Home Events National Wild Bird Feeding Month

Organizer

Wild Bird Feeding Iinstiture (WBFI)

Website

https://www.wbfi.org/

Local Time

Timezone: America/New_York
Date: Feb 01 - 28 2073
Time: All Day

Location

United States

Next Occurrences

Date

Feb 01 - 28 2073

Time

All Day

National Wild Bird Feeding Month

A Guide to Celebrating and Supporting Our Feathered Friends

February is National Wild Bird Feeding Month in the United States, a time to celebrate and support the diverse array of birds that enrich our lives and our ecosystems. Whether you are an experienced birder or just starting out, there are many ways to get involved and make a positive impact on birds during this special month. So let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty and diversity of wild birds, and do what we can to support their well-being and conservation.

What is National Wild Bird Feeding Month?

National Wild Bird Feeding Month was established by the Wild Bird Feeding Industry (WBFI) in 1994 as a way to raise awareness about the benefits of feeding birds and the importance of responsible bird feeding. The month-long celebration takes place every February and is an opportunity for people of all ages to learn about birds, connect with nature, and take action to support birds and their habitats.

Why is bird feeding important?

Bird feeding is a fun and rewarding hobby that brings people closer to nature and helps support the health and well-being of wild birds. Providing food, water, and shelter for birds can make a big difference, especially during times of stress such as extreme weather events or habitat loss.

Birds play important roles in ecosystems, helping to control pests, pollinate flowers, and disperse seeds. By providing food and shelter, we can help birds meet their basic needs and thrive in our communities. In fact, bird feeding is one of the most popular forms of wildlife-related recreation in the United States, with more than 50 million Americans feeding birds in their backyard or at a local park.

In addition to the personal enjoyment and satisfaction that comes from bird feeding, there are many other benefits to consider. Bird feeding can promote physical and mental health by providing an opportunity for outdoor activity and relaxation. It can also foster a sense of community, as people come together to share their love of birds and learn from one another.

How can I get involved in National Wild Bird Feeding Month?

There are many ways to celebrate and support birds during National Wild Bird Feeding Month. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Start a bird feeding station: If you haven’t already, now is a great time to set up a bird feeding station in your backyard. Choose a location that is easy to see from indoors, and offer a variety of foods such as seeds, suet, and fruit to attract a wide range of birds. Keep feeders clean and filled, and provide fresh water for drinking and bathing.
Learn about local birds: Take the time to learn about the birds that live in your area and the habitats they depend on. Identify the birds you see at your feeder, and learn about their behaviors and needs. Many resources are available to help you get started, such as field guides, online identification tools, and local birding groups.
Support bird conservation efforts: Many organizations are working to protect birds and their habitats worldwide. Consider making a donation or volunteering your time to support their efforts. You can also help by participating in citizen science projects, such as the Great Backyard Bird Count or the Christmas Bird Count.
Share your love of birds with others: National Wild Bird Feeding Month is a great opportunity to share your love of birds with friends and family. Invite them to join you at your feeder, or take a walk to a local park or nature reserve to see what birds you can find. You can also use social media to share your bird sightings and photos, and inspire others to get involved.
Give a gift to a beloved friend: National Wild Bird Feeding Month is a perfect time to give a gift to a friend who loves birds. Consider giving a bird feeder, birdhouse, or bird-themed gift to show appreciation. You can also give the gift of a birding experience, such as a guided tour or a birding workshop.

Tips for responsible bird feeding

While bird feeding can be a rewarding and enjoyable activity, it is important to do it responsibly in order to avoid any negative impacts on birds or their habitats. Here are a few tips to help you feed birds in a way that is safe and beneficial for all involved:

Use high-quality bird seed and feeders: Choose a reputable brand of bird seed that is appropriate for the birds in your area, and avoid low-quality seed mixes that contain fillers such as milo or wheat. Use feeders that are sturdy and easy to clean, and place them in locations that are easy for you to access but out of reach of predators.
Offer a variety of foods: In addition to bird seed, consider offering other types of food such as suet, fruit, and nectar to attract a wider range of birds. Different birds have different feeding preferences, so offering a variety of foods can help ensure that all of your feathered visitors get the nutrients they need.
Keep feeders clean: Regularly clean your feeders to prevent the build-up of mold or bacteria, which can make birds sick. Use mild soap and water to clean feeders, and rinse them thoroughly before refilling.
Protect birds from predators: While birds can be vulnerable to predators, there are steps you can take to reduce the risks. Place feeders in locations that are visible from your home, so you can keep an eye on them and intervene if necessary. Consider using a baffle or other protective device to deter squirrels and other larger animals.
Respect the birds: Remember that birds are wild animals, and they deserve to be treated with respect and kindness. Avoid feeding birds if it causes them to become dependent on human handouts, or if it causes them to abandon their natural feeding habits.

Conclusion

National Wild Bird Feeding Month is a wonderful time to celebrate and support the birds that enrich our lives and our ecosystems. Whether you are an experienced birder or just starting out, there are many ways to get involved and make a positive impact on birds during this special month. So let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty and diversity of wild birds, and do what we can to support their well-being and conservation. By following responsible bird-feeding practices, we can help ensure that birds and humans can coexist happily and harmoniously in our shared spaces.