Top 31 Backyard Birds in Quebec (Free ID Chart)

Curious about those avian creatures frequenting your Quebec backyard? Ever wondered what species they belong to?

Fear not, for this comprehensive handbook shall serve as your beacon, enlightening you on how to visually and aurally identify these feathered denizens, as well as revealing the opportune seasons to catch a glimpse of them in Quebec. Furthermore, you shall receive a complimentary printable identification chart showcasing the most prevalent backyard birds in Quebec.

Throughout the summertime in Quebec, one can commonly encounter the American Robins, Cedar Waxwings, and Common Yellowthroats gracing the skies. As winter blankets the land, the Blue Jays, Downy Woodpeckers, and Hairy Woodpeckers take their turn as the prevailing avifauna.

Year-round residents of Quebec’s backyards encompass an assemblage of American Crows, Black-capped Chickadees, American Goldfinches, Blue Jays, Downy Woodpeckers, European Starlings, Hairy Woodpeckers, Mourning Doves, White-breasted Nuthatches, Northern Cardinals, House Sparrows, Red-breasted Nuthatches.

When the summer arrives, a different cast of characters takes center stage in Quebec’s backyard theaters: American Robins, Song Sparrows, Red-winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles, Cedar Waxwings, White-throated Sparrows, Common Yellowthroats, Dark-eyed Juncos, Tree Swallows, Chipping Sparrows, Yellow Warblers, Northern Flickers, Eastern Kingbirds, Purple Finches, Magnolia Warblers, Chestnut-sided Warblers, Gray Catbirds, and Yellow-rumped Warblers.

During the migratory seasons, keep an eye out for the elusive Pine Siskin.

These are the quintessential backyard birds of Quebec, which may grace your lawn or bird feeders. Their presence has been dutifully recorded and reported by avid birdwatchers on the esteemed platform known as ebird.

Delve into this article’s depths to acquire the knowledge, complete with identification information and captivating photographs, that will enable you to distinguish and attract an even greater variety of these common backyard birds found within the borders of Quebec.

Bird Facts Pertaining to Quebec

Bestowed with the honor of being Quebec’s provincial bird, the majestic Snowy Owl emerged triumphant in 1987, standing as an emblem of wildlife preservation. Remarkably, this diurnal creature primarily sustains itself on a diet of lemmings and is not bound by the constraints of nocturnal life.

According to the reliable records of ebird, Quebec boasts a staggering 460 bird species. Among the remarkable avian population gracing Quebec’s skies, notable mentions include the Great Blue Heron, Double-Crested Cormorant, Cedar Waxwing, Turkey Vulture, Belted Kingfisher, Pileated Woodpecker, Snow Goose, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Baltimore Oriole, Osprey, Rough-legged Hawks, and Snowy Owls.

Claiming the title of Quebec’s grandest avian resident, the Bald Eagle commands attention with its impressive wingspan that can reach up to 8 feet (2.5 m) for the female of the species. This regal raptor, distinguished by its white-feathered crown, rightfully reigns as the largest bird to grace Quebec’s skies.

Dominating the avian census in Quebec, the American Crow stands tall as the most prevalent species, featuring in a remarkable 56% of recorded checklists submitted to ebird throughout the year.

For the avid bird enthusiast seeking to immerse oneself in nature’s spectacle, Quebec provides a wealth of opportunities. With its 4 National Parks, 70 Ecological Reserves,

4 Biodiversity Reserves, 8 National Wildlife areas, and 28 Migratory Bird Sanctuaries, Quebec serves as an idyllic haven for observing these winged marvels in their unadulterated natural habitats.

Quebec Backyard Birds: An Exploration

Ever pondered about the avian inhabitants gracing your Quebec backyard? Those feathered visitors who enchant you with their melodious songs and vibrant plumage? Delve into the depths of this compendium, where we unveil the top 31 backyard birds native to Quebec.

1. The Enigmatic American Crow

Within the borders of Quebec, American Crows are a common sight, particularly during the breeding season. Their ebony feathers glisten under the sun, as they emit their distinctive hoarse cawing calls. Spanning 15.8 to 20.9 inches in length and weighing between 11.2 and 21.9 ounces, these impressive birds traverse the skies with a wingspan of 33.5 to 39.4 inches. While some American Crows are year-round residents, others embark on migratory journeys to warmer regions.

These intelligent creatures thrive in diverse habitats, be it lush woodlands, verdant fields, or bustling urban areas. Their adaptable diet ranges from earthworms and insects to seeds, fruit, and even the eggs and nestlings of other birds. To witness the awe-inspiring sight of communal roosting, keep an eye out for the massive gatherings of up to two million American Crows during winter.

To invite these avian beings into your backyard, scatter peanuts as a delectable treat. However, exercise caution, for their voracious appetite might entice them towards unattended garbage or pet food.

2. The Charming Black-capped Chickadee

Residing in the Quebecan landscape throughout the year, the Black-capped Chickadee is a delightful presence. Sporting a petite yet charismatic figure, these birds captivate onlookers with their endearing round heads and diminutive bodies. Donning black caps and beaks, coupled with white cheeks and gray plumage adorning their backs, wings, and tails, Black-capped Chickadees are nature’s artistic masterpiece.

Their enchanting melodies, coupled with their curiosity, make them frequent visitors to backyard feeders. Fearlessly investigating their surroundings, they harmonize with the surrounding chorus of nature. Measuring between 4.7 and 5.9 inches in length, weighing approximately 0.3 to 0.5 ounces, and boasting a wingspan of 6.3 to 8.3 inches, these avian wonders grace the northern half of the United States and Canada.

To entice the Black-capped Chickadees into your realm, offer suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts. You may even witness their friendly demeanor as they partake in feeding directly from your hand. Consider providing them with nest boxes filled with cozy wood shavings to further enhance their habitat.

3. The Majestic American Robin

Throughout the breeding season, the American Robin claims its dominion over the Quebecan skies. From the onset of April to the lingering days of October, these magnificent birds grace us with their presence. Some remain year-round, a testament to their endurance against the winter chill, making appearances in approximately 9% of winter checklists. Distinguished by their jet-black heads and backs, complemented by vibrant red or orange breasts, these robin redbreasts embody elegance.

Spanning 7.9 to 11.0 inches in length and weighing around 2.7 to 3.0 ounces, these avian creatures flaunt a wingspan of 12.2 to 15.8 inches. While many American Robins call Canada and the northern Midwest their breeding grounds, a migratory spirit beckons them southward during the winter months.

Spotting these birds is a common occurrence in diverse habitats, be it woodlands, forests, mountains, fields, parks, or

even your very own lawn. Their diet consists of earthworms, insects, snails, and fruit, making them a vital component of the ecosystem. To create a haven for American Robins in your backyard, provide them with sunflower seeds, suet, peanut hearts, fruits, and mealworms. Platform feeders or ground scattering are ideal methods to entice these elegant creatures. Consider planting native berry-producing flora such as juniper, sumac, hawthorn, and dogwood, ensuring a bountiful feast for these avian wonders.

4. The Luminous American Goldfinch

A vivacious burst of yellow amidst the Quebecan landscape, the American Goldfinch brightens our lives. With their sunny disposition, these birds grace southern Quebec all year, though their numbers surge during the breeding season between May and September. These delightful creatures enchant us in approximately 52% of summer checklists and 25% of winter checklists. Dressed in vibrant yellow plumage, the males steal the spotlight with their black accents, while the females exude subtle brown hues.

Measuring 4.3 to 5.1 inches in length and weighing between 0.4 and 0.7 ounces, these dainty birds display a wingspan of 7.5 to 8.7 inches. American Goldfinches thrive across the vast expanse of North America, residing year-round or migrating south for the winter, depending on their breeding origins.

Their preferred haunts include weedy fields, overgrown areas, suburbs, parks, and, of course, our beloved backyards. These delightful creatures relish a diet comprising sunflower and thistle seeds, along with the nectar of aster plants. Make your backyard a sanctuary for American Goldfinches by providing them with a generous supply of sunflower seeds, nyjer, and thistle. Their presence will undoubtedly paint your days with a golden hue.

5. The Melodious Song Sparrow

Within the Quebecan landscape, the Song Sparrow reigns supreme during the breeding season. From April to October, their enchanting melodies resonate, captivating our hearts. In fact, approximately 61% of summer checklists bear witness to their melodious presence.

While their appearance may not be as striking as their tunes, these predominantly brown-streaked birds employ their harmonious songs to court potential mates. Measuring between 4.7 and 6.7 inches in length, with weights ranging from 0.4 to 1.9 ounces, and boasting a wingspan of 7.1 to 9.4 inches, Song Sparrows find solace in the northern United States year-round. However, those breeding in Canada embark on migratory journeys to southern states for the winter.

Their favored habitats include open shrubby areas, wetlands, and the edges of wooded realms. It is not uncommon to witness them perched atop low shrubs, serenading the world with their dulcet tones. Song Sparrows display a diverse diet, indulging in beetles, caterpillars, midges, spiders, and earthworms. Their palate also extends to buckwheat, sunflower, raspberries, wild cherries, blackberries, wheat, and rice.

To beckon these melodious creatures to your backyard, provide a cornucopia of offerings such as black oil sunflower seeds, cracked corn, nyjer, and millet. Place these delectable treats on platform feeders, enticing the Song Sparrows to grace your abode with their euphonious presence.

6. The Striking Red-winged Blackbird

The Red-winged Blackbird, with its distinctive appearance, proudly represents Quebec during the summer months. From March to October, these avian marvel

s grace our surroundings, occupying 50% of checklists during this period. While most embark on migratory journeys as winter approaches, a select few remain year-round, accounting for 1% of winter checklists.

With their deep ebony feathers interrupted by vivid reddish-orange wing patches, Red-winged Blackbirds leave an indelible mark on our memories. The males, in particular, flaunt their striking plumage, while the females boast a more modest brown-streaked appearance.

Measuring 6.7 to 9.1 inches in length and weighing between 1.1 and 2.7 ounces, these elegant creatures spread their wings, spanning 12.2 to 15.8 inches. While Red-winged Blackbirds thrive throughout the lower 48 states and the Pacific Coast of British Columbia year-round, those breeding in Canada and select northern U.S. states embark on migratory journeys southward.

These avian wonders often perch atop telephone wires, boldly defending their territories during the breeding season. In winter, they congregate in vast numbers, creating breathtaking spectacles. To welcome the presence of Red-winged Blackbirds, entice them with mixed grains and seeds scattered on the ground. Additionally, large tube feeders or platform feeders serve as ideal stations for their feasting endeavors.

7. The Captivating Common Grackle

Though considered a near-threatened species, the Common Grackle graces Quebec during the summer months. Approximately 48% of checklists bear witness to their presence during this time. Their breeding season, stretching from March to October, offers a window to observe these captivating creatures. While the majority embark on migratory journeys, a select few remain year-round, comprising 1% of winter checklists.

Taller and longer-tailed than their blackbird counterparts, the Common Grackles captivate us with their glossy iridescent bodies. Spanning 11.0 to 13.4 inches in length, with weights ranging from 2.6 to 5.0 ounces, and displaying a wingspan of 14.2 to 18.1 inches, these avian wonders leave an indelible mark on our hearts.

The Common Grackles exhibit year-round residency in southeastern states, while those breeding in Canada and the Midwest embark on migratory journeys southward. Their varied diet encompasses numerous crops, with a penchant for corn. These charismatic birds can be found roosting in large groups, creating a symphony of calls high up in the trees.

To invite the Common Grackles to your backyard, sprinkle mixed grains and seeds on the ground or platform feeders. Witness the magic unfold as these avian performers grace your abode with their presence.

8. The Elegant Cedar Waxwing

Embarking on their breeding season rendezvous, Cedar Waxwings enchant Quebec with their elegance. From June to September, these graceful birds captivate our hearts, appearing in 23% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists. Adorned with pale brown plumage on their heads, chests, and crests, fading gracefully to gray on their backs, wings, and tails, these avian wonders create a visual masterpiece. Their pale yellow bellies, coupled with bright yellow accents near the tail, create a striking contrast. Sporting a narrow black mask across their eyes and bright red wingtips, Cedar Waxwings are a sight to behold.

Stretching 5.5 to 6.7 inches in length, weighing 1.1 ounces, and boasting a wingspan of 8.7 to 11.8 inches, these avian gems grace the northern half of the United States. While their breeding grounds lie in Canada, they migrate southward during the winter.

High-pitched calls emanate from these sociable birds as they flock together in berry bushes, woodlands, and streams. To welcome Cedar Waxwings into your backyard, consider planting native trees and shrubs bearing small fruits, such as serviceberry, dogwood, juniper, winterberry, and hawthorn. Additionally, fruit placed on platform feeders serves as an irresistible offering for these elegant visitors.

9. The Melodious White-throated Sparrow

White-throated Sparrows, known for their distinctive black and white striped heads, bright white throats, and yellow accents between their eyes and bills, grace Quebec with their presence. While their numbers surge during migration in April to May and September to October, they appear in 41% of summer checklists and up to 52% of migration checklists.

Measuring 6.3 to 7.1 inches in length, weighing between 0.8 and 1.1 ounces, and displaying a wingspan of 7.9 to 9.1 inches, White-throated Sparrows embark on migratory journeys. Their breeding grounds lie primarily in Canada, before they embark southward to eastern and southern U.S. states, as well as the Pacific Coast.

These charming creatures find solace in forests, woods, and wooded edges, often congregating in large flocks. Their diverse diet encompasses seeds of grasses, weeds, and various fruits such as grape, sumac, mountain ash, blueberry, blackberry, and dogwood. In summer, they also relish insects found on the forest floor.

To entice White-throated Sparrows to your backyard, provide a feast of millet and black oil sunflower seeds on platform feeders. Embrace the symphony of their melodious calls as they grace your outdoor haven.

10. The Delightful Common Yellowthroat

As the breeding season unfolds, the Common Yellowthroat finds solace in the Quebecan landscape. Appearing in 27% of summer checklists, these small songbirds captivate us from May to October, with a few remaining until December.

Clad in a brownish plumage on their backs and bright yellow underneath, complemented by long tails, these avian wonders capture our attention. The males stand out with their black masks, while the brightness of their yellow hue may vary geographically.

Stretching 4.3 to 5.1 inches in length, weighing between 0.3 and 0.3 ounces, and boasting a wingspan of 5.9 to 7.5 inches, Common Yellowthroats grace the summer breeding grounds throughout North America, except for Alaska and northern Canada. Some opt to reside year-round along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest before embarking on migratory journeys southward.

These delightful creatures inhabit marshy or wetland areas, along with brushy fields adorned with thick, tangled vegetation. Their charming presence is enhanced by the abundance of insects dwelling in their chosen habitats.

To attract Common Yellowthroats to larger backyards, provide dense vegetation and native plants, creating a haven for insects. Embrace the magic as these enchanting songbirds fill your surroundings with their melodic symphony.

11. The Vibrant Blue Jay

As the seasons unfurl, the Blue Jay graces Quebec with its striking presence. Year-round residents, these splendid birds appear in 29% of summer checklists and 34% of winter checklists.

With their majestic blue crests, complemented by blue and black backs and white undersides, Blue Jays effortlessly captivate onlookers. Stretching 9.8 to 11.8 inches in length, weighing between 2.5 and 3.5 ounces, and boasting a wingspan of 13.4 to 16

.9 inches, these common songbirds find solace in eastern U.S. states and southern Canada throughout the year. While some embark on infrequent migratory journeys westward during winter, most remain in their familiar territories.

These gregarious birds travel in family groups, indulging in acorns and foraging in forests, particularly near oak trees. Their diet extends to insects, nuts, seeds, grains, and even the occasional pilfered egg or nestling.

To invite Blue Jays to your backyard, provide a generous supply of peanuts, sunflower seeds, and suet. Open tray feeders or hopper feeders mounted on posts serve as ideal platforms for their dining preferences. Additionally, a birdbath offers these majestic creatures a refreshing respite.

12. The Endearing Downy Woodpecker

Year-round residents of Quebec, Downy Woodpeckers enchant us with their presence. Measuring 5.5 to 6.7 inches in length, weighing between 0.7 and 1.0 ounce, and boasting a wingspan of 9.8 to 11.8 inches, these small woodpeckers grace our surroundings in 26% of summer checklists and 32% of winter checklists.

Recognizable by their black and white plumage, coupled with a distinct red patch at the back of their heads, Downy Woodpeckers often accompany other birds like chickadees and nuthatches at backyard feeders.

These delightful creatures find solace in woodlots, streamsides, city parks, and our very own backyards. Their diet primarily consists of insects and beetle larvae, complemented by berries, acorns, and grains.

To welcome Downy Woodpeckers into your backyard, tantalize them with suet feeders. Witness the joy as these charming creatures grace your outdoor haven with their presence.

13. The Introduced European Starling

A non-native species introduced to Quebec, the European Starling dazzles us with its year-round presence. Found in 35% of summer checklists and 28% of winter checklists, these avian wonders captivate us with their stocky black bodies adorned with iridescent purple, green, and blue tones.

Measuring 7.9 to 9.1 inches in length, weighing between 2.1 and 3.4 ounces, and boasting a wingspan of 12.2 to 15.8 inches, European Starlings thrive across all of North America, excluding the northern reaches of Canada and Alaska.

These birds, known for their boisterous nature, often congregate in large flocks, perching on tree tops or traversing fields. While considered pests by some due to their aggressive behavior, European Starlings contribute to the ecosystem by consuming insects, fruits such as cherries, holly berries, mulberries, Virginia Creeper, and grains and seeds.

To entice European Starlings to your backyard, offer a delectable spread of black oil sunflower seeds, suet, cracked corn, and peanuts. Embrace their presence as they add a touch of brilliance to your outdoor space.

14. The Majestic Hairy Woodpecker

While the Hairy Woodpecker graces Quebec more frequently in winter, these year-round residents enchant us with their presence. Appearing in 16% of summer checklists and 29% of winter checklists, these medium-sized woodpeckers captivate us with their black and white patterned plumage, accompanied by a large white patch on their backs. Males boast a flash of red toward the back of their heads, distinguishing them from their female counterparts.

Measuring 7.1 to 10.2 inches in length, weighing between 1.4 and 3.4 ounces, and boasting a wingspan of 13.0 to 16.1 inches, Hairy Woodpeckers remain a familiar sight in woodlands, forests, parks, cemeteries, and various habitats. While their diet primarily consists of insects, they also indulge in berries, acorns, and grains.

To welcome Hairy Woodpeckers to your backyard, offer suet feeders as an enticing treat. Witness their awe-inspiring presence as they add a touch of grandeur to your outdoor sanctuary.

15. The Graceful Mourning Dove

Year-round residents of Quebec, Mourning Doves enchant us with their graceful demeanor. Appearing in 26% of summer and winter checklists, these small-headed birds with plump bodies and long tails capture our hearts. Their soft brown plumage, adorned with black spots on the wings, exudes an understated elegance. Males are slightly heavier than females.

Measuring 9.1 to 13.4 inches in length, weighing between 3.0 and 6.0 ounces, and boasting a wingspan of 17.7 inches, Mourning Doves grace grasslands, fields, and backyards with their presence. These gentle creatures find solace perched on telephone wires or foraging for seeds on the ground. Open areas and woodland edges serve as their preferred habitats.

To attract Mourning Doves to your backyard, scatter millet on the ground or offer it on platform feeders. They also enjoy black sunflower seeds, nyjer, cracked corn, and peanut hearts. Embrace the serene beauty of these avian wonders as they bring a sense of tranquility to your outdoor haven.

16. The Dark-eyed Junco

During the breeding season, you can catch glimpses of Dark-eyed Juncos in Quebec, but they are also occasionally spotted in the southwest of the province during winter. They make up 14% of summer checklists and 21% of winter checklists. Their presence is more prominent in winter due to the absence of other birds during that time.

Dark-eyed Juncos are sparrows that exhibit different colors depending on their location. In the eastern region, they are generally slate-colored, while in the west, they display a combination of black, white, and brown.

Scientific name: Junco hyemalis
Length: 5.5-6.3 in (14-16 cm)
Weight: 0.6-1.1 oz (18-30 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-9.8 in (18-25 cm)

These Juncos are year-round residents in the northeastern and western US states, as well as the Appalachian Mountains. However, those that breed in Canada and Alaska migrate south to the United States during winter.

You can find them in open areas and partially wooded regions, often foraging on the ground. They are a common sight throughout the continent.

To attract Dark-eyed Juncos to your backyard, provide a variety of seeds such as black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer, cracked corn, millet, and peanuts. Opt for platform feeders or scatter the food on the ground for the best results.

17. The White-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatches are permanent residents of Quebec, particularly in the southern part of the province. They appear in 13% of summer checklists and 25% of winter checklists.

These active little birds have gray-blue plumage on their backs, white faces and bellies, and a distinctive black cap. They often sport a chestnut color on their lower bellies and under their tails.

Scientific name: Sitta carolinensis
Length: 5.1-5.5 in (13-14 cm)
Weight: 0.6-1.1 oz (18-30 g)
Wingspan: 7.9-10.6 in (20-27 cm)

White-breasted Nuthatches can be found year-round in the US and southern Canada.

They prefer habitats such as deciduous forests, woodland edges, parks, and yards with trees. Their diet primarily consists of insects like beetles and their larvae, caterpillars, ants, and spiders.

These nuthatches also consume seeds and nuts, including acorns, hawthorns, sunflower seeds, and occasionally corn crops. They have a unique feeding behavior of wedging large nuts and acorns into tree bark and then using their bills to open or “hatch” them and extract the seeds.

To attract White-breasted Nuthatches to your backyard, offer sunflower seeds and peanuts on tube feeders or suet feeders.

18. The Northern Cardinal

Northern Cardinals can be found in Quebec year-round. They do not migrate and are observed in 18% of both summer and winter checklists.

The striking red plumage of male Northern Cardinals, coupled with their black faces, presents a captivating sight, particularly against a snowy winter backdrop. They also have red crests and beaks.

Females exhibit their own unique charm with their brown coloring, sharp brown crests, and touches of red.

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 inhabit the eastern half of the US, with some populations extending to the southern states as far west as Arizona.

You can find these birds in dense vegetation, where they forage for seeds, fruits, and insects. During the breeding season, male Cardinals may display aggressive behavior, attacking their own reflections as they fervently defend their territories.

To attract Northern Cardinals to your backyard, offer feeders filled with sunflower seeds, peanut hearts, millet, and milo. They will happily feed from large tube feeders, hoppers, platform feeders, or even food scattered on the ground.

Quebec is also home to various other red birds that you may spot in the region.

19. The Tree Swallow

Tree Swallows spend the breeding season in Quebec and are seen in 38% of summer checklists. They arrive in March and begin their migration in October.

These small blue-green birds feature white undersides and darker gray wings in males, while females tend to have a browner appearance.

Scientific name: Tachycineta bicolor
Length: 4.7-5.9 in (12-15 cm)
Weight: 0.6-0.9 oz (16-25 g)
Wingspan: 11.8-13.8 in (30-35 cm)

Tree Swallows breed across the US, Canada, and Alaska before embarking on their migration to the Gulf Coast, Florida, Mexico, and areas along the southern border. During migration, they can form massive flocks numbering in the hundreds of thousands.

You can find Tree Swallows in wooded swamps, fields, marshes, and near bodies of water that provide an abundant supply of flying insects, their primary food source.

To attract Tree Swallows to your backyard, set up nest boxes, as they readily accept them as their nesting sites.

20. The House Sparrow

House Sparrows are an introduced species in Quebec and can be found here throughout the year. They do not migrate and are recorded in 14% of summer checklists and 17% of winter checklists submitted by birdwatchers in the province.

These sparrows have gray and brown heads with white cheeks. Their backs are a combination of black and brown, while their bellies sport a gray hue.

Scientific name: Passer domesticus
Length: 5.9-6.7 in (15-17 cm)
Weight: 0.9-1.1 oz (27-30 g)
Wingspan: 7.5-9.8 in (19-25 cm)

House Sparrows are year-round residents in the US and southern Canada.

You can find them near houses and buildings, where they often display a relatively tame behavior and may even eat from your hand.

House Sparrows primarily consume grains, seeds, and discarded food. While they are considered non-native and sometimes labeled as pests, they can still be found in backyards, even without intentional feeding.

To attract House Sparrows to your backyard, provide various kinds of birdseed, including millet, corn, and sunflower seeds.

21. The Chipping Sparrow

Chipping Sparrows spend the breeding season in southern Quebec and are observed in 35% of summer checklists. They typically arrive in April and start their departure in November.

These slender, long-tailed birds have grayish bellies and brown and black-streaked backs, adorned with a rusty crown and a black eye line. During winter, their colors become more muted.

Scientific name: Spizella passerina
Length: 4.7-5.9 in (12-15 cm)
Weight: 0.4-0.6 oz (11-16 g)
Wingspan: 8.3 in (21 cm)

Chipping Sparrows breed in the US and Canada during the summer before migrating to Mexico and Florida for winter. Some individuals choose to remain in the southern states year-round.

You can find Chipping Sparrows in small flocks foraging on open ground, and they are known to visit backyards in search of various types of birdseed.

To attract Chipping Sparrows to your backyard, provide seeds or cracked corn on open feeders like hoppers or platforms.

22. The Yellow Warbler

Yellow Warblers are frequently sighted in Quebec during the breeding season, typically from May to September, with a few individuals lingering until December. They are recorded in 28% of summer checklists.

These small, bright yellow birds boast a yellow-green back, with males displaying chestnut streaks on their breasts.

Scientific name: Setophaga petechia
Length: 4.7-5.1 in (12-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (9-11 g)
Wingspan: 6.3-7.9 in (16-20 cm)

Yellow Warblers undertake a long-distance migration, breeding in Canada and the US (excluding southeastern states) before heading south to Central and South America for winter. However, they can still be seen during migration in southeastern US states.

You can find Yellow Warblers along streams, in wetlands, thickets, and along field edges, where they search for insects such as caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.

To attract Yellow Warblers to your backyard, offer suet, oranges, peanut butter, and plants with berries. Additionally, planting native vegetation that attracts insects without using pesticides and maintaining a less tidy environment can be beneficial. Birdbaths with fountains placed near secluded thickets can also provide them with protection.

23. The Northern Flicker

Northern Flickers spend the breeding season in Quebec and appear in 32% of summer checklists. They are primarily observed from April to October, but some individuals remain year-round.

These large brown woodpeckers feature black spots and a white patch on their rumps during flight. Male Flickers also possess a red nape of the neck.

Scientific name: Colaptes auratus
Length: 11.0-12.2 in (28-31 cm)
Weight: 3.9-5.6 oz (110-160 g)
Wingspan: 16.5-20.1 in (42-51 cm)

Northern Flickers can be spotted across the US year-round and in Canada during the summer. Individuals that breed in Canada migrate south for the winter.

Their diet mainly consists of ants, beetles, fruits, and seeds. You can often observe them digging on the ground using their curved bills.

To attract Northern Flickers to your backyard, offer suet as a food source.

24. The Red-breasted Nuthatch

Red-breasted Nuthatches can be found in Quebec year-round and occur in 15% of both summer and winter checklists in the province.

These blue-gray birds sport black and white stripes on their heads and a rusty underside.

Scientific name: Sitta canadensis
Length: 4.3 in (11 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (8-13 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 in (18-20 cm)

Red-breasted Nuthatches are residents of northeastern and western states, as well as Alaska and Canada. However, during poor cone crop seasons, they may migrate south for the winter.

You can find them in coniferous woods, where they often climb along tree trunks and branches, searching for insects and seeds.

To attract Red-breasted Nuthatches to your backyard, offer sunflower seeds, peanuts, suet, and provide trees such as spruces, pines, and firs as perching and foraging spots.

25. The Common Grackle

Common Grackles can be found in Quebec year-round and are recorded in 14% of summer checklists and 16% of winter checklists.

These large blackbirds have iridescent feathers that can appear blue, green, or purple when viewed under the right lighting conditions. Males have yellow eyes, while females have brown eyes.

Scientific name: Quiscalus quiscula
Length: 11.0-13.4 in (28-34 cm)
Weight: 2.7-5.6 oz (75-160 g)
Wingspan: 14.2-18.1 in (36-46 cm)

Common Grackles are permanent residents in eastern and central US states and southern Canada. Some individuals may migrate short distances within their range during winter.

These birds are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, agricultural fields, and urban areas. They are omnivorous and will eat a wide range of foods, including insects, seeds, grains, fruits, and even garbage.

To attract Common Grackles to your backyard, provide a mix of sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and suet. They prefer large, open platform feeders or scattered food on the ground.

These 25 birds represent a diverse array of species that can be found in Quebec throughout the year. By providing suitable food sources, water, and appropriate habitats, you can attract many of these birds to your backyard for observation and enjoyment.