Birds

The Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus) is a large species of woodpecker that feeds primarily on carpenter ants. The males can be distinguished from the females by a small red streak at the side of their mouth. View more information about the Pileated Woodpecker.

The Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is a striking red bird found throughout North America. The males are a bright red color, whereas the females have a duller plumage. They say that if you see a Cardinal, a lost loved one is trying to contact you. View more information about the Cardinal.

The Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) is our commonest campus woodpecker. Ranging throughout eastern North American Woodlands, they can be identified by their undulating flight red cap and white face. They drum on tree trunks to establish their territories and sometimes on light poles too! They search for insects beneath the bark of trees and are often seen hunting along dead branches and trunks. View more information about the Red-bellied Woodpecker.

Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata) are a very common North American songbird. Their bright blue, white and black plumage makes them popular for bird-watching. These noisy birds have a unique interest in acorns, which helped to spread the oak population. Their alarm calls are often heard when a large owl or hawk is roosted in their territory. View more information about Blue Jays.

The Barred Owl (Strix varia) is the commonest of the larger owls we have on campus. Nocturnal predators they can fly silently as they hunt for small mammals and snakes. Their principal predator is the even larger Great-Horned Owl. Both species are migratory spending the winters in woodlands around campus. View more information about the Barred Owl.

The Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus) is our commonest hawk on campus. Frequently perched on light poles, they scan the ground for large insects, lizards and snakes. In flight, they can be recognized by translucent patches near their wingtips. View more information about the Red-shouldered Hawk.