February is National Bird Feeding Month

February is National Bird Feeding Month! The birds have it tough in winter. Natural resources aren't as plentiful as at other times of the year. That's where we can all chip in and help! National Bird Feeding Month is a chance for bird feeders, watchers, and anyone else who is feeling in the spirit to extend a hand out to our flying friends. National Bird Feeding month was created to educate the public on the seasonal journey of birds and to provide aid to the birds when it's needed the most. Here are some ways to celebrate National Bird Feeding Month and help out our feathered Friends:

1. Add another feeder to your yard, or get your first feeder if you don’t have any! Bird feeders make great gifts as well. Adding new feeders to your yard can attract new types of birds. Different birds prefer different feeders. Similarly, certain feeders are made for different types of feed. Some birds will also be preparing for migration further north and need the extra food for energy before their long trip.

2. Add a place with water. Birds struggle to get non-frozen water in the winter. If possible, adding a heated birdbath, fountain or even a large bowl of warm water would help greatly. Birds often gather in places where food, shelter, and water are reliable, so try to be consistent and generous!

3. Participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count! This is a great time to become a "citizen scientist"! Each February, for four days (February 18-21 this year), the world comes together for the love of birds. Over these four days, people are invited to spend time in their favorite places watching and counting as many birds as they can find and report them. These observations help scientists better understand global bird populations before one of their annual migrations.

4. Do some bird watching. Keep an eye on the birds that make a pit stop in your yard. Everyone has a favorite bird, whether it's the beautiful red cardinal that stops by your feeder every morning, or the sparrow that sings songs when you’re on a hike. But there are so many birds to see! Learn a new species this month and figure out how to attract them to your yard.