Backyard Birds 'n Gardens

American Robin Male

Backyard Birds are a Thrill to Watch

Bird watching is a fascinating hobby that anyone can enjoy. Avid backyard bird watchers get out the camera and binoculars. There are plenty of birds to see right outside your window. First, however, you might need to attract them to your yard…read on.

If you’re reading this article, you’re just like me. In fact, you’re one of millions of Americans young and old, who love watching birds of all sorts, flying, nesting, and feeding in your backyard. Hopefully, they will become permanent, or at least seasonal residents.

There are three requirements for success in attracting birds to your yard and feeders. Certainly, it should come as no surprise to you that these three necessary ingredients for success are food and water, shelter, and safety.

Gardener’s have a distinct advantage in attracting birds. While everyone can put out bird feeders, a gardener can grow natural food that will be the first stop for birds every time. With the right plants, your yard will soon be filled with birds. There is a wide range of flowers and vegetables to choose from. While we often think of sunflowers and their seeds. there is so much more. More on garden plants that attract birds.

True or False? Blue Jay Feathers are not Blue……

True. Blue Jay Feathers are Gray. It is an optical illusion caused by light refraction. The proof….hold a Blue Jay Feather up to the light and it will be gray.

There is no right or wrong way to feed the birds. Plant some flowers or vegetables. Put out a feeder. Or, just spread some seeds on a picnic table or your deck. As long as you are having fun and the birds come to visit, you’re doing it right!

Northern Cardinal Male

Identifying Backyard Birds

If you are like me, you get really excited when a new bird visits the feeder. The natural tendency is to run for the identification book. But, by the time you get back, the bird is gone. Instead, stay by the window. Study the bird carefully, committing every detail possible to memory.

As soon as he (or she) leaves, immediately write down those details. Then, go for your bird identification book….

Did you know? A woodpecker can peck up to 16 times per second.

Tip: Leaving a camera by the window where you most often watch birds, will increase the likelihood of capturing the moment.

Learn About These Backyard Birds

Rose Breasted Grosbeak

Bird Watching Trivia

  • People who watch, count,  photograph, feed, or otherwise care for birds are called “birders”.

  • Over 85 million Americans take part in the hobby of bird watching.

  • About 18 million Americans are serious Birders.

  • Serious Birders seek to see and identify different species of birds. They keep records and pictures of each bird they have seen. They will travel around the country, and the world, in their quest.

  • Neil Hayward of Cambridge, Ma holds the world record for bird identification. He spotted his 750th bird on December 28, 2013.

  • Owls are the only birds that can see the color blue.

Thought for the Day: The early bird might get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.

Bird Control Methods

You enjoy watching birds feed at your feeders.  But, you don’t want to enjoy them feeding on your fruits and vegetables.  Gardeners, want to see them only at the feeders.

See Bird Control Methods

Bird Netting and Frames

Goldfinch Bird diet, identification

Backyard Birds - Related Articles

Find much more information about your fine-feathered friends:

Feed the Birds Day – Celebrate your wild backyard birds.

State Birds – what is your state’s bird?

Bird Feeding Reference Chart –  See what your favorite birds like to eat. 

Bird Holidays There’s a special day to celebrate birds.

More on Birds

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