chickadees, finches, and cardinals. Nyjer seed, also known as thistle seed, is loved by finches and goldfinches. Peanuts and suet are popular choices for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and titmice. It’s important to keep your feeders stocked with fresh, high-quality seed to attract a wide range of birds.
3. Providing Fresh Water and Birdbaths
In addition to food, birds also need a fresh water source for drinking and bathing. Providing a birdbath or shallow dish of water will attract birds to your yard. Make sure to change the water regularly to keep it clean and prevent the spread of diseases. Adding a small fountain or mister to the birdbath can also attract birds, as they are attracted to moving water.
4. Creating Bird-Friendly Landscaping
Creating a bird-friendly landscape can help attract a variety of birds to your yard. Planting trees and shrubs of varying heights and densities provides birds with shelter, nesting sites, and food sources. Native plants are especially beneficial, as they provide the insects and berries that many birds rely on. Including a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs will enhance the attractiveness of your yard to birds.
5. Planting Native Flowers and Shrubs
Planting native flowers and shrubs not only adds beauty to your yard but also provides a valuable food source for birds. Native plants have evolved alongside native birds and insects, making them an ideal choice for attracting wildlife. Flowers such as coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and bee balm provide nectar for hummingbirds, while shrubs such as serviceberry, dogwood, and elderberry produce berries that birds love.
6. Offering Nesting Boxes or Birdhouses
Providing nesting boxes or birdhouses can attract birds that nest in tree cavities or in man-made structures. Bluebirds, chickadees, and wrens are just a few examples of birds that will use nesting boxes. Make sure to place the boxes in a quiet area, away from predators, and at an appropriate height for the species you are trying to attract. Including nesting materials such as twigs, grass, and feathers nearby can also make your yard more attractive to nesting birds.
7. Avoiding Pesticides and Chemicals
Using pesticides and chemicals in your yard can harm birds and other wildlife. Birds may ingest these chemicals when they eat insects or drink contaminated water. To create a bird-friendly environment, avoid using pesticides and instead opt for natural methods of pest control, such as attracting birds that eat insects or using organic gardening practices.
8. Keeping Feeders Clean and Hygienic
Maintaining clean and hygienic bird feeders is essential for the health of the birds that visit your yard. Dirty feeders can harbor bacteria and mold that can be harmful to birds. Clean your feeders regularly with warm, soapy water, and rinse thoroughly. Allow the feeders to dry completely before refilling them with fresh seed. Remove any wet or moldy seed from the feeders and discard it.
9. Maintaining a Variety of Feeder Types
To attract a diverse range of bird species to your yard, it’s important to provide a variety of feeder types. Different birds have different feeding habits and preferences, so offering a mix of tube feeders, platform feeders, and suet feeders will attract a wider variety of species. Experiment with different feeder styles and food offerings to see which ones are most popular with the birds in your area.
10. Being Patient and Observant
Attracting birds to your yard takes time and patience. It may take a while for birds to discover your feeders and feel comfortable visiting your yard. It’s important to be patient and observe the birds that do visit. Take note of the different species and behaviors you observe, and adjust your feeding and landscaping strategies accordingly. By being patient and observant, you can create a welcoming environment for birds and enjoy the beauty and activity they bring to your yard.
Birdwatching Hotspots in Vermont
1. Green Mountain National Forest
The Green Mountain National Forest is a prime birdwatching location in Vermont. With its vast expanse of forested mountains and valleys, it provides habitat for a wide variety of bird species. Visitors to the forest can expect to see species such as the Blackburnian Warbler, Bicknell’s Thrush, and Red Crossbill. The forest offers numerous hiking trails and scenic overlooks that provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
2. Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge
The Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge is another great spot for birdwatching in Vermont. Located on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, the refuge is home to a diverse array of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and grasslands. This variety of habitats attracts a wide variety of bird species, including the Wood Duck, Black Tern, and Marsh Wren. The refuge offers several wildlife viewing platforms and walking trails that allow visitors to observe birds in their natural habitat.
3. Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain is a popular birdwatching destination in Vermont. The lake provides important habitat for a variety of waterfowl and shorebirds, including the Common Loon, American Black Duck, and Least Sandpiper. Birdwatchers can observe these species from the shores of the lake or by taking a boat out onto the water. Several parks and nature preserves along the lake also offer excellent birdwatching opportunities.
4. The Vermont Bird and Butterfly Trail
The Vermont Bird and Butterfly Trail is a designated scenic driving route that highlights some of the best birdwatching spots in the state. The trail takes visitors through a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows, providing opportunities to see a wide variety of bird species. The trail includes several designated birding hotspots, including wildlife refuges, state parks, and nature reserves.
5. Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area
The Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area is a premier birdwatching location in Vermont. Located along the shores of Lake Champlain, this area provides important habitat for waterfowl, shorebirds, and grassland birds. Visitors to Dead Creek can expect to see species such as the Snow Goose, Short-eared Owl, and Bobolink. The area offers several observation platforms and walking trails that provide excellent viewing opportunities.
6. Montpelier Parks and Nature Areas
The city of Montpelier is home to several parks and nature areas that are popular among birdwatchers. Hubbard Park, North Branch Nature Center, and Berlin Pond are all excellent spots for birdwatching in the Montpelier area. These locations offer a variety of habitats and attract a diverse range of bird species. Visitors can expect to see birds such as the Red-eyed Vireo, Black-capped Chickadee, and Purple Finch.
7. Mount Mansfield State Forest
Mount Mansfield State Forest is Vermont’s largest state forest and a popular destination for birdwatching. With its diverse array of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and alpine tundra, the forest attracts a wide variety of bird species throughout the year. Visitors to Mount Mansfield can expect to see species such as the Boreal Chickadee, Golden-crowned Kinglet, and Bicknell’s Thrush. Hiking trails and scenic overlooks throughout the forest provide excellent birdwatching opportunities.
8. The Connecticut River
The Connecticut River is a major migratory corridor for birds and a popular birdwatching destination in Vermont. The river passes through a variety of habitats, including floodplains, marshes, and forests, providing important resting and feeding areas for migrating birds. Visitors to the Connecticut River can expect to see species such as the Bald Eagle, Osprey, and Great Blue Heron. Several parks and wildlife refuges along the river offer excellent birdwatching opportunities.
9. The Northeast Kingdom
The Northeast Kingdom is a rural region in northeastern Vermont that is known for its pristine natural beauty and abundant wildlife. The region offers a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and lakes, which attract a diverse array of bird species. Visitors to the Northeast Kingdom can expect to see species such as the Evening Grosbeak, Northern Saw-whet Owl, and Ruffed Grouse. The region offers numerous hiking trails and wildlife viewing areas that provide excellent birdwatching opportunities.
10. The Champlain Islands
The Champlain Islands, located in the northern part of Lake Champlain, are a popular birdwatching destination in Vermont. The islands provide important stopover habitat for migrating birds and are home to a variety of permanent residents. Visitors to the Champlain Islands can expect to see species such as the Common Goldeneye, Horned Grebe, and American Bittern. Several parks and wildlife refuges on the islands offer excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Official State List and Bird Diversity
1. No Exact Count of Bird Species in Vermont
While there is no exact count of bird species in Vermont, the state is known for its diverse bird population. Vermont’s varied habitats, including forests, wetlands, and open fields, provide homes for a wide range of bird species. Many birds migrate through Vermont during the spring and fall, adding to the state’s bird diversity.
2. 388 Documented Species on the Official State List
Vermont’s official state list of bird species includes 388 documented species. This includes both resident birds and migratory visitors. The list is continually updated as new species are documented within the state. Birdwatchers in Vermont have the opportunity to observe a rich variety of bird species throughout the year, making it an exciting destination for birding enthusiasts.
List of 26 Backyard Birds in Vermont
1. Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus)
The Black-capped Chickadee is a common and well-known backyard bird in Vermont. With its black cap and bib, white cheeks, and gray back, it is easily recognizable. These birds are highly active and can often be seen flitting from branch to branch in search of insects and seeds. Providing sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet in your feeders will attract Black-capped Chickadees to your yard.
2. American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis)
The American Goldfinch is a beloved visitor to Vermont yards. With its bright yellow plumage, it is easily identifiable. These birds are seed-eaters and are attracted to nyjer seed and sunflower chips. Providing a steady supply of these seeds in your feeders will attract American Goldfinches to your yard.
3. Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)
The Northern Cardinal is a beautiful bird that is well-known for its bright red plumage and distinctive crest. These birds are a common sight in Vermont yards and are often seen with their mate. Cardinals are seed-eaters and are attracted to sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and cracked corn. Providing these seeds, as well as fruit and suet, will help to attract Northern Cardinals to your yard.
4. Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens)
The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest and most common woodpecker in Vermont. With its black and white plumage, it can be easily mistaken for a larger species such as the Hairy Woodpecker. Downy Woodpeckers are attracted to suet and will also feed on insects and seeds. Providing suet feeders and woodpecker-friendly feed will help to attract these charming birds to your yard.
5. White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis)
The White-breasted Nuthatch is a small bird with a big personality. With its distinct black and white markings and long, pointed bill, it is easily identifiable. These birds are acrobatic climbers and can often be seen spiraling down tree trunks headfirst. White-breasted Nuthatches are attracted to sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet, so including these in your feeders will entice them to visit your yard.
6. Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)
The Blue Jay is a striking bird with its vibrant blue plumage and prominent crest. These birds are highly intelligent and are often seen in small groups. Blue Jays are attracted to sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet, and will also eat insects and nuts. Providing a variety of food sources and water will help to attract these beautiful birds to your yard.
7. Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis)
The Red-breasted Nuthatch is a small bird with a unique appearance. With its bluish-gray back, rusty-red breast, and distinctive call, it is easily identified. These birds are skilled climbers and can often be seen upside down on tree trunks. Red-breasted Nuthatches are attracted to sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet, so including these in your feeders will help to attract them to your yard.
8. Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura)
The Mourning Dove is a gentle and peaceful bird that is commonly seen in Vermont yards. With its delicate appearance, soft cooing call, and brownish-gray plumage, it is easily recognized. These birds are ground feeders and are often seen feeding on seeds scattered on the ground. Mourning Doves are attracted to platform feeders and will also feed on millet, cracked corn, and safflower seeds.
9. Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor)
The Tufted Titmouse is a small, lively bird with a distinctive tufted crest. With its gray upperparts, white underparts, and prominent black eye-line, it is a charming visitor to Vermont yards. These birds are seed-eaters and are attracted to sunflower seeds, peanuts, and suet. Providing feeders with these offerings will help to attract Tufted Titmice to your yard.
10. Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis)
The Dark-eyed Junco is a small sparrow-like bird that is commonly seen in Vermont during the winter months. With its dark gray upperparts, white underparts, and pinkish bill, it is easily identifiable. These birds are ground feeders and are attracted to millet and cracked corn. Providing a platform feeder or scattering seed on the ground will help to attract Dark-eyed Juncos to your yard.
11. Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris)
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a tiny and colorful bird that is a summer visitor to Vermont. With its iridescent green feathers, red throat (in males), and rapid wingbeats, it is a delight to watch. Hummingbirds feed on nectar from flowers and sugar water from feeders. Providing hummingbird feeders filled with a solution of four parts water to one part sugar will attract these beautiful birds to your yard.
12. Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula)
The Baltimore Oriole is a vibrant and melodious bird that migrates to Vermont during the summer months. With its bright orange plumage, black head and wings, and sweet song, it is a favorite among birdwatchers. Orioles are attracted to fruit, nectar, and jelly, so providing orange halves, oriole feeders, and grape jelly will help to attract them to your yard.
13. Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus)
The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is a stunning bird with its black and white plumage and bright red breast (in males). These birds migrate to Vermont during the summer months and are known for their beautiful songs. Grosbeaks are attracted to sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and fruit, so providing these feed options will help to attract them to your yard.
14. Indigo Bunting (Passerina cyanea)
The Indigo Bunting is a small, brightly colored bird that migrates to Vermont during the summer months. With its vibrant blue plumage and melodic song, it is a joy to observe. These birds are seed-eaters and are attracted to nyjer seed, sunflower seeds, and millet. Providing these seeds in your feeders will entice Indigo Buntings to visit your yard.
15. Yellow Warbler (Setophaga petechia)
The Yellow Warbler is a small, lively bird with bright yellow plumage and a melodic song. They migrate to Vermont during the summer months to breed and raise their young. Warblers are insectivores and are attracted to suet, mealworms, and fruit. Planting flowers that attract insects and offering suet will help to attract Yellow Warblers to your yard.
16. American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla)
The American Redstart is a striking bird with its black and orange plumage and distinctive tail-fanning behavior. They migrate to Vermont during the summer months and are often seen flitting among the trees in search of insects. Redstarts are insectivores and are attracted to suet, mealworms, and fruit. By providing a variety of feed options, you can attract these beautiful birds to your yard.
17. Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor)
The Tree Swallow is a graceful bird with its sleek, iridescent blue-green plumage and acrobatic flying style. They migrate to Vermont during the summer months to breed and raise their young. Tree Swallows are insectivores and are attracted to suet, mealworms, and fruit. Providing these food sources will help to attract Tree Swallows to your yard.
18. Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
The Barn Swallow is a familiar bird with its distinctive forked tail and graceful flight. They migrate to Vermont during the summer months to breed and raise their young. Barn Swallows are insectivores and are attracted to flying insects. Providing a water source, such as a birdbath, will help to attract Barn Swallows to your yard.
19. Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica)
The Chimney Swift is a unique bird with its slender body, long wings, and rapid, erratic flight pattern. They migrate to Vermont during the summer months to breed and raise their young. Chimney Swifts are insectivores and are attracted to flying insects. Offering a variety of feeders, including suet and mealworms, will help to attract Chimney Swifts to your yard.
20. Eastern Phoebe (Sayornis phoebe)
The Eastern Phoebe is a small, friendly bird with a bobbing tail and distinctive “phoebe” call. They migrate to Vermont in the spring to breed and raise their young. Phoebes are insectivores and are attracted to flying insects. Offering a variety of feeders with suet and mealworms will help to attract Eastern Phoebes to your yard.
21. House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)
The House Sparrow is a small, adaptable bird that is commonly found in urban and suburban areas throughout Vermont. With its gray and brown plumage, it is easily recognizable. House Sparrows are seed-eaters and are attracted to millet, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn. They are known to be somewhat aggressive, so providing multiple feeding stations may help minimize territorial disputes.
22. European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)
The European Starling is a medium-sized bird with iridescent black plumage and a yellow beak. They are a common sight in Vermont, especially in urban and suburban areas. Starlings are omnivores and feed on a variety of foods, including insects, fruits, and seeds. They are attracted to suet, peanuts, and millet. Providing a mix of foods and feeders will help to attract European Starlings to your yard.
23. Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia)
The Song Sparrow is a small bird with brown and white plumage and a sweet, melodic song. They are a year-round resident in Vermont and are commonly seen in a variety of habitats, including fields, marshes, and gardens. Song Sparrows are ground feeders and are attracted to millet, cracked corn, and sunflower seeds. Providing a mix of these seeds in your feeders will help to attract Song Sparrows to your yard.
24. American Robin (Turdus migratorius)
The American Robin is a familiar bird with its gray-brown upperparts, reddish breast, and distinctive song. They are a common sight in Vermont yards and are often seen foraging on lawns for earthworms and insects. Robins are attracted to mealworms, suet, and fruit. Providing a birdbath or shallow dish of water will also help to attract American Robins to your yard.
25. Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus)
The Northern Flicker is a large, distinctive woodpecker with a gray face and brown plumage. They are a year-round resident in Vermont and are commonly seen foraging for insects on the ground. Flickers are attracted to suet, peanuts, and mealworms. Providing a suet feeder and a mix of these foods will help to attract Northern Flickers to your yard.
26. American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos)
The American Crow is a large, intelligent bird with black plumage and a distinctive caw. They are a common sight in Vermont yards, especially in urban and suburban areas. Crows are omnivores and feed on a variety of foods, including insects, fruits, seeds, and carrion. They are often attracted to food scraps and garbage, so it’s important to secure trash bins and avoid leaving out food that may attract them.