South · Mississippi Flyway

Birds in Alabama

Birds in Alabama: Alabama's Gulf Coast and longleaf pine forests are a haven for migrants and southeastern specialties. This guide lists the common backyard birds, a month-by-month calendar, and the best places to go bird watching in Alabama.

420+Bird species
4Habitat types
1Birding hotspots

Popular cities in Alabama:

Common Birds in Alabama

The most frequently reported bird species across Alabama. Click any bird for full profiles, photos, calls, and attraction tips.

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Backyard Birds in Alabama

Alabama backyard birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens. These are the species you’re most likely to attract with the right food, plants, and habitat setup.

Find the right feeder →Bird-friendly plants →

Where to Go Bird Watching in Alabama

The best places to see birds in Alabama, from national wildlife refuges to local sanctuaries.

1

Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuary

Gulf Coast barrier island spring fallout hotspot.

Birds in Alabama by Month

What to expect each month: migration arrivals, departures, and seasonal highlights.

Birds by Habitat in Alabama

Alabama spans 4 major habitat types. Explore birds adapted to each environment.

🌲Forest BirdsWoodland and canopy birds including woodpeckers, warblers, and owls.
🌊Wetland BirdsMarsh, lake, and river species—waterfowl, herons, and shorebirds.
🏖️Coastal BirdsShorebirds, gulls, terns, and seabirds along the coastline.
🏙️Urban BirdsCity-adapted birds thriving in parks, gardens, and neighborhoods.

Birds in neighboring states

About birding in Alabama

Alabama is located in the South region of the United States and falls along the Mississippi Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes. The state is home to more than 420 bird species across 4 habitat types: forest, wetland, coastal, urban.

Whether you’re a backyard birder in Birmingham or planning a trip to Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuary, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in Alabama.