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Birds that winter in Romania

Sparrows, blackbirds, ravens, various crows and many woodpeckers can be seen in Romania during winter. Some owls and hawks also remain in suitable habitats. Available food and local conditions influence where they gather.

Wintering in Romania does not always mean living here all year. Some birds are resident, others make local movements, and individuals from more northerly regions may arrive in winter. Behaviour varies between species and populations.

Examples of birds present in the cold season

  • House sparrows: they use settlements and their surroundings, where they can find seeds and shelter.
  • Blackbirds: some remain in the country and may search for fruit or food on ground not covered by snow.
  • Ravens and local crows: they use varied resources; the number and origins of individuals in a place may change in winter.
  • Woodpeckers: species such as the great spotted woodpecker remain here. The Eurasian wryneck is a migratory exception.
  • Tawny owls and Eurasian sparrowhawks: these are examples of birds of prey that can also be found in Romania in winter.

What do birds eat in winter?

Some species eat more seeds and fruit when invertebrates are hard to find. Woodpeckers may search for larvae under bark, while birds of prey continue hunting.

Food and shelter on cold days

Berry-bearing shrubs, hollow trees and vegetation retaining seeds provide natural resources. If feeders are used, food should suit the species, be fresh and contain no salt or seasoning; hygiene matters.

Birds seen in winter are not always the same individuals seen in summer. Identifying species and repeating observations help reveal seasonal changes.

Frequently asked questions

  • Which birds remain in Romania during winter? Sparrows, some blackbirds, ravens, local crows and many woodpeckers can be seen in the cold season. Their presence depends on species, population and habitat.
  • Are all Romania’s woodpeckers resident? No. The Eurasian wryneck migrates, while many other local woodpeckers remain through winter.
  • Do all wintering birds visit feeders? No. Feeders attract only some species. Others find food in trees, on the ground, near water or by hunting.