Many distinct types of birds may be found in Maryland. Several of these species are migratory and only spend the summer or winter in Maryland, while others live here all year. In this article, we’ll take a look at 26 of Maryland’s most common backyard birds and learn about each species.
I’ll then demonstrate how to attract them to your property, give you a crash course in the 10 distinct types of bird feeders available, and even recommend a few birdwatching sites in Maryland after that.
How many different species of wild birds are in Maryland?
The number of bird species in North America, the United States, or even in Maryland is difficult to determine with any certainty. Yet, at least 455 species of birds may be found in Maryland, according to Wikipedia. According to one source, North America has 2,059 species; according to another, it has 914. These numbers, though they seem to be trustworthy, provide a broad idea of the number of species.
We’re going to examine just a few of the species that commonly appear in Maryland, especially in backyards, for the sake of this article.
26 COMMON BACKYARD BIRDS IN MARYLAND
In Maryland, we’ll look at 26 different kinds of backyard birds, including some migrants. These aren’t even close to being all of Maryland’s species, but they are among the birds you’re most likely to see in your backyards. Let’s get started right now!
1. NORTHERN CARDINAL
Scientific name: Cardinalis cardinalis
Length: 8.3-9.1 in
Weight: 1.5-1.7 oz
Wingspan: 9.8-12.2 in
Among the most well-known and widespread backyard birds in North America are Northern Cardinals. Females have duller colors and are more tawny brown with some reddish coloring, while males have bright red feathers and a black mask. The crests, which resemble mohawks on top of their heads and reddish orange beaks, are easily recognized by both sexes.
Year-round, Northern Cardinals can be found all throughout Maryland.
Most seed feeders will be visited by Cardinals, who will offer them a combination of black sunflower seeds.
2. TUFTED TITMOUSE
Scientific name: Baeolophus bicolor
Length: 5.5-6.3 in
Weight: 0.6-0.9 oz
Wingspan: 7.9-10.2 in
In the range of these tiny birds, feeders and backyards are densely populated. They have a little mohawk, much as cardinals do, that distinguishes them from other birds. Titmice have a black patch just above their beaks and are silver-gray on top and lighter on bottom. Under the wing of their right side, there is sometimes an orange patch.
Maryland’s Tufted Titmouse can be found year-round.
Most seed feeders will be visited by titmice, who will offer them a combination of black sunflower seeds and other seeds.
3. CHICKADEES
Scientific name: Poecile atricapillus (Black-Capped), Poecile carolinensis (Carolina)
Length: 4.7-5.9 in (Black-Capped), 3.9-4.7 in (Carolina)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (Black-Capped), 0.3-0.4 oz (Carolina)
Wingspan: 6.3-8.3 in (Black-Capped), 5.9-7.9 in (Carolina)
Because of their black cap and black bib, chickadees are small little birds that are readily identifiable. Their underbodies are fluffy and light, and their cheeks are solid white. Their wings and backs are gray. When near bird feeders, they are usually fast and inquisitive birds who seem to be quite fearless.
Black-capped Chickadees and Carolina Chickadees are the two varieties of Chickadees that may be found in the east. They both appear identical. Depending on the status you’re in, you may be able to tell which one is which. You do, however, have a little crossover in Maryland.
Most seed feeders will be visited by chickadees, who will provide them with mixed seed blends and black sunflower seeds.
4. BLUE JAY
Scientific name: Cyanocitta cristata
Length: 9.8-11.8 in
Weight: 2.5-3.5 oz
Wingspan: 13.4-16.9 in
In North America and the United States, another well-known bird species is the American robin. The Blue Jay is a brand of automobiles. They feature a huge blue crest with white feathers on the bottom and blue feathers on the top. Their necks are also ringed with a black necklace-like accessory. White, blue, and black are the colors of their barred wings. The coloration of both sexes is the same.
Another year-round resident of Maryland is the Toronto Blue Jays. In backyards and feeders, they’re widespread.
Platform feeders, peanut feeders, and feeders with huge perches are popular with Blue Jays. Black sunflower seeds, blended seeds, and peanuts are all good options.
5. EASTERN BLUEBIRD
Scientific name: Sialia sialis
Length: 6.3-8.3 in
Weight: 1.0-1.1 oz
Wingspan: 9.8-12.6 in
Bluebirds have rusty reddish-orange bellies and are blue on top. They are named for their color. The females’ colors, while they are somewhat duller and more faded, particularly the blue, are identical to males’. In the United States, they are perhaps the most coveted birdhouse tenants. The bluebird house industry is booming as a result of this. In the backyards, they’re quite common, but not at feeders. I was able to attract a mating pair with this birdhouse on Amazon, so I put up a birdhouse and gave it a try.
Bluebirds do migrate in specific regions of North America, but not in Maryland. Year-round, the Eastern Bluebird may be seen here. For further information, visit the Maryland Bluebird Society.
Bluebirds are mainly seed eaters, but may be persuaded to visit feeders with mealworms on a tray feeder or in a dish.
6. WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH
Scientific name: Sitta carolinensis
Length: 5.1-5.5 in
Weight: 0.6-1.1 oz
Wingspan: 7.9-10.6 in
White-breasted Nuthatches are a common backyard feeder that may be found across the country. They use their sharp beaks to crack the seed from the shell by cramming nuts and seeds under tree bark. In addition, these birds are better than most other types of birds at vertical walking on trees. White-breasted Nuthatches have a white stripe on either side of their heads, as well as a white belly. They have a chisel-like beak that is longer than many other feeder birds, and their wings are mostly gray and black.
White-breasted Nuthatches may be found throughout Maryland at all times of the year.
Most seed feeders are visited by nuthatches, who provide them a variety of seed mixtures, black sunflower seeds, or peanuts. They are also fond of suet and have mastered the art of clinging to it.
7. AMERICAN ROBIN
Scientific name: Turdus migratorius
Length: 7.9-11.0 in
Weight: 2.7-3.0 oz
Wingspan: 12.2-15.8 in
Robins are often seen hopping around the grass, hunting for worms and other inanimals to eat. They are particularly abundant in backyards. During the winter, they often disappear into the woods before reappearing in the spring, giving the impression that they have relocated out of state. They do not eat seeds, and they will sometimes pay visits to bird feeders. They are clearly visible due to their vivid orange circles, yellow beaks, and increased size.
Attract seed feeders with meal worms, native fruit-bearing plants, or a bird bath since American Robins are uncommon visitors to seed feeders.
8. MOURNING DOVE
Scientific name: Zenaida macroura
Length: 9.1-13.4 in
Weight: 3.0-6.0 oz
Wingspan: 17.7 in
Doves are similar in size to robins and may often be found perched on power lines or in clusters in trees. They’re usually visible walking around on the ground beneath hanging bird feeders, although I occasionally observe them on my tray feeder. Gray birds with black specks on the head, a light peachy color below, and pink legs make up the majority of Mourning Doves. Males and females appear the same.
Throughout Maryland, Mourning Doves are found all year.
Doves are fond of seed feeders, but they prefer looking for dropped seeds on the ground. Sprinkle some seeds on the ground or try a ground feeder with a mixed seed blend.
9. EUROPEAN STARLING
Scientific name: Sturnus vulgaris
Length: 7.9-9.1 in
Weight: 2.1-3.4 oz
Wingspan: 12.2-15.8 in
In the 1890s, 100 starlings were let loose in New York, and they have since dominated the nation. They’ll overrun feeders, demolish other birds’ nests, and slaughter their offspring. They’ll even overtake you when you’re out feeding other birds. They have yellow beaks and feet, and are mostly dark with white specks on their backs and wings. In the right light, starlings may appear to be rather gorgeous, with a purple and green iridescent hue.
Year-round, starlings may be found in every state except Maryland.
Almost anything can be eaten by European Starlings. Because they are an invasive species, we recommend not trying to attract them. They will find you regardless.
10. AMERICAN GOLDFINCH
Scientific name: Spinus tristis
Length: 4.3-5.1 in
Weight: 0.4-0.7 oz
Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in
In the spring and summer, seeing goldfinches at feeders is one of my favorite activities, especially when they have their bright yellow feathers. They have black-tipped wings during this time and are mostly yellow, or “gold.” Males wear a black headgear in addition to their hats. They’ll moult in the winter, resulting in a more muted brown or olive coloration. In the winter, they are commonly mistaken for a different species due to their appearance. Their black wings with white bars and finch-like beaks are always visible no matter what the season.
Throughout Maryland, goldfinches may be seen all year.
Thistle (nyjer) feeders are preferred by Goldfinches. Sunflower chips are another option, but attract them with a thistle feeder.
11. HOUSE FINCH
Scientific name: Haemorhous mexicanus
Length: 5.1-5.5 in
Weight: 0.6-0.9 oz
Wingspan: 7.9-9.8 in
In Maryland, the House Finch is a common backyard bird. Although they are invasive in the east, they are not as despised as House Sparrows and do not cause the same problems. They may come in huge flocks and mob your feeders if you attract them, which is rather simple. Brown with extensive white streaking, both sexes are brown. The head, chest, and back of male are splashed in red.
Any time of year, House Finches may be found throughout Maryland.
Black sunflower or mixed seed is eaten by House Finches, who adore bird feeders. House Finches, like other finches, will feed on thistle.
12. HOUSE SPARROW
Scientific name: Passer domesticus
Length: 5.9-6.7 in
Weight: 0.9-1.1 oz
Wingspan: 7.5-9.8 in
House Sparrows are the only other kind of wild birds in the United States, and they are commonly seen as pests. Apart from starlings, which may be lawfully trapped and killed humanely. Like starlings, they were first seen in New York in the 1800s and have since exploded across the United States as an invasive species. Their wings and buffy chest are streaked with black and brown, and they are mostly brown in color. With a black mask and chest, male pandas frequently stand out. They’re usually hostile toward other birds, particularly around nests and birdhouses.
During all of Maryland’s seasons, House Sparrows may be found.
House Sparrows, like the European Starling, are invasive and endanger native wildlife. Most kinds of seed will be consumed by them.
13. NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD
Scientific name: Mimus polyglottos
Length: 8.3-10.2 in
Weight: 1.6-2.0 oz
Wingspan: 12.2-13.8 in
The ability to imitate the songs of other bird species gives mockingbirds their name. A male mockingbird is believed to learn up to 200 different songs throughout its lifetime. These medium-sized backyard birds have lengthy tail feathers that help to distinguish them from other species. They’re often found living in tall vegetation and may be quite aggressive with invading birds.
Throughout the year, Northern Mockingbirds can be found in Maryland.
Backyards are home to a lot of Northern Mockingbirds, but bird feeders aren’t their thing. Using fruit-bearing bushes or a bird bath, entice them to your yard with the other suggestions below.
14. COMMON GRACKLE
Scientific name: Quiscalus quiscula
Length: 11.0-13.4 in
Weight: 2.6-5.0 oz
Wingspan: 14.2-18.1 in
Grackles are also quite attractive in the right light with their iridescent feathers, despite being classified as a bully bird like the starling. They’re frequently black in hue, although blue, green, brown, and purple hues may be visible under the right light. They may roost alongside other sorts of blackbirds and form huge swarms with millions of birds. The solid color, lengthy thin body, and yellow ringed eye distinguish them from other animals.
Every year, Grackles can be found in Maryland.
Grackles are considered pests because they are foragers that will consume almost anything.
15. SONG SPARROW
Scientific name: Melospiza melodia
Length: 4.7-6.7 in
Weight: 0.4-1.9 oz
Wingspan: 7.1-9.4 in
The plumage of song Sparrows varies from place to place and may be found across most of North America. These sparrows have a black breast and belly with extensive brown streaks on their chest and wings in the east. Their chest stripes may often merge in a conspicuous brown patch, making them easier to identify. The male of the species sings both to attract females and to safeguard his area.
Song Sparrows may be found all throughout Maryland, but they migrate in large flocks.
Bird feeders attract Song Sparrows, who will occasionally snack on mixed seeds and sunflower seeds.
16. RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER
Scientific name: Melanerpes carolinus
Length: 9.4 in
Weight: 2.0-3.2 oz
Wingspan: 13.0-16.5 in
In the eastern United States, these medium-sized woodpeckers are fairly common at feeders and backyards. The bright red stripe down the back of their heads is the first thing you’ll notice, even though they’re called “red-bellied.” They have a simple white breast with a pinkish-red region at the base of their abdomen that is often not visible. With the white and black barring on their wings, it’s really easy to identify them.
In Maryland, the red-bellied woodpecker can be found year-round.
While they will occasionally eat at seed feeders, especially if you offer mixes containing peanuts, attract Red-bellied Woodpeckers with a suet feeder.
17. DOWNY WOODPECKER
Scientific name: Picoides pubescens
Length: 5.5-6.7 in
Weight: 0.7-1.0 oz
Wingspan: 9.8-11.8 in
Downy’s, a common backyard bird, enjoys visiting bird feeders. They’re one of the earliest species I see on a new bird feeder, and they’re North America’s tiniest woodpeckers. Their white underbodies, black wings with white dots, black and white striped heads, and a red spot on the back of their heads (in males, females have no red) are all easily identifiable. Downy’s are smaller with shorter beaks, despite their resemblance to the Hairy Woodpecker.
Throughout Maryland, the Downy Woodpecker can be found all year.
At most kinds of bird feeders, the Downy Woodpecker is quite abundant. Mixed seed, black sunflower seed, and suet should be offered.
18. CAROLINA WREN
Scientific name: Thryothorus ludovicianus
Length: 4.7-5.5 in
Weight: 0.6-0.8 oz
Wingspan: 11.4 in
The top of these tiny birds is reddish-brown, while the bottom is a lighter orangish color. Their large, somewhat bent beak and prominent white “eyebrow” are excellent identifiers. While their loud “teakettle-teakettle” cry is most likely one you’ll recognize, they prefer to hide amid brush and may be difficult to find.
In backyards, Carolina Wrens are frequently seen visiting suet feeders.
In backyards, Carolina Wrens are frequently seen visiting suet feeders and are rather common.
19. INDIGO BUNTING
Scientific name: Passerina cyanea
Length: 4.7-5.1 in
Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz
Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in
These gorgeous buntings fly up from their wintering grounds in Mexico and southern Florida at night to migrate. Males are blue all over with occasional black on their wings, while females are generally brown with only traces of blue. Feathers reflect light rather than blue pigment, which gives them this coloring. Summers are the best time to hear them, as they sing near the boundaries of fields and forests.
During the spring and summer, Indigo Buntings may be found all throughout Maryland.
They may come if you provide mixed seed and nyjer, although they are not as frequent as feeders.
20. DARK-EYED JUNCO
Scientific name: Junco hyemalis
Length: 5.5-6.3 in
Weight: 0.6-1.1 oz
Wingspan: 7.1-9.8 in
Because they spend their summers in Canada, juncos are often referred to as winter birds in the United States. Colorations vary across the United States and they have a variety of colors. Eastern United States The slate-colored variety is widespread.
The head, torso, back, wings, and tail are all dark gray. They have a white belly all the way down to the end of their tail. Femen may have a buffy brown color instead of the gray color of males. The pale pink beak and rounded body form of junco are two important traits to look for when identifying them. They can frequently be seen hopping around on the ground in forests and wooded areas.
The Appalachian Mountains are home to year-round dark-eyed Juncos, but during the winter months, they will migrate into Maryland.
Juncos prefer to eat seed on the ground beneath your feeders, rather than visit feeders. Mixed seeds are a delicacy for them.
21. RED-EYED VIREO
Scientific name: Vireo olivaceus
Length: 4.7 – 5.1 in
Weight: 0.4 – 0.9 oz
Wingspan: 9.1 – 9.8 in
One of the most common eastern US birds is the red-eyed vireo. Summer birds are a group of birds that occur in pairs. They go to the United States after spending summers in South America. During the breeding season, they are Their olive-colored backs and tails, as well as their lighter breast and belly, are fading. They have a white eyebrow and a black hat with a black streak through it. Although it may be difficult to view and their eye appears black in the shadows, these have a red eye-ring, as the name implies.
They aren’t often seen unless you are actively looking, despite how common they are. Since they seldom descend from the trees, this is the case. Watch the trees in your yard for signs of squirrels. I’ve frequently noticed something wandering about high up near the summit, and when I grab the binoculars, I can plainly see it’s the Red-eye Vireo. In addition, listen for their song and calls, which you’ll probably start to hear all throughout the summer since these vireos are recognized for “chatting” all day.
Throughout Maryland’s spring and summer, you may find red-eyed Vireos.
Throughout the summer, red-eyed Vireos primarily eat insects and do not visit bird feeders. Native deciduous trees and insect-friendly groundcover, on the other hand, may entice them to your yard.
22. RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD
Scientific name: Archilochus colubris
Length: 2.8-3.5 in
Weight: 0.1-0.2 oz
Wingspan: 3.1-4.3 in
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the most common species of hummingbird in the United States, despite being only found in the eastern part. In addition, they are the only hummingbird species indigenous to the Eastern United States. Males have a vivid ruby-red neck, and thus they are called Ruby-throated males. Emerald-green on the back, wings, and head, with white underparts, are Ruby-throated Hummers. The red throat feathers are not present in females.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the most common hummingbirds in Maryland, and you may encounter a few uncommon wandering species on occasion. From spring to fall, they can be found all over the state.
If you put out nectar feeders in your yard, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are very likely to visit. In most cases, this should be done in April or May.
23. WHITE-THROATED SPARROW
Scientific name: Zonotrichia albicollis
Length: 6.3-7.1 in
Weight: 0.8-1.1 oz
Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 in
Across most of the United States, white-throated sparrows are plentiful. They migrate to Canada in the summer to breed during the winter. Together with their bold facial pattern of black and white stripe with yellow spots between the eyes, their white throat patch makes them easier to identify among sparrows. Females prefer to nest in secluded places of thick grass and shrubs, where they may be found nesting on or just above the ground.
Maryland is home to the white-throated sparrow. Some may stay throughout the year, but during the winter months, you’ll notice the population growing.
Feeders are visited by white-throated sparrows, who like to collect fallen seed. Sunflower, millet, and mixed seed blends are available.
24. BALTIMORE ORIOLE
Scientific name: Icterus galbula
Length: 6.7-7.5 in
Weight: 1.1-1.4 oz
Wingspan: 9.1-11.8 in
Fruit-eating birds, the Orioles prefer black berries and fruits. You have a good chance of attracting Baltimore Orioles if your yard contains native fruit-bearing trees and plants. Males have black backs with white stripes on their wings, as well as brilliant orange on their breasts and underbodies. They have a dark hood over their entire head.
The rump and tail feathers are also orange in color. The color of a female can differ significantly. They can appear as a duller yellow-orange with gray wings or as a lighter orange with brown on their head and wings. The males’ super bright orange and deep glossy black are missing from either option.
Only during the breeding season in most of the country, including Maryland, do Baltimore Orioles appear as migratory birds. So, between the months of April and August, keep an eye out for them.
When the Orioles are in town, offer them jelly and orange halves to attract them with an oriole feeder.
25. NORTHERN FLICKER
Scientific name: Colaptes auratus
Length: 11.0-12.2 in
Weight: 3.9-5.6 oz
Wingspan: 16.5-20.1 in
In backyards across the United States, these medium to big-sized woodpeckers are quite common, but they are not particularly frequent at feeders. They’re also, in my opinion, one of North America’s most stunning birds. Flickers prefer to hunt insects on the ground rather than in the trees, unlike other woodpeckers. The black spots on their bellies, solid black bib, red patch on the back of their necks, and barred black and gray wings will help you identify them. A black mustache appears on both sexes. You may get the yellow-shafted variety in Maryland, which has brilliant yellow feathers on the underside of its wings and tail.
Throughout Maryland, Northern Flickers may be seen any time of year.
While other woodpecker species may visit feeders more often, Northern Flickers will visit suet feeders as well. You may observe them digging around for insects if you have some leaf piles in the yard.
26. GRAY CATBIRD
Scientific name: Dumetella carolinensis
Length: 8.3-9.4 in
Weight: 0.8-2.0 oz
Wingspan: 8.7-11.8 in
The color of catbirds ranges from dark slate gray all over their body, a black headdress, and a long tail. A rusty red patch near their hindquarters is frequently unseen and can be found just below their tails. Native fruit-bearing trees and bushes should be used to attract catbirds. Their cries, which sound like a meowing cat, gave them the moniker catbird.
Gray Catbirds are only seen throughout the summer in most regions of the country, but they may be seen throughout the year in specific parts of Maryland.
If you provide some fruits, berries, and other sweet items, you may be able to attract catbirds, however they prefer to forage on the ground or in shrubs for food.
HOW TO ATTRACT BIRDS TO YOUR YARD
Want to attract a few of these birds to your property? Starting with the most obvious, take a look at these five simple tips.
1. PUT OUT BIRD FEEDERS
A bird feeder or two is the best and simplest way to attract birds to your yard. A tube feeder, hopper feeder, platform feeder, or window feeder are all options to get started. For further information, see the sections below.
2. ADD A WATER SOURCE
You can use something as simple as a terra cotta flower pot saucer, like this one, instead of a pedestal birdbath like the one on Amazon. Birds need water not just for bathing but for drinking as well, and adding a water feature to your property will only enhance your chances of attracting birds. Also, since moving water attracts more birds to visit the pond, consider installing a solar fountain.
3. OFFER BIRDHOUSES
If put out in the proper location and at the proper time of year, several bird species will readily take up residence in birdhouses. Among the most common birds sought after by bird enthusiasts is the Eastern Bluebird. A mating pair of bluebirds were checking out my birdhouse the same day I put it in, which is why I have it in my yard.
4. PROVIDE SHELTER
Make sure there are trees, bushes, and shrubs in your yard that the birds can retreat to when they sense danger. Predators are the animals that they fear the most. If your yard is in a new development with no mature trees, try to include some landscaping elements that will make it safe for birds to enjoy your yard.
5. ADD NATIVE PLANTS
Having native plants that produce nuts, berries, and seeds will help your efforts to attract more birds for many birds that eat them. Moreover, since most songbirds feed insects to their hatchlings, native plants support caterpillars and other insects that feed many birds and help support nesting birds. Invasive and non-native plants that outcompete native species can harm the ecosystem. Try to avoid them.
10 DIFFERENT TYPES OF BIRD FEEDERS
In the yards of many homeowners, these are the most typical bird feeders.
- The term “hopper feeder” refers to a type of feeder with a hopper in the middle that stores bird seed. Perches for birds to land on and eat from are located along the sides. To keep the seed dry, many hopper feeders are shaped like a house and covered on top. For this kind of feeder, use black sunflower seeds or a mix of birdseed. Here’s a squirrel-proof hopper feeder that I love.
- Platform feeders are open on top and may be hung from a tree or hook, pole-mounted, or placed on a platform. They’re sometimes referred to as tray feeders. They are simple to set up and are ideal for feeding a variety of birds. Because they are so open, any creature in your yard that can reach them will consume from them. For this sort of feeder, use black sunflower seeds or a combination of birdseed. In my garden, I’m currently using this platform feeder.
- Tube feeders are simply clear plastic tube-shaped bird feeders that are used to dispense food. They may vary in size, from a few cups to 5 pounds or more. They’re fantastic since they preserve your seed fresh while dry, while at the same time making it simple to refill when necessary. Tube feeders are used by many kinds of birds. In tube feeders, you can use both black sunflower seeds and mixed seeds. This squirrel-resistant tube feeder is made by Squirrel Buster, and it’s among the best on the market.
- Suet feeders, also known as suet cake feeders, are designed for one kind of bird food: suet cakes. They are a extremely basic idea, commonly consisting of just a metal wire cage with a tail-prop for bigger birds. Suet feeders are often visited by woodpeckers throughout the winter since birds are seeking for high-fat foods. I encourage you to attract larger woodpeckers, such as the Pileated and Northern Flicker, with a suet feeder with a long tail prop.
- Window feeders are tiny bird feeders that use suction cups to mount right onto a glass window. Tray feeders are open on top, and you simply dump seed into the tray compartment to refill them. They’re comparable to tray feeders in this regard. Many different kinds of birds like these feeders, they are simple to set up, and they are perfect for folks with small yards. For this kind of feeder, use sunflower seeds or a combination of birdseed. Amazon’s most popular window feeder and, maybe, overall bird feeder.
- Thistle feeders, also known as Nyjer feeders, are specialised bird feeders designed especially for thistle seed. Birds in the finch family, which includes the American Goldfinch and House Finch, are among the main types of birds that thistle feeders attract. The holes along the sides of thistle feeders are usually tiny, and the birds can pick out the thistle by eating from them. From Droll Yankees, here’s a great thistle feeder.
- Tray feeders that sit on the ground level are known as ground feeders. Birds like Mourning Doves and Juncos, as well as squirrels, raccoons, and other kinds of ground animals, will find them very appealing. For this type of feeder, use black sunflower seeds or a combination of birdseed. This recycled plastic ground feeder may appeal to you.
- Another kind of specialty feeder for just one sort of bird, orioles, is the oriole feeder. The feeder is typically orange in hue and contains little plastic or glass compartments for jelly, which orioles adore. They also allow you to feed orioles other foods that they enjoy, such as orange halves. Here’s a four-jelly-tray oriole feeder that can hold orange halves.
- Hummingbird feeders are specialized for extracting sugar water from nectar, also known as hummingbird feeders. I frequently see Downy Woodpeckers at mine, even though they’re meant for hummingbirds, and they love that sweet nectar as much as I do. Hummingbird nectar can be made without boiling the water, as shown in this article. There is no need to spend a lot of money on a hummingbird feeder since they are basic and cost-effective.
- Peanut feeders are tube-shaped, and typically made of metal wire mesh material. They’re similar to thistle feeders in that they’re tube-shaped. To enable for whole unshelled or shelled peanuts to transit via the apertures in the wire mesh, the apertures are placed significantly farther apart. These should be filled with peanuts and attract birds like Blue Jays. This one from Squirrel Buster is the best way to keep squirrels out of your peanut feeder. This basic one will have to suffice.
BIRD WATCHING IN MARYLAND
If you want to go take your passion outside of your own yard, Maryland is a fantastic state for birding. If you want to get more engaged, check out the Audubon Mid-Atlantic, Audubon Society of Central Maryland, and Southern Maryland Audubon Society. They hold meetups, workshops, field excursions, and birding trips on a regular basis.
Take a look at this list I’ve put together of popular birding sites in Maryland if you’re a Maryland resident who’d like to add some new species to your life list.
MARYLAND BIRDING LOCATIONS
- Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary
- Sandy Point State Park
- Assateague Island National Seashore
- Point Lookout State Park
- Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge
- Hart-Miller Island
Audubon’s Maryland Important Bird Areas can help you find even more hotspots.