Find out everything you might be interested in about birds native to Alabama.
Alabama is the United States ’peanut capital, and home to the delicious shrimp and grits dish, however, did you know that there are at least 420 bird species you can see and study in Alabama? Thanks to 449 officially documented species, this country is a favorite destination for many bird lovers. Therefore, stay with us and read all about birds native to Alabama.
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Interesting Facts About Birds Native To Alabama
According to the officially accepted bird list from 2020, during October of the same year, there were 449 bird species in this country. Some of the worth mentionings are:
- Common Ground-Dove, the smallest owl that can be found in the US.
- American Kestrel, known as the smallest falcon in this state.
- Northern Cardina, the most common backyard species in Alabama.
Apart from them, this state wholeheartedly hosts at least:
- 158 species of birds that regularly live in this country,
- 174 species of birds that winter here from year to year,
- 80 species of birds that only migrate through the United States ’peanut capital,
- 6 exotic bird species,
- 3 extinct bird species.
In addition, it is important to note that about 100 to 150 Bald Eagles have lived in Alabama in recent years. They are the national symbol and one of the largest birds of prey that can be found in this territory.
As for birds native to Alabama, this state has two official state birds, the Northern Flicker which was a symbol of Southernness during the Civil War, as well as the Eastern Wild Turkey which is considered the official game bird.
We will now move on to the most important part of this article, birds of Alabama identification. Well, let’s go.
Meet Our Favorites, Birds Native To Alabama
Once you come to watch birds in Alabama, you will be amazed at how many unique species are there, and now is the time to get to know them.
Common Ground-Dove
Did you know that the Common Ground-Dove is only 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) long? Then it is not surprising that it is considered the smallest dove in the United States. You can hear its rising woot-woot in this region throughout the year (all seasons), but most often in the fall and winter since this bird avoids tall grass.
You will most easily recognize these beauties by their short, round wings, short tails, as well as short, thin bills. What makes them special is that the Common Ground-Doves shuffle as they walk.
Common Loon
Did you know that thousands of Common Loons overwinter at Alabama’s lakes each year? These large, 28 to 30 inches (71 to 76 cm) long water birds represent an authentic sound of the wilderness. There is almost no person who doesn’t fall in love with these beautiful creatures when they hear their specific singing. In terms of appearance, Common Loons are recognizable by their gray upper parts and white lower body parts.
Seaside Sparrow
Medium-sized, 5 to 6 inches (13 – 15 cm) long Seaside Sparrow is so closely tied to salt marsh, to the extent that there is no other songbird in North America tied like it. For all those who are thinking about bird watching, you can look for it along the coastal part of Alabama.
This is just one of the birds native to Alabama and is most recognizable by their gray color, distinct dark streaks on the chest and back, and a yellow stripe in front of the eye. Unfortunately, the “Dusky” Seaside Sparrow became extinct in 1987, but you can enjoy Cape Sable, discovered in 1918.
Prothonotary Warbler
If you look for unique, yellow birds native to Alabama, a Prothonotary Warbler is a breathtaking creature you will surely fall in love with. These beautiful birds are golden yellow on the head, breast, and their belly with an olive-green back, gray wings, and white under tail coverts.
This species spends springs and summers in Alabama and unfortunately has a moderate conservation concern status.
Red-Cockaded Woodpecker
Approximately 8.5 inches (21.5 cm) long Red-cockaded Woodpecker is one of the most famous birds native to Alabama. We must emphasize that they are the only species of woodpecker that excavates its cavities exclusively in living pine trees.
Sometimes called the “Yankee Doodle Bird”, the term “cockaded” refers to a small red streak that mainly characterizes male members of this species. They can be found in central Alabama’s National Forests.
In Conclusion
That would be it, these were our top 5 most beautiful and unique birds native to Alabama. Alabama is one of the richest states in the United States, at least when it comes to birds. You will surely find your favorite in one of the 21 state parks, 8 national parks, or 4 forests that this country abounds in.
We hope you found this article useful. If you have any questions, let us know in the section below.
You might also like the article The Beautiful and Small Birds Of Northern California
FAQs
What Is The Rarest Bird In Alabama?
The rarest bird in this state is without a doubt Alabama’s yellow cardinal. This bird has a rare genetic mutation that causes its feathers to be yellow instead of red. So, it’s no surprise that this beauty has garnered sympathy around the world.
What Big Birds Live In Alabama?
According to birdwatching enthusiasts, these are the largest birds in Alabama: Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Harrier, Northern Goshawk, and Broad-winged Hawk.
What Does Alabama’s State Bird Look Like?
The state of Alabama chose its state bird back in 1927. It is the northern flicker or "yellowhammer" as it is also called. Did you know that Alabama is the only state that recognizes a woodpecker as their state bird?
This Northern Flicker is a medium-sized bird, measuring 11 to 14 inches in height and 17 to 21 inches in wingspan and can weigh up to 6 ounces, amazing, isn’t it? The yellowhammer got its name because of its yellow underwings and flight feather shafts. This amazing bird stays in Alabama all year round.
