South · Mississippi Flyway

Birds in Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Coast and longleaf pine forests are a haven for migrants and southeastern specialties.

420+Bird species
4Habitat types
1Birding hotspots
4+Cities

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

Birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens in Alabama. 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 →

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.

Top Bird Watching Spots in Alabama

The best places to go bird watching in Alabama, from national wildlife refuges to local sanctuaries.

1

Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuary

Gulf Coast barrier island spring fallout hotspot.

Bird Calendar — Alabama

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

February
Steady winter residents
March
Steady winter residents
June
Steady winter residents
July
Steady winter residents
August
Steady winter residents
November
Steady winter residents
December
Steady winter residents

Explore 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.