Topics Explore Birds

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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.
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.
Bird Feeding and Care
Backlit silhouette of a swallow flying to its nest box, out of which another swallow is poking its head.
How to Keep Nest Boxes From Turning Lethal in Extreme Heat
August 22, 2024 — As soaring temperatures during the breeding season become more severe and widespread, here’s how you can make nest boxes cooler homes for baby birds and their parents.
Bird Houses
A nuthatch standing on wood covered in suet dough holds a chunk in its beak.
This Addictive Homemade Suet Will Keep Your Birds Returning for More
November 17, 2023 — Give feathered visitors a dietary boost with Zick Dough, an energy-rich delicacy made by nature writer Julie Zickefoose.
Bird Feeding and Care
A group of birds at a hanging feeder, two of them appear to be having a fight.
In Bird Feeder Battles, Social Species are Featherweights
March 09, 2023 — A new study finds ‘groupy and wimpy’ birds have a hard time fending off competition, but they can gain a boost among friends.
Bird Science
A small, black and yellow American Goldfinch clings to a feeder while eating little, black Nyjer seeds.
What’s the Deal With Nyjer?
March 06, 2023 — The tiny black seed is a favorite of finches, but where does it come from? And why is it always capitalized?
Bird Feeding and Care
Various birds and feeders including Red-breasted Nuthatch, House Finches, Northern Cardinal, and a Blue Jay.
Who Likes What: The Favorite Birdseed of Feeder Regulars and Rarities
March 06, 2023 — Here are the top three seed choices for a variety of species, per a scientific observational study of 1.2 million bird feeder visits.
Bird Feeding and Care
Five piles of assorted bird seed on a white background.
Mixology: Breaking Down 5 Common Birdseed Blends
March 06, 2023 — With all the products available these days, sometimes the jargon and claims can get confusing. Here’s a quick primer.
Bird Feeding and Care
A bear grabs a hanging bird feeder full of seeds in its mouth, knocking it over.
Why Bird Feed Can Be a ‘Gateway Food’ for Bears
October 27, 2022 — The easy buffet draws bears to human habitats. If you live in bear country, experts suggest putting away feeders in seasons the mammals are active.
Bird Feeding and Care