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, join a weekly bird walk, and find all the answers to your birding questions.

Find a Place for Birds & Birding

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

Tracy Brook Wildlife Sanctuary

Tracy Brook Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland surrounded by woodlands. The stream that gave the sanctuary its name has been home to industrious beavers for more than 50 years. A pull-off from the road affords a magnificent place to take in the scope of the sanctuary and its large heron rookery.

Visitor Info

Find a sanctuary

Mass Audubon's Bird Checklist

Keep track of all the birds you can find in Massachusetts with our statewide checklist.

Start Tracking Today

Get to Know the Birds Near You

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.
Tree Swallows

Birds

Discover the birds—and bird behaviors—most commonly encountered in Massachusetts.
Your Guide to Birdhouses

Discover which birdhouse is best for your favorite species with Mass Audubon's birdhouse guide. Download our free nesting chart to start attracting local birds to your yard today!
© Christopher Peterson

Baby Birds Out of the Nest

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

Birds

Discover the birds—and bird behaviors—most commonly encountered in Massachusetts.
Your Guide to Birdhouses

Discover which birdhouse is best for your favorite species with Mass Audubon's birdhouse guide. Download our free nesting chart to start attracting local birds to your yard today!