“Be diligent in serving the poor. Love the poor, honor them, my children, as you would honor Christ Himself.”
St. Louise de Marillac
Eight Common Bird Species of the Mount
By Katelyn Rieder, Communications co-op
With the spring season upon us, we’ve begun to see (and hear) nature come to life. This includes many unique bird species in the area. From large hawks to tiny songbirds, there are possibilities for birdwatching all over our beautiful campus. Continue reading to learn more about some of the more common birds you may be able to spot in these warmer months.
1. American Robin
Perhaps the most vocally common bird in the area, American Robins can be spotted in open fields, on branches, or power lines. Their bright orange bellies and white-lined eyes make them easier to identify among the environment. When they’re on the ground, American Robins stick their beaks into the ground to forage for earthworms. Later in the day these cheery birds tend to eat more fruits, like honeysuckle berries.
2. Northern Cardinal
While female Northern Cardinals are slightly less vibrant, their male counterparts catch your eye with their striking red coloring. The female Northern Cardinal is especially unique as one of the few female songbirds in North America that sing. Since these birds don’t migrate over winter, they are especially vibrant against the snowy backdrop. Northern Cardinals are common bird feeder visitors, but can also be found in low shrubs/trees and foraging on the ground.
3. Blue Jay
The breathtaking Blue Jay is sure to catch one’s attention no matter the environment. Other than their vibrant feathers, Blue Jays have rather noisy calls that may remind some of hawks, which could be a way to warn other species of nearby predators. Blue Jays are also well-known for their high intelligence and complex social systems. One of their most frequented food sources is acorns, which is known to help spread the growth of oak trees across the country.
4. Red-bellied Woodpecker
Despite the name, Red-bellied Woodpeckers often only appear red on the tops of their head, as their pale feathers can obscure the red bellies. These birds are especially common in the eastern forests of North America, typically nesting in oak and pine trees. They can also be found in more suburban areas high up in trees. Uncharacteristically, Red-bellied Woodpeckers pick at the bark surface rather than drilling into it like other woodpeckers.
5. Mourning Dove
If you think you hear an owl during the day, it’s probably a Mourning Dove! These doves are fairly common all across the United States, with populations in the 300 millions. Their tan feathers with black spots and tail feathers can help them blend into their woodland surroundings. Typically, Mourning Doves nest in tall trees or telephone wires and forage for seeds on the ground. You can spot them pretty much anywhere besides the thick forest.
6. Tufted Titmouse
Tufted Titmice are among the smaller birds in the area. The pointed crest atop their head helps birdwatchers identify them among the trees they nest in. Contrary to other birds like woodpeckers, Tufted Titmice do not create their own tree holes. They instead rely on natural holes/cavities in dead trees to nest in. They are a common sighting at bird feeders, and in evergreen forests and backyards.
7. Eastern Bluebird
The Eastern Bluebird is one of the more vibrant birds in the area. They can often be found nesting high up on telephone poles or trees, or on the ground if food is nearby. Eastern Bluebirds have also been spotted around the various bird feeders around the Mount St. Joseph campus. Similar to the Tufted Titmouse, Eastern Bluebirds frequently nest in left-behind woodpecker cavities. While insects and berries are their main source of nutrition, they have been known to go after larger prey like lizards and tree frogs.
8. Red-tailed Hawk
Perhaps the most common hawk in North America, the Red-tailed Hawk is known to soar above open areas in wide, sweeping circles. As one of the more popular birds, their shrill cry has been used hundreds of times in Hollywood whenever a large bird appears on-screen. Their diet consists of smaller mammals, like mice and rabbits. To spot these hawks, keep your eyes towards the sky and treetops—it’s very rare to see them visit backyard feeders.
Photos courtesy of S. Marty Dermody. Information obtained from allaboutbirds.org.
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