South · Atlantic Flyway

Birds in Virginia

Virginia's coastal refuges and Appalachian mountains bookend a rich Atlantic Flyway birding corridor.

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

Popular cities in Virginia

Common Birds in Virginia

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

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Backyard Birds in Virginia

Birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens in Virginia. 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 Virginia

Virginia 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 Virginia

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

1

Chincoteague NWR

Atlantic Coast barrier island—Snow Geese and wild ponies.

Bird Calendar — Virginia

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 Virginia

Virginia 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 Virginia Beach or planning a trip to Chincoteague NWR, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in Virginia.