Birds & Birding

Massachusetts is visited by over 300 species of birds every year, all with unique plumages, calls, migration patterns, and stories. From the smallest sparrow to the mighty herons, our community of birdwatchers are united by the inspiration we draw from our feathered friends. Whether you're a self-described birder, or just bird-curious, you've come to the right place to take flight.

So, pick up your binoculars, check for recent sightings near you, join a weekly bird walk, and find all the answers to your birding questions.

Mass Audubon's Bird Checklist

Track the birds you find in Massachusetts with our statewide checklist.

Get the Checklist

Find a Place for Birds & Birding

We manage our wildlife sanctuaries to support native bird life and healthy habitats.

Find a sanctuary

Get to Know the Birds Near You

Tree Swallows

Birds in Massachusetts

Discover the birds—and bird behaviors—most commonly encountered in Massachusetts.
© Christopher Peterson

Baby Birds Out of the Nest

Find out what to do if you find a baby bird out of its nest.
Birdhouses

Cavity nesting birds build nests in holes in trees. Unfortunately, there aren't always enough holes to go around. That's where birdhouses (also known as nest boxes) come in.
Commonly Confused Birds

Learn the subtle cues that differentiate these similar pairings.
Savannah Sparrow at Arcadia © Phil Doyle

Bird Songs vs Bird Calls

What’s the difference between a bird song and a bird call, and which birds use what sounds?
Black Throated Green Warbler

Great Bird Migration Spots

Here are a few of Mass Audubon’s favorite birding spots to visit during spring migration. Find out why we love them, what you'll see, and how to make the most of your visit.
Blackburnian Warbler, Marblehead Neck, Marblehead

Helping Injured Birds

Be sure you know what to do if you come across an injured bird.
Waseeka Wildlife Sanctuary, Hopkinton, MA © Robert Liscombe

10 Common Bird Sounds

We’ve pulled together 10 sounds and songs of birds that you may commonly hear in your yard or neighborhood, particularly in the spring. Listen to them enough times and you’ll be able to identify some of what you are hearing when you go outside.
How to Fit & Focus Your Binoculars

Learn what to look for when purchasing binoculars, as well as how to fit and focus your settings once you find the right pair.