Birding Basics

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

9 Birds That Look Like Cardinals

Cardinals are also known as redbirds, but not every red bird is a cardinal. Check out some other birds that...


Bluebird vs Blue Jay: How to Tell the Difference

With similar names and similar colors, these two bird species are often confused. Here's how to tell the difference between...


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If You See a Cardinal, This Is What It Means

Cardinals are beloved birds for their beauty and bold colors. But do you know the symbolism and meaning of cardinals...


Birding in the City: How to Be an Urban Birder

You don't have to leave the city to see amazing birds. Follow simple tips from David Lindo, the Urban Birder,...


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...

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...


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.


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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...


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 Bird Moments

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


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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 Birding in Different Bird Habitats

Understanding birds' usual habitats can help you identify the species that live there. Explore more types of bird habitat.


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 Song

Robins start singing even before sunrise. Learn what a robin bird song 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,...


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.


7 Fascinating Great Blue Heron Facts

Spotting a regal, statuesque great blue heron is always a treat. Learn facts about these birds' nests, calls and more.

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...


How to Create Winter Shelter for Birds

Birding experts and readers offer their best tips to create shelter and protect birds from the snow, wind and cold...


How to Buy Binoculars: Our Birding Binoculars Guide

Our editors and experts reveal how to buy binoculars. Discover our picks for the best birding binoculars and find out...


Can Birds Eat Peanut Butter?

Experts explain if peanut butter is safe for birds to eat at feeders. Plus learn which birds eat peanut butter.


Our Top 10 Favorite Sports Team Bird Mascots

Cheer for these professional football, baseball, basketball and hockey teams with bird mascots!


How Do Birds Fly? Answers to Common Questions About Birds

Learn fascinating facts about bird senses and bird behavior from a birding expert, and discover the truth about how and...