Birding Basics

Thinking of taking up birding as a hobby? These birding basics and tips on birding for beginners will get you started.

Is This White Mourning Dove Albino?

Spotted a white dove? Learn how to tell if you're seeing an albino mourning dove. Plus, see other backyard birds with unusual white feathers.

Blue Grosbeak vs Indigo Bunting: How to Tell Them Apart

Spotted a blue bird that you can't identify? Here's how to ace a common birding test: blue grosbeak vs indigo...


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Where Do Birds Go During a Rain Storm?

From thunderstorms to blizzards, we'll show you how to protect birds by turning your yard into a shelter.


Birdability Blazes a Welcoming Trail for All Birders

Birding is for every body! Learn about Birdability, a birding organization improving accessibility to get more people into nature.


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Amazing Bird Feeding Video Contest Winners

We never tire of watching birds at feeders. Three birders captured fantastic bird feeding videos and won our 2023 Bird...

Birding Guidelines: Birdhouse Hole Size Chart

Follow the guidelines on this birdhouse hole size chart to make sure you're offering the right birdhouse for your feathered...


How to Get Rid of Blue Jays at Bird Feeders

Free up feeders for your small songbirds by learning how to get rid of blue jays. One idea is to...

Music in Motion: Birds That Sing While Flying

Look up if you hear music overhead! Birds such as sandpipers and larks sing while they fly—and their concerts are...


Are Albino and Leucistic Robins Rare?

It's exciting to see a bird with unique plumage, but how rare is an albino or leucistic robin? Our experts...


How to Get Rid of Pigeons at Bird Feeders

Rock pigeons are nonnative birds that can gobble up lots of bird seed quickly. Learn how to discourage pigeons from...


Bird Mating Rituals: Love Is in the Air

When it comes to courtship, birds pull out all the stops, using elaborate displays to attract a potential mate and...

Do Crow Sightings Have Meaning?

Crows have a complex history! Discover what crows symbolized to ancient cultures, and find out how some interpret crow sightings...


How to Attract Bluebirds: Tips and FAQs

Bluebirds are beautiful—it's easy to see why people are interested in attracting them. We’ve got easy tips and answers on...


Don’t Let a Female Cardinal Fly Under the Radar

Is the female cardinal an angel, or just a hard-working female bird supporting her mate? Learn about the secret life...


A Rare Sighting of an Arizona Cardinal Bird

Despite being a sports team mascot, northern cardinals are rarely spotted in parts of Arizona. See photos of an Arizona...


Cold Weather Warriors: How Do Birds Stay Warm in Winter?

When temperatures dip below freezing, these birds love it! Discover the unique ways that birds stay warm on the coldest...

Bird Mating Behavior: Who’s the Boss?

When it comes to bird mating for species like American robins and house wrens, it’s the female birds who run...


Why Does a Cardinal Raise Its Crest?

A bright red cardinal crest is unmistakable. Find out why cardinals raise their crests and if female cardinals have crests.


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Meet the Friendliest Birds in America

Some birds stand out for their bold, curious and charming personalities. Learn why these are the friendliest birds in your...


Ask the Experts: Do Birds Get Dependent on Feeders?

Do backyard birds become overly dependent on bird feeders for food? Find out the answer from our birding experts.


12 Winter Birds Myths and Facts: Do Birds Get Cold?

Do birds get cold? Some birders worry winter birds will freeze on cold nights or in bird baths. Our expert...


The Best Backyard Birding Tips for Small Spaces

With a little planning and some basic backyard birding tips from our experts you can attract and feed birds—no matter...


Is There a Blue Colored Cardinal Bird?

Do you think you saw a blue cardinal in your backyard? Find out what's going on and the other types...


Can a Cardinal Fly Without Tail Feathers?

Cardinals are a birder favorite, but they don't always look neat and pretty. Here are some reasons you might find...


Dove Meaning: What Does It Mean if You See a Mourning Dove?

What does it mean when a mourning dove visits you? Find out if seeing or hearing a mourning dove has...

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This Cardinal Bird Rescue Story Is Simply Amazing

A backyard birder had to get creative to rescue a female cardinal. Read the dramatic story of how she managed...


11 Interesting Cardinal Bird Facts You Should Know

Cardinals are popular backyard birds. Learn cardinal bird facts, including why male cardinals are red, and where to find cardinals.


13 Fabulous Facts About Extreme Bird Feathers

Bird feathers are fascinating! Discover the wide variety of functions that feathers serve, including helping birds fly and attract mates.


Meet the Festive Flock of Birds in the 12 Days of Christmas

Have you ever noticed how many gifts in 'The 12 Days of Christmas' are birds? Discover fun facts about the...


How to Identify a White-Winged Dove

Learn more about the white-winged dove, including what the bird looks like, what it eats, and where you can find...


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How to Get Rid of Blackbirds and Grackles at Feeders

Are bigger birds bothering your songbirds? Learn how to get rid of grackles, blackbirds, starlings and other undesirable birds at...