Welcome to my article on the 15 Common Birds in Connecticut (CT).
Connecticut, known for its diverse ecosystems and picturesque landscapes, is home to a wide variety of bird species.
Whether you are an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, this guide will introduce you to some of the most frequently spotted birds in the state.
From vibrant cardinals to majestic ospreys, let’s explore the enchanting world of Connecticut’s feathered residents.
There are 447 different species of birds that call Connecticut home.
The American Robin is Connecticut’s state bird, having been declared as such in 1943.
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If you don’t have the time to read the whole article, check out this video on Common Birds in Connecticut for a quick understanding.
Common Birds in Connecticut
1. Red-winged Blackbird
The black plumage and crimson wings of the Red-winged Blackbird help to identify it.
Females and males of this subspecies are not the same.
Females have a unique body coloration.
The hues of its plumage are a mix of black, brown, and red.
The Ruby Blackbird can be seen all year in Connecticut.
The Red-winged Blackbird Blackbirds are also native to Wisconsin, however, they can be found in practically every Northern state.
The bird’s plumage is all black, with a brilliant red patch on its wings.
When exposed to sunlight, they have a gleaming black tone that takes on a blue hue.
Body size, plumage color, and weight differences between men and females.
Males are larger, have a richer plumage color, and weigh more than females.
The male and female are clearly identifiable.
Worms, tiny insects like spiders, and insect larvae are among the Red-winged Blackbird’s preferred foods.
Many trees and bushes have cracked nuts, seeds, and berries that they eat.
Below are the characteristics of the Red-winged Blackbird,
| Scientific Name | Agelaius phoeniceus |
| Family Name | Icteridae |
| Length | 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) |
| Weight | 41-65 grams (1.4-2.3 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 31-39 cm (12-15 inches) |
| Habitat | Wetlands, marshes, meadows, and open fields near water sources |
| Food | Insects, spiders, seeds, grains, berries, and occasionally small vertebrates |
2. Gray Catbird
The Gray Catbird is tiny to a medium-sized bird that belongs to the mimed family.
This songbird is originally from Central and North America, but it has now expanded to other regions of the globe.
Because their population relocates to various states during the wintertime, they are less visible.
The Gray Catbird can be observed in Connecticut from May through October.
It is less apparent during the other months.
Gray Catbirds are only 8 inches long exactly, with a span of 11 inches.
Gray Catbirds weigh between 30 and 50 g as adults.
The entire body of the Gray Catbird is coated in lead-gray feathers.
The body components of the wings and head are darker than the belly and neck.
Male and female Gray Catbirds are nearly identical, making it difficult to tell them apart.
The male has a lovely, musical voice that entices females to procreate with him.
They go to the bird feeders to receive their food. During the summer, they come more regularly.
Small worms and insects are eaten by the Gray Catbird.
They eat the fruits and berries of a variety of tiny plants as well.
Below are the characteristics of the Gray Catbird,
| Scientific Name | Dumetella carolinensis |
| Family Name | Mimidae |
| Length | 22 cm (8.5 inches) |
| Weight | 23-40 grams (0.8-1.4 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 22-30 cm (8.5-12 inches) |
| Habitat | Woodlands, thickets, gardens, and shrubby areas |
| Food | Insects, spiders, berries, fruits, and occasionally small amphibians |
3. Tufted Titmouse
The Tufted Titmouse is a tiny songbird native to North America.
It has a black crown on its forehead.
An adult Tufted Titmouse’s body length ranges from 5.6 to 6.2 inches or 13-16 cm, while its wingspan ranges from 7.9 to 10.2 inches or 20-26 cm.
An adult Tufted Titmouse’s body weight ranges from 20 to 26 grams which is about 0.6 to 1 oz.
Both males and females have comparable physical shapes, weights colors, and sizes.
They appear to be identical, but their tufted crest distinguishes them.
The Tufted Titmouse is a year-round resident of Connecticut.
A grey upper body and a white belly distinguish the Tufted Titmouse.
Their flanks are rusty, and their upper body is rusty as well.
On top of their heads, the Tufted Titmouse has a tufted grey crest/crown.
They have a very nice tune with about 20 different beat variations.
They use these different rhymes in different situations, which results in a different type of song depending on the situation.
They don’t build open nests like many other birds; instead, they build their nests inside tree trunk cavities.
They eat grains and herbs made from a range of small plants.
They also consume small fruits, nuts, and other fruits.
In addition to these, the Tufted Titmouse consumes caterpillars and hornets.
Below are the characteristics of the Tufted Titmouse,
| Scientific Name | Baeolophus bicolor |
| Family Name | Paridae |
| Length | 15 cm (6 inches) |
| Weight | 18-26 grams (0.6-0.9 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) |
| Habitat | Deciduous forests, woodlands, parks, and suburban areas |
| Food | Insects, seeds, nuts, berries, and occasionally small fruits |
4. Hairy Woodpecker
The Hairy Woodpecker belongs to the Woodpecker family and is a medium-sized bird.
Hairy Woodpecker males have just a red dot on their heads, whilst females do not.
In Connecticut, the Hairy Woodpecker can be observed all year.
They resemble downy woodpeckers in appearance.
They have a powerful beak and utilize it to drill holes in tree trunks.
Males have more vibrant colors than females.
Male Hairy Woodpeckers are larger than female Hairy Woodpeckers, with a longer body, broader wingspan, and heavier weight.
During the mating season, the male produces a characteristic mating cry that attracts females.
They frequently eat from the bird feeders.
They can also be observed in other regions of the nation throughout the year.
Small worms, bugs, nuts, & fruits, and also the eggs of numerous insects, are eaten by Hairy Woodpeckers.
They are regular visitors to the suet feeders.
Below are the characteristics of the Hairy Woodpecker,
| Scientific Name | Picoides villosus |
| Family Name | Picidae |
| Length | 23 cm (9 inches) |
| Weight | 45-70 grams (1.6-2.5 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 38-46 cm (15-18 inches) |
| Habitat | Deciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, parks, and wooded suburban areas |
| Food | Insects, larvae, spiders, nuts, seeds, and occasionally tree sap |
5. White-throated Sparrow
The White-throated Sparrow is a tiny songbird belonging to the Passalidae family of sparrows.
This bird is only found in the northern areas of the United States.
Their white necks are well-known.
They are relatively little, with a body length ranging from 15 to 19 cm and a wingspan of only 23 cm.
An adult White-Throated Sparrow weighs between 20 and 30 grams.
The adults’ plumage is striped, with two black and one white stripe in the center of their heads.
Males and females have nearly identical appearances, body sizes, and colors.
They build their breeding nests in tiny shrubs or on the ground.
Below are the characteristics of the White-throated Sparrow,
| Scientific Name | Zonotrichia albicollis |
| Family Name | Passerellidae |
| Length | 16 cm (6.3 inches) |
| Weight | 22-32 grams (0.8-1.1 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 23-27 cm (9-10.5 inches) |
| Habitat | Forest edges, thickets, shrubby areas, and woodland clearings |
| Food | Seeds, insects, berries, buds, and occasionally small invertebrates |
6. House Finch
The House Finch is a small member of the Finch family of birds.
The House Finch is a sociable bird that visits human settlements regularly.
They started in the West but have now expanded across the country.
The House Finch is a brave and courageous bird, approaching humans without trepidation.
The House Finch may be seen all year in Connecticut.
A high-pitched whistle is used by the male House Finch to attract the female House Finch inbreeding.
The typical adult House Finch is 5 to 6 inches in length, with a 10-inch wingspan and a weight of 21 grams.
A male House Finch has different body plumage and feather color than a female.
Females have brown and grey plumage with dark brown patterns above their wings, while males have brown and grey plumage with dark brown markings above their wings.
The House Finches start to eat from the bird feeders.
House Finches eat tiny worms, bugs, seedlings of young plants, or fruits from some species.
Below are the characteristics of the House Finch,
| Scientific Name | Haemorhous mexicanus |
| Family Name | Fringillidae |
| Length | 12-15 cm (4.7-5.9 inches) |
| Weight | 16-27 grams (0.6-1 ounce) |
| Wingspan | 20-25 cm (7.9-9.8 inches) |
| Habitat | Urban and suburban areas, open woodlands, parks, gardens |
| Food | Seeds, fruits, buds, flowers, and occasionally insects |
7. Northern Mockingbird
Only one mockingbird species is endemic to North America: the Northern Mockingbird.
This species is a permanent resident of the northern states and does not migrate.
In pursuit of food, they scavenge backyard bird feeders.
The Northern Mockingbird is a year-round resident of Connecticut.
The Northern Mockingbird has a grey upper body and whitish-gray underparts.
Several other birds of the same size have shorter legs and tails than this bird.
The male Northern Mockingbird is the same length, form, and wingspan as the female.
Males are bulkier than females in terms of weight.
Black feathers cover their long tail and wings, as well.
Northern Mockingbirds can live up to 20 years in the wild.
Bird feeders may be seen in a variety of situations.
Small grains, grasses grains, berries, strawberries, caterpillars, and various insects are all favorites of the Northern Mockingbird.
Below are the characteristics of the Northern Mockingbird,
| Scientific Name | Mimus polyglottos |
| Family Name | Mimidae |
| Length | 23-27 cm (9-10.6 inches) |
| Weight | 40-58 grams (1.4-2 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 31-38 cm (12-15 inches) |
| Habitat | Open woodlands, scrublands, gardens, urban areas |
| Food | Insects, berries, fruits, seeds, and occasionally small vertebrates |
8. Cedar Waxwing
The Cedar Waxwing belongs to the Waxwing family and is a medium-sized bird.
It’s a songbird that communicates by using a high-pitched call.
The Cedar Waxwing is one of North America’s smallest waxwing species.
The Cedar Waxwing’s plumage is brown with glossy silky grey and lemon yellow streaks.
They also wear a black mask that covers their entire face.
On their wings, a vivid crimson dot rests in the midst of brown silky feathers.
The Cedar Waxwing may be seen all year in Connecticut.
On top of its head, this bird has a brown crest.
The Cedar Waxwing has black eyes and a black stripe running from the eyes to the rear of the skull.
Although its beak is little, it is strong enough to break nuts and small insects.
The Cedar Waxwing does have a body length of almost 6 – 7 inches (15 – 18 cm) and a wingspan of 8.7 – 11.8 inches (22 – 30 cm).
The Cedar Waxwing is a little bird that weighs roughly 30 grams as an adult.
While the male Cedar Waxwing breeds in the open woodlands, the female sits on the eggs.
The male looks after the female till they produce eggs, at which point the female is free to fly away and seek nourishment.
The Cedar Waxwing feeds on small berries and fruits from junipers, dogwood, serviceberry, and cedar, among other minor plants.
This bird eats caterpillars, spiders, and worms, among other small things.
Below are the characteristics of the Cedar Waxwing,
| Scientific Name | Bombycilla cedrorum |
| Family Name | Bombycillidae |
| Length | 14-17 cm (5.5-6.7 inches) |
| Weight | 32-40 grams (1.1-1.4 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 23-30 cm (9-12 inches) |
| Habitat | Woodlands, orchards, gardens, and riparian areas |
| Food | Berries, fruits, insects, and occasionally flower petals |
9. American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch is a little songbird that lives across North America.
Their plumage is more brilliant than that of many other birds, making them a gorgeous bird species.
The male and females of this species look alike, with the difference that the females lack the black mark on their skulls that the males have.
The American Goldfinch may be seen all year in Connecticut.
The plumage of the bird is brilliant yellow, with golden underparts and upper body.
On the other side, the American Goldfinch has black wings.
The American Goldfinch’s wings have a white underside.
Their tail is adorned with black feathers with white designs.
The hue of their beaks is bright golden pink.
In terms of size, weight, and wingspan, the male and female are almost identical.
The American Goldfinch eats tiny bugs, fruit, and seed from small vegetation.
They are social, but they keep a safe distance from humans and may escape if you approach them too closely.
The American Goldfinch eats tiny insects, berries, and seeds on small trees and shrubs.
Below are the characteristics of the American Goldfinch,
| Scientific Name | Spinus tristis |
| Family Name | Fringillidae |
| Length | 11-14 cm (4.3-5.5 inches) |
| Weight | 11-20 grams (0.4-0.7 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 19-22 cm (7.5-8.7 inches) |
| Habitat | Open fields, meadows, grasslands, and shrubby areas |
| Food | Seeds, especially thistle seeds, and occasionally insects |
10. Brown Thrasher
The Brown Thrasher, also known as Toxostoma rufum, is a big bird belonging to the Mimidae family of thrashers.
Mockingbirds are genetically linked to birds.
The Brown Thrasher is a species that can be seen in rocky regions all over the world, including the United States.
The bird is completely coated in brown plumage, as its name indicates.
Above their wings and upper portions of the plumage, they have dark brown to black patches.
The underparts and breasts of the bird are covered with brownish-grey plumage.
Because the male and female Brown Thrasher birds are so similar in form, color, and size, it’s difficult to tell them apart.
Brown Thrasher chicks are born with drab coloring and no feathers.
Brown Thrashers have a wingspan of 29 to 33 cm and a body size of 23.5 to 30.5 cm (9.3 to 12.0 in) (11 to 13 in).
A Brown Thrasher adult weighs between 61 and 89 grams on average (2.2 to 3.1 oz).
The female Brown Thrasher lays three to five eggs, which she waits on until they hatch.
These days, the male supplies nourishment.
The Brown Thrasher mostly feeds on tiny insects and worms.
Small insect larvae are also eaten by them.
Some birds’ seeds, grains, fruits, and berries are also eaten by the Brown Thrasher.
They will come to the bird feeders on a regular basis if the feeders contain suet and other such items.
Below are the characteristics of the Brown Thrasher,
| Scientific Name | Toxostoma rufum |
| Family Name | Mimidae |
| Length | 23-28 cm (9-11 inches) |
| Weight | 68-92 grams (2.4-3.2 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 29-33 cm (11-13 inches) |
| Habitat | Forest edges, thickets, shrubby areas, and overgrown fields |
| Food | Insects, fruits, berries, seeds, and occasionally small vertebrates |
11. House Sparrow
The House Sparrow is a member of the Sparrow family.
They are one of the most widely distributed bird species, with populations found all over the world.
The House Sparrow is a little bird with a big, huge stomach.
Female House Sparrows and juvenile House Sparrows have more black and brown markings on their wings and upper portions than male House Sparrows.
The House Sparrow may be seen all year in Connecticut.
The house sparrow is a little bird that is 16 cm in length and has a wingspan of almost 30 cm.
It weighs just 30 grams and has a wingspan of about 30 cm.
Males and females have different plumage colors, making it easy to tell them apart.
They are fearless and sociable birds that regularly approach human settlements and homes in search of food and refuge.
They visit the bird feeders in different parts of the country on a regular basis in quest of food.
Seeds from tiny herbs and plants, as well as small fruits and berries, make up the majority of their diet.
Caterpillars, spiders, worms, and microscopic insect larvae are among the insects they devour.
Bird feeders attract birds by providing grains, seeds, as well as other shredded and tiny food items such as broken nuts and maize.
Below are the characteristics of the House Sparrow,
| Scientific Name | Passer domesticus |
| Family Name | Passeridae |
| Length | 14 cm (5.5 inches) |
| Weight | 25-40 grams (0.9-1.4 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 19-25 cm (7.5-9.8 inches) |
| Habitat | Urban and suburban areas, farmlands, parks, and gardens |
| Food | Seeds, grains, insects, and human food scraps |
12. Red-Eyed Vireo
A little songbird endemic to North America, the Red-eyed Vireo is a small songbird.
Although the Red-eyed Vireo and the New World Warbler have similar appearance, they are genetically distinct.
One of the most prevalent bird species in North America.
They’re also wintering migratory birds.
The Red-eyed Vireo’s mature plumage is olive-brown.
During the months of April to October, the Red-eyed Vireo may be found in Connecticut.
The olive green top body stands out against the white underbelly.
Red iris and black-edged crown characterize the Red Vireo.
A long, thin beak with a sharp tip distinguishes them.
The hue of the young Red-eyed Vireo is lighter than the adults.
Adults have a body length of 4.7 to 5.1 inches (12-13 cm) and a wingspan of 9.1 to 9.8 inches (23-25 cm).
As an adult, a Red-eyed Vireo can weigh anything from 12 to 26 grams.
The female lays 4 to 6 eggs and then sits on them until they hatch.
Larvae, mozzies, caterpillars, and wasps are among the little creatures they consume.
They also consume berries and tiny fruits that look like vegetables.
During their travels, they frequently stop by bird feeds in various locales.
Below are the characteristics of the Red-Eyed Vireo,
| Scientific Name | Vireo olivaceus |
| Family Name | Vireonidae |
| Length | 13 cm (5 inches) |
| Weight | 12-18 grams (0.4-0.6 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) |
| Habitat | Deciduous forests, woodlands, and thickets |
| Food | Insects, spiders, caterpillars, and small fruits |
13. Wood Thrush
The Wood Thrush is a little bird that lives in the woods.
The Wood Thrush is a bird that may be found throughout North America.
Wood Thrushes are migratory birds that travel from North America to Panama and southern Mexico.
This bird’s top parts and plumage are brownish, while its underparts are white with brown patterns.
From April through October, the Wood Thrush may be spotted in Connecticut.
Male Wood Thrushes have brighter body plumage than mature females and juvenile Wood Thrushes, which are paler and duller.
They show signs of sexual dimorphism.
The body length of an adult Wood Thrush is 18 to 21.5 cm (7.1 to 8.5 in), with a wing of nearly 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in).
A mature Wood Thrush can weigh anywhere between 48 and 72 grams (1.7 to 2.5 oz).
Females are also, on average, lighter than males.
The Wood Thrush is an omnivore bird that consumes a wide variety of foods.
They eat insects, invertebrates, worms, seeds, nuts, and berries from a variety of plants, among other things.
They forage on the ground and trees in search of food.
They frequently stop at the bird feeders while traveling.
Below are the characteristics of the Wood Thrush,
| Scientific Name | Hylocichla mustelina |
| Family Name | Turdidae |
| Length | 18 cm (7 inches) |
| Weight | 48-57 grams (1.7-2 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 30-34 cm (12-13.5 inches) |
| Habitat | Deciduous forests, woodlands, and forest edges |
| Food | Insects, earthworms, snails, and fruits |
14. Song Sparrow
A tiny songbird with a wonderful singing voice, the Song Sparrow is a small songbird.
It is a melodic song that is used to communicate with other Song Sparrows.
The plumage of the bird is brown.
Their entire bodies are coated with little brown feathers.
These brown feathers are spotted with black patterns.
The bird’s underparts have black markings and a brownish belly.
The Song Sparrow may be seen all year in Connecticut.
This species’ male and female have a remarkable similarity.
Both have the same body form and colorful plumage.
The male of this species is somewhat bigger in body weight, mass, and wingspan than the female.
During the breeding process, males & females mate, as well as the females lay and sit on the eggs while the male gives nourishment and shelter.
The Music Worms and small insects, particularly the larvae of several small insects, are the main foods of the sparrow.
Green seeds from tiny plants and bushes are also eaten by them.
The Song Sparrow consumes berries from a variety of tiny trees.
Below are the characteristics of the Song Sparrow,
| Scientific Name | Melospiza melodia |
| Family Name | Passerellidae |
| Length | 14 cm (5.5 inches) |
| Weight | 18-30 grams (0.6-1.1 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) |
| Habitat | Brushy areas, marshes, meadows, and gardens |
| Food | Seeds, insects, spiders, and small invertebrates |
15. Carolina Chickadee
The Poecile carolinensis, or Carolina Chickadee, is a tiny passerine bird that belongs to the Paridae family of birds.
They may be found in the woods and around bodies of water.
The Carolina Chickadee has a black crown on its head and a white line running from its eyes to its wings.
Near the neck, there is a dark black cord.
The bird has gray-brown upperparts and wings.
Light brown underparts and breasts distinguish the Carolina bird.
A long tail is another feature of the Carolina Chickadee.
Their beak is small yet powerful.
An adult Carolina Chickadee’s body length ranges from 11.5–13 cm (4.5–5.1 in) to 15–18 cm (6–7 in).
The typical weight of an adult Carolina Chickadee is 9–12 g (0.32–0.42 oz).
The male and female are nearly similar and difficult to distinguish.
To defend itself and its eggs from predators, this bird makes a nest deep in the woods.
The Carolina Chickadee is an insectivorous bird that feeds on tiny insects, including larvae and eggs of various insects.
They eat microscopic grains, bushes, and plant seeds as well.
They even flock to the bird feeders inside the area to get some meals.
They mostly frequent bird feeders that give suet as a food source.
Below are the characteristics of the Carolina Chickadee,
| Scientific Name | Poecile carolinensis |
| Family Name | Paridae |
| Length | 11-13 cm (4.3-5.1 inches) |
| Weight | 9-12 grams (0.3-0.4 ounces) |
| Wingspan | 16-19 cm (6.3-7.5 inches) |
| Habitat | Woodlands, forests, parks, and suburban areas |
| Food | Insects, spiders, seeds, berries, and nuts |
Final Words
In conclusion, Connecticut’s rich birdlife offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness the wonders of nature right in our backyard.
From the colorful and melodious songbirds to the impressive raptors soaring across the sky, these 15 common birds showcase the diversity and beauty of the state’s avian inhabitants.
By familiarizing ourselves with these species and their habitats, we can deepen our appreciation for the natural world and become more engaged stewards of the environment.
So, grab your binoculars, venture out into the great outdoors, and embark on a captivating journey of birdwatching in Connecticut.
Whether you’re exploring forests, meadows, or coastal areas, keep your eyes and ears open, for you never know what feathered wonders you may encounter.
Happy birdwatching!
FAQ
When is the best time to see migratory birds in Connecticut?
The best time to see migratory birds in Connecticut is during spring and fall, as many species pass through the state during their annual migration.
What are some common water birds found in Connecticut?
Common water birds in Connecticut include the Mallard, Canada Goose, Great Blue Heron, American Black Duck, and Double-crested Cormorant.
How can I attract birds to my yard in Connecticut?
To attract birds to your yard, provide food sources like bird feeders with seeds, suet, and nectar. Planting native plants and creating bird-friendly habitats with trees, shrubs, and water sources can also attract a variety of bird species.
Are there any endangered bird species in Connecticut?
Yes, Connecticut is home to several endangered bird species, including the Piping Plover, Least Tern, and Saltmarsh Sparrow. It is important to protect their habitats and follow conservation guidelines to help preserve these species.
Where can I go birdwatching in Connecticut?
Connecticut offers numerous birdwatching opportunities, such as state parks, wildlife refuges, and nature preserves. Some popular birdwatching locations include Hammonasset Beach State Park, Sherwood Island State Park, and the Connecticut Audubon Society sanctuaries.
How can I learn more about birds in Connecticut?
You can expand your knowledge about birds in Connecticut by visiting local nature centers, joining birdwatching groups, attending birding events or workshops, and exploring bird identification resources such as field guides and online databases.
Can I feed bread to birds in Connecticut?
It is generally recommended to avoid feeding birds bread, as it lacks the necessary nutrients and can be harmful to their health. Instead, opt for birdseed, suet, fruits, or specialized bird feed mixes that are suitable for the species you want to attract.
What should I do if I find an injured bird in Connecticut?
If you find an injured bird, it is best to contact a local wildlife rehabilitator or a licensed veterinarian who specializes in avian care. They can provide proper assistance and ensure the bird receives the necessary medical attention.
Last Updated on June 5, 2023 by Lily Aldrin
