1. The Bald Eagle
The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is a majestic bird that is the national bird of the United States and a symbol of strength and freedom. It is a large bird with a wingspan of up to 2.4 meters, and is easily recognizable for its white head and tail feathers. The bald eagle can be found in North America, from Alaska and Canada to the northern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
Bald eagles live near bodies of water and are primarily fish-eaters. They are known to feed on small mammals and birds, as well as carrion. They nest in tall trees near lakes and rivers, and often build large stick nests. The bald eagle is a protected species, and is listed as threatened on the US Endangered Species List.
2. The Red-Tailed Hawk
The red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) is a medium-sized bird of prey, easily recognizable by its reddish-brown tail feathers. It is a large bird, with a wingspan of up to 1.8 meters. The red-tailed hawk is found in North America, from Alaska to Mexico, and is especially common in the eastern United States.
Red-tailed hawks are most often seen perched on telephone poles or soaring in the sky, and they feed primarily on small mammals and birds. They nest in tall trees or on cliffs, and often build large stick nests. The red-tailed hawk is a protected species, and is listed as threatened on the US Endangered Species List.
3. The Great Blue Heron
The great blue heron (Ardea herodias) is a large, wading bird with a wingspan of up to 2.1 meters. It is easily recognizable by its long neck and grayish-blue feathers. The great blue heron is found in North America, from Canada to Mexico, and is especially common in the eastern and central United States.
Great blue herons are most often seen wading in shallow water, and they feed primarily on fish and small mammals. They nest in trees near bodies of water, and often build large stick nests. The great blue heron is a protected species, and is listed as threatened on the US Endangered Species List.
4. The American Kestrel
The American kestrel (Falco sparverius) is a small falcon with a wingspan of up to 0.9 meters. It is easily recognizable by its reddish-brown feathers and white chest. The American kestrel is found in North America, from Canada to Mexico, and is especially common in the eastern and central United States.
American kestrels are most often seen perched on telephone poles or soaring in the sky, and they feed primarily on insects, rodents, and small birds. They nest in tree cavities or on cliffs, and often build small stick nests. The American kestrel is a protected species, and is listed as threatened on the US Endangered Species List.
5. The American White Pelican
The American white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) is a large bird with a wingspan of up to 3.2 meters. It is easily recognizable by its white feathers and long, orange bill. The American white pelican is found in North America, from Canada to Mexico, and is especially common in the western United States.
American white pelicans are most often seen in large flocks, and they feed primarily on fish. They nest in large colonies on islands or in shallow marshes, and often build large stick nests. The American white pelican is a protected species, and is listed as threatened on the US Endangered Species List.
6. The Great Egret
The great egret (Ardea alba) is a large, wading bird with a wingspan of up to 1.5 meters. It is easily recognizable by its white feathers and black legs. The great egret is found in North America, from Canada to Mexico, and is especially common in the eastern and central United States.
Great egrets are most often seen wading in shallow water, and they feed primarily on fish and amphibians. They nest in trees near bodies of water, and often build large stick nests. The great egret is a protected species, and is listed as threatened on the US Endangered Species List.
7. The Broad-Winged Hawk
FAQs
What Is Birdwatching?
Answer: Birdwatching, also known as birding, is an outdoor activity that involves observing birds in their natural habitats. It is a popular hobby for people of all ages, and requires patience and knowledge of bird behavior and identification.
Where Can I Find the 10 Must-See Bird Species?
Answer: The 10 must-see bird species can be found in various habitats, depending on the season and location. Many of these species can be seen in parks and open fields, while others may require a trip to a more remote location.
What Equipment Do I Need to Start Birdwatching?
Answer: To get started with birdwatching, you will need a pair of binoculars, a field guide to identify birds, and a birding journal to record your observations. You may also want to consider buying a bird feeder or nesting box to attract birds to your backyard.
What Are Some Good Resources for Learning to Identify Birds?
Answer: There are many good resources available to help you learn how to identify birds. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology has a variety of free online courses, as well as field guides and other educational materials. Audubon.org also offers a range of online resources, including bird identification guides and field guides.
What Should I Do If I See an Unusual Bird Species?
Answer: If you see an unusual bird species, you should take detailed notes about the bird’s appearance and behavior, and then report the sighting to a local birding organization or website. This will help other birders learn more about the species and its distribution.
What Are Some Tips for Taking Better Bird Photos?
Answer: To take better bird photos, you should use a digital camera with a high-powered zoom lens, and ensure that the light and background are ideal for capturing the bird’s details. Additionally, you should use a tripod to keep your camera steady and use a blind or hide to remain undetected by the bird.
What Are the Benefits of Birdwatching?
Answer: Birdwatching can be an incredibly rewarding hobby. It can help you to deepen your appreciation of nature, relax and reduce stress, and even foster connections with other birders. It is also an activity that can be enjoyed alone or with friends and family.
Are There Professional Birdwatching Organizations?
Answer: Yes, there are many professional birdwatching organizations, such as the American Birding Association, the British Trust for Ornithology, and the Canadian Wildlife Federation. These organizations offer resources, events, and other opportunities to get involved in birdwatching.
What Types of Birds Are Typically Seen in North America?
Answer: There are hundreds of species of birds that can be seen in North America, including songbirds, waterfowl, raptors, and shorebirds. Some of the most common and popular species include the American robin, the northern cardinal, the blue jay, and the bald eagle.