Northeast · Atlantic Flyway

Birds in Pennsylvania

Birds in Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania's Hawk Mountain and Appalachian ridges are legendary for fall raptor migration. This guide lists the common backyard birds, a month-by-month calendar, and the best places to go bird watching in Pennsylvania.

440+Bird species
3Habitat types
1Birding hotspots

Popular cities in Pennsylvania:

Common Birds in Pennsylvania

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

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Backyard Birds in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania

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

1

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

World's first raptor sanctuary—fall Broad-winged Hawk migration.

Birds in Pennsylvania by Month

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

Birds by Habitat in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania spans 3 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.
🏙️Urban BirdsCity-adapted birds thriving in parks, gardens, and neighborhoods.

Birds in neighboring states

About birding in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is located in the Northeast 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 3 habitat types: forest, wetland, urban.

Whether you’re a backyard birder in Philadelphia or planning a trip to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in Pennsylvania.