What happens when a backyard bird feeder becomes a trap instead of a treat? Many people think that tossing a little of this or that into a feeder is harmless, but even well-meaning snacks can make birds sick, attract pests, or disrupt their natural diets. A single wrong choice can turn a lively feeding station …
Birds
Most backyard bird feeders are not bird sanctuaries. They are, by nearly every measure that conservation biologists use, the fast food drive-through of the avian world: convenient for the customer, questionable in its health outcomes, and decidedly more beneficial to the franchise than to anyone it claims to serve. That may sound harsh, especially for …
Eastern, Western, and Mountain bluebirds are some of the most sought-after wild birds in North America. These brilliant birds suffered major population drops during the twentieth century due to habitat loss and competition from invasive species. Dedicated conservation efforts helped their numbers bounce back significantly. Spotting that bright flash of blue outside your window brings …
Bluebirds are a beloved addition to any garden, their bright plumage and cheerful songs adding charm and vibrancy to outdoor spaces. But did you know that planting the right flora can make your yard a prime destination for these feathered visitors? Bluebirds are particularly drawn to plants that provide them with food (like berries), nesting …
Winter creates a harsh reality for local wildlife. Natural food sources disappear under frost and snow, leaving our feathered neighbors searching high and low for sustenance. You might be surprised to discover that your kitchen cupboards hold nutritious treasures capable of helping birds survive the cold. Sharing a few specific human foods can provide essential …
The flash of deep red at the bird feeder might have you guessing. Is it a Purple Finch? Something more exotic? Identifying the small, energetic birds that visit our yards can feel like a puzzle. One of the most frequent and cheerful visitors is the House Finch, a bird that has adapted remarkably well to …
Keeping a bird feeder clean is one of the best things you can do for your feathered visitors. It helps prevent the spread of disease and keeps the seed fresh and appealing. But while your intentions might be good, reaching for the wrong cleaning product can do more harm than good. This article will walk …
Hummingbirds are some of the most captivating creatures to welcome into your garden. With their iridescent feathers, rapid wingbeats, and unique ability to hover as they feed, they bring a touch of magic to any outdoor space. But attracting these tiny wonders takes intention—specifically, planting flowers that cater to their nutritional needs. Discover nine incredible …
Move over, astrology. There’s a new way to dive into your personality: your birth month bird. Just like flowers and gems are tied to each month, so are birds, each with its own unique meaning. Finding your birth bird is a fun way to learn more about your traits and connect with nature. Maybe it …
Every February, backyard bird lovers bundle up, grab binoculars, and step outside to participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count, a global citizen-science project led by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Audubon, and Birds Canada. For four days, participants count the birds they see and help scientists track populations worldwide. If you’d love to see …