Birding Basics

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

Use an Ant Moat for Your Hummingbird Feeders

Do ants keep crawling into your sugar water and other bird food? Learn how to use an ant moat for...


Why Do Birds Sing in Spring?

Bird songs are plentiful during the spring, but have you ever wondered why do birds sing? Find out the reasons...


When Will Baltimore Orioles Arrive in Spring?

Learn when to start looking for Baltimore orioles during spring migration and how to keep track of when they'll be...


Prairie Birds: The Stunning Species of the Grasslands

Discover why prairie birds are the hidden gems of the grasslands, as well as some of the best birding locations...


Discover the Desert Birds of the Southwest

You'll be amazed by the ways these desert birds survive and thrive in dry country. Learn about the unique bird...


The Most Commonly Sighted Bird in Every State

Data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey reveals which bird was seen most often in every state. Check to...


Tout icon

How to Help a Bird That Flew into a Window

If you find a bird that flew into a window, it's important to know what steps to take to help...


What Does a Baltimore Oriole Song Sound Like?

In spring, listen for a melodic Baltimore oriole song in your backyard and look for these black and orange birds....

6 Bird Migration Patterns That Have Changed

From rufous hummingbirds to Canada geese, discover some of the ways bird migration patterns are shifting for certain bird species.


8 Types of Orioles to Look for in North America

Eye-catching orioles come decked out in orange and yellow feathers. Get to know the types of orioles in North America...


Birdwatching for Beginners: How to Start Birding

Ready to learn about bird-watching for beginners? Grab binoculars and a field guide, connect with other birders, then go see...


Discover the Joys of Sunset with Birds

Don’t stop bird-watching when the sun goes down. At sunset with birds, things are just getting started. Go on an...


Birds in Books: Famous Birds in Literature

Birds have appeared in books for centuries, from Shakespeare to Edgar Allan Poe. How many of these birds in famous...


7 Sweet Photos Show How Birds Flirt and Attract Mates

Discover the adorable ways how birds attract mates and flirt with each other, including elaborate dances, preening and feeding rituals.


Signs of Spring: 8 Great Spring Birding Moments

Spring can seem a long way off, until you spot a phoebe and see wrens gathering nest material. Learn more...


Tout icon

How to Keep Cats From Killing Birds

If you own a cat, keep it indoors to protect the birds. Learn how many birds cats kill each each...


Go Birdwatching in Different Bird Habitats

Understanding specific habitats can help you identify the birds that live there. Spot more species by exploring more types of...

What Does a Cedar Waxwing Call Sound Like?

Learn how to identify a cedar waxwing call and hear what the species sounds like. Then you can listen for...


75+ Solutions for Common Backyard Birdwatching Problems

We’ve got answers for all your backyard birdwatching problems, including cleaning feeders and bird baths, deterring backyard pests and helping...


Wake Up Early to Listen for a Robin Bird Call

Robins start singing even before sunrise. Learn what a robin bird call sounds like and when you should listen for...


Discover the Fastest Birds in North America

From outwitting predators to raising a family, speed can boost a bird’s chances of survival. Learn about the fastest birds,...


Meet the Backyard Birds With a Bad Reputation

Rethink your stance on the bad birds in your backyard by learning some birding basics about their behavior and personalities.


Cedar Waxwing Migration: Where Do Waxwings Go in Winter?

Learn about cedar waxwing migration and where these colorful birds might show up during the cold weather months.

Where is the Best Place for a Bluebird House?

What is the best bluebird house location? The bird experts answer the question to help birders attract nesting bluebirds.


Fun Facts About Birds in Pop Culture

Discover 6 facts about birds in pop culture and the role they play in history. Learn about Harry Potter's owl,...


Make Your Month-by-Month Birding Resolutions

You'll have a big year when you make birding resolutions your goal. Join the Christmas bird count, learn bird calls,...


See the Best Birding Sites From Your Car

Don’t try birding while driving—but you can always experience one of these popular birding sites from the comfort of the...


7 Fascinating Facts About Great Blue Herons

Spotting a regal, statuesque heron is always a treat. Learn facts about great blue herons.


Spot the Owl in Your Backyard Trees

Be a bird sleuth and discover who's flying through the neighborhood. Here are the telltale signs you should look for...