Many of North America’s most beautiful birds can be found by learning about their diets and visiting areas where specific food sources are abundant. Most North American songbirds feed on seeds, berries, fruits, nectar, insects, invertebrates or other foods.
In North America, warblers are notorious for seeking out specific areas in which to feed and raise their families. Along streams, creeks or swampy environments, several species of warblers are often found, Birding enthusiasts often see these tiny warblers in the early morning as they move about vegetation along the water’s edge.
Cedar waxwings are another bird that is associated with specific food sources. They feed heavily on berries, and are frequently seen in large flocks, moving thru forests, swamps and undergrowth where berries are abundant.
Summer tanagers are a specialized species that is often seen moving among tree branches. These amazing birds catch and eat wasps and bees and are usually found in areas of forest where these insects are abundant. A relative, the scarlet tanager is usually found near the tops of deciduous trees, where they feast on insects and other food sources.
Baltimore orioles are another songbird that is associated with trees. These colorful birds prefer a diet of insects and nectar. They are often found around fruit trees and areas where nectar-bearing flowers are abundant.
Some birds are found in woodland habitats, but specialize in feeding on or near the ground. Species such as towhees, wrens, and sparrows often spend time searching among leaf litter below trees rather than feeding higher up.
Other species, such as bluebirds, blackbirds, and buntings are attracted to open areas. These birds are often seen in open fields or other areas where grasses and insects are plentiful.