From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks, North Carolina backyards brim with birdsong. Here are the species you're most likely to see, and how to recognize them.
The Carolina favorite
Carolina Wren — Small and rusty, with a loud teakettle-teakettle song that fills the yard.
The regulars
- Northern Cardinal — The state bird; brilliant red male, warm-tan female.
- Northern Mockingbird — Gray with white wing flashes; a tireless mimic.
- Blue Jay — Bold blue and white.
- Tufted Titmouse — Crested gray with big eyes.
- Red-bellied Woodpecker — Barred back with a red cap.
- American Goldfinch — Bright yellow in summer.
- Ruby-throated Hummingbird — A green blur at nectar feeders.
- Mourning Dove — Gentle gray-brown with a soft coo.
Bring the birds of North Carolina indoors
Our Backyard Birds of North Carolina framed print gathers these species into one hand-illustrated field guide for your wall. See the full Shop by State collection. Made to order in the USA.