Winter in Arkansas welcomes some special visitors winter birds! While many birds fly away to warmer places, some stay back. These lovely winter birds add color and music to our state, and we’re here to introduce you to them.
Discover the winter birds of Arkansas! From colorful American Goldfinches to melodious Hermit Thrushes, get to know these that stay during the cold months.
Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis)
Dark-eyed Juncos, commonly known as “snowbirds,” are small sparrows characterized by their gray plumage and white undersides. During the winter months, these birds migrate to Arkansas, where they can be spotted in backyards, gardens, and woodlands, foraging for seeds on the ground.
Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)
The Northern Cardinal is a year-round resident in Arkansas, known for its striking red plumage. These vibrant birds can be found in a variety of habitats, including backyards, woodlands, and urban areas, and they feed on seeds, fruits, and insects.
Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis)
Eastern Bluebirds are small, brilliantly blue birds that can be seen in open woodlands, meadows, and farmlands during the winter months. They are known for their cavity-nesting habits and sweet, melodious songs.
White-throated Sparrows (Zonotrichia albicollis): White-throated Sparrows are small, charming birds with distinctive white throat patches. They migrate to Arkansas during the winter months and prefer woodlands and shrubby areas. Their sweet songs add to the winter ambiance.
American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis)
The American Goldfinch, often referred to as the “wild canary,” is a small finch with bright yellow plumage during the breeding season. In winter, their feathers turn a more subdued olive brown. These birds are commonly seen in open fields and gardens, where they feed on seeds from various plants.
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata): Yellow-rumped Warblers, often called “butter-butts” due to their yellow rump patches, are common winter visitors to Arkansas. They have a versatile diet, feeding on insects, berries, and even suet from bird feeders. They can be found in various habitats, including woodlands.
Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum): Cedar Waxwings are sleek, elegant birds with brown plumage and vibrant yellow tail tips. They often form large flocks and are attracted to fruit-bearing trees and shrubs, making them a delightful winter sight in Arkansas.
Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus): Hermit Thrushes are known for their beautiful, melodic songs. They have warm brown plumage and a spotted breast. Thriving in forested areas, they are often seen foraging for insects and berries on the forest floor during the winter months.
Pine Warbler (Setophaga pinus): Pine Warblers are medium-sized songbirds with bright yellow plumage. As their name suggests, they are commonly found in pine forests, where they feed on insects and pine seeds. These birds bring a touch of color to the winter landscape.
Ruby-crowned Kinglet (Regulus calendula): Ruby-crowned Kinglets are tiny, greenish-gray birds with a concealed patch of vibrant red feathers on their crown. They are active and energetic, often seen flitting about in coniferous forests and mixed woodlands, foraging for insects and small invertebrates.
These winter birds in Arkansas add beauty, color, and song to the state’s winter landscape, making them a captivating sight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
