If you are a birdwatcher! Winter is a magical time in Michigan, many birds migrate or are visible during this time, like the Northern Cardinal, Red Crossbill, and many more.
Michigan’s winter birds have different diets, habitats, and ways of surviving the cold. Some birds, like the American Goldfinch and House Sparrow, eat seeds and live in urban areas.
Let’s explore some of Michigan’s coolest winter birds and learn how to spot them!
Winter Birds in Michigan
There are so many birds that you can easily find in winter times in Michigan. We took 20 birds that are visible in winter in Michigan.
- Red Crossbill
- Eastern Screech Owl
- Mourning Dove
- Snowy Owl
- Black-Capped Chickadee
- White-Breasted Nuthatch
- Red-Breasted Nuthatch
- Downy Woodpecker
- Hairy Woodpecker
- Red-Bellied Woodpecker
- Tufted Titmouse
- Northern Cardinal
- American Robin
- House Sparrow
- American Tree Sparrow
- Dark-Eyed Junco
- American Crow
- Blue Jay
- American Goldfinch
- Snow Bunting
These winter birds have different diets, and habitats, and also have different looks in winter times. Let’s explore these birds in brief detail.
1. Red Crossbill in Michigan
The Red Crossbill is a species of finch that is known for its distinctive bill. In Michigan, Red Crossbills are known to be present year-round.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Red Crossbill |
| Scientific Name | Loxia curvirostra |
| Habitat | Coniferous forests, particularly pine and spruce |
| Range in Michigan | Throughout the state, especially in the Upper Peninsula and northern Lower Peninsula |
| Winter Migration | Yes, some populations migrate south in winter |
| Physical Description | – Small to medium-sized finch |
| – Males are typically red or orange in color, while females are more olive-brown | |
| Diet | – Primarily feeds on conifer seeds, particularly pine cones |
| – Uses its crossed bill to extract seeds from cones | |
| Behavior | – Often seen in flocks |
| – Distinctive flight call, a series of “kip-kip” sounds | |
| – May visit bird feeders if conifer seeds are not abundant | |
| Reproduction | – Breeding season typically occurs in late winter or early spring |
| – Nests in conifer trees, laying 2-5 eggs | |
| Conservation Status | – Vulnerable to habitat loss and climate change |
| – Population trends can be variable depending on food availability |
During the winter months, the Red Crossbill becomes more visible in Michigan. They are found in coniferous forests. Sometimes they can be heard calling and singing from the treetops.
If you want to spot Red Crossbills in Michigan, you can visit areas with large stands of coniferous trees. You may also want to listen to their distinctive calls.
Related: Black and White Birds in Michigan
2. Eastern Screech Owl
You can see the Eastern Screech Owl all year in Michigan, including during the winter months. However, due to their nocturnal nature and excellent camouflage, they can be challenging to spot in the wild.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Eastern Screech Owl |
| Scientific Name | Megascops asio |
| Habitat | – Woodlands, forests, and wooded urban areas |
| – Often found in deciduous or mixed forests | |
| – Adaptable to a variety of wooded habitats | |
| Range in Michigan | – Found throughout the state of Michigan |
| – Common in both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas | |
| Size | – Length: 6.3 to 9.8 inches (16 to 25 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 18.9 to 24.0 inches (48 to 61 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Small owl with a compact body |
| – Mottled plumage for camouflage | |
| – Prominent ear tufts (feathers on the head) | |
| – Coloration can range from gray to reddish-brown or grayish-brown | |
| Diet | – Primarily carnivorous, feeding on small mammals, birds, insects, and occasionally reptiles and amphibians |
| Behavior | – Nocturnal, active mainly at night |
| – Exceptional camouflaging ability | |
| – Known for its distinctive trill or whinny call | |
| – Typically nests in tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes | |
| Reproduction | – Breeding season typically starts in late winter or early spring |
| – Lays 2 to 6 eggs, incubated by the female | |
| – Owlets fledge and leave the nest around 4 to 5 weeks after hatching | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable in many areas |
| – Susceptible to habitat loss and urbanization |
During the winter months, these species of bird may become more active during the day, particularly on sunny days. They may also move to areas where food sources are more available.
If you want to spot these birds in Michigan during the winter months, one option is to participate in an organized owl prowl led by a local nature center or birding group.
Related: Small Blue Birds in Michigan
3. Mourning Dove
Mourning Doves love to eat seeds and can be found in agricultural areas, suburban areas, and parks during the winter in Michigan. They are medium-sized birds with plump bodies, long tails, and a distinctive cooing call.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Mourning Dove |
| Scientific Name | Zenaida macroura |
| Habitat | – Found in a variety of habitats, including urban areas, farmlands, open woodlands, and grasslands |
| Range | – Widespread across North America |
| – Resident year-round in many parts of its range | |
| Size | – Length: 9 to 13 inches (23 to 33 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 17 to 18 inches (43 to 46 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Slender, small to medium-sized dove |
| – Grayish-brown overall with a slightly pinkish hue on the chest | |
| – Long, pointed tail | |
| – Black spots on the wings | |
| – Reddish legs and feet | |
| Call | – Coos softly, often described as a mournful “coo-OOO-woo-woo-woo” |
| Diet | – Primarily granivorous (seed-eating), feeding on a variety of seeds, especially grains |
| – Also consumes some insects and fruits | |
| Behavior | – Ground forager, often seen feeding on the ground or perched on wires and branches |
| – Forms monogamous pairs during the breeding season | |
| – Nests are often flimsy platforms made of twigs, placed in trees or shrubs | |
| Reproduction | – Breeding season typically spans spring and summer |
| – Typically lays 2 eggs per clutch | |
| – Incubation lasts about 14 days, primarily done by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young doves | |
| Conservation Status | – Abundant and widespread, with stable populations |
| – One of the most commonly observed bird species in North America |
Mourning Doves often gather in flocks during the winter and feed on seeds found on the ground, such as millet and corn. They are common visitors to backyard bird feeders.
Related: Cranes in Michigan
4. Tufted Titmouse
Tufted Titmice loves to eat insects and seeds. These winter birds in Michigan are found in woodlands and suburban areas throughout Michigan during the winter.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Tufted Titmouse |
| Scientific Name | Baeolophus bicolor |
| Habitat | – Woodlands, forests, and mixed wooded areas |
| – Commonly found in deciduous and mixed forests | |
| Range | – Eastern and central parts of North America |
| Size | – Length: 5.5 to 6.3 inches (14 to 16 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 7.5 to 10.2 inches (19 to 26 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Small songbird with a distinctive tufted crest |
| – Gray upperparts with a white belly | |
| – Black forehead and eye patch | |
| – Rust-colored flanks | |
| Call | – Clear, whistled “peter-peter-peter” or “fee-bee-fee” call |
| Diet | – Omnivorous, with a diet consisting of insects, seeds, berries, and nuts |
| Behavior | – Agile and acrobatic, often seen hanging upside down while foraging |
| – Social birds, frequently found in mixed-species flocks | |
| – Will visit bird feeders for seeds and suet | |
| – Nesting sites are usually in tree cavities or nest boxes | |
| Reproduction | – Breeding season typically occurs from late winter to early summer |
| – Lays 3 to 9 eggs in a well-concealed nest, usually incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young birds | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Common and widespread throughout their range |
They have a distinctive crest of feathers on their head and grey and white plumage.
Related: What is the Bluish-Gray Bird in Michigan?
5. Northern Cardinal
Northern Cardinals love to eat seeds and can be found in woodlands, suburban areas, and parks throughout Michigan during the winter.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Northern Cardinal |
| Scientific Name | Cardinalis cardinalis |
| Habitat | – Woodlands, forests, gardens, and residential areas |
| – Commonly found in both urban and rural settings | |
| Range in Michigan | – Throughout the entire state of Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 8.3 to 9.1 inches (21 to 23 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 9.8 to 12.2 inches (25 to 31 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Vibrant red plumage on males |
| – Females have a more subdued, brownish-gray color with red highlights on their wings, crest, and tail | |
| – Prominent crest on the head | |
| – Stout, conical beak | |
| Song and Call | – Males sing a series of clear, whistled phrases, often described as “cheer-cheer-cheer” |
| – Both males and females make a variety of chirps and calls | |
| Diet | – Omnivorous, with a diet that includes seeds, berries, insects, and fruit |
| Behavior | – Resident and non-migratory in Michigan |
| – Often visit bird feeders for sunflower seeds and other offerings | |
| – Known to be territorial, defending their feeding and nesting areas | |
| Nesting | – Build cup-shaped nests in shrubs, trees, and thickets |
| – Typically lay 2 to 5 eggs, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young birds | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Common and well-adapted to human-altered landscapes |
They have bright red plumage and a black mask around their eyes.
Related: What Bird is Only Found in Michigan?
6. American Robin
American Robins are another winter birds in Michigan. These birds love to eat worms and insects and can be found in wooded areas, suburban areas, and parks during the winter times in Michigan.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | American Robin |
| Scientific Name | Turdus migratorius |
| Habitat | – Found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, parks, gardens, and suburban areas |
| – Prefers open areas with access to lawns and fields, where it can forage for earthworms and insects | |
| Range in Michigan | – Throughout the entire state of Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 9 to 11 inches (23 to 28 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 12 to 16 inches (31 to 41 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Adult males have a bright red-orange breast and belly, gray-brown upperparts, and a white eye ring |
| – Females are similar in appearance but generally paler | |
| Song and Call | – Known for its cheerful and melodious song, often described as a series of clear, flute-like phrases |
| Diet | – Omnivorous, with a diet that includes earthworms, insects, fruits, and berries |
| Behavior | – Migratory, with some individuals staying in Michigan year-round and others migrating south for the winter |
| – Often seen foraging on lawns, hopping on the ground to find food | |
| Nesting | – Builds cup-shaped nests in trees, shrubs, or on ledges |
| – Typically lay 3 to 5 pale blue eggs, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young birds | |
| Migration | – Michigan serves as a breeding ground for many American Robins |
| – Some individuals migrate south for the winter, while others may remain in the state | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – One of the most well-known and widespread bird species in North America |
They have a greyish-brown back and a reddish-orange breast.
Related: Doves in Michigan
7. House Sparrow
House Sparrow loves to eat seeds and can be found in urban and suburban areas throughout Michigan during the winter.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | House Sparrow |
| Scientific Name | Passer domesticus |
| Habitat | – Highly adaptable and commonly found in urban, suburban, and rural areas |
| – Often seen near human habitation, including buildings, parks, and farms | |
| Range in Michigan | – Throughout the entire state of Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 5.5 to 6.7 inches (14 to 17 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 7.5 to 9.1 inches (19 to 23 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Small, chunky bird with a stout bill |
| – Males have a brownish-gray back, grayish head, and a black bib | |
| – Females are duller with streaked underparts | |
| Song and Call | – Varied and noisy vocalizations, including chirps, cheeps, and chattering calls |
| Diet | – Omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of foods including seeds, grains, insects, and human food scraps |
| Behavior | – Social birds often seen in flocks, particularly around food sources |
| – Known to compete with native birds for nesting sites and resources | |
| Nesting | – Build nests in various locations, including tree cavities, eaves, and man-made structures |
| – May have multiple broods in a single breeding season | |
| Reproduction | – Breed year-round, with peaks in spring and summer |
| – Typically lay 2 to 5 eggs per clutch | |
| – Incubated by the female, with both parents involved in feeding the young | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Considered an invasive species in some regions |
They have brown and grey plumage with a black bib under their chin.
8. American Tree Sparrow
American Tree Sparrows are another type of winter birds in Michigan.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | American Tree Sparrow |
| Scientific Name | Spizella arborea |
| Habitat | – Breeds in northern Canada and Alaska, then migrates to the northern United States during the winter |
| – Prefers open woodlands, brushy areas, and weedy fields during the winter | |
| Range in Michigan | – Common winter visitor throughout Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 5.5 to 6.3 inches (14 to 16 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 7.9 to 9.1 inches (20 to 23 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Rusty crown on the head |
| – Gray face and underparts | |
| – Brown streaks on the back and wings | |
| – Yellow spot in front of the eye | |
| Song and Call | – Musical, sweet, and trilling song with clear whistles and warbles |
| Diet | – Primarily seed-eating, including grass seeds and weed seeds |
| – Also consumes some insects and berries | |
| Behavior | – Forages on the ground, scratching for seeds and insects |
| – Social birds often seen in small flocks during the winter | |
| – Typically perches on shrubs or low branches | |
| Nesting | – Nests in the far northern regions of North America |
| – Builds cup-shaped nests in shrubs or on the ground | |
| Reproduction | – Breeds during the short Arctic summer, often in the tundra |
| – Lays 3 to 7 eggs, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young birds | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States |
These winter birds primarily eat seeds and can be found in open areas such as fields and meadows throughout Michigan during the winter.
They have a reddish-brown cap and a grey and brown patterned plumage.
Related: White Birds in Michigan
9. Dark-Eyed Junco
Dark-eyed juncos primarily eat seeds and can be found in wooded areas, suburban areas, and parks throughout Michigan during the winter.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Dark-Eyed Junco |
| Scientific Name | Junco hyemalis |
| Habitat | – Varied habitats across North America, including forests, woodland edges, parks, and residential areas |
| – Often seen foraging on the ground | |
| Range in Michigan | – Common winter visitor throughout Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 5.1 to 6.9 inches (13 to 17.5 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 7.5 to 9.8 inches (19 to 25 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Small, plump sparrows with short, stout bills |
| – Different color variations, including slate-gray, brown, and pink-sided subspecies | |
| – White outer tail feathers and a contrasting dark eye | |
| Song and Call | – Varied calls and songs, including trills, chips, and musical twittering |
| Diet | – Primarily granivorous, with a diet consisting of seeds, especially in the winter |
| – Also consume some insects and berries | |
| Behavior | – Ground foragers, often scratching at leaf litter and snow to uncover seeds |
| – Social birds often seen in flocks during the winter | |
| Nesting | – Build cup-shaped nests on or near the ground |
| – Typically lay 3 to 5 eggs, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young birds | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States |
They have a dark grey or black head, neck, and upper body, with a white belly.
10. American Crow
American Crows are another type of winter birds in Michigan. American Crows are omnivores and eat a variety of foods including insects, seeds, and carrion.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | American Crow |
| Scientific Name | Corvus brachyrhynchos |
| Habitat | – Highly adaptable and found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, fields, towns, and cities |
| Range in Michigan | – Common and widespread throughout Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 16 to 21 inches (41 to 53 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 33 to 39 inches (84 to 100 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Entirely black plumage |
| – Stout body and a relatively large bill | |
| – Glossy sheen on feathers | |
| Call | – Known for its distinctive cawing call, a loud “caw-caw” sound |
| Diet | – Omnivorous, with a diverse diet that includes insects, carrion, small mammals, eggs, fruits, and human food |
| Behavior | – Highly intelligent and social birds |
| – Often seen in family groups or large flocks | |
| – May engage in play behavior and aerial acrobatics | |
| Nesting | – Build bulky nests in trees, often near the top or in the crotch of a branch |
| – Typically lay 3 to 8 eggs, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young crows | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States |
They can be found in a variety of habitats including wooded areas, suburban areas, and parks throughout Michigan during the winter. They are large birds with black plumage.
Related: Blue Birds in Michigan
11. Blue Jay
Blue Jays are omnivores and eat a variety of foods including insects, seeds, and nuts.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Blue Jay |
| Scientific Name | Cyanocitta cristata |
| Habitat | – Deciduous and coniferous forests, woodlands, urban and suburban areas |
| Range in Michigan | – Common and year-round residents throughout Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 9.8 to 11.8 inches (25 to 30 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 13.4 to 16.9 inches (34 to 43 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Bright blue upperparts with a white face, throat, and underparts |
| – Black necklace-like collar around the throat | |
| – Prominent crest on the head | |
| Song and Call | – Known for its loud, raucous calls, including the “jay-jay” call |
| Diet | – Omnivorous, with a diet that includes seeds, nuts, insects, fruits, and sometimes small vertebrates |
| Behavior | – Highly intelligent and resourceful birds |
| – Social and often seen in family groups or small flocks | |
| – Known to cache (store) food for later use | |
| Nesting | – Build cup-shaped nests in trees and shrubs, usually well hidden |
| – Typically lay 3 to 7 eggs, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young jays | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States |
They can be found in wooded areas, suburban areas, and parks throughout Michigan during the winter times.
They have blue and white plumage and crest feathers on their head.
12. American Goldfinch
American Goldfinches are another type of winter birds in Michigan. They love to eat seeds in winter times and can be found in open areas such as fields and meadows throughout Michigan during the winter.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | American Goldfinch |
| Scientific Name | Spinus tristis |
| Habitat | – Open fields, meadows, grasslands, gardens, and woodland edges |
| Range in Michigan | – Common year-round residents in Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 4.3 to 5.1 inches (11 to 13 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 7.5 to 8.7 inches (19 to 22 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Bright yellow plumage (breeding males) |
| – Olive-green plumage (females and non-breeding males) | |
| – Black cap and wings with white wingbars | |
| – Short, pointed bill | |
| Song and Call | – Musical, twittering songs often described as “potato-chip” or “per-chik-o-ree” |
| Diet | – Primarily granivorous, with a diet consisting of seeds, especially thistle and sunflower seeds |
| Behavior | – Social birds, often seen in flocks |
| – Migrate in flocks during the non-breeding season | |
| – Seed feeders are a common attraction for American Goldfinches | |
| Nesting | – Build cup-shaped nests in shrubs and trees, often in open areas |
| – Delayed breeding to coincide with peak availability of seeds | |
| Reproduction | – Typically lay 3 to 7 eggs, incubated by the female |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young goldfinches | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States |
They have bright yellow plumage and black wings with white markings.
13. Snowy Owl
One of the largest species is Snowy Owls. They are known for their striking white plumage.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Snowy Owl |
| Scientific Name | Bubo scandiacus |
| Habitat | – Arctic tundra during the breeding season |
| – Large, white owl with a distinctive round head and no ear tufts | |
| Range in Michigan | – Winter visitors to parts of Michigan, primarily in the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula |
| Size | – Length: 20 to 28 inches (50 to 71 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 49 to 59 inches (125 to 150 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Large, white owl with distinctive round head and no ear tufts |
| – Males tend to be whiter than females and young birds, which may have dark markings | |
| – Yellow eyes and a black beak | |
| – Heavily feathered legs and feet | |
| Diet | – Predominantly carnivorous, feeding mainly on small mammals such as lemmings, voles, and rabbits |
| – Opportunistic hunters, occasionally consuming birds and fish | |
| Behavior | – Nomadic behavior, wandering in search of food, with some individuals migrating south during the winter |
| – Excellent hunters, using keen eyesight and silent flight to catch prey | |
| – Solitary birds, except during the breeding season | |
| Nesting | – Nest on the ground in the Arctic tundra, typically using a scrape in the soil |
| – May lay as few as 3 to as many as 11 eggs, depending on food availability | |
| – Incubation is primarily done by the female, while the male provides food | |
| Conservation Status | – Considered a species of “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) |
| – Protected under various national and international laws |
They hunt during the day, targeting small mammals such as lemmings and voles.
During the winter in Michigan, They may be found in open areas such as beaches and farmland.
14. Black-Capped Chickadee
Black-capped chickadees are non-migratory birds that love to eat insects and seeds. They are found in wooded areas and suburban areas throughout Michigan during the winter.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Black-capped Chickadee |
| Scientific Name | Poecile atricapillus |
| Habitat | – Mixed woodlands, deciduous and coniferous forests, gardens, and suburban areas |
| Range in Michigan | – Common year-round residents throughout Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 4.5 to 5.1 inches (11.5 to 13 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 6.3 to 7.1 inches (16 to 18 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Distinctive black cap and bib on the head |
| – White cheeks and grayish wings and back | |
| – Small size and relatively short bill | |
| Song and Call | – Well-known for their “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call, with the number of “dees” varying based on the level of threat |
| Diet | – Omnivorous, with a diet that includes insects, seeds, berries, and small nuts |
| Behavior | – Highly active and acrobatic birds, often seen hanging upside down while foraging |
| – Social birds that frequently join mixed-species flocks during the winter | |
| – May cache food, hiding it for later consumption | |
| Nesting | – Build cup-shaped nests in tree cavities, birdhouses, and nest boxes |
| – Lays 5 to 10 eggs per clutch, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young chickadees | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States |
They are small birds with a black cap and bib, white cheeks, and a distinctive “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call.
15. White-Breasted Nuthatch
These small birds love to eat insects and seeds. They are found in woodlands and suburban areas throughout Michigan during the winter.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | White-breasted Nuthatch |
| Scientific Name | Sitta carolinensis |
| Habitat | – Mixed woodlands, deciduous and coniferous forests, and suburban areas |
| Range in Michigan | – Common year-round residents throughout Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 5.5 to 6.3 inches (14 to 16 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 7.5 to 10.2 inches (19 to 26 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Distinctive appearance with a white face, throat, and belly, and bluish-gray upperparts |
| – Black cap and a thin black stripe through the eye | |
| – Short, straight bill with a slightly upturned tip | |
| Song and Call | – Known for their nasal “yank-yank” calls and distinctive “hank-hank” call |
| Diet | – Primarily insectivorous, with a diet that includes insects, spiders, and their eggs |
| – Also consume seeds and nuts, especially in the winter | |
| Behavior | – Agile and acrobatic foragers, often seen crawling headfirst down tree trunks |
| – Known to cache food by wedging it into tree bark for later consumption | |
| Nesting | – Build cup-shaped nests in tree cavities, often using old woodpecker holes |
| – May line the nest with fur, bark, or other materials | |
| – Typically lay 4 to 8 eggs per clutch, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young nuthatches | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States |
White-breasted Nuthatches are charming and easily recognizable birds known for their distinctive appearance and vocalizations.
They are year-round residents in Michigan and are often spotted in woodlands and suburban areas. They have a black cap and white face.
16. Red-Breasted Nuthatch
Red-Breasted Nuthatches are similar in appearance to white-breasted Nuthatches but have a reddish-brown breast and back.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Red-breasted Nuthatch |
| Scientific Name | Sitta canadensis |
| Habitat | – Coniferous and mixed woodlands, often in pine, spruce, and fir forests |
| Range in Michigan | – Common year-round residents in the northern parts of Michigan, especially in coniferous forests |
| Size | – Length: 4.3 to 4.7 inches (11 to 12 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 7.1 to 7.9 inches (18 to 20 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Distinctive with a bright reddish-orange throat, breast, and sides |
| – Grayish-blue upperparts with a black stripe through the eye | |
| – Short, straight bill with a slightly upturned tip | |
| Song and Call | – Musical, high-pitched calls that sound like “yank-yank” or “yink-yink” |
| Diet | – Primarily insectivorous, feeding on insects and spiders, especially in the summer |
| – Also consume seeds, including those from conifer cones, in the winter | |
| Behavior | – Agile climbers, often seen moving headfirst down tree trunks and branches |
| – Capable of excavating their own nest cavities in rotten wood or using old woodpecker holes | |
| Nesting | – Build cup-shaped nests in tree cavities, typically lined with fur, bark, and feathers |
| – Typically lay 4 to 9 eggs per clutch, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young nuthatches | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are generally stable |
| – Vulnerable to cold temperatures and irruptions (sudden migrations) during food shortages |
They also eat insects and seeds and are found in coniferous forests throughout Michigan during the winter.
17. Downy Woodpecker
Downy Woodpeckers are small woodpeckers that eat insects and seeds.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Downy Woodpecker |
| Scientific Name | Picoides pubescens |
| Habitat | – Wide range of habitats, including woodlands, forests, parks, and residential areas |
| Range in Michigan | – Common year-round residents throughout Michigan |
| Size | – Length: 5.5 to 6.7 inches (14 to 17 cm) |
| – Wingspan: 9.8 to 11.8 inches (25 to 30 cm) | |
| Appearance | – Black wings with white markings and a white belly |
| – Distinctive black-and-white pattern on the head, with a white face and a black crown | |
| – Males have a small red patch on the back of the head (nape) | |
| Song and Call | – High-pitched, rapid “pik” calls and a soft “whinny” call |
| Diet | – Predominantly insectivorous, feeding on insects, insect larvae, and spiders |
| – Also eat tree sap, berries, and seeds, including suet at bird feeders | |
| Behavior | – Agile climbers, often seen moving up and down tree trunks and branches |
| – Use their sharp bills to excavate insects from tree bark and wood | |
| Nesting | – Build cavity nests in trees or snags (dead trees), often near forest edges |
| – Typically lay 3 to 7 eggs, incubated by the female | |
| – Both parents feed and care for the young woodpeckers | |
| Conservation Status | – Not globally threatened; populations are stable |
| – Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States |
They are found in woodlands and suburban areas throughout Michigan during the winter. They have a black and white plumage and a distinctive drumming call.
18. Hairy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpeckers look the same in appearance as Downy Woodpeckers but are slightly larger.
Hairy Woodpeckers are common in Michigan. They’re medium-sized, black-and-white birds found in forests, parks, and suburbs with big trees.
- Looks: They have a white belly, black back, and a white stripe on their wings and back.
- Size: About 7-10 inches long with a wingspan of 13-17 inches.
- Home: They like mature forests and trees for finding food.
- Food: They eat insects, fruit, seeds, and tree sap.
- Sound: They make loud tapping sounds on trees.
- Nesting: They live in holes in trees, lay white eggs, and both parents take care of the babies.
- Stay Year-round: They don’t fly away for winter.
- Safe: They’re not endangered.
To attract them, offer suet and sunflower seeds in bird feeders, especially in winter.
19. Red-bellied woodpecker
Red-bellied woodpeckers primarily eat insects. These winter birds in Michigan can be found in woodlands and suburban areas throughout Michigan during the winter.
- Looks: Red-bellied Woodpeckers have a pale belly with a touch of red on their heads. Their backs are black and white.
- Size: They are about 9-10.5 inches long with a wingspan of 13-16 inches.
- Where They Live: You can find them in the woods, cities, and the UP of Michigan.
- Food: They eat bugs, fruits, nuts, and seeds, and they like sunflower seeds and suet from bird feeders.
- Sounds: They make chirping and rolling sounds and drum on trees.
- Home: They nest in tree holes and lay white eggs.
- All Year: They stay in Michigan all year, including the Upper Peninsula.
- Safe: They are not endangered.
To bring them to your yard, offer sunflower seeds and suet in bird feeders, and maybe a nest box for them to use. They have a red cap and nape, with black and white plumage.
20. Snow Bunting
Snow Buntings primarily eat seeds and can be found in open areas such as beaches and fields throughout Michigan during the winter.
- Appearance: Snow Buntings are small, with a distinctive black and white pattern. In the winter, males have striking white bodies with black wingtips, while females have more brownish tones mixed in.
- Size: They are about 6-7 inches (15-18 cm) long with a wingspan of around 11-12 inches (28-30 cm).
- Habitat: They prefer open, snowy, and arctic-like habitats, including tundra, fields, and coastal areas.
- Diet: Snow Buntings primarily feed on seeds, especially grass seeds, and during the breeding season, they also eat insects.
- Behavior: They often forage in flocks and are known for their fluttery, bouncing flight.
- Breeding: Snow Buntings nest in the Arctic tundra, where they build their nests on the ground. They lay eggs in nests made of grass and moss.
- Migration: Many Snow Buntings are migratory, with populations moving to northern regions for breeding during the summer and returning to more temperate climates in the winter.
- Winter Visitors: In some parts of the United States, including the northern states, you can spot Snow Buntings during the winter months when they migrate south.
- Conservation Status: Snow Buntings are not considered endangered, but their populations can be affected by climate change and habitat loss.
They have white plumage with black and brown markings.
People Also Ask:
1. How do Michigan birds survive winter?
2. What are the white birds in Michigan during winter?
3. What is the snowbird in Michigan?
These people often own homes in both Michigan and another state, and spend their winters in the warmer location.
While the term “snowbird” is sometimes used to describe birds that visit Michigan during the winter, it doesn’t refer to a specific species of bird.
4. Do crows stay in Michigan in winter?
5. What birds stay in Michigan all year?
American Crow
Black-capped Chickadee
Blue Jay
Canada Goose
Dark-eyed Junco
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Mallard
Northern Cardinal
Red-tailed Hawk
These birds have adapted to Michigan’s climate and have developed strategies to survive the cold and snow during the winter months.
6. Do owls stay in Michigan in the winter?
7. What are the yellow birds in Michigan winter?
These small birds have bright yellow feathers with black wings and tails. In the winter, their plumage becomes less vibrant and more olive-colored, making them less noticeable in the drab winter landscape.
8. Where do birds sleep in the winter in Michigan?
Conclusion:
Michigan’s winter birds are amazing! They come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, and they all have different ways of living through the winter. By watching and learning about these birds, we can enjoy Michigan’s winter even more and appreciate the beauty of nature around us.
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