Attracting Birds

Learn how to attract birds to your backyard with these expert tips on plants and trees that attract birds, bird nesting and feeding birds.

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Why Do Birds Abandon Their Nests?

Nesting season brings joy to the backyard, but sometimes things don't work out as expected. Learn why birds may abandon their nests and eggs.

Attract Fruit-Eating Birds With Fresh-Picked Treats

Attract a flock of fruit-eating fruit-eating birds to your backyard with a tasty medley of berries, oranges and more.


This Is Why Your Birdhouse Needs a Predator Guard

Keep birds and their eggs safe! Here's why a predator guard is a great option for deterring unwanted visitors to...


Why You Should Plant Marigolds Near Your Bird Feeder

If you're planting flowers near bird feeders, consider marigolds. Birds feast on the seeds and the bugs that marigolds attract.


Should You Put Out Dog Hair for Birds to Make Nests?

Will birds use dog hair for building their nests? Find out if experts say you should put out extra pet...

Attract Birds With White Proso Millet Seed

White proso millet seed can be a great addition to your bird-feeding landscape. Learn which birds eat it, how to...


Is It Illegal to Knock Down Old Bird Nests?

After nesting season is over, what should you do with the old bird nests? Is it illegal to remove bird...

What Is a Rookery? All About Great Blue Heron Nests

Have you ever seen a great blue heron nest or rookery? Find out where, when, and how these magnificent birds...


Don’t Fill Your Birdbath With Garden Hose Water—Here’s Why

Filling a birdbath with fresh water helps the birds. But make sure the birdbath water you're using is safe for...


How to Keep Birdseed From Sprouting in Your Garden

Will heating birdseed stop it from sprouting when it hits the ground? See what experts say, and get more mess-free...


Join the Garden for Birds Project to Boost Backyard Habitat

Grow native plants for the birds! Learn about Cornell’s new Garden for Birds program and how to participate.

Do Woodpeckers Mate for Life?

Discover which woodpeckers mate for life, and which pair up and then split up. Also learn how long pileated woodpeckers...


How to Build an Osprey Nesting Platform

If you want an osprey pair to nest near you, your best bet is to build an osprey platform. Find...


Do Birds Use Birdhouses in the Winter?

Cavity nesting birds may use a birdhouse for winter shelter, but some birds hide out from the freezing cold in...


If You See Moths in Your Birdseed, This Is What to Do

Find out how to get rid of larvae or moths in your birdseed and if the food is still safe...


Grow Native American Bittersweet for the Birds

Native American bittersweet’s colorful berries will bring plenty of fruit-loving birds to your backyard.

Fact or Fiction: Will Birds Get Sick if They Eat Rice?

You may have heard that feeding birds rice is bad for them and should be avoided. Learn if this is...


Why Birds Love Native Virginia Creeper Vine

Virginia creeper vine could be a good pick for a fence and it benefits birds — but make sure you...


Are Grape Jelly Feeders Dangerous for Hummingbirds?

Grape jelly feeders attract fruit-eating birds, but is there a risk to hummingbirds? Learn how to feed jelly safely and...


Does Birdseed Expire and How Can You Tell?

Feeding birds is fun — but it's important to make sure you're offering fresh food. Here's how to tell if...


If a Bird Is Dive-Bombing You, This Is Why

Watch out! Why are birds dive-bombing you? Here's what you should know if a bird is scolding or swooping down...


Build a Charcuterie Board for Your Backyard Birds

Entertaining isn't just for people! Build a tasty bird charcuterie board stocked with birdseed, nuts and more for your feathered...


Bird Feeder Landscaping Ideas: Disguise the Brown Patch

Get expert bird feeder landscaping ideas. Learn the best ways to use perennial plants to attract birds and beautify your...


Avian Influenza: Should You Take Down Bird Feeders?

Does avian influenza affect wild birds? Find out if you need to take down bird feeders. Plus learn the risk...


Boost Bird Feeding Excitement With a Smart Bird Feeder

See who's visiting your backyard by using a high-tech bird feeder with a camera! Here's why you should add a...

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Can You Touch a Baby Bird or Will the Parents Abandon It?

We've all heard someone say, "Don't touch a baby bird!" Can you help or will the parents abandon it? Here's...


14 Facts That Prove Mother Birds Are Fascinating

From female penguins who create a unique call to orioles weaving elaborate nests, here's why we appreciate the hard work...


Create the Ultimate Backyard Bird Sanctuary

Create an all-inclusive bird sanctuary in your backyard with plants that provide what birds need most for food, shelter and...


Crows Are More Romantic Birds Than You Think

Do crows mate for life? Here's why the American crow is a more romantic bird than you would expect —...


13 Fascinating Mourning Dove Facts

Mournings doves are common in backyards across America. Learn interesting facts you should know about the beautiful mourning dove.


All About Robin Nests and Robin Eggs

Learn where to look for a robin nest, what robin eggs and baby robins look like, how long it takes...