South · Atlantic Flyway

Birds in West Virginia

West Virginia's Appalachian ridges and valleys host Cerulean Warblers and other forest interior species.

350+Bird species
3Habitat types
1Birding hotspots
3+Cities

Popular cities in West Virginia

Common Birds in West Virginia

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

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Backyard Birds in West Virginia

Birds that regularly visit feeders and gardens in West 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 West Virginia

West Virginia 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.

Top Bird Watching Spots in West Virginia

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

1

Cranberry Glades

Boreal relict bog with northern species at their southern limit.

Bird Calendar — West 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 West Virginia

West 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 350 bird species across 3 habitat types: forest, wetland, urban.

Whether you're a backyard birder in Charleston or planning a trip to Cranberry Glades, this guide covers the most commonly seen species, seasonal patterns, and practical tips for attracting and identifying birds in West Virginia.