The change of seasons is a great time to go outdoors and try new hobbies like bicycling, running…or birdwatching.
I started birdwatching in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, needing a reason to get out of my house. And when I first saw a golden-crowned kinglet hop above me, I was sold. As someone who grew up with Pokémon, I’m drawn to the concept of keeping track of every new creature I come across that’s not your typical pigeon or house sparrow. Since I started my Life List (where I track each new species I find), I’ve seen 121 different birds, with 105 right in Philadelphia. These have included owls, warblers, woodpeckers, and even our beloved eagles.
So if you’re wondering what types of birds you can find in your own backyard or local park, here are five birds native to Pennsylvania to get you started on your birding journey.
Belted Kingfisher
The first time I saw this bird, it was an attention seeker in the best way, whizzing above the Tacony Creek with the flash of its mohawk and orange belt. The belted kingfisher, about a foot tall, can usually be found hanging out around streams and shorelines.
Great Blue Heron
Great blue herons may defy what you first picture when you hear the word “bird.” Herons, which can be up to four feet tall, fold their necks into an s-shape when flying. Many can be found at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum.
Indigo Bunting
Blue jays aren’t the only bird with a pop of color. While the females are plain brown and more hidden away, male indigo buntings burst out in song and color all along the East Coast.
Honorable Mention: Painted Bunting
While the painted bunting is not native to Pennsylvania, one lost little guy has made Philly its vacation home, as it keeps coming back each year.
Red-Tailed Hawk
If you think you know what an eagle sounds like, you likely don’t. The call we often hear in movies is actually a red-tailed hawk. These birds are widespread in North America and are identifiable by their signature tailfeathers in adulthood. You don’t have to go all the way to Hawk Mountain to find them, as they can be found in Philly.
Scarlet Tanager
If your eye is drawn to cardinals, you’ll love the deep red coloring of scarlet tanagers. You’ll have to catch this color on the males during the spring and summer though, because as the hot season winds down they molt into their greenish winter coat. The females have a yellow-green appearance on their feathers.
