What is Backyard Birding?
Generally, a backyard birder can be defined as someone who enjoys seeing wild birds in their garden or patio. A recent Fish & Wildlife study estimates that there are 42 million U.S. backyard birders, with the average birder being 35-55+ years old, better than average income and education, and 54% being female. Joining the ranks of backyard birders is easy, as the basic components of backyard birding are providing a variety of bird food and bird feeders, fresh water and bird houses or shelter.
Backyard Birding & Bird Feeding
Successful backyard birding begins with a properly placed and regularly stocked birdfeeder, bird feeder, or bird table. Attracting birds depends upon the type of bird seed offered, as different birds prefer different types of bird food.
Most common backyard birders supply bird seed mixes containing seeds such as millet, sunflower, safflower or thistle (or nyjer) to seed-eating birds. Black-Oil Sunflower seed is especially popular, as it is a favorite of the popular songbird – the cardinal. Some seed mixes also contain dried fruit and nuts. Other wild bird food includes suet (mix of fat and seed, fruits, nuts, grubs or worms), dried fruit and insects.