Unique Birds You Can Spot Only During the Winter Season

Snowy Owl

These majestic birds, with their snowy white feathers and piercing yellow eyes, migrate south from the Arctic tundra during winter. Spot them perched on fences or low mounds in open fields.

Bohemian Waxwing

Bohemian Waxwing Recognizable by their soft gray plumage and distinctive crest, these birds gather in large flocks to feed on berries. Found in northern forests, they often visit urban gardens during winter.

Dark-eyed Junco

Dark-eyed Junco Known as “snowbirds,” these small, slate-colored birds arrive in backyards across North America as the first snow falls. Watch for their cheerful hopping on the ground!

Common Redpoll

Common Redpoll Sporting a bright red cap and streaked plumage, these energetic finches are a treat to observe. They frequent feeders stocked with nyjer seeds during the colder months.

Harlequin Duck

Harlequin Duck This strikingly patterned duck migrates to coastal waters during winter. Look for their vivid black, white, and rust-colored markings along rocky shorelines.

Harlequin Duck

Rough-legged Hawk These large raptors descend from the Arctic to open plains and marshes. Their feathered legs provide extra warmth during their winter migration.

Northern Shrike

Northern Shrike Nicknamed the "butcher bird," this predatory songbird appears in northern regions during winter. They’re fascinating to watch as they hunt small prey.

Long-tailed Duck

Long-tailed Duck Easily identifiable by their elongated tail feathers and melodic calls, these ducks spend winters in icy coastal waters. Spot them diving for food in large flocks.

Red-breasted Nuthatch

Red-breasted Nuthatch These acrobatic birds descend to lower elevations during winter. Listen for their nasally calls and observe them climbing tree trunks.