Ever pondered about the avian visitors gracing your Ontario backyard? Fear not, for this comprehensive handbook shall enlighten you on the art of identifying these delightful creatures through visual and auditory cues, as well as reveal the opportune seasons for spotting them in Ontario. As an added bonus, obtain a complimentary identification chart, replete with illustrations showcasing the prevalent backyard birds native to Ontario.
Throughout the summer months in Ontario, one may frequently encounter the presence of American Robins, Song Sparrows, and Red-winged Blackbirds. Conversely, during the winter season, Dark-eyed Juncos and Downy Woodpeckers take precedence as the more common avian inhabitants of Ontario. For further elucidation on this matter, refer to the conclusion of this narrative.
Year-round denizens of Ontario’s backyards include the Black-capped Chickadee, American Crow, Blue Jay, American Goldfinch, Mourning Dove, Northern Cardinal, European Starling, Downy Woodpecker, White-breasted Nuthatch, House Sparrow, Hairy Woodpecker, Red-breasted Nuthatch, House Finch, and Red-bellied Woodpecker. As summer graces the land, additional feathered guests such as the American Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, Song Sparrow, Common Grackle, Chipping Sparrow, Cedar Waxwing, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Dark-eyed Junco, Barn Swallow, Northern Flicker, Tree Swallow, Eastern Kingbird, Gray Catbird, Baltimore Oriole, White-throated Sparrow, and Yellow-rumped Warbler make their grand appearance in Ontario’s backyards.
These aforementioned species represent the most frequently observed backyard birds in Ontario, often noted by vigilant bird enthusiasts who dutifully record their findings on ebird checklists.
Within this enlightening composition, you shall discover invaluable insights, complete with identification particulars and captivating photographs, enabling you to discern and allure a greater number of these familiar backyard birds that grace the Ontario region.
Avifauna of Ontario
The revered title of Ontario’s provincial bird belongs to the magnificent Common Loon, a water-dwelling species gracing the lakes and rivers of the province since its selection in 1994.
A plethora of avian diversity awaits in Ontario, boasting a staggering count of 500 recorded bird species, as meticulously documented by ebird. Among the notable avian inhabitants, one can find the majestic Turkey Vulture, the regal Double-crested Cormorant, the graceful Great Blue Heron, the melodious Cedar Waxwing, the vibrant Baltimore Oriole, the captivating Belted Kingfisher, the striking Rose-breasted Grosbeak, the iridescent Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the powerful Pileated Woodpecker, the commanding Bald Eagle, the elusive Wild Turkey, the magnificent Osprey, the charming Indigo Bunting, the agile Northern Harrier, the cheerful Palm Warbler, the flamboyant Scarlet Tanagers, the elegant Sandhill Crane, the elusive Green Heron, the soaring Rough-legged Hawk, and the enigmatic Snowy Owls.
Taking flight with awe-inspiring wingspans, the Bald Eagle reigns supreme as the grandest bird in Ontario, with females boasting a remarkable span of up to 8 feet (2.5 m). This resplendent raptor, donning a white-feathered head, commands admiration as the largest avian inhabitant of Ontario.
In contrast, the diminutive Calliope Hummingbird claims the title of the smallest bird in Ontario, measuring a mere 3 inches in length. Despite their small stature, these dainty creatures embark on remarkable journeys, spanning vast distances from Canada to the southern reaches of Mexico.
Reigning over the realm of ubiquity, the Black-capped Chickadee emerges as the most prevalent avian denizen of Ontario. Its charismatic presence graces an astounding 45% of recorded checklists on ebird throughout the year, earning it the well-deserved distinction of Ontario’s most common bird.
For those eager to witness avian splendor within their natural habitats, Ontario beckons with its 6 National Parks, 10 National Wildlife areas, and 9 Migratory Bird Sanctuaries. Embark on these sanctuaries of tranquility, offering unparalleled opportunities to partake in the wondrous spectacle of avian observation.
1. Black-capped Chickadee
Throughout the year, the charming Black-capped Chickadees grace Ontario with their presence. While their abundance is higher in winter due to the scarcity of other birds, they remain non-migratory, making appearances in 37% of summer checklists and 54% of winter checklists.
Sporting a delightful round head atop their tiny bodies, these avian darlings take pleasure in feasting at backyard feeders and exhibit a curious nature, investigating everything in sight, including friendly humans like yourself!
With their black caps and beaks, white cheeks, and gray plumage adorning their backs, wings, and tails, these delightful birds bring joy to any observer.
Scientific Name: Poecile atricapillus
Length: 4.7-5.9 in (12-15 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (9-14 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-8.3 in (16-21 cm)
The Black-capped Chickadees, known for their year-round residency, can also be spotted in the northern half of the United States and Canada.
Forests, open woods, and parks serve as the favored habitats for these delightful birds. Their diet consists of seeds, berries, insects, spiders, and suet.
When it comes to attracting Black-capped Chickadees to your backyard, the secret lies in providing suet, sunflower seeds, peanuts, or peanut butter. These friendly creatures may even grace you with their presence on your hand, and they exhibit a fondness for nest boxes filled with wood shavings.
2. American Robin
Ontario witnesses the arrival of the American Robins during their breeding season, and they make appearances in 63% of summer checklists. While they are primarily spotted from March to October, a portion of the population stays in the province year-round, featuring in 9% of winter checklists.
The American Robin, a familiar sight, graces lawns, diligently feasting on earthworms. With their black heads and backs complemented by red or orange breasts, they tend to roost in trees during winter, making spring the ideal season to spot them in your backyard.
Scientific Name: Turdus migratorius
Length: 7.9-11.0 in (20-28 cm)
Weight: 2.7-3.0 oz (77-85 g)
Wingspan: 12.2-15.8 in (31-40 cm)
American Robins are residents of the lower 48 states, the coast of Western Canada, and Alaska. Canadian and inland Alaskan breeders embark on southern migrations for the winter season.
These delightful birds thrive in various habitats, ranging from woodlands, forests, and mountains to fields, parks, and lawns. Their diet includes earthworms, insects, snails, and fruit.
To attract American Robins to your backyard, provide a feast of sunflower seeds, suet, peanut hearts, fruit, and mealworms. Opt for platform feeders or scatter food on the ground, and consider planting native berry-producing plants such as juniper, sumac, hawthorn, and dogwood.
3. American Crow
During the breeding season, American Crows are frequently sighted in Ontario, with some individuals remaining in the southern region of the province throughout the year. They feature in 38% of summer checklists and 32% of winter checklists provided by dedicated bird watchers.
American Crows, known for their glossy black plumage, make their presence known through their distinct hoarse cawing calls.
Scientific Name: Corvus brachyrhynchos
Length: 15.8-20.9 in (40-53 cm)
Weight: 11.2-21.9 oz (316-620 g)
Wingspan: 33.5-39.4 in (85-100 cm)
These intelligent birds are year-round residents in most parts of the lower 48 states, as well as the Pacific Coast of Canada and Alaska. Canadian and northern Midwestern breeders undertake migratory journeys to southern destinations during winter.
American Crows thrive in diverse habitats, whether it be treetops, woods, fields, beaches, or towns. They possess an eclectic palate and feed on various food sources, including earthworms, insects, seeds, fruit, fish, young turtles, mussels, clams, eggs, and nestlings of different bird species.
In winter, American Crows exhibit communal behavior, gathering in large roosts of up to two million individuals to sleep, creating quite a raucous scene.
To attract American Crows to your backyard, scattering peanuts can prove enticing, although caution must be exercised to prevent them from becoming a nuisance by being attracted to garbage or pet food left outdoors.
4. Blue Jay
Blue Jays, enchanting avian creatures, can be found in Ontario throughout the year, primarily in the southern region. They appear in 38% of summer checklists and 32% of winter checklists.
These striking birds, boasting a blue upright crest, blue and black backs, and white undersides, add vibrancy to any environment.
Scientific Name: Cyanocitta cristata
Length: 9.8-11.8 in (25-30 cm)
Weight: 2.5-3.5 oz (70-100 g)
Wingspan: 13.4-16.9 in (34-43 cm)
Blue Jays inhabit eastern states of the United States and southern regions of Canada year-round. While some individuals migrate west for winter, such instances are relatively infrequent.
These vocal birds are often found in forests, particularly those with oak trees, as they relish acorns. They are also known to frequent backyards near feeders. Alongside acorns, their diet comprises insects, nuts, seeds, grain, and occasionally, eggs and nestlings of other bird species.
To attract Blue Jays to your backyard, offer a generous supply of peanuts, sunflower seeds, and suet. Platform or tray feeders are preferred to allow for a swift departure. Providing a birdbath also adds to their enjoyment.
5. American Goldfinch
Southern Ontario welcomes the year-round presence of American Goldfinches, with their numbers peaking during the breeding season. They appear in 44% of summer checklists and 27% of winter checklists compiled by passionate bird watchers.
American Goldfinches, with their vibrant yellow plumage during spring, are a sight to behold. Males showcase a striking black and yellow coloration, while females sport a more subdued brown hue.
Scientific Name: Spinus tristis
Length: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.7 oz (11-20 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
These cheerful birds can be found across most of North America, often remaining resident throughout the year. However, those breeding in Canada and the Midwest migrate south to the southern states during winter.
American Goldfinches frequent weedy fields, overgrown areas, suburbs, parks, and backyards in search of sunflower, thistle, and aster plants. They are particularly fond of seeds but also feed on insects.
To attract American Goldfinches to your backyard, planting thistles and milkweed
serves as an excellent enticement. They readily visit various bird feeders, with a preference for sunflower seeds and nyjer seed.
Ontario boasts an abundance of finches, providing ample opportunities to acquaint oneself with these delightful avian species.
6. Mourning Dove
Mourning Doves grace Ontario with their presence throughout the year, although they are most common during the breeding season. They feature in 36% of summer checklists and 27% of winter checklists.
These graceful birds possess small heads, plump bodies, and long tails. Their soft brown coloration is adorned with black wing spots. Males tend to be slightly heavier than females.
Scientific Name: Zenaida macroura
Length: 9.1-13.4 in (23-34 cm)
Weight: 3.0-6.0 oz (96-170 g)
Wingspan: 17.7 in (45 cm)
Mourning Doves can be found perching on telephone wires and foraging for seeds on the ground in grasslands, fields, and backyards. They are also spotted in open areas and woodland edges.
Mourning Doves are year-round residents throughout the lower 48 states, but after breeding, individuals from the northern Midwest and Canada embark on migratory journeys south for the winter.
Their diet consists primarily of seeds, with a preference for millet, black sunflower seeds, nyjer, cracked corn, and peanut hearts. To attract these peaceful birds, scattering millet on the ground or providing platform feeders proves effective.
7. Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal, a beloved symbol of beauty and splendor, graces Ontario with its presence throughout the year. They do not migrate and feature in 35% of summer checklists and 32% of winter checklists.
The striking red plumage of the male Northern Cardinal, accentuated by black accents around the face and a vivid crest, stands out remarkably, particularly against a wintry backdrop. Females possess their charm with brown coloring, a sharp brown crest, and red highlights.
Scientific Name: Cardinalis cardinalis
Length: 8.3-9.1 in (21-23 cm)
Weight: 1.5-1.7 oz (42-48 g)
Wingspan: 9.8-12.2 in (25-31 cm)
Northern Cardinals are year-round residents in the eastern half of the United States, with their range extending to select southern states as far west as Arizona.
These delightful birds frequent dense vegetation, foraging for seeds, fruit, and insects. During the breeding season, males may exhibit aggressive behavior, attacking their own reflection or defending their territories with unwavering dedication.
To attract Northern Cardinals to your backyard, offer a feast of sunflower seeds, peanut hearts, millet, and milo on large tube feeders, hoppers, platform feeders, or scattered on the ground.
Ontario boasts a delightful array of red-hued avian species awaiting discovery.
8. Red-winged Blackbird
During the breeding season, Red-winged Blackbirds make frequent appearances in Ontario, featuring in 54% of summer checklists submitted by avid bird watchers. While many migrate south for winter, a few resilient individuals remain in the province throughout the year, appearing in 1% of winter checklists.
Red-winged Blackbirds are charismatic, common birds boasting black plumage adorned with distinctive reddish-orange wing patches. Females exhibit a more subdued appearance with streaky brown coloring.
Scientific Name: Agelaius phoeniceus
Length: 6.7-9.1 in (17-23 cm)
Weight: 1.1-2.7 oz (32-77g)
Wingspan: 12.2-15.8 in (31-40 cm)
These lively birds can be found in wetlands, marshes, and grassy areas, making their presence known through their melodic songs and distinct “konk-la-ree” calls. They are known to form large colonies, creating a symphony of sound.
Red-winged Blackbirds breed across most of North America and exhibit migratory behavior. They are among the earliest migrants to return in spring.
Their diet consists of seeds, insects, spiders, snails, and occasionally, small fish and frogs.
To attract Red-winged Blackbirds to your backyard, provide a variety of seeds, suet, and cracked corn. Additionally, including plantings such as cattails, grasses, and shrubs will appeal to their habitat preferences.
These charismatic birds will add a touch of flair to your birdwatching experiences.
Please note that the presence and frequency of bird species in a specific area can vary based on local conditions, habitat availability, and seasonal changes. The information provided is based on general trends and observations, but individual sightings may vary.
Certainly! Here are four more bird species that you can spot in Ontario:
9. American Robin
The American Robin is a familiar and beloved bird throughout North America, including Ontario. It is a common sight in both urban and rural areas, featuring in 50% of summer checklists and 61% of winter checklists.
With its distinctive orange-red breast, gray-brown upperparts, and white eye-ring, the American Robin is easily recognizable. They are medium-sized birds with a slender build.
Scientific Name: Turdus migratorius
Length: 9.0-11.0 in (23-28 cm)
Weight: 2.7-3.0 oz (77-85 g)
Wingspan: 12.2-16.1 in (31-41 cm)
American Robins are known for their melodious songs, which are often heard at dawn and during the breeding season. They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of food, including insects, earthworms, berries, and fruits.
To attract American Robins to your yard, provide a birdbath or shallow water source, as they enjoy bathing. You can also offer mealworms, raisins, chopped fruits, and suet.
10. Song Sparrow
The Song Sparrow is a small, delightful bird that frequents Ontario throughout the year. It appears in 52% of summer checklists and 32% of winter checklists.
These sparrows are known for their melodious songs, which consist of a varied and musical series of notes. They have brown streaked plumage with a distinct dark spot on the center of their breast.
Scientific Name: Melospiza melodia
Length: 4.7-6.7 in (12-17 cm)
Weight: 0.4-1.1 oz (11-31 g)
Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 in (20-23 cm)
Song Sparrows can be found in a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, shrubs, woodlands, and wetlands. They feed on seeds, insects, and berries.
To attract Song Sparrows, provide a mix of seeds, such as millet, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn, in ground feeders or hopper feeders placed near shrubby areas.
11. Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a small, vibrant bird that migrates to Ontario during the breeding season. It appears in 40% of summer checklists.
Male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are known for their iridescent green plumage and vibrant red throat patch. Females have green upperparts and a white belly.
Scientific Name: Archilochus colubris
Length: 2.8-3.5 in (7-9 cm)
Weight: 0.1-0.2 oz (2.5-6 g)
Wingspan: 3.1-4.3 in (8-11 cm)
These tiny birds have a unique flying style, hovering in mid-air and rapidly beating their wings. They primarily feed on nectar from flowers but also consume insects.
To attract Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, provide a hummingbird feeder filled with a sugar-water solution (four parts water to one part sugar) and hang it in a visible spot. Planting nectar-rich flowers such as bee balm, trumpet vine, and cardinal flower can also attract them.
12. American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch is a small, colorful bird that is common in Ontario during the summer months. It appears in 72% of summer checklists but is less frequent in winter.
Male American Gold finches are bright yellow with black wings and a black cap, while females have a more muted yellow-green color. They have a bouncy flight pattern and a distinctive, sweet, and warbling song.
Scientific Name: Spinus tristis
Length: 4.3-5.5 in (11-14 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.7 oz (11-20 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 in (19-22 cm)
American Goldfinches primarily feed on seeds, especially those from thistle plants. They are often seen perched on seedheads or feeding at bird feeders.
To attract American Goldfinches, provide nyjer (thistle) seed in a tube feeder or mesh sock feeder. They are also attracted to birdbaths for bathing and drinking.
These four bird species, along with the previously mentioned species, add diversity and beauty to Ontario’s birdlife. Enjoy observing and attracting these fascinating avian visitors to your surroundings!
Certainly! Here are four more bird species that you can spot in Ontario:
13. Red-winged Blackbird
The Red-winged Blackbird is a common bird found throughout Ontario. The male has a distinctive black body with red and yellow shoulder patches, while the female has a streaked brown appearance.
Scientific Name: Agelaius phoeniceus
Length: 7.1-9.1 in (18-23 cm)
Weight: 1.1-2.7 oz (31-77 g)
Wingspan: 12.2-15.8 in (31-40 cm)
Red-winged Blackbirds are often found near wetlands, marshes, and open fields. They have a loud and melodious song that is a familiar sound in these habitats.
To attract Red-winged Blackbirds, provide a mix of seeds, grains, and insects in ground feeders or platform feeders placed near water sources or open areas.
14. Great Blue Heron
The Great Blue Heron is a majestic wading bird commonly seen in Ontario near bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and wetlands. It is the largest heron in North America.
Scientific Name: Ardea herodias
Length: 38-54 in (97-137 cm)
Weight: 4.6-8.2 lbs (2.1-3.7 kg)
Wingspan: 66-79 in (168-201 cm)
Great Blue Herons have a gray-blue plumage, a long neck, and a sharp, pointed beak. They patiently stand or wade in shallow water, waiting to catch fish, frogs, and other small aquatic creatures.
To attract Great Blue Herons, create a welcoming habitat near water with fish ponds or natural wetlands. They may visit your area if suitable feeding grounds are available.
15. Eastern Bluebird
The Eastern Bluebird is a small and charming bird that can be found in open fields, meadows, and rural areas of Ontario. It is known for its beautiful blue plumage and rusty red breast.
Scientific Name: Sialia sialis
Length: 6.3-8.3 in (16-21 cm)
Weight: 0.9-1.1 oz (25-30 g)
Wingspan: 9.8-12.2 in (25-31 cm)
Eastern Bluebirds feed primarily on insects and small fruits. They are cavity nesters, often using old woodpecker holes or nesting boxes.
To attract Eastern Bluebirds, provide nesting boxes specifically designed for them. Offer mealworms, suet, and a water source to encourage their presence.
16. Northern Flicker
The Northern Flicker, also known as the Yellow-shafted Flicker, is a large woodpecker commonly found in Ontario. It has a brown body with black bars, a spotted underbelly, and a distinctive white rump patch.
Scientific Name: Colaptes auratus
Length: 11.0-12.2 in (28-31 cm)
Weight: 3.9-5.6 oz (110-160 g)
Wingspan: 17.1-20.1 in (43-51 cm)
Northern Flickers have a unique feeding habit of foraging for ants on the ground using their long, slightly curved beak. They also feed on insects, fruits, and seeds.
To attract Northern Flickers, provide suet feeders, as they are known to visit suet offerings. Dead trees or snag trees can also serve as natural nesting sites for them.
These additional bird species contribute to the rich bird diversity in Ontario. Happy birding and enjoy observing
these fascinating creatures in your area!
Certainly! Here are four more bird species that you can spot in Ontario:
17. Belted Kingfisher
The Belted Kingfisher is a distinctive bird known for its rattling call and its habit of diving into water to catch fish. It can be found near rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water in Ontario.
Scientific Name: Megaceryle alcyon
Length: 11-14 in (28-36 cm)
Weight: 4.9-6.0 oz (140-170 g)
Wingspan: 18-22 in (46-56 cm)
Belted Kingfishers have a blue-gray plumage, a shaggy crest on their head, and a white collar around their necks. They have a specialized bill for catching fish underwater.
To attract Belted Kingfishers, create a suitable habitat near water with perches such as dead trees or branches that overlook the water. Providing a fish-friendly environment may entice them to visit.
18. Ruby-throated Hummingbird
The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a small, vibrant bird known for its rapid wing beats and its ability to hover in mid-air. It is the only species of hummingbird that breeds in eastern North America, including Ontario.
Scientific Name: Archilochus colubris
Length: 2.8-3.5 in (7-9 cm)
Weight: 0.1-0.2 oz (2.5-6 g)
Wingspan: 3.1-4.3 in (8-11 cm)
Male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have a brilliant iridescent green plumage with a ruby-red throat patch. Females have a green back and a white underside.
To attract Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, provide a hummingbird feeder filled with a sugar-water solution. Planting nectar-rich flowers such as bee balm, trumpet vine, and salvias can also attract them.
19. Eastern Towhee
The Eastern Towhee is a medium-sized songbird that can be found in shrubby areas, woodlands, and forest edges across Ontario. It is known for its distinctive “drink-your-tea” song.
Scientific Name: Pipilo erythrophthalmus
Length: 6.8-8.2 in (17-21 cm)
Weight: 1.1-1.8 oz (31-51 g)
Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 in (20-23 cm)
Male Eastern Towhees have a black head, back, and tail, with rufous sides and a white belly. Females have a similar pattern but with a brown head instead of black.
Eastern Towhees forage on the ground, scratching through leaf litter in search of insects, seeds, and berries.
To attract Eastern Towhees, provide dense shrubbery and undergrowth in your yard. They may also visit platform feeders with seeds and suet.
20. American Kestrel
The American Kestrel, also known as the Sparrow Hawk, is a small falcon species that can be found in open habitats such as fields, meadows, and agricultural areas in Ontario.
Scientific Name: Falco sparverius
Length: 8.7-12.2 in (22-31 cm)
Weight: 2.8-5.8 oz (80-165 g)
Wingspan: 20.1-24.0 in (51-61 cm)
Male American Kestrels have a rusty orange back and tail, a slate blue-gray head, and black vertical stripes on their faces. Females have a brown back with dark barring.
American Kestrels hunt from perches, hovering in mid-air, or making swift dives to catch small mammals, insects, and birds.
To attract American Kestrels, provide perches such as tall trees or posts that overlook open areas. Nest boxes placed in suitable habitats may also encourage them to breed in your vicinity.
Enjoy observing these diverse bird species in Ontario and appreciate the beauty and diversity of avian life around you!