Red Birds In South Carolina:10 Types Of Red Birds Found In South Carolina

Red Birds In South Carolina add a burst of colour to the state’s lush landscapes, making them a favourite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. With its diverse habitats, South Carolina hosts a variety of stunning crimson-feathered species. 

From the iconic Northern Cardinal to the elusive Scarlet Tanager, these birds are often spotted in gardens, forests, and along scenic trails. Each species boasts unique characteristics and vibrant plumage, creating a captivating experience for bird lovers.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common and eye-catching red backyard birds you can find in the region, along with their behaviours, habitats, and how to attract them to your yard.

Did You See A RED Bird In South Carolina?

Have you ever been in your garden and seen a flash of crimson dart through the trees? The scarlet avians found in South Carolina come in different shapes and sizes. Each of these species brings a splash of colour to the state’s parks, forests, and even backyard feeders. From the backyard cardinals to the more elusive forest canopy birds, identifying these birds is an exciting challenge. In this article, we’ll discuss 10 types of red feathered species that call South Carolina their home and how you can recognize them.

There Are 10 Birds In South Carolina That Are Considered “Red.”

South Carolina hosts many colourful species, but these 10 red songbirds stand out. Not only are these birds beautiful, but they also provide a vital ecological role in the state’s ecosystems. Some are common sights at backyard feeders, like the Northern Cardinal, while others, such as the Scarlet Tanager, are rarer finds in the forest canopy. Each of these birds has its unique markings, songs, and behaviours. Below, we’ll dive into each bird in more detail, along with their specific habits and characteristics.

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#1. Northern Cardinal

One of the most recognizable red birds in South Carolina is the Northern Cardinal. Males are an eye-catching crimson, while females sport a softer brown with hints of red. Cardinals are beloved backyard feeder birds due to their striking appearance and melodic songs. They are often seen perched on tree branches, calling out to mates or feeding on seeds. Garden cardinals are a joy to watch as they flit around, especially in the morning light.

Northern Cardinal Range Map

The Northern Cardinal is a resident bird of South Carolina, thriving year-round. According to the birding manual, they prefer dense shrubs, gardens, and parks, making them a favorite sight near human settlements. These cardinal birds can be attracted to feeders with sunflower seeds and cracked corn, ideal for a feeding area in your backyard.

#2. House Finch

The House Finch is another vibrant red backyard bird. Male House Finches are easily identifiable by their rosy-red heads and chests. They are particularly known for their lively songs and cheerful chirping. Common in urban and suburban areas, these backyard finches are attracted to feeders, where they enjoy munching on sunflower seeds.

House Finch Range Map

House Finches are widespread in South Carolina, particularly in residential areas. They are social birds and often flock together, making them a regular sight at backyard feeders. Being a common finch species, they thrive around human habitation, bringing splashes of red to everyday settings.

#3. American Robin

The American Robin is one of the most familiar red birds in South Carolina due to its distinctive rusty red breast. They are often seen hopping around lawns, searching for worms and insects. Their melodic songs are a delightful sound on quiet mornings, marking them as a quintessential garden bird.

American Robin Range Map

In South Carolina, American Robins are present year-round, particularly during the breeding season. They prefer open woodlands, gardens, and parks, making them a frequent sight in suburban areas. This common red bird is a joy to watch, especially when they gather in large flocks during migration.

#4. Scarlet Tanager

The Scarlet Tanager is a stunning yet elusive bird in South Carolina. Males display a bright red body with jet-black wings, creating a dramatic contrast. Females are greenish-yellow. These forest canopy birds are typically found in mature forests, where they spend their time high up in the trees, making them difficult to spot.

Scarlet Tanager Range Map

Though less common than other red-feathered species, the Scarlet Tanager is present in South Carolina during the breeding season. They are canopy dwellers, preferring thick forests where they can find plenty of insects to eat. Bird watchers should keep an eye on the treetops during spring and summer for a chance to spot this beautiful bird.

#5. Summer Tanager

The Summer Tanager is unique among red-feathered species in South Carolina because the males are completely red. This tanagers SC species has a distinctive bright red colouring, while females are yellow. Summer Tanagers are known for their insect-eating habits, especially their taste for bees and wasps, which they skillfully catch mid-flight.

Summer Tanager Range Map

The Summer Tanager spends its summers in South Carolina before migrating further south. They are typically found in open woodlands, near water sources. A favourite among bird watchers in SC, these summer red birds are a sight to behold.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the Summer Tanager’s diet mainly consists of stinging insects like bees and wasps?

#6. Purple Finch

The Purple Finch is a colourful addition to the finch species of South Carolina. Despite its name, the male Purple Finch has a beautiful raspberry-red colouring that sets it apart. These seed-eating birds are often seen at feeders, enjoying a diet of sunflower seeds, thistle seeds, and berries.

Purple Finch Range Map

Purple Finches are present in South Carolina, especially during the winter months. Their raspberry-coloured birds stand out among the other finch species at feeders. They are delightful backyard finches that bring a splash of colour to the cold winter months.

#7. Red Crossbill

The Red Crossbill is a unique member of South Carolina’s coniferous birds. They are known for their crossed bills, which help them pry seeds out of pinecones. These crossbill species are specialists, adapting perfectly to feeding on pine seeds in conifer-rich habitats.

Red Crossbill Range Map

The Red Crossbill is mostly found in pine forests in South Carolina, where their specialized bills come in handy. Although not as common as other red songbirds, they can be spotted in areas rich with pine trees.

#8. Red-bellied Woodpecker

The Red-bellied Woodpecker is a striking bird, despite having only a hint of red on its belly. Instead, its head is the most prominent red feature. These woodpecker species are common in South Carolina’s forests and suburban areas, where they drum on trees and search for insects in the bark.

Red-bellied Woodpecker Range Map

This tree climber is widely distributed throughout South Carolina. They are frequently seen around feeders and wooded areas, providing a rhythmic drumming sound familiar to many locals.

#9. Red-headed Woodpecker

The Red-headed Woodpecker is a true standout among the woodpecker species in South Carolina. As its name suggests, this bird has a brilliant red head contrasting with a black-and-white body. They are often seen foraging for insects, nuts, and seeds, and are known for their habit of storing food.

Red-headed Woodpecker Range Map

In South Carolina, Red-headed Woodpeckers are typically found in open woodlands and near water sources. They are adaptable birds and can often be seen in backyards with tall trees and feeding platforms.

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#10. Rose-breasted Grosbeak

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak is a colourful bird that features a striking rose-red patch on its chest. Males have black and white plumage, while females are brown with streaks. These seed-crushing birds are frequent visitors to feeders, especially during migration.

Rose-breasted Grosbeak Range Map

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak visits South Carolina during migration periods. They are commonly found in forested areas and backyard feeders, where they enjoy sunflower seeds and fruit.

Conclusion

Red Birds In South Carolina offers a spectacular glimpse into the region’s rich birdlife. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply enjoy seeing colourful avians in your backyard, these scarlet-feathered species are sure to catch your eye. From the well-known Northern Cardinal to the elusive Scarlet Tanager and the charming Purple Finch, each of these crimson birds has its own unique charm. 

South Carolina’s diverse landscapes from dense forests to cozy backyard feeders provide an ideal environment for these vibrant birds. By understanding their habits, habitats, and preferences, you can easily attract these red songbirds to your garden. Embrace the joy of Carolina birding and enjoy watching these ruby-coloured birds brighten up your outdoor spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the red bird in South Carolina?

The Northern Cardinal is the most recognizable red bird in South Carolina, known for its bright red feathers and frequent visits to backyards.

What birds in SC have redheads?

The Red-headed Woodpecker is common in South Carolina, featuring a striking redhead and a contrasting black and white body.

What kind of birds does South Carolina have?

South Carolina is home to a variety of species including finches, sparrows, warblers, and woodpeckers, which are frequent visitors to backyard feeders.

How common are cardinals in South Carolina?

Cardinals are widespread in South Carolina, thriving in urban areas, and woodlands, and frequently visiting backyard feeders.