Birds are, quite literally, all around us. They are a constant presence in our cities, parks, and open spaces. The previous post provided an introduction to the “why” of birdwatching, and some basic tools and tips to get started. This post will introduce a selection of species that are common across nearly all habitat types in Santa Cruz – “the regulars”. Following “Gettin’ Birdy” posts will take deeper dives into particular birding hotspots, as well as bird biology and behavior.
One of the great benefits of birdwatching is that birds are present in our cities and urban spaces. You don’t have to get far out into nature to see interesting species or witness unusual behavior. In fact, there are many interesting behaviors that are exhibited by birds that thrive alongside our city streets and buildings. Look for nests under the eaves of buildings or in brushy areas of backyards, and even in planters and garden boxes – certain ground-nesting birds often hide beneath ornamental shrubs and flowers! As you begin to explore your neighborhood and local area for birds, it can be nice to have an idea of what you might be seeing. The species list and images below can serve as a nice primer for “the regulars” that you may be able to see from your own window, front porch, or yard.
Mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos) – The most common duck, this species is a great example of sexual dimorphism: when males and females of the same species look different! Can you tell which is the male and which is the female? 
Mallard duck (Anas platyrhynchos) – The most common duck, this species is a great example of sexual dimorphism: when males and females of the same species look different! Can you tell which is the male and which is the female? 
Black phoebe (Sayornis nigricans) – often seen perched on wires, fences, or the ends of branches, these little songbirds catch insects in midair! Nicknamed the “tuxedo bird”. 
California scrub jay (Aphelocoma californica) –
“A blue jay!” someone will exclaim. Alas, no. Blue jays live in the eastern half of the United States. The scrub jay is a common (and loud) resident of parks and neighborhoods,.
American crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) – If it’s a fairly large all-black bird, chances are you’re looking at a crow. Crows are found more often in urban settings compared to ravens, which prefer to stick to forests. 
House finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) – These little songbirds use their thick bills to crack open seeds and shells! Often found in parks and neighborhoods, they can even sing while in flight! 
House sparrow (Passer domesticus) – A nonnative bird from Eurasia, these little brown, black, and grey birds are now common in urban settings, often nesting on (or in) buildings. 
California towhee (Melozone crissalis) – Widely considered to be the little brown bird, their telltale marking is their “cinnamon pants”, a touch of orange underneath the tail. 
Rock dove (Columba livia) – the feral pigeon seen commonly in urban spaces, rock doves are often found on the ground or clustered together on telephone wires.
Post by: Spencer