Birds attracted to Hawthorn

Crataegus

Native to North America

Highlighted Species:

• Washington Hawthorn (Crataegus phaenopyrum)
• Downy Hawthorn (Crataegus mollis)
• Cockspur Hawthorn (Crataegus crus-galli)

Hawthorn Identification and Relationship with Birds

Hawthorn is small deciduous tree ranging from 20 to 35 feet tall, with a 20 to 30-foot spread. Similar to Crabapple, Hawthorn trees produce showy flowers in the spring (which attract insects, hummingbirds) and a fruit (similar in shape, size, and color to Crabapple) in the fall. For these reasons, Hawthorn trees attract a long list of birds. Most species of Hawthorn typically feature thorny stems, making them an attractive nesting/shelter option for many birds. If you are having problems with hawks picking off birds at your feeder, planting a thorny Hawthorn tree near the feeder may alleviate your problem, as the at-risk birds can take refuge in a place where no hawk would dare to dive into.

Birds Most Commonly Attracted to Hawthorn

• American Robin
• Brown Thrasher
• Cedar Waxwing
• Gray Catbird
• Northern Cardinal
• Northern Mockingbird
• Purple Finch
• Wild Turkey