Overview
From the Adirondack forests to Long Island's shores to the parks of New York City, the Empire State offers a wide range of birds within easy reach. Even Central Park is a celebrated migration hotspot each spring and fall.
This guide covers common New York birds — the field marks that identify them, their habitats, and where to look. Pair it with a photo and the app to confirm any bird you spot.
Key Species to Know
Eastern Bluebird
Sialia sialis
New York's state bird — a small thrush; the male deep blue above with a rusty-orange breast, the female grayer. Often perches on fences and nest boxes in open country.
Black-capped Chickadee
Poecile atricapillus
A tiny, tame bird with a black cap and bib, white cheeks, and buffy sides. Bold at feeders and named for its "chick-a-dee-dee" call.
American Robin
Turdus migratorius
A familiar thrush with a gray back and brick-orange breast, seen running and pausing across lawns. Among the earliest and most conspicuous spring songbirds.
Blue Jay
Cyanocitta cristata
A bold, crested blue-and-white bird with black necklace markings. Loud and intelligent, it hoards acorns and often mimics hawk calls.
Red-tailed Hawk
Buteo jamaicensis
A large, broad-winged hawk, usually pale below with a brick-red tail in adults. Common statewide — including famous city nesters like "Pale Male" in Manhattan — and often seen soaring or perched near highways.
American Goldfinch
Spinus tristis
A small finch; breeding males are bright lemon-yellow with black cap and wings, dull olive in winter. Flies in a bouncy, undulating path and favors thistle seed.
Seasonal Guide
- Spring migration (April–May) fills parks and woodlands with warblers and other songbirds.
- Early morning is the most active time for feeding and song.
- Winter feeders draw chickadees, cardinals, juncos, and finches to close view.
Safety Reminder
Observe birds without disturbing them, and never approach nests. Identification results are reference information for learning and enjoyment.
Identify it instantly
Found something and not sure what it is? Point your camera with Spotter and get a species identification in seconds — with detailed reference info and species notes.