South · Atlantic Flyway

Birds in Maryland

Maryland's Chesapeake Bay and Appalachian ridges support diverse coastal and forest species.

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

Popular cities in Maryland

Common Birds in Maryland

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

Browse all birds →

Backyard Birds in Maryland

Birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens in Maryland. 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 Maryland

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

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

Top Bird Watching Spots in Maryland

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

1

Bombay Hook NWR

Delaware Bay shorebird stopover (nearby).

Bird Calendar — Maryland

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 Maryland

Maryland is located in the South region of the United States and falls along the Atlantic Flyway, one of four major North American migration routes. The state is home to more than 440 bird species across 4 habitat types: coastal, forest, wetland, urban.

Whether you're a backyard birder in Baltimore or planning a trip to Bombay Hook NWR, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in Maryland.