New York City is known for its bustling streets, towering skyscrapers, and diverse culture. However, amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, there are also a surprising number of common bird species that call this urban landscape home. From the ubiquitous pigeon to the colorful Northern Cardinal, New York City is home to a variety of avian species that can be observed in parks, along city streets, and even on balconies and rooftops. In this article, we will explore some of the most common backyard birds in New York City, their behaviors, and where to spot them.
25 Common Backyard Birds in New York City
When talking about the city, we have to use the term “backyard” a little loosely here. Many people in the city don’t have their own backyard. So whether you actually have a lawn, a patio, small courtyard, landing, or nothing at all, let’s consider your backyard wherever you land when you step out the door. New York City’s many parks and gardens can be your birding haven.
In general, the best places to see birds in the city are going to be “green spaces” such as parks and gardens. Here are some of the best green spaces to look for birds in New York City:
- Floyd Bennett Field
- Central Park
- Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
- Prospect Park
- The High Line
- Pelham Bay Park
- Bryant Park
- Inwood Hill Park
- Van Cortlandt Park
- Mount Loretto Unique Area
For lots of great information about places to see birds in the city, check out this resource page from Aubudon NYC. Now, let’s get to the birds!
1. House Sparrow
Scientific name: Passer domesticus
Generally looked at as pests, House Sparrows are a non-native species that were first introduced from Europe to Brooklyn in the 1850’s. At the time they were brought to the U.S. to try and combat pest insect populations, but the unintended consequence was they quickly spread across the entire country. Over the decades they became an invasive species, harmful to native bird populations by competing with them for resources including nest sites, and aggressively destroying nests of other birds to claim the spot for themselves.
House Sparrows have adapted especially well to urban environments, eating food scraps and nesting in man-made structures. It’s common to see them beg at outdoor cafes and nest in storefront signs. They are mostly brown in color, with some black and brown streaking on their wings and a buffy chest. Males have a more chestnut tint, and black around their beak that extends down their throat to a patch on their chest.
House Sparrows are found year-round throughout New York City.
House sparrows will eat almost anything, however feeding them isn’t encouraged because of their invasive species status.
2. American Robin
