Winter Birds - Your Ultimate Guide

There are many winter birds around, and if you’re a keen bird watcher, then the winter season is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding times of year to engage in your hobby, . Regardless of your experience, it’s easy to spot a variety of beautiful bird life during these colder months - both in your backyard, as well as out in the wild. In this guide, we’re going to give you some tips on the winter birds you’re likely to come across.

Winter Birds

Snow bunting

These wonderful birds are native to Scandinavia, but they can often be spotted travelling further afield in the cold months of winter. They often like to be near the coast, and while they look similar to many other varieties of bird, you will usually spot them apart thanks to the brilliant white underbelly, combined with the flash of black on their wings.

Fieldfare

These large, beautiful birds are actually a type of thrush - and they’re commonly seen during the winter months especially. They are one of the few birds who will stay for a long time within one location, but then tend to head home when it comes to April or March.

Brambling

Here’s another incredible bird that’s certainly very distinctive, and you’ll really notice him if you’re lucky enough to be visited by one. While the size and shape is very similar to a chaffinch, these native Siberians have distinctive colors that are similar to the robin. They often like to travel to woodland areas for the winter, and if you’re fortunate enough to see one you’ll be in for a real treat.

Waxwing

This bird is a little smaller than the average starling, but the distinctive cut of their silhouette is sure to draw the eye. They tend to be a reddish brown color, and they have an incredibly bright and breathtaking crest that will make you wonder what you’re looking at! However, don’t be disappointed if you're not lucky enough to see one of these Waxwings, because they’re incredibly rare.

Redwing

This is one of the smallest thrushes in existence, so you’ll need a keen eye to spot him, especially if they’re hiding out in a woodland area. But you may be able to spot this bird due to the orangey-red sides they have, although the rest of their colorings tend to make them very camouflaged in woodland locations.

Wigeon

If you’re a duck lover, then you’ll love these wigeon birds. They tend to be of a similar shape to a duck, and they also love to swim. But you’ll certainly tell them apart by their distinctive colored foreheads, especially as they come inland for winter. The male of the species tends to have a brightly colored yellow forehead, which is a real treat to witness.

Jack Snipe

These smaller versions of the standard-sized snipe are a beautiful bird indeed. They like to congregate in wetland areas, but you may be lucky enough to see one visiting your garden if you have a pond. One of their major giveaways is the long bill and funny warbling style of movement that makes them an unusual sight to see.