Topics Explore Birds

At Home

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.
Bird Feeding and Care
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.
Bird Feeding and Care
Caroline Saunders sits at a table showing a platter of small bird-shaped cakes.
How to Be a Better Baker for the Planet
December 16, 2025 — It's not hard to whip up delicious, climate-friendly desserts at home. Try your hand with these tips—plus a recipe!
Sawdust to Sparrows: How a Youth-Led Project Became a Community Movement
November 18, 2025 — One teen’s journey from backyard builder to global advocate for birds and community conservation.
TEXAS Bird Houses
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 long exposure photo showing the movement of a flying squirrel gliding from a tree across a starry night sky.
It’s a Bird, It’s a Bat—No, It’s a Flying Squirrel. And It Might Be Closer Than You Think.
September 19, 2025 — Flying squirrels are widespread across the United States, but spotting the nocturnal rodents takes some effort. Unless you're a Spotted Owl, that is.
A red squirrel climbing down a tree with a peanut in its mouth pauses and looks up.
Why Squirrels Deserve Your Respect (If Not Your Birdseed)
September 18, 2025 — Sure, they ransack feeders, but there’s a lot to love about the crafty rodents.
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.
Bird Feeding and Care
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.
Bird Feeding and Care