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| Birding In West Virginia |
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West Virginia, with its temperate climate, diverse vegetation and dramatic topography, plays host to numerous species of birds throughout the year. In fact, there are 300 plus species of birds that inhabit the state during some portion of the year. More than 75 of these species are known to breed in the state, with the remainder being migrants thatpass through or species that spend the winter here. Late spring through early fall is when avian diversity is highest in the Mountain State. From April to July you can rise early and hear the songs of the various species that breed here. Fall and spring are good times to see birds migrating over major waterways and along mountain ridges. Even winter affords the bird watcher access to over 50 species that brave West Virginia’s rugged weather.
    Webster County birds have included the beautiful blue heron, osprey, bald eagle and various hawk species. Smaller birds include orioles, hummingbirds, cardinals and many more.This graphic illustrates where distinctive characteristics are most evident on a bird’s body. Recognizing these characteristics, along with its color, will aid in identifying an individual bird.
The only way to become proficient at birding is to practice. Birding may seem difficult at first, but with a little study you will be able to identify many birds with just a quick look or a brief listen to their song. Source: www.wvdnr.gov/wildlife/birdwv.shtm
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This graphic illustrates where distinctive characteristics are most evident on a bird’s body. Recognizing these characteristics, along with its color, will aid in identifying an individual bird.
- Size. Comparing the size of the bird you are looking at to the size of a bird you are familiar with may aid in identifying it.
- Silhouette. A bird’s shape, specifically the shape of its head, wings or tail, may give clues to its identity.
- Habits and Behavior. Observing how and where a bird interacts with its surroundings is a valuable identification tool.
- Habitat. Some birds are found in only certain habitat types, so noting where the bird is found may help eliminate certain species. Is the bird in a coniferous or deciduous forest, open field or marsh? In treetops or on the ground?
- Calls and Songs. Ornithologists recognize two kinds of bird vocalizations—calls and songs. Calls are generally brief sounds of only one or two notes, while a song is usually a rhythmic series of notes uttered in a recognizable pattern. Many birds have very distinctive songs and identification is possible without ever actually seeing them. Records and tapes of calls and songs are available from bookstores that sell field guides, and are in the collections of many public libraries.
The only way to become proficient at birding is to practice. Birding may seem difficult at first, but with a little study you will be able to identify many birds with just a quick look or a brief listen to their song. Source: www.wvdnr.gov/wildlife/birdwv.shtm
Recommended bird watching sites include:
Holly River State Park, Baker’s Island, Monongahela National Forest, and Big Ditch Lake.
Cherry Falls Pottery and the Addison Visitor’s Center in Webster Springs offer handcrafted birdhouses and birdfeeders.
Cherry Falls Pottery 304-847-2769
Addison Visitor’s Center 304-847-5404
Binoculars are available for rent at the Addison Visitor’s Center in Webster Springs.
For more fun pick up a Young People Series Bird Guide and Checklist at Holly River State Park 304-493-6353 or the Birds of WV Field Guide at the Addison Visitor’s Center and Carpenter’s 5&10 in Webster Springs.
