Top 31 Backyard Birds New Brunswick

Ever pondered about the avian creatures gracing your backyard in the region of New Brunswick?

Fear not, for this comprehensive handbook will equip you with the knowledge necessary to visually and audibly identify these feathered visitors, as well as inform you about the specific seasons during which you can catch a glimpse of them in New Brunswick.

Throughout the entire year, you may encounter a variety of backyard birds in New Brunswick, including the American Crow, Black-capped Chickadee, American Goldfinch, Blue Jay, Mourning Dove, European Starling, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Downy Woodpecker, Rock Pigeon, Hairy Woodpecker, Purple Finch, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Northern Cardinal, Pine Siskin.

During the summer months, additional species such as the Song Sparrow, American Robin, Common Grackle, Dark-eyed Junco, White-throated Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Northern Flicker, Cedar Waxwing, American Redstart, Yellow Warbler, Northern Parula, Chipping Sparrow, Black-throated Green Warbler, and Ruby-throated Hummingbird join the backyard bird community in New Brunswick.

As for the migration period, the American Tree Sparrow is the prominent backyard bird observed in New Brunswick.

These species listed above are among the most frequently sighted backyard birds in New Brunswick, based on the state checklists submitted by avid birdwatchers using ebird.

This article provides you with invaluable information, including identification details and photographs, to aid you in recognizing and attracting a wider array of these common backyard birds present in the captivating province of New Brunswick.

31 Familiar Backyard Birds in New Brunswick:

1. American Crow

The American Crow, a prevalent and enduring species, can be spotted year-round in New Brunswick. Approximately 54% of summer and winter checklists submitted by bird enthusiasts in the province include sightings of these intelligent avians.

American Crows possess a sizable, entirely black physique, emitting a distinctive, coarse cawing sound.

• Scientific name: Corvus brachyrhynchos
• Length: 15.8-20.9 inches (40-53 cm)
• Weight: 11.2-21.9 ounces (316-620 g)
• Wingspan: 33.5-39.4 inches (85-100 cm)

American Crows are permanent residents across most of the lower 48 states, as well as the Pacific Coast in Canada and Alaska. While those breeding in Canada and the northern Midwest embark on a southward migration during winter, these birds are widely distributed across various habitats, including treetops, forests, fields, beaches, and urban areas. Their diet comprises a diverse range of sustenance, encompassing earthworms, insects, seeds, fruits, fish, turtles, mussels, clams, and even eggs and nestlings of other bird species. Notably, American Crows assemble in large communal roosts, often numbering in the millions, during the winter months.

2. Black-capped Chickadee

Black-capped Chickadees are year-round residents of New Brunswick, with a presence in 40% of summer checklists and 57% of winter checklists.

These endearing creatures exhibit a small, plump body with a disproportionately large round head. Notably curious, they fearlessly explore backyard feeders, showing interest in virtually everything, including humans.

With black caps and beaks, as well as white cheeks, they possess a gray coloration on their back, wings, and tail.

• Scientific name: Poecile atricapillus
• Length: 4.7-5.9 inches (12-15 cm)
• Weight: 0.3-0.5 ounces (9-14 g)
• Wingspan: 6.3-8.3 inches (16-21 cm)

Black-capped Chickadees do not undertake seasonal migrations and can be found in the northern regions of the United States and Canada. They tend to inhabit forests, open woodlands, and parks. Their diet primarily consists of seeds, berries, insects, spiders, and suet.

3. Song Sparrow

During the breeding period from mid-March to October, the Song Sparrow nests in New Brunswick, with sightings on 49% of summer checklists. However, a few individuals remain in the southern regions of the province throughout the year, appearing in 9% of winter checklists.

Song Sparrows may not possess visually striking appearances compared to other backyard birds, yet their melodic songs play a crucial role in attracting mates during the spring and summer seasons. These predominantly brown-streaked birds utilize their near-constant song to court potential partners.

• Scientific name: Melospiza melodia
• Length: 4.7-6.7 inches (12-17 cm)
• Weight: 0.4-1.9 ounces (12-53 g)
• Wingspan: 7.1-9.4 inches (18-24 cm)

Song Sparrows are year-round residents of the northern United States. However, those that breed in Canada embark on a migratory journey to the southern United States during winter. These sparrows tend to frequent open, shrubby, and wet areas, often perching on low shrubs while singing. They are commonly spotted at backyard feeders. Their diet encompasses a wide range of insects and plants, including beetles, caterpillars, midges, spiders, earthworms, buckwheat, sunflower, raspberries, wild cherries, blackberries, wheat, and rice.

4. American Goldfinch

American Goldfinches can be observed throughout the year in New Brunswick, although their numbers increase during the breeding season from May to September. They are recorded on 38% of summer checklists and 28% of winter checklists submitted by birdwatchers in the province.

These delightful birds possess bright yellow and black plumage in the spring, while females and males in winter exhibit a duller brown appearance.

• Scientific name: Spinus tristis
• Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
• Weight: 0.4-0.7 ounces (11-20 g)
• Wingspan: 7.5-8.7 inches (19-22 cm)

American Goldfinches inhabit a significant portion of North America and generally remain in their respective regions throughout the year. However, those that breed in Canada and the Midwest undertake a migration to southern United States during winter. They frequent weedy fields, overgrown areas, suburbs, parks, and backyards, foraging primarily on sunflower, thistle, and aster plants.

5. American Robin

The American Robin thrives during the breeding season in New Brunswick, appearing on 49% of summer checklists. Their presence is most prominent between April and July. Nonetheless, a few individuals remain in the province throughout the year, contributing to 8% of winter checklists.

American Robins are a common sight, often spotted on lawns while feasting on earthworms. They possess black heads and backs, complemented by red or orange breasts. During the winter months, they tend to roost in trees, making sightings in backyards more frequent during the spring season.

• Scientific name: Turdus migratorius
• Length: 7.9-11.0 inches (20-28 cm)
• Weight: 2.7-3.0 ounces (77-85 g)
• Wingspan: 12.2-15.8 inches (31-40 cm)

American Robins are year-round residents of the lower 48 states, as well as the Western coast of Canada and Alaska. While those breeding in Canada and inland Alaska migrate south for the winter, they can be found in diverse habitats such as woodlands, forests, mountains, fields, parks, and lawns. Their diet comprises earthworms, insects, snails, and fruit.

6. Blue Jay

Blue Jays are present year-round in New Brunswick, with an increase in numbers between September and November. They are observed on 22% of summer checklists and 33% of winter checklists.

These striking songbirds exhibit vibrant blue upright crests, blue and black backs, and white undersides.

• Scientific name: Cyanocitta cristata
• Length: 9.8-11.8 inches (25-30 cm)
• Weight: 2.5-3.5 ounces (70-100 g)
• Wingspan: 13.4-16.9 inches (34-43 cm)

Blue Jays reside in the eastern United States and southern Canada throughout the year, with occasional migration towards western regions during winter. They are known for their vocal and noisy nature, often traveling in family groups and feasting on acorns in oak-filled forests. Blue Jays can also be observed in backyards near feeders. Their diet includes insects, nuts, seeds, grains, and they may even consume eggs and nestlings from other bird species.

7. Mourning Dove

Mourning Doves are year-round residents of New Brunswick, appearing on 22% of summer checklists and 30% of winter checklists.

These graceful birds possess small heads, plump bodies, and long tails. Their soft brown color is adorned with black spots on the wings, with males being slightly heavier than females.

• Scientific name: Zenaida macroura
• Length: 9.1-13.4 inches (23-34 cm)
• Weight: 3.0-6.0 ounces (96-170 g)
• Wingspan: 17.7 inches (45 cm)

Mourning Doves are widespread throughout the lower 48 states year-round, although they may embark on migrations after breeding, particularly from the northern Midwest and southern Canada. They can be spotted perching on telephone wires and foraging for seeds on the ground in grasslands, fields, backyards, open areas, and woodland edges.

8. European Starling

European Starlings, an introduced species in New Brunswick, can be observed throughout the year without undertaking migrations. They are recorded on 23% of both summer and winter checklists submitted by birdwatchers in the province.

These stocky black birds exhibit iridescent purple, green, and blue tones, making them one of the most abundant songbirds despite not being native to the region.

• Scientific name: Sturnus vulgaris
• Length: 7.9-9.1 inches (20-23 cm)
• Weight: 2.1-3.4 ounces (60-96 g)
• Wingspan: 12.2-15.8 inches (31-40 cm)

European Starlings can be found throughout North America, excluding the northern regions of Canada and Alaska. Some consider them pests due to their aggressive behavior. They often form large, noisy flocks and can be observed perched atop trees or flying over fields.

9. Red-breasted Nuthatch

Red-breasted Nuthatches can be sighted year-round in New Brunswick, appearing on 16% of summer checklists and 20% of winter checklists.

These blue-gray birds

boast black and white stripes on their heads and a rusty-colored underside.

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

Red-breasted Nuthatches remain year-round residents in northeastern and western states, Alaska, and Canada. However, they may migrate south during winter if cone crops are insufficient. They can be found in coniferous woods, foraging primarily on cones, and are known to visit backyard feeders.

10. Common Grackle

Despite being considered a near-threatened species, Common Grackles are frequently observed in New Brunswick during the summer season. They appear on 32% of checklists between March and July before embarking on migrations. However, a few individuals remain in the province year-round, contributing to 1% of winter checklists.

These birds exhibit a tall and long-tailed figure, surpassing the typical blackbird in size. Their bodies display glossy, iridescent tones.

• Scientific name: Quiscalus quiscula
• Length: 11.0-13.4 inches (28-34 cm)
• Weight: 2.6-5.0 ounces (74-142 g)
• Wingspan: 14.2-18.1 inches (36-46 cm)

Common Grackles reside year-round in southeastern states, while those breeding in Canada and the Midwest undertake a migration southward. Their diet primarily consists of corn and other crops, and they often gather in large, noisy groups in high tree perches. While they can be considered a nuisance due to their inclination to scavenge garbage, Common Grackles can be found in diverse habitats such as open woodlands, marshes, parks, and fields. During winter, they form massive roosting flocks, often mixing with other blackbird species.

11. Dark-eyed Junco

Dark-eyed Juncos can be spotted in New Brunswick during the breeding season, while a portion remains year-round in the southern regions of the province. They appear on 12% of summer checklists and 16% of winter checklists.

These sparrows exhibit different colors depending on their location. In the eastern regions, they typically possess a slate-colored appearance, while those in the west showcase black, white, and brown shades.

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

Dark-eyed Juncos are year-round residents of northeastern and western U.S. states, as well as the Appalachian Mountains. Those breeding in Canada and Alaska embark on a winter migration to the United States. They can be found in open and partially wooded areas, often foraging on the ground. Dark-eyed Juncos are commonly seen across the continent. To attract them to backyard feeders, a variety of seeds such as black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer, cracked corn, millet, and peanuts are recommended.

12. Downy Woodpecker

Downy Woodpeckers can be found in New Brunswick throughout the year. They appear on 14% of summer checklists and 19% of winter checklists.

These small woodpeckers are frequently observed at backyard feeders and are often found in the company of chickadees and nuthatches. They possess black and white plumage with a red patch at the back of their heads. While they bear a resemblance to Hairy Wood

peckers, they are smaller in size.

• Scientific name: Dryobates pubescens
• Length: 5.5-6.7 inches (14-17 cm)
• Weight: 0.7-1.0 ounces (21-28 g)
• Wingspan: 9.8-11.8 inches (25-30 cm)

Downy Woodpeckers do not undertake migrations and can be found in most states and provinces, excluding the northern regions of Canada. They frequent woodlots, streamsides, city parks, and backyards, feeding primarily on insects, beetle larvae, berries, acorns, and grains.

13. White-throated Sparrow

White-throated Sparrows spend the summer breeding season in New Brunswick. However, their numbers increase during the migration periods in May and September to October. They appear on 24% of summer checklists and up to 31% during migration.

These sparrows are distinguished by their black and white striped heads, bright white throats, and yellow markings between the eyes and bill. They possess brown backs and gray undersides.

• Scientific name: Zonotrichia albicollis
• Length: 6.3-7.1 inches (16-18 cm)
• Weight: 0.8-1.1 ounces (22-32 g)
• Wingspan: 7.9-9.1 inches (20-23 cm)

White-throated Sparrows are migratory birds, primarily breeding in Canada before migrating south to eastern and southern U.S. states, as well as the Pacific Coast, during winter. They can be found on the ground in forests, woods, and along wooded edges, often congregating in large flocks. Their diet consists mainly of grass and weed seeds, along with fruits such as grape, sumac, mountain ash, blueberry, blackberry, and dogwood. Additionally, they consume various insects from the forest floor, particularly during the summer season.

14. Rock Pigeon

Rock Pigeons are year-round residents of New Brunswick, appearing on 11% of summer checklists and 18% of winter checklists.

These birds exhibit a bluish-gray coloration, with two black bands on their wings and black tail tips. Their throats possess iridescent feathers, and their eyes display an orange hue.

• Scientific name: Columba livia
• Length: 11.8-14.2 inches (30-36 cm)
• Weight: 9.3-13.4 ounces (265-380 g)
• Wingspan: 19.7-26.4 inches (50-67 cm)

Rock Pigeons do not undertake migrations and can be found throughout all U.S. states, southern Canada, and the Pacific Coast to Alaska. They are commonly observed in cities and visit backyards, particularly attracted to birdseed on the ground. However, some cities have regulations against feeding pigeons due to their classification as pests.

15. Red-winged Blackbird

Red-winged Blackbirds are frequently observed in New Brunswick during the summer season. They spend the breeding season in the province, appearing on 23% of checklists during this time. While most individuals migrate south for the winter, a few remain in the province throughout the year, accounting for 8% of winter checklists.

These blackbirds are easily recognizable, primarily black in color with reddish-orange wing patches. Female Red-winged Blackbirds exhibit a more subdued appearance with streaky brown plumage.

• Scientific name: Agelaius phoeniceus
• Length: 6.7-9.1 inches (17-23 cm)
• Weight: 1.1-2.7 ounces (32-77 g)
• Wingspan: 12.2-15.8 inches (31-40 cm)

Red-winged Blackbirds are year-round residents of the lower 48 states, as well as the Pacific Coast of British Columbia. Those breeding in Canada and some northern U.S. states undertake a migratory journey southward during winter. They are often spotted perched on telephone wires and exhibit territorial behavior during the breeding season, fiercely defending their nests. In winter, they form large roosting flocks, sometimes numbering in the millions.

16. Hairy Woodpecker

Throughout the year, Hairy Woodpeckers can be found in New Brunswick, making appearances on around 8% of summer checklists and 18% of winter checklists. They tend to frequent feeders more often during winter, leading to increased sightings.

Hairy Woodpeckers are medium-sized woodpeckers with distinct black and white patterns and a prominent white patch on their backs. The males exhibit a splash of red towards the back of their heads.

While visually similar to Downy Woodpeckers, Hairy Woodpeckers are larger and possess longer bills. As they often inhabit the same areas, it can be challenging to differentiate them when they are not in close proximity.

• Scientific name: Dryobates villosus
• Length: 7.1-10.2 inches (18-26 cm)
• Weight: 1.4-3.4 ounces (40-95 g)
• Wingspan: 13.0-16.1 inches (33-41 cm)

Hairy Woodpeckers do not migrate and can be found throughout all US states and Canada, except for the far northern regions of Canada. They typically inhabit woodlands, clinging to trunks or main branches of large trees. However, they can also be found in various other habitats such as woodlots, parks, and cemeteries. Hairy Woodpeckers primarily feed on insects.

17. Common Yellowthroat

During the breeding season, Common Yellowthroats are present in New Brunswick, appearing on 24% of summer checklists. Their sightings span from April to October, with a few individuals remaining until December.

Common Yellowthroats are small songbirds characterized by brownish plumage on their backs and vibrant yellow undersides, accompanied by long tails. The males display black masks across their faces. The brightness of their yellow plumage can vary geographically, and in certain areas, they may exhibit more olive tones on their undersides.

• Scientific name: Geothlypis trichas
• Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
• Weight: 0.3-0.3 ounces (9-10 g)
• Wingspan: 5.9-7.5 inches (15-19 cm)

Common Yellowthroats spend the summer breeding season over most of North America, excluding Alaska and northern Canada. Some individuals remain along the Gulf Coast and Pacific Southwest year-round. During winter, they migrate southward. Common Yellowthroats are often found in marshy or wetland areas, as well as brushy fields, where they thrive amidst thick and tangled vegetation.

18. Yellow-rumped Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warblers can be observed during the breeding season in New Brunswick, but their numbers increase during migration in May and from September to October. They are documented on 19% of summer checklists and up to 34% during migration.

Yellow-rumped Warblers showcase gray plumage with flashes of yellow on their face, sides, and rump, along with white markings on their wings.

Females may exhibit slight brown coloring, while winter birds appear paler brown with bright yellow rumps and sides, transitioning back to yellow and gray in the spring.

• Scientific name: Setophaga coronata
• Length: 4.7-5.5 inches (12-14 cm)
• Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (12-13 g)
• Wingspan: 7.5-9.1 inches (19-23 cm)

Yellow-rumped Warblers primarily breed in Canada, as well as parts of the Rockies and the Appalachian Mountains. During migration, they can be spotted in the Midwest before wintering in southern

and southwestern US states, along the Pacific Coast, and extending into Mexico and Central America.

These warblers can be found in coniferous forests, particularly during the breeding season. In winter, they venture into open areas with fruiting shrubs. Their diet consists mainly of insects during summer and migration, while they predominantly consume fruit, including bayberry and wax myrtle, during winter.

19. Purple Finch

Purple Finches are primarily seen in New Brunswick during the breeding season, spanning from April to August. However, some individuals remain year-round. They are recorded on 15% of summer checklists and 4% of winter checklists.

Male Purple Finches boast reddish-purple heads and breasts, with more brown tones on their back and wings, accompanied by a paler belly. Females display brown streaks across their bodies. While they bear resemblance to House Finches, Purple Finches possess a redder hue, particularly on the upper part of their back.

• Scientific name: Haemorhous purpureus
• Length: 4.7-6.3 inches (12-16 cm)
• Weight: 0.6-1.1 ounces (18-32 g)
• Wingspan: 8.7-10.2 inches (22-26 cm)

Purple Finches breed in Canada and overwinter in eastern US states, though they can be found year-round in the northeastern regions and along the Pacific coast.

Their preferred habitats include evergreen forests, where they feed on seeds, buds, nectar, and berries.

20. Northern Flicker

Northern Flickers are commonly sighted in New Brunswick during the summer, appearing in 15% of checklists at this time. However, some individuals remain throughout the year and are observed in 1% of winter checklists.

These large brown woodpeckers feature black spots and a white patch on their rumps, which becomes evident during flight. Male Northern Flickers also possess a red nape on their necks.

In terms of wing and tail coloration, there are two variations: red-shafted birds in the west and yellow-shafted birds in the east.

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

Northern Flickers can be found year-round across the United States and during summer in Canada. Those that breed in Canada migrate south for the winter.

Their diet mainly consists of ants, beetles, fruits, and seeds. They are often observed digging into the ground with their curved bills.

21. Cedar Waxwing

Cedar Waxwings are seen in New Brunswick during the breeding season, typically observed from June to September, although some individuals remain throughout the year. They are recorded on 16% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.

These elegant social birds showcase pale brown plumage on their head, chest, and crest, gradually fading to gray on their back, wings, and tail. Their belly displays a pale yellow color, becoming bright yellow towards the tail. A narrow black mask extends over their eyes, and their wingtips boast a vibrant red hue.

• Scientific name: Bombycilla cedrorum
• Length: 5.5-6.7 inches (14-17 cm)
• Weight: 1.1 ounces (32 g)
• Wingspan: 8.7-11.8 inches (22-30 cm)

Cedar Waxwings can be found year-round in the northern half of the United States. Those that breed in Canada migrate to the southern half of the US for winter.

They emit a high-pitched call and are often spotted in areas with berry bushes, woodlands, and streams.

22. American Redstart

American Redstarts spend the summer in New Brunswick, occurring in 21% of checklists at this time. They are observed from May to November.

Male American Redstarts feature predominantly black plumage with striking orange patches and a white belly. Females, on the other hand, exhibit olive-gray coloring instead of black, adorned with numerous yellow patches.

• Scientific name: Setophaga ruticilla
• Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
• Weight: 0.2-0.3 ounces (6-9 g)
• Wingspan: 6.3-7.5 inches (16-19 cm)

American Redstarts breed in eastern US states and Canada, extending into northwestern US states. They can also be observed during migration in central and western US states.

These birds can be found in deciduous woodlands, where they feed on insects. They are also known to frequent backyards and thickets, relishing berries such as serviceberry and magnolia.

23. Yellow Warbler

Yellow Warblers are frequently spotted in New Brunswick during the breeding season, observed from May to October. They are present on 21% of summer checklists.

These small, bright yellow birds boast yellow-green backs, with males exhibiting chestnut streaks on their breasts.

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

Yellow Warblers embark on long-distance migrations, breeding in Canada and the US (excluding southeastern states) before heading to Central and South America for winter. However, they can be spotted during migration in southeastern US states.

Their favored habitats include areas along streams, wetlands, thickets, and field edges, where they forage for insects such as caterpillars, midges, beetles, bugs, and wasps.

24. Northern Parula

Northern Parulas spend the breeding season in New Brunswick, appearing in 19% of summer checklists. They are primarily observed from May to October.

These warblers exhibit a colorful contrast of bluish-gray and yellow plumage. They sport bluish-gray backs with a yellow patch on their back and two white wingbars.

Males display a chestnut band that separates the yellow throat and chest, a feature shared by both males and females. Females are paler than males and lack the chestnut

band, while juveniles exhibit a paler appearance.

• Scientific name: Setophaga americana
• Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
• Weight: 0.2-0.4 ounces (5-11 g)
• Wingspan: 6.3-7.1 inches (16-18 cm)

Northern Parulas breed in eastern US states and southeastern Canada before migrating to Central America and the Caribbean for winter. Some individuals may remain in southern Florida for the winter.

These warblers can be found high up in deciduous forests, where they feed on insects.

25. Golden-crowned Kinglet

Golden-crowned Kinglets can be spotted all year in New Brunswick, appearing on up to 8% of summer checklists and 4% of winter checklists.

These tiny songbirds exhibit bright orange crown patches that can be lifted and flashed when they are excited. Their bodies display an olive hue on the back and a pale underside, accompanied by a black-and-white striped face and a white wingbar.

• Scientific name: Corthylio calendula
• Length: 3.5-4.3 inches (9-11 cm)
• Weight: 0.2-0.3 ounces (5-10 g)
• Wingspan: 6.3-7.1 inches (16-18 cm)

Golden-crowned Kinglets that breed in Canada migrate south across the United States. Some individuals stay year-round in the Appalachians, mountainous regions of the West, or along the Pacific Coast.

These kinglets can be found in various habitats, including forests, parks, backyards, old fields, swamps, and cities. They primarily feed on insects, incorporating seeds into their diet during winter.

26. Chipping Sparrow

Chipping Sparrows spend the breeding season in New Brunswick, appearing in 14% of summer checklists. They arrive in April and depart in November.

These slender, long-tailed birds showcase a grayish belly, brown and black-streaked back, and a rusty crown and black eye line. In winter, their colors become more subdued.

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

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

These sparrows are commonly found in small flocks on open ground and often visit backyards to partake in various birdseed offerings.

27. Black-throated Green Warbler

Black-throated Green Warblers spend their summers in New Brunswick and are primarily observed from May to October. They appear on 15% of checklists at this time.

These small yellow songbirds possess a yellow face and head, accompanied by an olive-yellow back. They exhibit black streaking on the sides and wings, while their underparts are whitish. Males feature large black patches on their throats, which are smaller in females and juveniles.

• Scientific name: Setophaga virens
• Length: 4.3-4.7 inches (11-12 cm)
• Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (7-11 g)
• Wingspan: 6.7-7.9 inches (17-20 cm)

Black-throated Green Warblers are predominantly observed during their lengthy migration over the eastern US, eventually reaching their breeding grounds in northeastern US states and Canada. They spend their winters in Mexico, northern South America, and the Caribbean.

These warblers can

be found high up in forests, actively feeding on insects. Their black throat serves as a distinguishing feature, setting them apart from other small yellow birds.

28. Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are frequently spotted in New Brunswick during the summer, appearing on 12% of checklists at this time. They spend the breeding season in the province, primarily observed from May to early October, before embarking on their southward migration for winter.

These hummingbirds exhibit bright green plumage on their back and crown, complemented by a gray-white underside. The males proudly sport an iridescent red throat, while females lack this feature, instead showcasing green backs, white underparts, and brownish crowns and sides.

• Scientific name: Archilochus colubris
• Length: 2.8-3.5 inches (7-9 cm)
• Weight: 0.1-0.2 ounces (2-6 g)
• Wingspan: 3.1-4.3 inches (8-11 cm)

Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are the sole breeding hummingbird species in eastern North America. They undertake their southward migration by crossing the Gulf of Mexico or traversing through Texas, eventually reaching Central America for winter.

While they start arriving in the southern regions as early as February, it may take until May for them to reach the northern states and Canada for breeding. They initiate their journey back south in August and September.

Male Ruby-throated Hummingbirds can be quite aggressive in defending flowers and feeders, often departing soon after mating and migrating as early as August.

These tiny birds swiftly move from one nectar source to another, capturing insects in midair or extracting them from spider webs. While they occasionally perch on small twigs, their short legs limit them to shuffling rather than walking.

During summer, flowering gardens and woodland edges serve as prime locations for encountering Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. They are also commonly found in urban areas, especially around nectar feeders.

29. Northern Cardinal

Northern Cardinals can be observed in New Brunswick throughout the year, as they do not migrate. They are present on 4% of summer checklists and 8% of winter checklists.

The vibrant red plumage of male Northern Cardinals, coupled with the black mask around their faces, creates a striking visual, particularly against a wintry white backdrop. They also exhibit red crests and beaks.

Females, while less showy, display brown coloring, sharp brown crests, and red highlights, along with red beaks.

• Scientific name: Cardinalis cardinalis
• Length: 8.3-9.1 inches (21-23 cm)
• Weight: 1.5-1.7 ounces (42-48 g)
• Wingspan: 9.8-12.2 inches (25-31 cm)

Northern Cardinals inhabit the eastern half of the United States and certain southern states as far west as Arizona.

These birds can be found amidst dense vegetation, foraging for seeds, fruits, and insects. During the breeding season, male Northern Cardinals can exhibit aggressive behavior, fiercely defending their territories, sometimes even attacking their own reflections.

30. American Tree Sparrow

American Tree Sparrows are observed in New Brunswick during spring and fall migration, with some individuals wintering in the southern part of the province.

These birds feature long-tailed brown-streaked plumage, accompanied by rusty caps, gray faces, and a rusty eye line.

• Scientific name: Spizelloides arborea
• Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
• Weight: 0.5-1.0 ounces (13-28 g)
• Wingspan: 9.4 inches (24cm)

American Tree Sparrows are considered winter birds in the United States and summer birds in Canada.

They breed in the far northern regions of Canada and Alaska before migrating south to various US states for the winter, excluding the Pacific and Gulf Coasts.

These sparrows are often seen foraging in small flocks in weedy fields and beneath bird feeders.

31. Pine Siskin

Pine Siskins can be observed year-round in New Brunswick, appearing on 5% of both summer and winter checklists.

These small brown finches showcase yellow streaks on their wings and tails, along with a forked tail, pointed wings, and a short, pointed bill.

• Scientific name: Spinus pinus
• Length: 4.3-5.5 inches (11-14 cm)
• Weight: 0.4-0.6 ounces (12-18 g)
• Wingspan: 7.1-8.7 inches (18-22 cm)

Pine Siskins typically remain year-round in pine forests of the western United States and along the Canadian border. Some individuals also breed in Canada before migrating south for winter.

Their distribution varies depending on pine cone crops, allowing them to be found across much of North America. As their name suggests, Pine Siskins predominantly feed on seeds from coniferous trees. However, they also consume young buds and seeds from grasses and weeds.

Attracting Birds to Your Backyard in New Brunswick:

To enhance the bird-friendly habitat in your backyard and attract a variety of species, consider implementing the following measures:

1. Install a variety of bird feeders: Tube feeders with black oil sunflower seeds attract Goldfinches, Chickadees, Woodpeckers, Nuthatches, and Pine Siskins. Ground feeders or trays below tube feeders with black oil sunflower seeds attract Cardinals, Jays, Finches, and Sparrows. Platform feeders with Millet or Corn entice small and medium-sized birds like sparrows, Blackbirds, Towhees, Juncos, Doves, Grackles, and Starlings. Peanut feeders appeal to Woodpeckers, Chickadees, Nuthatches, Titmice, Jays, Juncos, Finches, and Sparrows. Suet feeders, especially during winter, attract Woodpeckers, Cardinals, Nuthatches, Kinglets, Wrens, and Chickadees. Hummingbird feeders cater not only to the tiny hummingbirds but also attract other bird species.

2. Provide a water feature: Consider installing a birdbath, fountain, or stream in your backyard. Ensure that the water remains clean and free from stagnation.

3. Plant native vegetation: Opt for native plants that offer food and shelter for birds. Trees and shrubs that produce fruits, berries, and nuts, such as blackberries, wild grasses, elderberries, serviceberries, oaks, beeches, cherries, sumacs, hemlocks, purple coneflowers, sunflowers, milkweed, cardinal flowers, trumpet honeysuckle, Virginia creeper, buttonbush, and dogwoods, can attract various bird species.

4. Allow grass to grow longer: Allowing a portion of your lawn to grow longer provides cover for birds and allows grasses to produce seeds.

5. Create a brush pile: Construct a brush pile in your yard to provide food, protection, and nesting opportunities for birds.

6. Avoid pesticides and herbicides: Refrain from using harmful chemicals in your yard, as they can be toxic to birds and eliminate natural foraging opportunities for insects and seeds.

7. Install nest boxes: Set up nest boxes to provide breeding opportunities for birds. Ensure that the boxes

are properly placed and maintained.

By incorporating these measures, you can create a welcoming environment for a diverse range of bird species in your backyard in New Brunswick.