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Birds of Indiana

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From the windswept dunes along Lake Michigan to the forested hills of southern Indiana, the Hoosier State stands as a remarkable crossroads of avian diversity in North America. With its strategic position along major migration routes and diverse array of habitats, Indiana provides crucial sanctuary for both resident and migratory birds throughout the year. Whether you’re watching dark-eyed juncos foraging in leaf litter during the winter months or marveling at great blue herons stalking through wetlands, the state offers endless opportunities for bird watchers of all experience levels.

Indiana’s landscape is a rich mosaic of ecosystems, from the sprawling open fields that attract hunting red-tailed hawks, to dense woodlands where pileated woodpeckers drill into large trees. In urban areas and residential areas, backyard birds like the house sparrow and northern cardinal bring daily joy to observers, while the shores of Lake Michigan host impressive gatherings of waterfowl and shorebirds during migration. The state’s position at the intersection of eastern forests, prairie remnants, and Great Lakes influences creates a unique environment where different species from various regions converge.

In recent years, conservation efforts led by organizations like the Indiana Audubon Society have helped protect crucial habitats from habitat loss, ensuring safe havens for everything from common sights like American robins to sensitive species designated as species of greatest conservation need. From the restored wetlands that attract sandhill cranes during migration to the nest boxes providing homes for eastern bluebirds, Indiana’s commitment to bird conservation continues to strengthen its reputation as a great place for bird observation and study.

This comprehensive guide will explore the diverse world of Indiana’s birds, from beloved backyard birds to elusive rare birds. We’ll journey through the seasons, meeting both year-round residents and winter visitors, while discovering the best ways to identify and appreciate the remarkable variety of bird species that call Indiana home. Whether you’re an experienced birder consulting your well-worn field guide or a newcomer just beginning to notice the small birds at your bird feeders, join us in exploring the fascinating avian treasures of Indiana.

The Northern Cardinal: Indiana’s State Bird

Northern Cardinal resting branch
Photo by Skyler Ewing

The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) has proudly served as the official state bird of Indiana since 1933. This beloved species embodies the natural beauty and resilience of Indiana’s wildlife, maintaining a vibrant presence throughout the state from bustling urban areas to tranquil rural landscapes.

Appearance and Identification

The Northern Cardinal is among the most recognizable birds in North America, with males sporting brilliant crimson plumage that stands out vibrantly against winter snow or summer foliage. Male cardinals display bright red plumage complemented by a distinctive black face mask and proud crest, while females show warm brown coloring with reddish tinges on their wings, tail, and crest. Both sexes feature a large, cone-shaped orange-red bill that’s perfect for cracking seeds. Juveniles initially resemble females but with darker bills. Adult cardinals measure 8.3-9.1 inches in length with a wingspan of 10-12 inches, making them a medium-sized songbird that’s easily visible at backyard feeders.

Habitat and Distribution

Northern Cardinals thrive across Indiana’s diverse landscapes, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to different environments. They show particular preference for edge habitats between wooded areas and open spaces, where dense shrubs and tree branches provide essential cover. These adaptable birds have become common residents in residential areas with mature landscaping, readily visiting backyard bird feeders and nesting in ornamental shrubs. Their success in both urban and natural settings has helped them maintain strong populations throughout Indiana, from the shores of Lake Michigan to the rolling hills of southern Indiana.

Behavior and Diet

Cardinals exhibit fascinating behaviors that have endeared them to bird watchers across the state. During courtship, males feed seeds to their mates, a behavior often observed at bird feeders. They maintain strong pair bonds throughout the year, with couples often staying together across multiple breeding seasons. During breeding season, males vigorously defend their territories, sometimes even battling their own reflections in windows or car mirrors. Their diet is diverse and seasonal, consisting primarily of seeds, particularly sunflower seeds at feeders, along with wild fruits and berries. During the breeding season, they supplement this diet with insects, which provide crucial protein for growing nestlings.

Nesting and Breeding

The breeding season for Northern Cardinals in Indiana typically runs from March through September, with pairs often raising multiple broods. Female cardinals take charge of nest construction, building in dense shrubs or small trees, typically 4-8 feet above ground. Their nests are carefully crafted from twigs, bark strips, and grass stems, forming a sturdy cup that will hold their eggs. A typical clutch contains 3-4 eggs, which are incubated for 11-13 days before hatching. Both parents share the responsibility of feeding their young, which fledge about 10-11 days after hatching. The dedication of both parents to raising their young helps ensure the species’ continued success across the state.

Cultural Significance

The Northern Cardinal’s selection as Indiana’s state bird reflects its importance to the state’s natural heritage. Their year-round presence, especially during winter months when their bright plumage stands out against the snow, has made them a symbol of perseverance through Indiana’s changing seasons. The species has adapted remarkably well to human development while maintaining its natural behaviors, making it an excellent ambassador for wildlife conservation in the state.

Conservation Status

While many bird species face challenges from habitat loss, Northern Cardinals have proven remarkably resilient. Their population trends in Indiana show stable or increasing numbers in most areas, thanks to their ability to adapt to urban and suburban environments. The species has responded positively to backyard bird feeding, which provides reliable food sources throughout the year. The Indiana Audubon Society notes that cardinals serve as an excellent example of how native species can thrive alongside human development when proper habitat elements are maintained. Their success story provides hope and guidance for the conservation of other species across the state.

Common Birds in Indiana

From the shores of Lake Michigan to the rolling hills of southern Indiana, our state offers a rich tapestry of bird life. While hundreds of species make their home here or pass through during migration, some birds have become familiar faces in our daily lives. Here are the most common birds you’ll encounter across Indiana.

House Sparrow (Passer domesticus)

House Sparrow on rock
Photo by Zeynel Cebeci

The House Sparrow has become a fixture of Indiana’s urban landscape since its introduction to North America in the 1800s. Male sparrows display a handsome gray crown and chestnut back, with a black bib that becomes more prominent during breeding season. Females wear a simpler brown plumage that helps them blend into their surroundings.

These sociable birds thrive wherever people live, making their homes in cities, suburbs, and rural areas alike. Their cheerful chirps provide a constant soundtrack to daily life, with males delivering a series of loud, repeated notes during spring courtship. House Sparrows readily nest in building crevices and bird boxes, and they’re frequent visitors to backyard feeders where they show a particular fondness for seeds.

Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis)

Dark-eyed Junco
Photo by David Brown

Dark-eyed Juncos transform Indiana’s winter landscape, arriving in flocks as autumn gives way to colder months. These winter visitors wear a sophisticated combination of slate-gray upperparts and white belly, making them stand out against snow-covered grounds. Their small size and quick movements create a lively scene beneath winter feeders.

The flash of white outer tail feathers serves as a distinctive field mark when these birds take flight. Their gentle ticking calls keep flocks together as they forage, scratching through leaves and snow for seeds. Juncos prefer areas with evergreen cover and dense brush, where they find shelter from harsh winter weather.

Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia)

Song Sparrow

The Song Sparrow lives up to its name as one of Indiana’s most vocal year-round residents. These charming birds wear a pattern of brown streaks on their white chest, with a distinctive dark spot in the center. Their melodious song carries across fields and gardens throughout the year, becoming especially prominent during spring breeding season.

These adaptable birds make their homes in a variety of habitats, from backyard gardens to field edges and wetland borders. They show a preference for areas with dense, low cover, where they build their nests and search for a mixed diet of seeds and insects. Even in winter, their sweet songs can be heard during mild spells, offering a welcome reminder of warmer days to come.

Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis)

Eastern Bluebird on branch
Photo by Skyler Ewing

The Eastern Bluebird brings a splash of color to Indiana’s open spaces and represents one of our most successful conservation stories. Males wear brilliant blue on their back and wings, complemented by a warm rusty-orange breast. Females share the same pattern with more subdued tones, their soft blue-gray and muted orange creating an equally elegant appearance.

These beloved birds prefer open areas with scattered trees and sparse ground cover. Thanks to dedicated nest box programs across Indiana, bluebirds have recovered from previous population declines and now commonly grace our fence rows, field edges, and golf courses. Listen for their gentle warble and soft “tu-a-wee” calls as they search for insects from low perches or feast on winter berries.

Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus)

Red-winged Blackbird singing
Photo by Rhododendrites

The Red-winged Blackbird announces spring’s arrival to Indiana’s wetlands and fields. Male birds command attention with their glossy black feathers and brilliant red shoulder patches, which they display prominently while defending territory. Females differ dramatically, wearing streaked brown plumage that provides excellent camouflage during nesting season.

Their distinctive “conk-la-ree” song echoes across marshes and wet meadows throughout spring and summer. These birds gather in large flocks after breeding season, creating impressive displays as they move between feeding areas. Look for them in cattail marshes, wet fields, and agricultural areas, where they build nests and feed on insects and seeds.

American Robin (Turdus migratorius)

American Robin on tree branch
Photo by Aaron J Hill

The American Robin holds a special place in Indiana’s bird community as one of our most familiar songbirds. Their bright orange breast and dark gray back make them easily recognizable as they hop across lawns searching for worms. While many consider robins a sign of spring, these adaptable birds often stay in Indiana year-round, becoming more visible as winter wanes.

Robins greet each day with a melodious song of clear whistles and short phrases, often being the first birds to sing at dawn. They thrive in both urban and rural settings, nesting on built structures or in trees, and gathering in large winter flocks to feed on fruit and berries. Their presence in our yards and parks provides a constant connection to nature throughout the changing seasons.

Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata)

Blue Jay on tree branch
Photo by Jack Bulmer

The Blue Jay adds both brilliant color and bold personality to Indiana’s woodlands and neighborhoods. Their bright blue feathers, white underparts, and striking black bars create an unmistakable profile, topped with an expressive crest that rises and falls with their mood. These intelligent birds command attention at feeders and in forest canopies alike.

Known for their varied vocabulary, Blue Jays produce an array of calls ranging from harsh scolds to musical twitters. They play a crucial role in Indiana’s forest ecology, planting future oak trees by caching acorns. Watch for them in wooded neighborhoods, parks, and mature forests, where they move confidently between trees and frequently visit feeders.

White-throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis)

White-throated Sparrow
Photo by Cephas

The White-throated Sparrow brightens Indiana’s winter landscape with its crisp markings and sweet song. Their distinctive white throat patch stands out against a gray breast, while bold black and white stripes adorn their head. A touch of yellow between the eye and bill adds a subtle highlight to their refined appearance.

These winter residents sing a clear whistled song that sounds like “Old Sam Peabody.” Look for them in woodland edges, thickets, and backyard gardens, where they scratch through leaves in search of seeds. They often join mixed flocks of sparrows and juncos at feeders during the coldest months.

Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens)

Downy Woodpecker
Photo by Karen F

The Downy Woodpecker, Indiana’s smallest woodpecker, brings year-round activity to our woodlands and neighborhoods. These compact birds wear a crisp pattern of black and white, with males sporting a small red patch on the back of their head. Their size and delicate bill distinguish them from their larger cousin, the Hairy Woodpecker.

Listen for their sharp “pik” call and rapid drumming on trees and wooden surfaces. These active birds move easily among small branches and twigs, searching for insects and their larvae. They readily visit backyard feeders, especially in winter, showing particular interest in suet and black oil sunflower seeds.

House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus)

Male house finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) at a feeder in Green-Wood Cemetery, Brooklyn, NY
Photo by Rhododendrites

The House Finch brings a touch of desert color to Indiana’s urban landscapes. Males display varying shades of red on their head, breast, and rump, while females maintain a streamlined brown-streaked appearance. Originally native to western North America, these adaptable birds have become common residents throughout Indiana.

Their warbling song adds cheer to town centers and suburban gardens throughout the year. House Finches form sociable groups at feeders, where they favor sunflower seeds and small fruits. Look for them in city parks, shopping centers, and residential areas, where they often nest on buildings and ornamental trees.

Reference for this section: Indiana Audubon Society. (2024). Backyard Birds of Indiana. https://indianaaudubon.org/backyard-birds-of-indiana/

Birds of Prey in Indiana

From soaring Bald Eagles along Lake Michigan to Red-tailed Hawks perched on highway signs, Indiana’s birds of prey create dramatic scenes across our landscape. These powerful hunters play crucial roles in maintaining ecosystem balance throughout the state. While several species of raptors can be found in Indiana, some appear more regularly than others.

Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis)

Close Up of Red-tailed Hawk
Photo by Chris F

The Red-tailed Hawk stands as Indiana’s most frequently seen raptor. These large, broad-winged hawks cut impressive figures against the sky with their nearly four-foot wingspans. Adults display the namesake rusty-red tail, visible from below as they soar on thermal currents. Their white chest and dark belly band create a distinctive pattern that helps with identification even from a distance.

These adaptable predators hunt in both rural and urban settings across Indiana. Look for them perched on poles and trees along highways, scanning open fields for prey. Their hoarse, descending scream has become the classic “hawk sound” in popular media. Red-tailed Hawks build large stick nests in tall trees, often returning to the same territory year after year.

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)

bald eagle in tree
Photo by Frank Cone

The Bald Eagle represents one of Indiana’s greatest conservation success stories. Once rare in the state, these magnificent birds now nest regularly along major waterways from Lake Michigan to the Ohio River. Adults sport the famous white head and tail contrasting with dark brown bodies, while juveniles wear mottled brown plumage for their first few years.

Winter brings concentrations of eagles to lakes and rivers where open water allows fishing. Their massive nests, often used for multiple years, can become local landmarks. Listen for their high-pitched calls, quite different from their fierce appearance. The Indiana Audubon Society documents dozens of active nesting territories across the state, marking a remarkable recovery for these iconic birds.

Cooper’s Hawk (Accipiter cooperii)

Cooper's Hawk Close Up
Photo by Trac Vu

Cooper’s Hawks have adapted remarkably well to urban and suburban life in Indiana. These crow-sized hunters specialize in pursuing other birds, showing amazing agility as they navigate through trees and around buildings. Adults wear slate-gray upperparts with rusty barring on their chest, while their long, rounded tail helps them maneuver through tight spaces.

These aggressive hunters frequently visit neighborhoods where bird feeders concentrate their prey. Despite their reputation among backyard bird watchers, Cooper’s Hawks play an important role in maintaining healthy bird populations. Listen for their rapid “kek-kek-kek” calls during breeding season, especially in woodlots and mature suburban landscapes.

American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)

American Kestral on tree branch
Photo by Frank Cone

The American Kestrel brings miniature majesty to Indiana’s open spaces as North America’s smallest falcon. Males wear slate-blue wings and rusty backs, while both sexes show distinctive black stripes on their faces. These compact hunters often perch on power lines and fence posts, bobbing their tails as they scan for insects and small prey below.

Despite their small size, these falcons demonstrate remarkable hunting skills. Watch for their signature hovering behavior as they face into the wind, keeping their heads perfectly still while searching for movement below. Kestrels readily use nest boxes in open areas, though their populations have declined in recent decades as suitable habitat disappears.

Barred Owl (Strix varia)

Barred Owl Perched on a Branch of a Tree
Photo by Aaron J Hill

The Barred Owl makes its presence known in Indiana’s woodlands with its distinctive “who cooks for you?” call. These large, round-headed owls lack ear tufts, setting them apart from their great horned cousins. Their dark eyes and vertical breast streaks create a gentle expression that matches their less aggressive nature compared to other large owls.

These vocal owls often call during daylight hours, especially in late winter when pairs establish territories. Look for them in mature forests near water, where they hunt from perches and nest in tree cavities. Suburban areas with large trees increasingly host these adaptable hunters.

Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura)

Close up of Vulture
Photo by Robert So

While not technically a raptor, the Turkey Vulture plays an essential role among Indiana’s birds of prey. These large birds soar on thermals with wings held in a shallow V-shape, rocking gently as they search for food. Their dark bodies and bare red heads make them easy to identify, especially when gathered in groups.

Turkey Vultures patrol Indiana’s skies from spring through fall, cleaning up roadkill and other dead animals. Their keen sense of smell sets them apart from most birds, allowing them to locate food even in dense cover. Look for them roosting in groups on cell towers, dead trees, and other tall structures at dawn and dusk.

Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus)

Broad-Winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus) atop a telephone pole
Photo by Eric Dewsnap

The Broad-winged Hawk graces Indiana’s woodlands during summer months. These compact buteos wear neat brown-and-white patterns, with distinctive black-and-white bands on their tails. Their short wings and tails help them maneuver through forest canopies while hunting.

Spring and fall migrations bring spectacular shows as these hawks gather in large groups called “kettles,” sometimes numbering in the hundreds. During breeding season, listen for their piercing whistle in mature forests. These hawks often nest in large trees near forest openings, departing early in fall for their wintering grounds in South America.

Reference for this section: Indiana Audubon Society. (2024). Retrieved from https://indianaaudubon.org/birds

Rare Birds of Indiana

While Indiana hosts many common species, some of our most remarkable birds face significant challenges. These rare visitors and residents remind us of both the fragility and resilience of bird populations. Their presence demands our attention and conservation efforts.

Whooping Crane (Grus americana)

Whooping Crane Birds
Photo by A. G. Rosales

The Whooping Crane stands as one of North America’s rarest birds and a testament to dedicated conservation efforts. These magnificent white cranes, standing nearly five feet tall, create unforgettable scenes in Indiana’s wetlands. Of the approximately 850 individuals left on Earth, about 30 spend their winters in Indiana as part of the Eastern Migratory Population.

Two locations prove particularly vital for these endangered birds. The Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area and Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area provide crucial habitat during migration and winter months. These protected areas offer the shallow wetlands and isolated conditions these wary birds require (WBIW News, 2022).

Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea)

Cerulean Warbler (Setophaga cerulea)
Photo by Mdf

The Cerulean Warbler brings a flash of sky-blue to Indiana’s mature forests. This small but striking warbler faces steep challenges, with populations plummeting 72% between 1970 and 2014. The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists it as Vulnerable, while Indiana considers it Endangered within state borders.

Males wear bright blue feathers with white wingbars, while females show a softer blue-green above and white below. These canopy-dwelling birds require large tracts of unbroken forest, making them particularly susceptible to habitat fragmentation (Cornell Lab of Ornithology, n.d.).

Least Tern (Sternula antillarum)

Least Tern Sternula antillarum
Photo by Alan Vernon

The Least Tern, despite its federal endangered status, shows signs of recovery in Indiana. These small, agile waterbirds first appeared at Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area in 2009. Their presence marks a significant conservation achievement, with 2018 bringing particular success as nine young birds fledged from their nests.

These elegant birds wear crisp black caps and sport yellow bills. They dive for small fish in shallow waters, making restored wetlands crucial to their survival. Their recent nesting success demonstrates how targeted habitat management can benefit even critically endangered species (United States Department of Agriculture, 2019).

Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus)

Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus)
Photo by Jonathan Eisen

The Loggerhead Shrike faces a precarious future in Indiana. Only seven breeding pairs remain in the state, a dramatic decline from approximately 100 pairs in the late 1980s. These “butcher birds” now restrict their breeding to southern Indiana, appearing only in Daviess, Lawrence, Orange, and Spencer counties.

Despite their diminutive size, these predatory songbirds hunt like miniature hawks. They capture insects, lizards, and even small birds, often impaling their prey on thorns or barbed wire. Their dramatic population decline makes them one of Indiana’s most critically endangered birds (Indiana Audubon Society, 2020).

Birdwatching Spots in Indiana

Whooping Crane at Patokah River National Wildlife Refuge, IN
Whooping Crane at Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge, Photo by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters, Public domain

Indiana offers diverse habitats for bird watching, from the shores of Lake Michigan to the rolling hills of the south. These locations provide year-round opportunities to observe both resident birds and seasonal migrants. Here are some of the state’s premier birding destinations.

Eagle Creek Park

Eagle Creek Park stands as one of the nation’s largest city parks and a premier birding destination in central Indiana. Its 3,900 acres of forests and reservoirs attract diverse species throughout the year. The park’s varied habitats support waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds.

Spring and fall migrations bring warblers and waterfowl in impressive numbers. The park’s Ornithology Center offers educational programs and maintains feeding stations. Winter brings Bald Eagles to the reservoir, while summer residents include nesting Osprey and Great Blue Herons. Plan your visit at https://parks.indy.gov/parks/eagle-creek-park/

Indiana Dunes State Park

The dunes and beaches along Lake Michigan create unique birding opportunities. Indiana Dunes State Park’s location along major migration routes makes it one of the Midwest’s most important stopover sites. More than 350 species have been recorded here.

Spring brings waves of migrating warblers through the park’s diverse habitats. Shorebirds gather along the beaches from late summer through fall. Winter visitors can spot diving ducks, loons, and occasional Snowy Owls along the lakeshore. Learn more at https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parks-lakes/indiana-dunes-state-park/

Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area

Goose Pond’s restored wetlands attract an impressive variety of birds to southwest Indiana. This 9,000-acre property has become one of the state’s most important bird areas since its restoration in 2005.

The area hosts large numbers of waterfowl during migration. Sandhill Cranes gather here by the thousands in spring and fall. Endangered species like Whooping Cranes and Least Terns now use these wetlands. Early morning visits offer the best viewing opportunities. Visit their website at https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/properties/goose-pond-fwa/

Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area

Famous for its spectacular crane migration, Jasper-Pulaski stands as one of Indiana’s most celebrated birding sites. Each fall, thousands of Sandhill Cranes stop here during migration. The observation platform at Goose Pasture provides excellent views of these gathering birds.

Beyond cranes, the area’s mix of wetlands and uplands attracts waterfowl, shorebirds, and grassland species. Dawn and dusk provide the best crane viewing, when birds leave and return to their roosting areas. Find more information at https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/properties/jasper-pulaski-fwa/

Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary

The Indiana Audubon Society maintains this 700-acre sanctuary in southeast Indiana. Native woodlands, meadows, and ponds create diverse habitats for resident and migrating birds. The sanctuary maintains hiking trails and feeding stations year-round.

Spring brings migrating warblers and thrushes through the mature forest. Summer residents include scarlet tanagers and wood thrushes. The sanctuary’s educational programs and research projects make it an important site for bird conservation in Indiana. Learn about visiting at https://indianaaudubon.org/mgbs/

Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge

This southwest Indiana refuge protects bottomland hardwood forest and wetlands along the Patoka River. The area’s diverse habitats support more than 280 bird species. Prothonotary Warblers nest in the swampy forests, while grassland areas attract Henslow’s Sparrows and Northern Harriers.

The refuge continues to grow through land acquisition and restoration. Hiking trails and auto tours provide access to various habitats. Spring and fall migrations bring the greatest variety of birds. Plan your trip at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/patoka-river-and-management-area

Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge

Located in southeast Indiana, Muscatatuck preserves a mix of shallow lakes, marshes, and forests. The refuge attracts large numbers of waterfowl during migration. Its wetlands provide important habitat for herons, egrets, and other water birds.

An eight-mile auto tour route offers easy access to various habitats. The refuge maintains several observation areas and hiking trails. Winter brings Bald Eagles and waterfowl, while summer hosts nesting prothonotary warblers and wood ducks. Find visitor information at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/muscatatuck

Conclusion

Indiana’s avian landscape tells a story of both challenge and hope. From the familiar Northern Cardinal brightening backyard feeders to the rare Whooping Crane gracing our wetlands, the state’s birds create a rich tapestry of natural heritage. Each species, whether common or rare, plays a vital role in Indiana’s ecosystems.

The state’s strategic location along major migration routes makes it crucial for bird conservation in North America. Our varied landscapes – from the shores of Lake Michigan to the forests of southern Indiana – provide essential habitat for both year-round residents and seasonal visitors. Protected areas like Goose Pond and the Indiana Dunes preserve these critical spaces for future generations of birds and birders alike.

Success stories like the Bald Eagle’s recovery demonstrate the impact of dedicated conservation efforts. Yet challenges remain, as shown by the declining populations of Loggerhead Shrikes and Cerulean Warblers. These situations remind us that maintaining healthy bird populations requires ongoing commitment from scientists, conservation organizations, and everyday bird enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder scanning the treetops for warblers or a newcomer discovering the joy of backyard bird feeding, Indiana offers endless opportunities to connect with our feathered neighbors. Every season brings new birds to observe and new reasons to protect the habitats they need to thrive.

By understanding and appreciating the birds around us, we become better stewards of Indiana’s natural heritage. The future of our birds depends on the choices we make today – in our backyards, our communities, and our commitment to conservation. Let this guide serve as your invitation to explore, enjoy, and help protect the wonderful birds that call Indiana home.

REFERENCES

Cornell Lab of Ornithology. (n.d.). Cerulean Warbler Life History. https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Cerulean_Warbler/lifehistory

Indiana Audubon Society. (2020, June). Adopt a Shrike. https://indianaaudubon.org/adopt-a-shrike/

United States Department of Agriculture. (2019). Interior Least Terns Making A Comeback in Indiana. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/cmis_proxy/https/ecm.nrcs.usda.gov:443/fncmis/resources/WEBP/ContentStream/idd_10E22C67-0000-CF17-B01D-C1058B269087/0/Least+Tern_FY19.pdf

WBIW News. (2022, March 22). Whooping crane whisperers. WBIW. https://www.wbiw.com/2022/03/22/whooping-crane-whisperers/

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