Topics Explore Birds At Home

Bird Feeding and Care

Nia Williams smiles for a portrait in front of a building with a sign that says "WBF."
The Misunderstood Birds That Inspired Me to Pursue My Dream
March 16, 2026 — The pigeons and other misfit species Nia Williams helped to treat at a Manhattan wildlife hospital showed her how much unwanted animals and marginalized New Yorkers have in common.
Essays
A male Costa's Hummingbird with a bright purple gorget perches on a red hummingbird feeder.
Are Hummingbirds Really Attracted to Red? And Is Dyeing Their Food Safe?
March 12, 2026 — A special filter helps hummers easily spot the hue, but that's not the same as a natural attraction. Here's what matters most when luring hummingbirds and why artificial dyes should always be avoided.
A male and a female cardinal perch across from each other on a bird feeder eating sunflower seeds.
How to Attract Northern Cardinals to Your Home
February 12, 2026 — Here’s what they love to eat, and how you can help keep them safe.
A large flock of Redpolls flies around a snowy field of dried grasses in heavy falling snow.
Buckle Up, Birders—This Winter Is Looking Finchy
October 22, 2025 — Good numbers of siskins, grosbeaks, and other favorites could be headed your way, according to the latest edition of the annual Winter Finch Forecast.
Birding Advice
A squirrel hangs upside down eating from a suet feeder.
How to Stop Squirrels From Raiding Your Bird Feeders
September 18, 2025 — An expert shares guidance on rodent-resistant setups fit for any living space.
Smart Bird Feeders Are Connecting Us to Wildlife —and Each Other—Like Never Before
June 20, 2025 — The increasingly popular gadgets, which take photos of avian visitors, are turning at-home birding into a shared experience.
Four sparrows eat seed at a feeder.
What Does the Avian Flu Surge Mean for Your Bird Feeders?
February 24, 2025 — As H5N1 spreads rapidly, wild birds remain at risk. Here’s what to know about the outbreak and how to keep your feathered visitors safe.
A spider web made of pipe cleaners with fake spiders adorns the inside of a window, looking out on pumpkins on a picnic table.
How to Have a Bird-Friendly Halloween
October 18, 2024 — Follow these tips to ensure your spooky celebrations don't create a scary situation for birds.
At Home
A House Wren stands on piece of dead wood in a pile of sticks and brush.
Make Birds Feel at Home With a Brush Pile
September 23, 2024 — A breeze to build and maintain, these “wildlife hotels” are a wonderful way to add natural habitat to your outdoor space.
Spring Cleaning for Bird-Friendly Green Space
February 16, 2024
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