seattle birds

Seattle’s Feathered Friends: A Guide to Birds in the Emerald City

Seattle, Washington, boasts a diverse avian population due to its unique combination of coastal, urban, and forested environments. From the iconic Bald Eagle soaring overhead to the humble Anna’s Hummingbird flitting through gardens, the city offers birdwatching opportunities for everyone. This guide explores some of the common and captivating birds you might encounter in Seattle.

Common Birds of Seattle

Seattle’s urban environment is home to many familiar bird species that have adapted to living alongside humans. These include:

• American Robin: Easily identifiable by its reddish-orange breast, the American Robin is a common sight foraging for worms in lawns and gardens.
• European Starling: Often seen in flocks, the European Starling is an introduced species known for its iridescent plumage.
• House Sparrow: Another introduced species, the House Sparrow is a small, brown bird that thrives in urban areas.
• Dark-eyed Junco: A small, gray bird with a white belly, the Dark-eyed Junco is a frequent visitor to bird feeders, especially during the colder months.
• Song Sparrow: The Song Sparrow is a common bird found in Seattle’s diverse habitats, including gardens, parks, and shorelines.

Birds of Prey in Seattle

Seattle’s green spaces and proximity to water bodies attract various birds of prey, including:

• Bald Eagle: A majestic bird and a symbol of the United States, the Bald Eagle can be spotted soaring over Puget Sound and other bodies of water. Seattle’s [Bald Eagle population](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bald_eagle “nofollow”) has rebounded in recent years thanks to conservation efforts.
• Red-tailed Hawk: The Red-tailed Hawk is a common raptor that can be seen perched on utility poles or circling overhead in search of prey.
• Cooper’s Hawk: This agile hawk often hunts smaller birds in urban and suburban areas.

Waterbirds of Seattle

Seattle’s location on Puget Sound and its many lakes and rivers make it a haven for waterbirds, such as:

• Great Blue Heron: A tall, elegant bird with long legs and a dagger-like bill, the Great Blue Heron can be seen wading in shallow water, hunting for fish.
• Canada Goose: A large, familiar goose with a black head and neck and a white cheek patch, the Canada Goose is a common sight in parks and on shorelines.
• Mallard: The Mallard is a dabbling duck that is found in a variety of aquatic habitats.
• Double-crested Cormorant: Commonly observed perched on docks and pilings, the Double-crested Cormorant is a black bird with a distinctive orange throat patch.

Hummingbirds in Seattle

One hummingbird species is particularly noticeable in the city:

• Anna’s Hummingbird: A year-round resident of the Pacific Northwest, Anna’s Hummingbird is known for its iridescent green plumage and the male’s vibrant pink gorget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Seattle Birds

What is the most common bird in Seattle?

The American Robin is arguably the most common bird in Seattle, frequently observed in gardens and parks.

Where can I go birdwatching in Seattle?

Discovery Park, Magnuson Park, and the Washington Park Arboretum are popular birdwatching locations in Seattle.

What kind of birds live near Puget Sound?

Puget Sound is home to a variety of waterbirds, including Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles, and various species of gulls and ducks.

What is the best time of year to go birding in Seattle?

Spring and fall migration periods offer the best opportunities to see a wide variety of birds in Seattle.

How can I attract birds to my Seattle garden?

Planting native plants, providing a water source, and setting up bird feeders are all effective ways to attract birds to your garden.

Summary

Seattle provides a welcoming habitat for numerous bird species, making it a great place for birdwatchers of all levels. From raptors soaring above to tiny hummingbirds flitting about, the city offers a diverse array of avian encounters. By learning about the common birds and their habitats, residents and visitors alike can appreciate the unique natural beauty of Seattle’s feathered friends.