38 Brown Birds In Michigan (ID Guide, Pictures)

19. Eastern Towhee

Eastern Towhees are a common sight during the breeding season in Michigan, from mid-March to November, featuring in about 10% of the summer bird observations.

Eastern Towhees are impressively large sparrows, roughly the size of a Robin. Male towhees exhibit a black head, throat, and back, coupled with reddish flanks, lengthy tails, and a white belly. Females have a similar pattern but are brown in place of black.

Scientific name: Pipilo erythrophthalmus Size specifications: Length: 6.8-8.2 inches (17.3-20.8 cm) Weight: 1.1-1.8 ounces (32-52 g) Wingspan: 7.9-11.0 inches (20-28 cm)

Eastern Towhees inhabit the southeastern US states year-round. However, the ones in the northern regions migrate south during the winter.

Eastern Towhees are typically seen foraging in the underbrush and along the peripheries of woods and thickets.

Eastern Towhees typically construct their nests on the ground, camouflaged within fallen leaves. The nests are composed of twigs, bark, and leaves, and are internally lined with soft grass and animal fur. They lay up to six eggs, which take slightly less than two weeks to hatch, and a similar duration for the young to fledge.

To attract Eastern Towhees to your backyard, maintain overgrown borders and utilize platform feeders filled with black oil sunflower seeds, hulled sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and millet.

20. Field Sparrow

Field Sparrows are regular visitors during the breeding season in Michigan, showing up in approximately 10% of summer bird reports. They are most frequently seen from mid-March to October, although some can be spotted in the southern part of the state throughout the year.

Field Sparrows are petite, slender birds with a brown back streaked with black. Their underparts and heads sport a gray hue, and they have a reddish crown and a pink bill.

Scientific name: Spizella pusilla Size specifications: Length: 4.7-5.9 inches (12-15 cm) Weight: 0.4-0.5 ounces (11-15 g) Wingspan: 7.9 inches (20 cm)

Field Sparrows inhabit eastern US states year-round. However, those breeding in the Midwest migrate south when winter arrives.

During the breeding season, Field Sparrows are more noticeable as males often sing from a perch in the early morning. Otherwise, they are rather elusive, quietly foraging on weeds and seeds. They favor deserted fields and exhibit a shy demeanor.

The nesting behavior of Field Sparrows is interesting. They construct their nests on the ground for their initial brood, then gradually move them higher as the breeding season progresses. Their nests, built from grass, house up to five eggs, which take approximately two weeks to hatch. It then takes just about a week for the fledglings to leave the nest.

You can attract Field Sparrows to your backyard by offering cracked corn, hulled sunflower seeds, and millet.

21. Swamp Sparrow

During the breeding season in Michigan, which spans from April to August, Swamp Sparrows are commonly observed and can be found on approximately 9% of summer checklists. However, some individuals can be spotted year-round in the southern part of the state.

Swamp Sparrows have a distinct appearance, with dark brown feathers on their backs adorned with rusty crowns and wings. They possess gray breasts and white throats, while their heads exhibit a gray hue, brown faces with a dark eye line, and a yellow tip at the end of their beaks.

Scientifically known as Melospiza georgiana, these sparrows measure around 4.7 to 5.9 inches (12-15 cm) in length, weighing approximately 0.5 to 0.8 ounces (15-23 g), and have a wingspan of about 7.1 to 7.5 inches (18-19 cm). They are predominantly found in the eastern regions, breeding in Canada, northeastern US states, and North Central US states before migrating to the eastern and southern parts of the United States as well as Mexico.

True to their name, Swamp Sparrows primarily inhabit wetlands, swamps, bogs, and coastal marshes. Their diet consists of seeds and fruits, with a higher focus on insects during the spring season.

When it comes to nesting, Swamp Sparrows typically construct concealed nests within vegetation close to or on the ground. These nests are made from twigs, leaves, and cattails, and are lined with grass and other plant materials.

Although Swamp Sparrows do not commonly frequent residential backyards, except during migration to areas with ample vegetation and water sources, they can be observed in such settings.

22. Carolina Wren

Carolina Wrens are non-migratory birds that can be observed in Michigan throughout the entire year. They make appearances on about 5% of both summer and winter checklists.

These wrens possess a timid nature and display a coloration pattern characterized by dark brown plumage on their upper body and lighter brown shades on their underparts. They feature a distinct white stripe above their eyes, an upright tail, and are known for their loud and melodious “teakettle” song.

Scientifically referred to as Thryothorus ludovicianus, Carolina Wrens are permanent residents in the eastern and southeastern regions of the United States. They can be found in wooded areas or locations with dense vegetation, and they are known to visit backyard feeders.

To attract Carolina Wrens to your backyard, consider providing suet feeders, hulled sunflower seeds, or peanut hearts in large tube feeders or on platform feeders.

While some Carolina Wrens in Michigan are frequently observed in residential backyards, others may require venturing into marshy areas to spot them.

23. Brown Creeper

Throughout the year, Brown Creepers can be observed in Michigan. They appear on approximately 2% of summer checklists and 4% of winter checklists.

Brown Creepers are diminutive songbirds that prove challenging to spot due to their streaked brown backs and white undersides, which blend in with tree trunks.

Scientifically known as Certhia americana, these birds measure around 4.7 to 5.5 inches (12-14 cm) in length, weigh approximately 0.2 to 0.3 ounces (5-10 g), and have a wingspan of about 6.7 to 7.9 inches (17-20 cm).

While Brown Creepers do not undertake long-distance migrations, they may move southward or to lower elevations during the winter. Their range extends from Alaska, southern Canada, and northeastern and eastern US states, all the way down to Mexico and Central America. Additionally, in certain winters, they can be found in central and southeastern states.

To catch a glimpse of these tiny birds, focus your attention on the trunks of mature woodlands with large trees. They tend to forage for insects and larvae hidden in the bark.

Brown Creepers have a distinctive behavior of ascending trees as they search for food, unlike nuthatches that descend headfirst along tree trunks.

Rather than singing, these songbirds emit a high, piercing call that aids in locating them.

24. Brown Thrasher

From April to mid-October, Brown Thrashers are primarily observed in Michigan and appear on about 8% of summer checklists.

These songbirds are characterized by their large size and elongated proportions, similar to that of a robin. They boast brown plumage on their backs with white-streaked chests and bellies. Their faces exhibit a gray coloration, complemented by bright yellow eyes.

Scientifically known as Toxostoma rufum, Brown Thrashers inhabit central and eastern regions of North America. While individuals in the southeastern part of their range remain year-round, those in northern areas migrate south for the winter.

Brown Thrashers can be elusive to spot despite their size, as they spend the majority of their time amidst thickets and shrubbery. However, their presence can be detected by the sounds they create while rummaging along the ground in leaf litter and soil, searching for insects. Additionally, they consume berries, beetles, and airborne insects.

These highly accomplished songbirds are capable of singing over 1,000 different song types, making their repertoire one of the largest among North American songbirds.

To attract Brown Thrashers to your backyard, provide dense cover and berry shrubs. They will also gather fallen seeds from beneath feeders.

25. White-crowned Sparrow

During the migration seasons in May and October, White-crowned Sparrows can be observed in Michigan, appearing on approximately 20% of checklists during these times. However, some individuals choose to spend the winter in the southern regions of the state.

These sparrows are notable for their large size, displaying a grayish plumage. They possess long tails, small bills, and distinctive black and white stripes on their heads.

Scientifically known as Zonotrichia leucophrys, White-crowned Sparrows measure around 5.9 to 6.3 inches (15-16 cm) in length, weigh approximately 0.9 to 1.0 ounce (25-28 g), and have a wingspan of about 8.3 to 9.4 inches (21-24 cm).

When it comes to nesting, White-crowned Sparrows construct their nests using twigs, grass, moss, and pine needles. These nests are often located low to the ground in shrubs or even on the ground in tundra areas. They typically lay up to seven eggs, which take approximately two weeks to hatch. Once hatched, the chicks remain in the nest for around nine days before fledging.

To attract White-crowned Sparrows to your backyard, provide them with sunflower seeds. Additionally, they are known to consume seeds dropped by other birds at the feeders.

Fun fact: Young White-crowned Sparrows require an additional week or two to learn how to fly after leaving the nest.

26. Pine Siskin

Pine Siskins are frequently observed during their migrations across Michigan. However, they are primarily spotted during winter, from September to May, and are recorded on approximately 5% of winter checklists.

These small finches, known as Pine Siskins, display a brown coloration with distinct yellow streaks on their wings and tails. They possess forked tails, pointed wings, and short, pointed bills.

Scientifically referred to as Spinus pinus, Pine Siskins reside year-round in pine forests found in western states and along the Canadian border. Some individuals also breed in Canada before embarking on their southward migration for the winter.

Depending on the availability of pine cone crops, Pine Siskins can be found across various regions of North America. As their name suggests, their diet primarily consists of seeds from coniferous trees. However, they also consume young buds and seeds from grasses and weeds.

To attract Pine Siskins to your backyard, consider providing thistle and nyjer feeders. They are also drawn to black oil sunflower seeds and suet.

27. Hermit Thrush

Hermit Thrushes are commonly sighted in northern Michigan during the breeding season, while they spend their winters in the southern part of the state.

These birds, known as Hermit Thrushes, possess an upright stance, sturdy bodies, and long tails. They exhibit a brown coloration on their backs and white undersides, adorned with spots on their throat and breast.

Scientifically referred to as Catharus guttatus, Hermit Thrushes breed in Canada, northeastern US states, and the western US. During migration, they can be observed in central states before seeking winter habitats along the Pacific Coast, southeastern states, and even in Mexico.

Hermit Thrushes primarily forage on the ground in forest clearings, where they search for insects within the leaf litter. During winter, they also consume berries as part of their diet.

While these thrushes are not frequent visitors to residential backyards, their somewhat melancholic song can be heard during the spring and summer seasons.

28. Savannah Sparrow

Savannah Sparrows reside in Michigan during the breeding season and are documented on approximately 7% of summer checklists. Their presence in the state can be observed from April to October.

When you get a closer look at a Savannah Sparrow, you’ll notice its distinct yellow patch near the eye. These sparrows have short tails and sport a streaky brown plumage.

Scientifically known as Passerculus sandwichensis, Savannah Sparrows breed in both Canada and the United States before embarking on a migration to southern states in the US and Mexico for the winter.

You can typically find Savannah Sparrows foraging on the ground in open areas such as grasslands. During the breeding season, they feed on insects and spiders, while in winter, their diet consists of seeds.

Nests of Savannah Sparrows are constructed on or near the ground using grass materials. They lay up to six eggs, which take approximately two weeks to hatch. The young sparrows then spend an additional one to two weeks before they are ready to fledge.

Although these birds do not frequently visit feeders, they may occasionally make appearances in your yard if you provide brush piles, maintain long grass, and live in proximity to fields.

29. Wood Thrush

Wood Thrushes are commonly observed in Michigan during their breeding season, which spans from April to November, appearing on approximately 8% of checklists during this period.

With their plump bodies and white bellies adorned with black spots, Wood Thrushes possess a slightly comical appearance. They display brown plumage on their backs and exhibit reddish hues on their crown and upper back.

Scientifically referred to as Hylocichla mustelina, Wood Thrushes undertake remarkable migrations from eastern US states, crossing the Gulf of Mexico in a single night to reach their wintering grounds in Central America.

These birds prefer to stay concealed, often foraging in leaf litter within mature forests in search of insects such as beetles and flies. In spring, their presence is often marked by their distinct “flute-like” song, which resonates through the forest.

30. Purple Finch – Female

Purple Finches spend their breeding season in northern Michigan, while they are observed migrating across the southern part of the state. Some individuals have also been spotted during winter in the southeast. They appear on approximately 3% of summer checklists and 1% of winter checklists.

Female Purple Finches display brown streaks across their entire bodies, while males exhibit reddish-purple heads and breasts with more brown on their back and wings, accompanied by a paler belly. They bear a resemblance to House Finches but have a redder plumage, especially at the top of their back.

Scientifically known as Haemorhous purpureus, Purple Finches breed in Canada and overwinter in eastern US states. However, they can be found year-round in the northeastern regions and along the Pacific coast.

You can typically spot Purple Finches in evergreen forests, where they feed on seeds, as well as buds, nectar, and berries.

Nests of Purple Finches are situated high up in trees and are constructed using twigs, barks, weeds, and moss. The female incubates the three to five eggs for approximately thirteen days.

To attract Purple Finches to your backyard, consider providing black oil sunflower seeds as a food source.

31. Swainson’s Thrush

Swainson’s Thrushes are commonly observed in Michigan during the months of May and from September to October. They appear on approximately 12% of checklists during the spring season and 15% during the fall.

These thrushes are medium-sized birds characterized by their pale underparts with spotted chests and brown plumage on their backs.

Scientifically known as Catharus ustulatus, Swainson’s Thrushes can be found in forests, where they forage along the forest floor in search of insects during the breeding season. They also consume red fruits such as blackberries, raspberries, huckleberries, and sumac. Ants form a significant part of their diet, and they also feed other insects to their nestlings.

While they are primarily seen during migration in the spring and fall throughout the lower 48 states, Swainson’s Thrushes breed in Canada and Alaska before embarking on their journey to Central and South America for the winter.

To attract Swainson’s Thrushes to your backyard, consider providing ground-level birdbaths and creating a habitat with ample tree and shrub cover.

32. Winter Wren

Winter Wrens are commonly observed in Michigan during the breeding season and can be found on approximately 2% of summer checklists.

These small and plump birds, known as Winter Wrens, feature a brown plumage with darker barring on their wings, tail, and belly. They possess a paler eyebrow stripe and keep their short tails upright. Both males and females have a similar appearance.

Winter Wrens closely resemble Pacific Wrens and were once believed to be the same species. However, they are now recognized as distinct species and have different songs.

Scientifically referred to as Troglodytes hiemalis, Winter Wrens are found in eastern US states during winter, while they inhabit northeastern US states and Canada during the summer months.

To spot Winter Wrens, look for them hidden within tangled undergrowth in forests and even backyards. They feed on insects and spiders by rummaging through fallen leaves and decaying bark.

Nests of Winter Wrens are constructed using twigs, moss, and woven grass, forming a round shape with a small opening. They typically lay 1 to 9 eggs, with an incubation period of around two to two and a half weeks. The young birds then take a similar time frame to fledge.

To attract Winter Wrens to your backyard, provide native plants and create dense vegetation to offer them a suitable habitat.

33. Marsh Wren

During the breeding season, Marsh Wrens can be observed in Michigan, appearing on approximately 3% of summer checklists. They are most commonly seen from May to October, but a few individuals can be spotted throughout the year.

Marsh Wrens are characterized by their brown plumage with black and white streaks on their back. Their underside is grayish-brown, and they possess the distinctive upright tail typical of wrens. Males and females exhibit a similar appearance.

While they may resemble Sedge Wrens, Marsh Wrens lack stripes on their shoulders and have longer bills.

Scientifically referred to as Cistothorus palustris, Marsh Wrens breed in northern US states and Central Canada before embarking on migration to southern states and Mexico. Some individuals in the western regions and along the Atlantic Coast may remain resident year-round. They can also be spotted during migration in the eastern US.

You can typically find Marsh Wrens in wetlands, clinging to reeds with each foot gripping a different stalk. They can be challenging to spot visually, but their distinctive songs can be heard among the reeds, particularly at dawn and dusk. They feed on insects and spiders, which they pick off leaves near the water’s edge.

Nests of Marsh Wrens are fully enclosed, except for a small opening at the top. They are constructed from woven reeds and grasses, providing a secure and protective structure for their eggs and young.

34. Northern Waterthrush

During the breeding season, Northern Waterthrushes are frequently observed in northern Michigan, after which they migrate across the southern part of the state.

These birds, resembling thrushes in size and appearance, exhibit similar traits in both males and females. They possess brown heads with thick, white eyebrows, dark brown backs, and white bellies adorned with heavy streaking from their throats all the way to their rumps.

Scientifically referred to as Parkesia noveboracensis, Northern Waterthrushes breed in Canada, Alaska, and northeastern US states before embarking on migration to Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Some individuals may choose to remain in Central and South America year-round.

Northern Waterthrushes can be found in dark, woody swamps, thickets, and bogs. If there is any still or sluggish water within forests, it is likely that a Northern Waterthrush will be present. During winter in the tropics, they are often spotted among mangroves.

These birds are both aquatic and terrestrial foragers. With their long legs, they can walk on shallow water while searching for water beetles, mosquitoes, slugs, crustaceans, snails, and occasionally, small fish. They also feed on caterpillars, moths, and ants, which they locate under leaves.

Nests of Northern Waterthrushes are typically situated in hollows or crevices near water sources. They can be found within moss-covered stumps or beneath overhanging banks, but they are usually well-hidden among ferns.

35. Louisiana Waterthrush

While not very common in Michigan, Louisiana Waterthrushes can occasionally be spotted in the state from April to August.

Compared to other warblers, Louisiana Waterthrushes exhibit a more modest appearance. They have a brown coloration on their upperparts and a paler tone on their underparts. These birds also feature a distinctive white eyebrow stripe and long pink legs.

Scientifically known as Parkesia motacilla, Louisiana Waterthrushes breed in eastern US states and can be observed in the southeast during migration. They spend their winter months in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, returning to their breeding grounds in the early spring.

To locate Louisiana Waterthrushes, one should search along streams and moving water within woodland areas. These birds are skilled hunters, preying on insects, vertebrates, and larvae found in their habitat.

Nests of Louisiana Waterthrushes are strategically positioned along the banks of streams, often hidden among roots or under logs. The nests are constructed using leaves, pine needles, and other plant materials, all held together with mud.

36. Spotted Towhee

While considered rare or accidental species in Michigan, there have been occasional sightings of Spotted Towhees in the southern part of the state during the winter season.

Spotted Towhees are notable for their large size, resembling sparrows. In males, the head, throat, and back are black, while females exhibit a brown coloration. Both males and females have reddish-brown sides and white bellies, adorned with white spots on their wings and back. They also possess long tails.

Scientifically referred to as Pipilo maculatus, Spotted Towhees primarily inhabit western US states. However, those inland in the northern regions migrate south to Texas after the breeding season.

You can typically find Spotted Towhees foraging on the ground within dense tangles of shrubs, scratching around in search of various insects such as beetles, crickets, grasshoppers, caterpillars, wasps, and bees. Additionally, they feed on acorns, berries, and seeds.

Nests of Spotted Towhees are usually situated on or near the ground and constructed using leaves, stems, and bark, lined with softer materials. They lay up to six eggs, which take around two weeks to hatch. The young birds then require approximately ten days before they are ready to fledge.

To attract Spotted Towhees to your yard, consider maintaining overgrown borders that provide suitable habitat. They may visit platform feeders or ground feeders if provided with food such as Black Oil Sunflower seeds, Hulled Sunflower seeds, Cracked Corn, Millet, and Milo.

37. Golden-crowned Sparrow

Golden-crowned Sparrows are exceedingly rare occurrences in Michigan and are classified as accidental species within the state. The most recent sighting of these sparrows was reported in Charlevoix in 2021.

Golden-crowned Sparrows display a grayish-brown coloration on their underparts, with streaked brown patterns adorning their backs. Their heads are adorned with a black crown and a vibrant yellow forehead.

During winter, their colors become duller, with the crown taking on a more brownish tone, and the yellow forehead becoming less vibrant.

Scientifically known as Zonotrichia atricapilla, Golden-crowned Sparrows breed in Alaska and western Canada before embarking on migration to the West Coast for the winter season.

These sparrows can be found in weedy fields, where they engage in scratching behaviors to uncover seeds, such as dock, sumac, and geranium. They also include fruits like apples, grapes, elderberry, and olives in their diet. Additionally, they consume insects such as ants, beetles, butterflies, and termites.

Nests of Golden-crowned Sparrows are typically constructed on the ground using twigs, moss, and leaves. They are lined with softer materials like animal hair, grass, and feathers to provide comfort and insulation.

To attract Golden-crowned Sparrows to your backyard, consider providing seeds on ground feeders or planting native plants that bear fruit, as these may serve as enticements for these rare visitors.

38. Bewick’s Wren

Bewick’s Wrens are exceptionally rare and considered accidental species within Michigan, making sightings of these birds in the state extremely infrequent.

These wrens are characterized by their brown backs and long, gray upright tails adorned with darker barring. They possess gray bellies and a distinct white stripe that extends over their eyes.

Scientifically referred to as Thryomanes bewickii, Bewick’s Wrens primarily inhabit southern and western states throughout the year, with minor movements observed during the winter season.

You can typically find Bewick’s Wrens in scrublands, thickets, and open woodlands, where they hop from branch to branch, continuously flicking their long tails. They sustain themselves by feeding on insects and larvae, including bees, bugs, caterpillars, and beetles.

Nests of Bewick’s Wrens are typically constructed on rock ledges, within old woodpecker nests, nest boxes, or crevices in buildings. These nests have a cup-like shape and are constructed using sticks and grasses, with a softer lining for added comfort. They lay a clutch of 3 to 8 eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks, and the fledglings take an additional two weeks before they are ready to leave the nest.

To entice Bewick’s Wrens to visit your backyard, consider offering enticing treats such as suet, mealworms, and hulled sunflower seeds. These food options can serve as irresistible attractions for these charming birds, encouraging them to grace your outdoor space with their presence.

Checklists provide valuable insights into the frequency of brown bird sightings in Michigan during the summer and winter seasons. By referring to these lists on platforms like eBird, you can gather information about the brown bird species that are commonly observed in the state during these specific times of the year.