Birds of North Carolina:
their Distribution and Abundance
The 100 most recent account entries/updates.
comNamesciNamespecies_accountbreeding_statuslist_typestate_statusfed_statusS_rankG_rankcoastal_plainpiedmontmountaintipstips_codeupdate_on
DickcisselSpiza americanaAlthough there are numerous birds that are highly erratic wintering species in North Carolina and el...BreederDefinitiveSRS2BG5Sporadic and very local summer resident, and sparse winter visitor. In summer, very rare to rare ov...Sporadic and very local summer resident, and very sparse winter visitor. In summer, rare and sporad...Sparse transient; seldom in summer or winter. Despite many wide valleys with farmland at low elevat...From 2005 - 2018, the species has been easily found in summer at North River Farms, but this is a pr...**2024-02-11
Rose-breasted GrosbeakPheucticus ludovicianusThe Rose-breasted Grosbeak is a bird of the cooler hardwood and mixed forests of the eastern parts o...BreederDefinitiveS3S4BG5Transient. In spring, rare to uncommon along the western margin of the province, but generally rare...Transient. In spring, uncommon to at times fairly common in the western portion, but uncommon over ...Summer resident and transient. Fairly common (and common in a few ranges) in summer at middle to hi...You should be able to find the species in a morning of birding along the Blue Ridge Parkway at eleva...*** to ****2024-02-11
Western TanagerPiranga ludovicianaThe Western Tanager is a rare visitor and over-wintering "resident" in North Carolina, but it occurs...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Scarce "transient" and winter visitor, with close to 100 records. Very rare to rare in winter along...Scarce "transient" and winter visitor, with well over 30 records. Very rare visitor, mainly from ea...Casual visitor. Only about six records, though only one since 1991. Oddly, the dates are "strangel...You likely will see your first in the state at a feeder near the coast.*2024-02-11
Townsend's WarblerSetophaga townsendiThis close relative of the Black-throated Green Warbler breeds only from Alaska to the northwestern ...NonbreederDefinitiveSAG5Casual visitor, mainly in fall, with nine to ten published reports. Four have been reviewed and acce...No records.The only record is of a first-year female photographed at the Richland Balsam Overlook, along the <...1/2*2024-02-11
Prairie WarblerSetophaga discolorThe Prairie Warbler is another mis-named warbler, as it is not found in prairies (i.e., native grass...BreederDefinitiveS5B,S1NG5Summer resident, and sparse winter visitor/resident. In summer, common over most of the region, thou...Summer resident. Fairly common to common in the eastern portions, and fairly common in the central ...Summer resident. Uncommon over the region, as a whole; essentially below 3,000 feet. Fairly common...The species is easily found in the Coastal Plain and eastern Piedmont. Driving US 264 through Alliga...****2024-02-11
Blackpoll WarblerSetophaga striataThe Blackpoll Warbler, at a glance at its breeding range, would seem to have a similar migration pat...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient. In spring, uncommon to at times fairly common over most of the region, likely less numer...Transient. Fairly common (formerly common) across the region in spring; in fall, generally uncommon...Transient. Fairly common in low to middle elevations in spring; rare at high elevations. In fall, g...Normally not hard to find between 5-20 May, especially around 10-15 May, in many parks in the state....***2024-02-11
Bay-breasted WarblerSetophaga castaneaThe Bay-breasted Warbler has a similar breeding range to that of the Cape May Warbler and the Tennes...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient. In spring, very rare along the western edge, and very rare to rare near and along the co...Transient. In spring, rare to uncommon in the western half, and rare in the eastern half of the reg...Transient. In spring, rare to uncommon in the lower elevations, and rare at middle elevations. In ...You should be able to see the species in fall in late Sep or early Oct along the Blue Ridge Parkway ...***2024-02-11
Cape May WarblerSetophaga tigrinaThe Cape May Warbler has a breeding range similar to that of the Tennessee Warbler, being a classic ...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient, and winter straggler. In spring, generally rare along the western border, but very rare ...Transient, and winter straggler. In spring, fairly common in the western third, uncommon in the cen...Transient. Fairly common in both spring and fall; in spring, mostly at low to middle elevations, bu...The best bets are perhaps the southwestern Piedmont, such as Polk, in spring, and along the B...***2024-02-11
Western MeadowlarkSturnella neglectaAccidental. There are two accepted state records of singing Western Meadowlarks: one at Pea Island ...NonbreederProvisionalSAG5One record (see above).One record (see above).One pending record (see above).1/2*2024-02-11
Henslow's SparrowCentronyx henslowiiThe Henslow's Sparrow has always been one of the rarest sparrows in North America, and being a grass...BreederDefinitiveES1B,S1NG4Summer resident, and winter resident, over parts of the region; strongly declining. In summer, stil...Spring transient and former breeder; strongly declining. Currently, casual to very rare spring migra...Transient, and possible former breeder; strongly declining. Casual to very rare in spring; mainly A...The species can still be found at VOA site A, mostly in the eastern half of the site. Birds can be h...** to ***2024-02-11
Nelson's SparrowAmmospiza nelsoniIn 1995, the Sharp-tailed Sparrow was split into two species, instead of a potential three species. ...NonbreederDefinitiveS4NG5Winter resident coastally, and transient inland. In winter, fairly common to common along the south...Transient, scarce. Very rare fall migrant, with the few records between 10 Sep and 14 Oct, with the...Transient, scarce. Very rare in spring and fall. In spring, eight records -- 2 at Swannanoa, 25 May...The species is usually easy to find, especially at high tide, in marshes at Fort Fisher near the Aqu...***2024-02-11
LeConte's SparrowAmmospiza leconteiiThe LeConte's Sparrow is another secretive grassland/marsh sparrow of the central part of the contin...NonbreederDefinitiveS1?NG5Winter resident, but scarce and easily overlooked. Fewer reports since about 2010, but whether that ...Transient, and straggler into winter; scarce and poorly known. Very rare in both fall (between 23 O...Transient, scarce. Casual, with only eight reports of single birds: in Franklin (Macon) on 1...The only reliable spot in recent years has been at a privately-owned conservation area -- North Rive...*2024-02-11
Clay-colored SparrowSpizella pallidaThe Clay-colored Sparrow was primarily a "Western"/Midwestern" species until a few decades ago. How...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient, and sparse winter resident, mainly near the coast. In fall, rare to uncommon along the c...Transient, essentially in fall and winter. Very rare in fall and winter (about 21 records in fall a...Transient. Very rare in fall, winter, and spring, nearly all records in low elevations in the south...Your best bet is probably Fort Fisher in Sep and Oct. A few were being seen semi-regularly in winte...* to **2024-02-11
Lark SparrowChondestes grammacusThe Lark Sparrow, as with the Vesper Sparrow, is by itself in a monotypic genus; no other sparrow is...BreederDefinitiveSRS1BG5Sparse summer resident, transient, and winter straggler. In summer, rare and local, only in the San...Transient. Casual to very rare in spring, and very rare in fall; scattered over the region. Mainly...Transient. Casual in spring six records), and very rare in late summer/fall (about 11 records). In...The breeding sites are generally off-limits to birders on military reservations; thus, the best plac...* to **2024-02-11
Snow BuntingPlectrophenax nivalisThe Snow Bunting breeding range and abundance is remarkably similar to that of the Lapland Longspur,...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Winter visitor, mainly coastally; declining in numbers in the past several decades. Rare though nea...Very sparse winter visitor. Casual to very rare; barely 15 reports for the province. Mainly late O...Very sparse winter visitor. Casual to very rare; about 18-19 records. Has occurred on a handful of...If you spend a lot of time walking or driving beaches in the winter, you might find a few each year....* 2024-02-11
Lapland LongspurCalcarius lapponicusThis is the only one of the four species of longspur that is not of accidental occurrence in the sta...NonbreederDefinitiveS1NG5Winter visitor, and possibly winter resident (regular from winter to winter) in a few areas. Rare to...Winter visitor. Very rare to rare across the region, with no regular wintering sites. Certainly oc...Winter visitor. Very rare, essentially in lower elevations in wide valleys, though four were seen a...Though a scarce bird in the state, a diligent birder can at times find the species over a several-da...* to **2024-02-11
Cave SwallowPetrochelidon fulvaHardly any bird has expanded its breeding range in the United States in recent years as has the Cave...Nonbreeder DefinitiveSZG5Fall transient, and straggler into early winter, essentially along the coast; greatly increasing in ...Accidental to casual, with three records: a single bird seen at Troutman (Iredell) on 20 Dec ...Accidental, if correctly identified. One was photographed and observed by several birders at Ecusta...The best bet may be to search the catfish ponds near the Tidewater Research Station, and the adjacen...* 2024-02-10
Cliff SwallowPetrochelidon pyrrhonotaThe Cliff Swallow nests from coast to coast across the continent, and it is much more abundant in th...BreederDefinitiveS4BG5Transient, and very sparse and local breeder mostly near the coast; expanding its range in recent ye...Summer resident, with noticeable migratory movements; slightly increasing as a breeder. In summer (...Summer resident, with migratory movements. In summer (as a breeder), mostly uncommon and local; not...Though numerically not a common bird in the state, they are practically impossible to miss in May or...****2024-02-10
Purple MartinProgne subisProbably no bird in the United States relies on man as does the Purple Martin. Prior to man providi...BreederDefinitiveS5BG5Summer resident, somewhat declining. Generally common in the eastern portions -- near the coast and...Summer resident, declining. Fairly common on the whole for the region, but in reality it is various...Summer resident. Generally uncommon to locally fairly common at low elevations, up to about 3,000 f...Usually easy to find on the Outer Banks in the early summer. The birds are not "miss-able" at the o...****2024-02-10
Northern Rough-winged SwallowStelgidopteryx serripennisThis species, long known as the Rough-winged Swallow, had to have its common name changed several de...BreederDefinitiveS4BG5Summer resident. Fairly common over the inner two-thirds of the province, but uncommon to locally f...Summer resident. Fairly common over nearly the entire region, perhaps slightly more frequent near r...Summer resident. Fairly common over the region, up to about 4,000 feet, and sparingly up to about 5...The species is normally seen in a day of birding in most sites away from coastal counties. The best...***2024-02-10
Yellow-throated VireoVireo flavifronsThe Yellow-throated Vireo has a breeding range that closely matches the "eastern deciduous forest" b...BreederDefinitiveS4BG5Summer resident. Fairly common over the western and central portions, but rare to locally absent fa...Summer resident. Fairly common over most of the province, though likely slightly less numerous in t...Summer resident. Generally uncommon (to perhaps locally fairly common) in the lower elevations (to ...Usually a few can be found in a morning of birding in the Coastal Plain and Piedmont, such as in a s...***2024-02-10
Bell's VireoVireo belliiThough the Bell's Vireo nests as far east as Illinois, there are relatively few records for the sout...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Very rare along and near the coast in fall and early winter. One was briefly seen and photographed ...Accidental, though unconfirmed for the province. There is a sight record at Zebulon (Wake) o...Accidental. One was seen and photographed on the Warren Wilson College grounds (Buncombe) fr...Be alert to this secretive bird in the fall near the coast, and keep a camera handy; it can be diffi...*2024-02-10
Say's PhoebeSayornis sayaThe Say's Phoebe breeds over much of the Western United States and Western Canada, but it withdraws ...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Very rare fall migrant/stray, occasionally lingering into the winter; 14 records. One was seen near ...Casual; five or six records. One was seen near Raleigh on 23 Oct 1965 (Chat 30:28), (Chat 54:56). A...Accidental. One was photographed at Jackson Park (Henderson) on 19 Sep 2023 (Chat 88:16). T...The bird along Howerton Road in northeastern Guilford has been present for the past two falls...*2024-02-10
Gray FlycatcherEmpidonax wrightiiAs with the Hammond's Flycatcher, the Gray Flycatcher is a species of the Western States, but it is ...NonbreederDefinitiveSAG5One record (see above).One record (see above). No records.1/2*2024-02-10
Fork-tailed FlycatcherTyrannus savanaThe Fork-tailed Flycatcher's normal range is in Central and South America, but it is famous for vagr...NonbreederDefinitiveSAG5Five records (see above).One record (see above).No records.1/2*2024-02-10
Tropical KingbirdTyrannus melancholicusThis abundant Neotropical species ranges north to extreme southern Texas and southern Arizona. Howev...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Casual stray. There are six records, four in late fall or early winter: one near Fairfield (Hyde...No records.No records.When birding along and near the coast, be aware of any kingbird with yellow underparts. A few decad...1/2*2024-02-10
Ash-throated FlycatcherMyiarchus cinerascensThe Ash-throated Flycatcher is a Western species, breeding from southern Washington to Texas. Like ...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Greatly increasing in late fall and winter near the coast; late autumn migrant/visitor, with birds a...Casual to perhaps now very rare stray/visitor. Two sight reports are from the Raleigh area: one on ...Accidental. One videotaped in Henderson on 28 Oct 1999 is the only record for the mountains....There have now been numerous recent records at Alligator River NWR, and somewhat fewer near Pungo La...*2024-02-10
Yellow-bellied SapsuckerSphyrapicus variusThe Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is the only true migratory woodpecker species in eastern North America....BreederDefinitiveSRS2B,S5NG5Winter resident. Fairly common to occasionally or locally common throughout; less common on barrier ...Winter resident. Fairly common essentially throughout. Mainly from late Sep to mid-Apr; dates rang...Breeder and winter resident, with strong migratory movements. Rare to uncommon and quite local as a...In the breeding season, check any of the areas listed above, for the mountains. From Oct through Mar...*** (winter)2024-02-10
Swainson's HawkButeo swainsoniThough the Swainson's Hawk is a Western species, like the Broad-winged Hawk almost the entire breedi...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Formerly casual transient to the coast and Tidewater areas, but since about 2005, now very rare, wit...Casual visitor. Three reports, two accepted -- of birds seen overhead: one adult, Lake Benson (W...No records.Because a number of records have recently come from Alligator River NWR, this is the only place in t...*2024-02-10
Red-shouldered HawkButeo lineatusThis familiar hawk had for many decades been less numerous or less often seen than the Red-tailed Ha...BreederDefinitiveS5B,S5NG5Permanent resident, with some migratory movements; slightly increasing. Fairly common to often comm...Permanent resident, with barely noticeable migratory movements; increasing. Now fairly common to com...Permanent resident and migrant. Rare to uncommon in the lower elevations, and very rare over about ...This species is more easily heard than seen, as its "Kee-yar" call is often heard in swamps and bott...*** to ****2024-02-10
Mississippi KiteIctinia mississippiensisMississippi Kites are a major success story in North Carolina and elsewhere in their breeding range,...BreederDefinitiveS3BG5Summer resident, breeding; increasing in recent decades. Occurs primarily close to brownwater river...Increasing stray or overshooting migrant, as well as a post-breeding visitor; breeds at a few local ...Rare migrant/visitor (increasing) in the southern mountains (about 28 records). Very rare north of <...Visiting the Lock and Dam #1 area or the NC 11 bridge over the Cape Fear River has been consistently...***2024-02-10
Golden EagleAquila chrysaetosThis very large and powerful raptor -- the largest in the state -- has always had a mysterious prese...Former Probable BreederDefinitiveSRSUB,S1NG5Migrant and winter visitor. Rare in the vicinity of lakes Mattamuskeet and Pungo and at Alligator R...Scarce migrant; about 28 reports. Very rare, mainly in fall and early winter, across the province; ...Scarce winter resident, and also a scarce year-round visitor and migrant. Presently, a rare fall mi...Over the years there has been a record of Golden Eagle every few winters in the Lake Mattamuskeet --...*2024-02-10
Swallow-tailed KiteElanoides forficatusArguably the most spectacular bird of prey in the world, especially when seen in flight, the Swallow...BreederDefinitiveSRS1BG5Annual visitor, mainly in spring along and near the coast, and breeder at a few sites in the souther...Very rare to rare, but increasing, visitor in the warmer months, surprisingly mostly to the western/...Very rare, but increasing, visitor in the warmer months; about 26 records, with five coming in fall ...Birders can usually spot one to several birds, along with some Mississippi Kites, either close to th...**2024-02-10
Roseate SpoonbillPlatalea ajajaHardly any bird is more easily identified than the Roseate Spoonbill. This tropical breeder nests no...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Post-breeding visitor and stray, mostly to the coast; greatly increasing in recent years. Now rare ...Formerly accidental to casual, but now very rare to rare and increasing, post-breeding visitor, with...Casual post-breeding visitor, with all records from 2018 (Chat 82:112). Singles were seen on the Fr...Increasing annually now, and can now be tracked down to see, as some have lingered for a while, espe...* to **2024-02-10
Least BitternIxobrychus exilisThe Least Bittern is just as shy as its larger cousin, the American Bittern, but because it is much ...BreederDefinitiveSCS2S3BG5Summer resident and migrant; a handful of winter records. Occurs nearly throughout the Tidewater an...Transient and scarce summer resident. Rare (and easily overlooked) transient, and rare and local br...Casual to very rare transient, and perhaps has nested on rare occasions in the Hendersonville area. ...Most of the better sites are difficult for birders to reach. It is reportedly common as a breeder a...**2024-02-10
Brown PelicanPelecanus occidentalisThis species is one of the most familiar of all of the state's birds to the layman, as everyone know...BreederDefinitiveSRS3B,S4NG4Permanent resident, with migratory movements; breeding. Common to very common, though local, breede...Very rare visitor. At least 26 reports, mostly at large reservoirs (about one-third of these from F...Accidental/casual. Four reports (all single birds); Waynesville, 6 Aug 1979; Lake Junaluska (Hay...None needed; easily found along and near coastal areas.****2024-02-10
Great CormorantPhalacrocorax carboThe Great Cormorant is still another species that greatly increased in the East over the past severa...NonbreederDefinitiveS1NG5Declining in recent years. Winter resident and visitor along the coast, but only in very small numb...Very rare migrant and winter visitor. About 13 records, all at reservoirs in the eastern and centra...No records.The species is reliably seen at just a few places along the NC coast. Your best bet is at Wrightsvi...***2024-02-10
Wood StorkMycteria americanaThe Wood Stork is probably the most significant wader in the state, because it is a Federally listed...BreederDefinitiveTTS1B,S1NG4Summer resident and post-breeding visitor, greatly increasing; rare straggler in winter. Locally co...Post-breeding visitor, greatly increasing. Formerly very rare to now locally rare, mainly from Jun ...Post-breeding visitor; very rare to now rare in the southern and central mountains, with about 15 re...The species can almost always be found around the margins of the two freshwater ponds at Twin Lakes,...*** to ****2024-02-10
Great ShearwaterArdenna gravisIn 2010, the American Ornithologists' Union changed the common name of Greater Shearwater to Great S...NonbreederDefinitiveS3NG5Offshore visitor, mainly to the Gulf Stream. Generally fairly common, to occasionally common in mid...No records.No records.This shearwater is best seen by taking a chartered birding trip to the Gulf Stream off Oregon or Hat...***2024-02-10
Trindade PetrelPterodroma arminjonianaThis species has a checkered taxonomic history, in part because what is considered as the "Herald Pe...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG4Offshore visitor. Rare but regular in the warmer months, seen a handful of times annually, with wel...No records.No records.You need to take a birding pelagic trip off Hatteras or Oregon inlets. Late May into early Septembe...* to **2024-02-10
Pacific LoonGavia pacificaThis Arctic breeding species winters essentially along the Pacific coast. For unknown reasons, the ...NonbreederDefinitiveS1NG5Winter visitor along the coast, and a winter resident (a handful of birds only) in a local area; man...Casual. Six records: one at L. Tahoma (McDowell) on 6 May 2007, in alternate plumage (Chat 71...Accidental. A single record: one photographed at Lake Julian (Buncombe) on 5-6 Jan 2012* (Ch...To look for this species, you must be prepared to carefully scrutinize loons on the ocean, with a sc...* to **2024-02-10
Sandwich TernThalasseus sandvicensisThe Sandwich Tern is the Royal Tern's "little brother"; it always nests in flocks of Royal Terns, re...BreederDefinitiveS3S4BG5Summer resident (breeding) and migrant along the coast. Fairly common along the coast in summer and...Storm-related visitor, in early fall, to large lakes and reservoirs, but only close to the Fall Line...No records.This tern is usually seen in a day of birding at Oregon Inlet or near the Pea Island impoundments. ...***2024-02-10
Arctic TernSterna paradisaeaTo see this species in North Carolina, one must take a pelagic trip in late spring, or less likely i...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient, essentially offshore. Offshore -- uncommon in spring, and rare in fall; status in fall w...Very rare storm-carried visitor. Eight records: one at a parking lot in Shelby on 22 Sep 1989 (after...No records.Your best bet, by far, is to take a pelagic trip out of Oregon or Hatteras inlets in the latter half...* to **2024-02-10
Common TernSterna hirundoUntil about 20 years ago, the common name of this species (Common Tern) was quite appropriate in Nor...BreederDefinitiveES2BG5Summer resident (breeding) and transient along the coast, and transient inland. Fairly common to at...Transient. Rare in spring, and rare to at times uncommon in fall, at larger lakes and reservoirs; h...Transient. Casual in spring, and very rare in fall, at lakes in the southern mountains; about ten r...It is still rather easily found from May into the fall along the coast, at least along the Outer Ban...***2024-02-10
Roseate TernSterna dougalliiThe Roseate Tern is one of the more elegant and graceful of the tern species, and because it is a gl...Accidental Breeder DefinitiveEESHBG4Transient and summer visitor coastally and offshore. In the warmer months, rare along the northern ...No records.No records.The most likely spot to find this species used to be in the tern colony at Cape Hatteras Point, but ...*2024-02-10
Franklin's GullLeucophaeus pipixcanThe Franklin's Gull, the "cousin" of the Laughing Gull, does not breed along the ocean coasts, but i...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Visitor/transient, essentially along the coast, and mostly in fall. Coastally, casual in spring, wi...Very rare visitor, now close to 20 records. Accidental in spring, with the only record being of one...Very rare visitor to the southern portion of the province. Nine records: 1 at Hooper Lane (Hender...The species is too rare to intentionally search for. However, birders should be aware of the specie...*2024-02-10
Black-headed GullChroicocephalus ridibundusAs mentioned under the Bonaparte's Gull account, the Black-headed Gull has a new scientific name, af...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Winter visitor, essentially only along the coast and in the Tidewater zone. Rare, and perhaps sligh...Casual to very rare; seven records. One adult seen in a flock of Bonaparte's Gulls at Jordan Lake o...No records.Black-headed Gulls are somewhat more likely to be found with Ring-billed Gulls than with other gulls...*2024-02-10
Sabine's GullXema sabiniThe Sabine's Gull is arguably the most beautiful gull in North America, and because it nests in the ...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient; essentially offshore, with a scattering of onshore records. Generally very rare in both ...Transient, in fall migration only. Very rare, with 11 records, all but two of single individuals: a...Accidental; two records. One at Lake Junaluska (Haywood) on 8 Sep 2004 (after Tropical Storm ...The species is much too rare onshore to be hoped for, but taking a pelagic trip in late May or the l...*2024-02-10
Black-legged KittiwakeRissa tridactylaThe Black-legged Kittiwake is one of just two (along with the Sabine's) essentially pelagic gulls th...NonbreederDefinitiveS1NG5Winter resident offshore; clearly declining. From the late 1990's to about 2005, generally fairly c...Casual in late fall, with five records: an immature seen and photographed at Beaverdam Reservoir (Accidental: an immature was seen and photographed at Lake Julian (Buncombe) on the remarkably...If you take a pelagic trip from Cape Hatteras northward during the winter, you now have about a 50% ...**2024-02-10
American FlamingoPhoenicopterus ruberThis species is familiar to most people only from zoos, but it is an American species that breeds ma...NonbreederProvisionalSAG4One record (see above). Any previous reports were not considered for a vote by the NC BRC or were no...No records.No records.1/2*2024-02-10
Parasitic JaegerStercorarius parasiticusThough the Parasitic Jaeger is probably more numerous globally than the Pomarine Jaeger, in our wate...NonbreederDefinitiveS1NG5Transient, and poorly-known winter visitor/resident, to the offshore zone and the inshore ocean. Un...Visitor to lakes and reservoirs, mostly storm-related. Casual to very rare, with seven records: 1 a...No records.This species can be seen from shore almost anywhere along the coast, though Cape Lookout and Cape Ha...**2024-02-10
Red PhalaropePhalaropus fulicariusIn breeding plumage, both sexes of the Red Phalarope are quite stunning, with the female a rich rufo...NonbreederDefinitiveS2NG5Transient and winter resident, essentially offshore. Mostly uncommon in fall migration, but fairly ...Transient; the great majority of records in fall. Casual to very rare in fall, at reservoirs, with ...Casual. Pearson et al. (1959) list reports from "Smoky Mountain Park" in Dec and at Fontana (Grah...The only way to have a realistic chance of seeing a Red Phalarope is to take a winter or early sprin...**2024-02-10
Baird's SandpiperCalidris bairdiiThe Baird's Sandpiper is the rarest of the five non-accidental "peep" species in North Carolina, and...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient. Casual in spring, and rare to locally uncommon in fall, mainly along the coast. Three s...Transient. Rare in fall, mainly at the larger reservoirs (when mudflats are present). Flights are e...Transient, though essentially only in low elevation valleys in Henderson, and single records ...In mid-autumn, the impoundments at Pea and Bodie islands, and the tidal pool at Cape Hatteras point,...* to **2024-02-10
DunlinCalidris alpinaThough a Calidris species like most other small sandpipers, the Dunlin is often not considere...NonbreederDefinitiveS5NG5Transient, and winter resident along and near the coast. Coastally, very common to abundant migrant ...Transient, lingering into early winter in the eastern portions. Rare spring migrant, and rare to un...Transient. Very rare spring and very rare to rare fall migrant, at low elevations, with nearly all ...Dunlins can hardly be missed on a birding trip to the coast in late fall or winter. ****2024-02-10
Ruddy TurnstoneArenaria interpresExcept for the closely related Black Turnstone of the Pacific Coast, the Ruddy Turnstone is a rather...NonbreederDefinitiveS3NG5Transient and winter resident, mainly along the coast. Common migrant along the coast, though seldo...Transient. Very rare in spring, and rare in fall, mainly at large reservoirs. In spring, only in M...Transient. Very rare in spring and fall, with all records from Henderson except for a single...Turnstones are widespread along the coast, at least during the migrations, and are easily found, exc...****2024-02-10
Bar-tailed GodwitLimosa lapponicaThis Eurasian shorebird has appeared along the East Coast much more often than the Black-tailed Godw...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG4Very rare visitor, with four spring and 10+ fall reports, all from the coast, plus one in winter. T...No records.No records.As the species has been seen now for at least six consecutive falls (2016-21) at the eastern end of ...*2024-02-10
WhimbrelNumenius phaeopusFor a large shorebird, the Whimbrel is quite numerous in North America, and it is not difficult to f...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient, and scarce winter resident/visitor along the coast. Along the coast, fairly common to lo...Transient. Casual in spring, and very rare in fall, with most records in the eastern portion, espec...Very rare fall transient, and casual in spring. Three of the records surprisingly are from grass bal...This species is not difficult to find along the coast during migration. They are most common on bar...***2024-02-10
Piping PloverCharadrius melodusThe Piping Plover is one of the few Federally listed birds in North Carolina, especially now that th...BreederDefinitiveS1B,S1NG3Breeding permanent resident, with migratory movements, along the coast. Generally uncommon and decl...Transient. Very rare in fall; late July to early Oct; no spring records. About 15 records, mostly f...Casual, with just five records: one at Hooper Lane, Henderson on 4-5 Sep 2012* (Chat 77:6-10)...The best area to see this species is at Portsmouth Island in late summer and fall, but a boat is nec...** to ***2024-02-10
American Golden-PloverPluvialis dominicaUnlike its slightly larger cousin, the Black-bellied Plover, the American Golden-Plover is a good fi...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient. Very rare in spring, rare but regular in fall, along the entire coast, particularly the O...Transient. Casual in spring (only about four records), rare but annual in fall, over most of the pr...Transient, but nearly all records are from Hooper Lane/Mills River area in Henderson, where v...The species is best located in Sep and Oct, especially after cold fronts. A few birds are present e...* to **2024-02-10
American AvocetRecurvirostra americanaOver most of the world, various species of stilts (genus Himantopus) and avocets (genus Re...Accidental BreederDefinitiveS1NG5Winter resident and migrant, coastally; accidental breeder, along the coast. Fairly common to commo...Transient. Rare fall migrant, and accidental/casual spring migrant, with most records from larger r...Transient. Very rare southbound migrant in summer and fall, with 11 known records: 1, Cashiers (...The only reliable spots are the impoundments at Pea Island NWR and less so at the adjacent Bodie Isl...***2024-02-10
LimpkinAramus guaraunaThe Limpkin breeds locally over much of the Neotropics, ranging north to Florida, and a few are now ...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Casual to very rare (seven records), nearly all in the southern Coastal Plain. One seen along the W...Greatly increasing post-breeding(?) visitor, though still very rare to rare; now (2023) close to 20 ...Four reports: One was seen and photographed at Owen Park in Asheville (Buncombe) on 8 Jul 20...Your best hope of finding one in NC by chance would be to paddle along a blackwater river in the sou...*2024-02-10
Elegant TernThalasseus elegansThis is a species of the Pacific Ocean, ranging regularly north to southern CA, and southward along ...NonbreederProvisionalSAG4One report (see above).No records.No records.1/2*2024-02-08
Common GallinuleGallinula galeataThis species is a "cousin" of the Purple Gallinule, occurring in similar freshwater ponds, though th...BreederDefinitiveWS3B,S2NG5Permanent resident near the coast, but with strongly migratory movements; farther inland, very local...Scarce transient. Very rare to rare and easily overlooked transient (as birds tend to be secretive ...Scarce transient (only about 10 records). Very rare at low elevations in the southern mountains; la...Your best chances for seeing this species are along the southern coast, where more widespread than f...***2024-02-08
Broad-tailed HummingbirdSelasphorus platycercusAccidental. There are two state records of the Broad-tailed Hummingbird: an immature male was bande...NonbreederDefinitiveSAG5No records.Two records (see above).No records.1/2 *2024-02-08
Rufous HummingbirdSelasphorus rufusThe Rufous Hummingbird is the state's second-most numerous hummingbird, and though it breeds in the ...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG4Transient and winter visitor. Very rare along the coast and in the Tidewater zone, mainly at feeders...Transient and winter visitor. Very rare to rare (essentially only at feeders) across the province, ...Fall transient and winter visitor, but primary in the fall season. Very rare, and mainly at feeders...One has a reasonable chance to see one during the year, but only by visiting a feeder with a known b...* to **2024-02-08
Eared GrebePodiceps nigricollisThe Eared Grebe also breeds, like the Red-necked and Horned grebes, in some Prairie pothole lakes an...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Winter visitor and transient, and sporadic winter resident at Goldsboro. Rare but annual along the e...Winter visitor and transient. Very rare to rare on the larger reservoirs, and very rare elsewhere; s...Casual to very rare transient in the southern mountains. Records are of single birds at Brevard, 10 ...It was formerly seen each fall and winter at the Goldsboro sewage ponds; however, reports have been ...*2024-02-08
Black ScoterMelanitta americanaThe Black Scoter streams southward over the inshore ocean in Oct and Nov, and an observer can at tim...NonbreederDefinitiveS4NG5Winter resident. Common to abundant southbound migrant over the ocean, but by Dec only a fairly com...Transient. Rare, almost always at larger lakes/reservoirs; late Oct to mid-Dec, with only two repor...Transient. Surprisingly scarce, being very rare, with just nine records: 1, Lake Julian (Buncomb...The species can usually be seen from the two Pamlico Sound ferries -- Swan Quarter or Cedar Island; ...***2024-02-08
White-winged ScoterMelanitta deglandiBy far the least common of the scoters along the mid-Atlantic coast, the White-winged Scoter can be ...NonbreederDefinitiveS1NG5Winter visitor. Uncommon and erratic (depending on the severity of the weather) along the immediate...Transient and winter visitor. Rare, mainly to larger lakes and reservoirs; late Oct to mid-Mar, wit...Transient. Very rare to rare in the southern counties, and unknown as yet from north of Buncombe...This is a tough bird to find in the state, and many birders often require two or three winters to fi...**2024-02-08
Surf ScoterMelanitta perspicillataThe Surf Scoter is the most common of the wintering scoters in North Carolina, though it is often ou...NonbreederDefinitiveS4NG5Winter resident. Locally common near the northern half of the coast and the Tidewater areas, south ...Transient and winter visitor. Rare on reservoirs and other large bodies of water; mainly mid-Oct to...Transient. Very rare to rare, with brief stop-over time; nearly all records from the southern mount...As with the Black Scoter, it is normally easy to find the species on the two Pamlico Sound ferries, ...*** to ****2024-02-08
Harlequin DuckHistrionicus histrionicusThe Harlequin Duck is the third of the three "jetty/pier" sea ducks (along with the two eiders) that...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG4Rare winter visitor along the immediate coast, and very rare in estuarine waters of bays and sounds....Accidental; a single record, an immature male seen at Lake Brandt (Guilford) on 18 Feb 2007*,...No records.The finding tips are essentially the same as for eiders. Look especially under the southern end of ...*2024-02-08
CanvasbackAythya valisineriaThe Canvasback has experienced continental population declines for several decades. It was formerly...NonbreederDefinitiveS3NG5Winter resident; declining. Uncommon to locally fairly common, mainly along the northern coast and ...Winter visitor/resident; declining. Rare to briefly locally uncommon, most numerous along the north...Very rare winter visitor, with only about 14 records, nearly all from the southern mountains (Bun...This species can be somewhat difficult to find in most areas. Formerly, it could usually be seen fr...** to ***2024-02-08
Tundra SwanCygnus columbianusThe only common swan in eastern North America, the Tundra Swan (formerly named the Whistling Swan) h...NonbreederDefinitiveS5NG5Locally abundant winter resident in the northeastern quarter of the province, south to Pea Island NW...Rare winter visitor; no regular wintering locales. Seen mainly on larger reservoirs; typically late...Very rare winter to rare visitor; extreme dates are 8 Nov - 30 Mar. Peak counts: 12 in flight over V...This species can often be seen by the thousands at places such as Pea Island, Bodie Island, Pungo La...****2024-02-08
BrantBranta berniclaThe Brant was formerly a common to locally abundant winter visitor to the northern coastal area of t...NonbreederDefinitiveS3NG5Winter resident along the coast. Uncommon to formerly very locally common in coastal bays. Practic...Late fall and early winter visitor. Casual to very rare; five records, all in Nov-Dec, and all from...No records.Brants can occasionally be seen from shore at the western tip of Hatteras Island, Ocracoke Island, o...**2024-02-08
Greater White-fronted GooseAnser albifronsThe Greater White-fronted Goose is a rare (but increasing) winter visitor across all portions of the...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Winter visitor, though not a winter resident (yet) like Ross's Goose and Cackling Goose. Most frequ...Winter visitor; very rare to now rare, somewhat increasing in recent years. Approximately 41 record...Winter visitor, notably increasing in recent years. Now rare in the southern mountains; no records ...There is a tendency for the species to appear with flocks of Canada Geese, both feeding in plowed fi...* to **2024-02-08
Black-bellied Whistling-DuckDendrocygna autumnalisThe Black-bellied Whistling-Duck is a rather recent stray and visitor to the state, mostly to the co...Sporadic BreederDefinitiveSZG5Now a rare to occasionally uncommon but strongly increasing visitor to the southern coastal areas an...Very rare but increasing; about 16 known records, though records should increase greatly over the ne...Very rare but increasing; about 7 records as of 2023. A flock of 12 was seen and photographed at th...The species is most likely to show up in the Twin Lakes area of Brunswick, based on closest p...**2024-02-08
Painted BuntingPasserina cirisThe adult male Painted Bunting is certainly the gaudiest-colored of North American songbirds. Thank...BreederDefinitiveSCS3BG5Summer resident along the southern coast, and sparingly near the South Carolina border at least inla...Very rare (but increasing) visitor, scattered over the year; a few reports of males singing on terri...Casual visitor. The only known records are one at a feeder in Asheville, 9-12 Mar 2004; a female or...Should be easily found along the southern coast in late Apr, May, and Jun, at places such as Fort Ma...*** to ****2023-10-20
Yellow-throated WarblerSetophaga dominicaThe Yellow-throated Warbler is a "Southern" warbler, as it breeds in the eastern United States only ...BreederDefinitiveS5BG5Summer resident, and sparse winter resident near the southern coast. In summer, common over most of ...Summer resident, and very rare winter straggler. In summer, fairly common to locally common in the ...Summer resident. Uncommon along rivers and streams at low elevations, essentially below 2,500 feet;...The species is easily found in many parks and preserves, and Croatan National Forest, in the southea...****2023-10-20
Pine WarblerSetophaga pinusThe Pine Warbler is certainly the best-named warbler species, as it is almost always found in pine t...BreederDefinitiveS5B,S4NG5Permanent resident, with migratory movements. Common to very common breeder across the region, bein...Permanent resident, with migratory movements. In summer, common to very common in the eastern and so...Summer resident, and sparse winter resident at lower elevations. In summer, fairly common in the ex...None needed.****2023-10-20
Magnolia WarblerSetophaga magnoliaThe Magnolia Warbler nests across most of the boreal forest zone of Canada and the northeastern stat...BreederDefinitiveSRS2BG5Transient. In spring, rare to uncommon in the western portions, rare over central portions, and ver...Transient. Mainly uncommon in spring, and fairly common in fall, over most of the province. Clearl...Scarce summer resident (at higher elevations), and transient. In summer, rare to locally uncommon (...It usually can be found in fall migration in the mountains, in various parks and along the Blue Ridg...***2023-10-20
Swainson's WarblerLimnothlypis swainsoniiThe Swainson's Warbler was once considered one of the rarest of warblers in the country. This perce...BreederDefinitiveS3S4BG4Summer resident. Breeds over essentially all of the region, as far west as Weldon (Halifax) ...Summer resident (sparingly), and scarce transient. In summer, uncommon and somewhat local along the...Summer resident. Breeds along the Blue Ridge Escarpment (see Piedmont notes), mainly at the base, u...Despite it not being common anywhere, you should be able to hear one to several in Alligator River N...***2023-10-20
Loggerhead ShrikeLanius ludovicianusThe Loggerhead Shrike was historically rare to absent as a breeding species in the East, but with th...BreederDefinitiveSCS3B,S3NG4Permanent resident, with migratory movements. Nests east to about Roanoke Rapids, Washington, and W...Permanent resident, with slightly noticeable migratory movements. Formerly (prior to about 1975) ne...Transient and winter visitor/resident, and likely former breeder. Now a very rare transient in the ...Your best bet is to drive secondary roads in Robeson or Scotland counties, where the s...** to ***2023-10-20
Black-whiskered VireoVireo altiloquusFor a species that nests in the West Indies and north to the western and southern coasts of Florida,...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Now a very rare overshooting stray along and near the coast, in spring; a remarkable 14+ records so ...No records.No records.If one is birding along the southern coastline in May or early June, especially on islands, it doesn...*2023-10-20
Scissor-tailed FlycatcherTyrannus forficatusThe beautiful Scissor-tailed Flycatcher nests in the south-central United States, primarily in Texas...Sporadic BreederDefinitiveWSAB,SZG5Transient/vagrant, both in late spring/summer and again in fall; accidental breeder. Very rare to r...Transient/vagrant, and sporadic breeder (only three sites reported). Very rare in migration, with m...Accidental to casual. One was photographed in Swannanoa (Buncombe) on 10 May 1984 (Chat 48:1...Your best bet is to drive to a known nesting site. If none are available for an easy "tick", you ar...*2023-10-20
Western KingbirdTyrannus verticalisThe Western Kingbird history in North Carolina is a sad one. Back in the 1960's and early 1970's, o...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Fall transient, regularly lingering into early winter; declining, at least in fall. Along the coast...Fall stray/transient. Casual to very rare, with only 14 records. Eight of the records fall between ...Casual. Four records: three in fall (one in Aug and two in Sep). The report of two birds in Ash...Try driving NC 12 down the Outer Banks in fall, a day or two after a strong cold front. A bird coul...*2023-10-20
MerlinFalco columbariusThe Merlin is a very feisty raptor for its size, and its dashing flight chasing down shorebirds and ...Probable breederDefinitiveSAB,S3NG5Transient, and winter resident in the eastern part of the region. Uncommon to fairly common fall mi...Transient, with numerous winter reports. Rare fall and spring migrant, may be locally uncommon in f...Transient, with some winter reports. Very rare to rare fall and spring migrant; very rare winter vi...Your best chance to see a Merlin is to visit the coast in Oct, especially after a cold front. Birds...** to ***2023-10-20
Red-cockaded WoodpeckerDryobates borealisFew birds in the state, and in the Southeast, have declined as strongly over the past 50 or more yea...BreederDefinitiveEES2G3Permanent resident; nonmigratory. Formerly over nearly the entire province, except absent along bar...Former permanent resident. The species was present in very small numbers as a permanent resident in ...No records.The species is quite local, and because it is very habitat-specific, it can be targeted easily at pl...***2023-10-20
Broad-winged HawkButeo platypterusThe Broad-winged Hawk is famous for its strongly migratory habits, as it completely leaves the Unite...BreederDefinitiveS4BG5Migrant, and very scarce summer resident; declining. Rare to uncommon spring and fall migrant, over...Summer resident and migrant, but declining in recent years. Mostly uncommon migrant (spring and fal...Summer resident and migrant, slightly declining. In summer, uncommon to fairly common, and reasonab...If you visit a hawk-watch site in the mountains in fall, such as Pilot Mountain, you might be able t...***2023-10-20
Northern HarrierCircus hudsoniusThe Northern Harrier is our only regularly occurring hawk that is strictly tied to marshes and field...BreederDefinitiveSRS1B,S4NG5Migrant, winter resident, and sparse breeder; somewhat declining. Rare and poorly known breeder near...Migrant and winter visitor/resident, declining. Rare to uncommon over the entire province from mid-...Migrant, and scarce winter visitor, probably declining. Rare spring migrant, mainly in May; very ra...This species is usually easily found near the coast at extensive marshes or extensive fields, from O...****2023-10-20
Yellow-crowned Night-HeronNyctanassa violaceaThough the Yellow-crowned Night-Heron can be somewhat nocturnal, it frequently forages during the da...BreederDefinitiveSRS2BG5Summer resident and transient. Generally uncommon along most of the coast, but fairly common at lea...Transient, post-breeding visitor, and sparse breeder. Rare and local throughout, and no records for...Transient. Very rare, and only in the lower mountains, mostly from Henderson; nearly all rec...Areas where they can be seen somewhat regularly are the Twin Lakes ponds on the mainland part of Sun...**2023-10-20
Black-crowned Night-HeronNycticorax nycticoraxThe Black-crowned Night-Heron is our only truly nocturnal waterbird. Birds roost in thickets, usual...BreederDefinitiveWS3B,S3NG5Permanent resident coastally, and a transient inland. Along the coast, fairly common to locally com...Transient and post-breeding visitor; accidental breeder (in 2022-23). Rare and secretive, mostly in...Transient and post-breeding visitor. Rare, with close to 30 records, at low elevations in the south...This species is usually found along the coast at any season, but you might need to wait around tidal...***2023-10-20
AnhingaAnhinga anhingaThe Anhinga is still another of the Pelicaniform species that has increased noticeably in the state ...BreederDefinitiveWS3BG5Breeding summer resident, increasing. Nests at least locally, scattered over most of the province, e...Nonbreeding migrant/visitor; increasing. Casual but likely increasing breeder (or probable breeder) ...Casual visitor. One was seen from a hawk watch at Mount Pisgah (Buncombe), 21 Sep 2003; one ...The spillway at Orton Pond is probably the best site in the state. Birds can also be seen at Orton ...***2023-10-20
Magnificent FrigatebirdFregata magnificensThe Magnificent Frigatebird is a common coastal bird of subtropical and tropical waters around the w...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Nonbreeding visitor, almost always in flight over the immediate coast or over estuaries; seldom seen...Accidental/casual to the eastern edge of the province, with just three records: one seen and later p...Accidental, and remarkably for the winter season. An adult female was photographed over Ecusta Pond...North Carolina averages about three reports of this species per year, most often in July or August o...*2023-10-20
Cory's ShearwaterCalonectris diomedeaThe Cory's Shearwater is the largest of the shearwaters in North Carolina waters and is one of the m...NonbreederDefinitiveS4NG5Offshore visitor, mainly to the Gulf Stream. For the combined subspecies: common and easily seen on...No records.No records.This species is a gimme on pelagic trips that reach the Gulf Stream off the Outer Banks from late Ma...****2023-10-20
Wilson's Storm-PetrelOceanites oceanicusSome authorities consider the Wilson's Storm-Petrel to be the world's most abundant seabird. Certai...NonbreederDefinitiveS5NG5Offshore visitor to the Gulf Stream, and less so to the cooler water zones. Common to abundant from ...Accidental to casual visitor, after hurricanes. Four records: 3 at Jordan Lake, 6 Sep 1996 (after H...No records.This is seldom missed on pelagic trips from May into Oct. ****2023-10-20
Forster's TernSterna forsteriThe Forster's Tern is the only tern that remains relatively common along the coast of North Carolina...BreederDefinitiveWS3B,S5NG5Permanent resident, with migratory movements; primarily coastal. Fairly common breeder around the p...Transient. Rare spring migrant and uncommon fall migrant at larger lakes and reservoirs, occasional...Transient, essentially only in the southern mountains. Rare (to occasionally uncommon) in spring, a...Forster's are the most commonly seen terns from late Oct through Mar along our coast, and except dur...****2023-10-20
Caspian TernHydroprogne caspiaThe Caspian Tern is the largest tern in the world, and it is also one of the most wide-ranging, as i...BreederDefinitiveTS1B,S2NG5Permanent resident (and sparse breeder), with migratory movements, along the coast; transient inland...Transient. Uncommon though regular in both spring and fall at larger lakes/reservoirs, but very rar...Transient. Rare, in the southern mountains only (Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, and Transyl...Caspian Terns can usually be found along most coastal areas in late summer and fall, especially arou...***2023-10-20
Least TernSternula antillarumThe smallest tern in North America, the Least Tern is a familiar yet slowly declining breeding speci...BreederDefinitiveSCS3BG4Breeding summer resident along the coast; declining until a few years ago, but recently has increase...Primarily a storm-carried visitor. Very rare at reservoirs, mainly during and after hurricanes; abo...No records.This species is not usually missed on coastal birding trips from May through Aug, though it isn't qu...***2023-10-20
Heermann's GullLarus heermanniThe thought of a strictly West Coast gull species like Heermann's Gull showing up along the Atlantic...NonbreederDefinitiveSAG4Three to roughly six records (see above), all along the coast, though possibly the same adult indivi...No records.No records.1/2*2023-10-20
Laughing GullLeucophaeus atricillaHistorically, the Laughing Gull was North Carolina's only breeding gull species; however, in recent ...BreederDefinitiveS4BG5Breeding summer resident and migrant, and early winter resident. Coastally, very common to abundant...Transient, at larger reservoirs. Generally rare in spring and in fall migrations, at times locally u...Transient. Very rare during spring (11 records) and fall (mostly after storms/ hurricanes), essenti...It takes no effort whatsoever to find the species along the coast from Mar through Nov.****2023-10-20
Wilson's PhalaropePhalaropus tricolorThe Wilson's Phalarope nests in the western half of the continent, at lakes, ponds, and other wetlan...NonbreederDefinitiveSZG5Transient, mainly along the coast; declining over the past 20 years. Coastally, very rare in spring...Transient. Casual in spring migration, with only four reports -- 30 Mar, and 1-18 May (no Apr recor...Transient, mainly known from Henderson, where casual to very rare in each season. Records fro...The species could formerly be found with some regularity only at the Pea and Bodie island ponds; now...* to **2023-10-20