Birds to Watch for During the Summer
Summer (June–August)Summer features breeding residents and fewer migrants. Look for birds in forests, fields, and near water, as many raise young during this time.
- Year-round Residents: Northern Cardinal, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse, Blue Jay, American Robin, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Carolina Wren, White-breasted Nuthatch, American Goldfinch
- Summer Breeders: Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Eastern Bluebird, Barn Swallow, Tree Swallow, Eastern Towhee, Field Sparrow, Chipping Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Summer Tanager, Prothonotary Warbler (in wetlands), Yellow-billed Cuckoo
- Waterbirds/Wetland Species: Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, Green Heron, Wood Duck, Killdeer
- Raptors: Red-tailed Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Barred Owl (heard in wooded areas like Iroquois Park)
- Others: Chimney Swift (common over urban areas), Common Grackle, Brown-headed Cowbird
Hotspots: Beckley Creek Park, wetlands near the Ohio River, and suburban feeders for hummingbirds