Bird Feeders & Houses Bring Friendly Fliers to Your Backyard Watching Pleasure!

By Doug Maxwell

Regardless if you live in the city or the country you can make your yard a paradise for bird watching. By selecting and placing feeders and houses at strategic locations in your lawn or garden you will begin to attract a variety of birds. There are numerous styles, shapes, sizes and colors of feeders and houses that will make your decision-making difficult, will be sure to be an attractive addition to your lawn or garden.

Bird Feeders In attracting birds you first need to know what type of birds are common for the area in which you live. This research will help you determine what kind of birdseed to purchase. When locating a bird feeder in your lawn or garden you need to make sure they are strategically located in order to attract your feathered friends for your watching pleasure. Depending on the size of your yard you may wish to install more than one feeder.

The placement of the feeder will be decided by where you spend your time watching these friendly fliers. If you spend your time on your deck then you will want it located nearby. There are a variety of places where your feeder can be located, such as on the top of a pole, fence, wall or your porch or deck. Depending on the different species you have, and if you place more than one feeder you can fill your feeders with select food that will attract particular birds to a feeder. Feeders normally come with the mounting hardware. Feeders make everyone happy. The birds enjoy a meal and you enjoy some relaxing bird watching.

Bird Houses Again as in selecting feeders you need to consider the size of your lawn or garden when selecting one or more houses. You don't want to get your lawn or garden overcrowded with friendly flier attractions. The selecting of houses will depend on type of birds present in your area.

Houses of old were more apt to be made of wood, such as a beach house, a cottage with a thatched roof or church where today you can find more houses made of poly resin and molded into different shapes, such as a bear, a horse or even a crocodile. In selecting a house for your friendly fliers you need to make sure it is well ventilated, has a slanted roof and holes in the floor for water drainage. You also want to make sure the house doesn't have a perch in case larger birds are stalking the smaller birds and wait for them to come out. A house should make your friendly fliers feel safe and secure and give them a place to raise their young.

Another attracting item is water. An area for drinking and a bird bath close to the feeders is a good idea. Baths come in different styles and this would be something to check into as well for your watching enjoyment. These additions will make your friendly fliers feel right at home in your backyard.

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Backyard Bird Watching Is A Breeze

By Mike Selvon

One of the best places for aspiring bird watchers to get their feet wet is in their own backyard. Backyard bird watching is an inexpensive and relatively easy way to get involved in birding as a hobby. While your interest may one day carry you to far away places in search of rare species, many find that they are more than satisfied by keeping track of the local bird life and enjoying the birds that live right under their noses.

You will want to do some research on what types of feeders are best for the birds that you are hoping to attract. Several styles meet the needs of many species. Some birds, however, require a specific type of feeder. You may find it best to construct your backyard bird watching area in a way that allows you to utilize several different feeders. Make sure you research how far away from each other the feeders should be.

Another decision that you will have to make as you are beginning your hobby of backyard bird watching is what to feed them. There is a wide range of feed available. Just like the feeders, the food that you select should depend in large part on what type of birds you are hoping to attract and where you live. Some of the more common types of bird feed are sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and thistle. Often found in a mix, pour this type of seed into a hopper type feeder to meet the needs of several different species at one backyard bird watching station. If you hope to attract some of the more fickle species, like bluebirds, then you will need to do some research on what type of fruit or nuts make up the diet of bluebirds in your area.

When you are setting up your area for backyard bird watching, you should ensure that you have good view of the feeders from the area that you anticipate using for observation. If you have any low hanging branches that may block your view, cut them away before you begin your project. If you wait until you already have a contingent of hungry customers to do so, the sudden change in environment may disrupt the feeding and behavior patterns that they have established.

Now that you are ready to begin your observations, you will find that you need some kind of magnifying device in order to see the birds better. A basic pair of binoculars is usually sufficient for beginners, though you may find it better to mount a spotting scope near a bird watching picture window in your home. These optical devices will greatly increase your ability to identify birds and to get to them by their distinct markings and behaviors.

Mike Selvon owns a number of niche portal.
Please visit our bird feeder portal for more great tips on backyard bird watching.
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Bird Watching - Is it Just For the Birds?

By Mike Selvon

When a bird watching hobbyist says that something is "for the birds," he or she does not mean that it is crazy. They are probably referring to some of their equipment or books that help them to have this wonderful hobby. If you have not had much contact with such pets and want to find a great pastime, then birding is definitely for you. It allows you to get outside and enjoy nature and it does not cost a whole lot to get started. You can go out and find interesting species of birds that you like.

Bird watching is one of those hobbies that you do not need a lot of information or equipment right off the bat. However, some people do want to get some guidance. One website that does offer guidance, equipment and hints/tips is Bird Watching. They have tons of information for the beginner. They can even give you tips on setting up bird feeders in your yard so that the birds will come to your yard instead, eliminating the need to go traipsing through the woods to find them.

A great way to get into watching these pets is to go on birding tours. These tours can be local or they can be to some tropical destination where you will observe exotic birds, such as Toucans or Flamingos. Just the thrill of seeing wild birds in their own natural habitat can be a treat for anyone. It not only gets you outside in the sun but it also can serve as an excellent form of exercise.

You can easily cover miles when you are absorbed in watching the skies or trees for the birds that you are seeking out. If you are not quite ready to spend a lot of money on a birding tour, then you can always borrow a book from your local library and discover the ones that live in your area. There are many books that can offer you tips and tricks to seeking out local of such pets.

If you want a more passive bird watching experience, you can always utilize feeders in your yard or garden. By feeding the birds you get the opportunity to observe many different kinds of these species that are native to your area. But remember that different feeders attract different types of of such pets. All of that free food will often attract squirrels that are looking for a quick meal. Your local home and garden center can help you find the right feeder for the job.

Find our more about birds of prey at Mike Selvon articles portal, and claim your free audio gift on common birds.
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Birdwatching For Family Learning

By Robert W. Mann

Families can turn their birdwatching into meaningful learning and even research through national events like Project FeederWatch and the Great Backyard Bird Count. Facilitated by organizations like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the Audubon Society, these projects involve volunteers across the nation helping scientists monitor bird life in North America. The final result is a comprehensive report and publication.

Annual counts usually take place from November through early April. Registration begins in the springtime for the following year, and continues for the next twelve months. Volunteer birdwatchers count the total number of birds in the area at a single time to avoid counting a single bird more than once. This also alleviates the need for constant monitoring of a bird feeder or yard.

The cost of participation is less than twenty dollars and covers the bulk of the project's cost. In addition, all participants receive a kit containing a poster for identifying birds, a wall calendar, a guide to proper bird feeding, a form for counting, and directions for using these items. U.S. residents are also given an annual subscription to the respective organization's newsletter.
Data collected in these projects is featured in science publications and frequently used by ornithologists and birdwatchers throughout North America. The count provides a real opportunity to contribute to the well-being and research of birds that share our habitat. Another benefit is finding previously unknown birds in the neighborhood.

The bird count is open to every type of individual and group. Currently it includes people of all skill levels and backgrounds: Classrooms, individuals, children, bird clubs, nature centers, youth groups, and retired persons. The count provides great learning opportunities for families in particular and can be a stepping stone for building an appreciation for birds.

Participants are free to choose how much time they invest. Organizers of the projects provide many options for when and how long to count birds. As the main approach is to provide numbers for a slice of time, schedules set to accommodate short attention spans can still provide meaningful results.

Picking a spot to count birds is up to the discretion of participants. Areas of the yard that include a birdhouse or bird feeder are a logical choice, but by no means the rule. Those who love to watch birds will have a good idea of where to find them. Instructions provided by the projects will also include guidelines on how to identify good areas for counting.

Taking part in a national bird count for research is a win-win for those with a love of birdwatching. Families can admire these beautiful creatures while providing a meaningful contribution to their well-being. The birding tools provided are also worth the effort and can be a part of future family learning projects.

To treat your wild birds to a bird feeder or birdhouse, point your browser to http://www.birdhousebirdfeeder.com
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How to Start Bird Watching

By Rachael Stone

If you haven't gone bird watching, you are in for a great treat. There is so much to see, hear and learn while bird watching. Discover many of the different types birds and their behaviors. For example, watching a hummingbird protect its territory can show another side to what seems like a dainty little bird.

When going bird watching, you want to have the best experience, so taking along appropriate gear as well as timing your adventure can improve your outing. You'll also want to know how to identify the many species of birds while being comfortable.
Beginning Bird Watching:

For beginners, consider teaming up with professional bird watchers. There are groups you can join, such as the Audubon Society or American Birdwatching Association. Not only do they offer magazines, articles and books, but they also have a list of birds you can look for. Sometimes, they have field trips you can go on to get some experience in bird watching.

When and Where To See Birds:
You can see birds at different times of the day, but certain birds have times they are more active. For example, songbirds start singing and eating two to three hours before sunset. Shortly after sunrise, hawks and eagles become more active as they soar in the warmer, thermal air currents. Owls are more active at night when they are looking for food with their night vision, and shorebirds feed after high tide.

Watching Birds At Feeding Time:
You can offer bird seed, water and shelter for birds in your backyard or garden and attract birds to watch. You can also find them in their natural habitat, eating the foods they would normally eat. Songbirds like seed and many bird types like niger, millet and sunflower seeds. Peanut butter attracts a lot of birds like cardinals, woodpeckers and nuthatches, although they also like suet. Hummingbirds are attracted to red colors and feed on a mixture of sugar and water. Some people add a drop of red food coloring. Birdbaths are a place to see many birds, because not only do they use them for a drink, but enjoy splashing on hot days.

Looking For Breeding Birds:
Birds breed at certain seasons and some migrate to nesting grounds. The majority of birds breed in the spring and summer so that the babies are ready for fall migration. They are harder to identify in the fall because some put on duller colors for the migration and some put on heavier feathering.

Spotting and Identifying Birds:
Birds are easily alarmed, so you need to move stealthily. Basic clues to look for and listen for when identifying a bird are: its habitat, plumage and color, behavior, silhouette and the songs or calls it makes. Also, looking at the beaks can give you a clue and watching what they are doing with it. Woodpeckers have rigid beaks for chipping wood, while hawks, eagles and owls have sharply hooked beaks for tearing up prey. Most backyard birds like cardinals, finches and sparrows have conical beaks while shorebirds have long, slender bills for digging in the sand and prying open shells.

Bird Watching Gear To Bring and Wear:
Of course, binoculars, cameras and something for taking notes is something you need. You may want to keep track of the time of day and activity you witnessed particular birds. You may also want to write down characteristics of the birds you are not familiar with so that you can look them up later, or take along a bird identification guidebook.

Being able to blend in your surroundings is important, so dress in dull colors. Camouflage is the thing to keep in mind to see the most birds. Also, fabrics that rustle, snag or squeak will scare birds off. You may need rain gear, such as boots and warm clothing. Owls are best seen and heard at night, so a flashlight might come in handy. You might want to consider a hand-held recorder for songs and chirps of birds that you don't recognize to look up later.

After Your Bird Watching Experience:
This is a time to go through your notes and see if you can identify birds you are not familiar with. You may want to get a tape of different bird songs and calls to assist with identification. You may also need to go through your field guide that shows characteristics of certain birds and detailed pictures.

You can spend many enjoyable hours birding without spending very much on special equipment.
By using birding binoculars you see even more. Have the best birding experience you can have!
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Binoculars For Birdwatching

By George Sandler

Exercise patience in the beginning and practice well, soon you will be rewarded with many hours of sheer pleasure watching these delightful creatures takes to fight. You would need to use the binoculars to help you watch the bird from a distance as any step closer to these twittering beings will only scare them and cause them to fly away. A superior set will enable you watch these birds from a distance so it is important to invest in quality so the view will be clear and bright.

Try to go for a branded pair of binoculars, and while it may seem like an expensive investment to make, it will prove to be worthwhile in the long run. To be able to view the objects up close you need to make sure the binoculars have at least 7x power magnification. There are other brands that can do 8x and 10x, often even beyond 20x but it is difficult to hold them steady when they have this strength magnification. If you look closely, you can see a second number such as 35, 40 or even 50 after the 'x', which basically describes the size of the lens when faced with the object of interest.

The principle is actually very simple, the higher the number, the greater the light that gets into the binoculars making the image clear and not distorted. This is because they only have a narrow field of view so it is hard to keep track of the bird when they take flight. Once you get hold of the pair of binoculars you need, then it is time to start looking for a book on birds and their descriptions that you can use as reference. You have to remember that not all birds are found in the same area and when you have an idea of what you are looking for it will be very easy for you to narrow your search.

With the two things in hand, you can already go off bird watching. To see these creatures in their natural habitat try joining a bird watching club, it lets you get close to them through organized field trips into the forest which you can join. If only we have the ability to zoom in on object like an eagle then we won't need those binoculars for bird watching. Since it is virtually impossible for humans to zoom in using their eyes, artificial aids are necessary to help us out but it is practice that will improve your skill and enjoyment of bird watching.

Visit http://hubpages.com/hub/birdwatching-binoculars and find one of the best resources online about Birdwatching Binoculars.
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Birdwatching - Connecting Kids to Nature!

By Shari Carpenter

What child hasn't been delighted to see his first bird up close?

Maybe it was a humble sparrow or a squawking seagull -- whatever they are, birds are a natural delight to watch and can be seen anywhere in the world.

If you are looking for an activity that you can enjoy with your children, whether they're five or 15, you might want to consider the popular hobby of bird watching. It is one of the fastest growing outdoor activities in America -- and a great way for families to enjoy time together.
What IS Bird Watching?

Bird watching is more than just observing birds. It is an interest in the actual birds -- their names, markings, activities, songs and habitats. Not only does it encourage a child (or an adult) to learn about birds, but gets them outside and builds an appreciation of local wildlife and nature.
Bird watching doesn't require a strong knowledge of birds; you can learn with your children as you begin to locate and identify local wild birds. Keep a list of the birds you've spotted and help one another identify what you've seen by making notes of the color, size and markings on the bird. You may even start to learn their calls and challenge yourself to identify the birds by their songs.

Where Can You Go to Bird Watch?
Bird watching can be as simple an activity as setting up a bird feeder in your backyard and watching the local wild birds that come to you. However, your children will no doubt appreciate time spent outdoors, properly geared up for an outing of bird watching with you.
You will soon learn about the specific habitats that birds live in around your home. As you become familiar with local birds you may even want to take trips to areas that will feature different species than you have locally. Watch as your children eagerly try to identify these new birds before you do!

What Do You Need?
Bird watching is a very inexpensive hobby. If you are going to be outside you will want everyone to have proper attire -- including an extra pair of socks and a hat.
Other than that you will need at least one pair of binoculars, although it is more fun if everyone has their own pair so nobody misses out on a sighting. There are special binoculars for kids.
You'll also want a bird book (called a field guide) to help you identify the birds you see. If you take along one that features birds in your area it will also give you suggestions about where you can find them.

If your children are older, or you catch the bird watching bug, be sure to take along a notepad and camera. Make notes on birds you can't identify and look them up at home with your children to determine what you saw. You might also develop a list of local birds and check them off as you see them. This is great for kids who thrive on challenge!

Don't miss out -- watch birds in your backyard daily. Just put up a feeder to get started. But if you really want to attract birds add a bird bath. You and your kids will have even more fun if you put up a birdhouse (nestbox) to watch a new family of baby birds being raised.

Bird watching is a fantastic hobby that the whole family can enjoy. Try it one afternoon and see for yourself how your family bonds while enjoying the fresh air, local scenery and most of all ... the natural world!

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Shari Carpenter is the owner of http://www.birdwatchin.com/, a one-stop resource for people that love birdwatching, bird feeding and pet birds. http://www.birdwatchin.com/ covers a wide range of information, products and supplies, including the blog "Birdwatchin' Buzz Today!" It is also the place to subscribe to "David's Wild Bird Club" Newsletter.
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