Rather Be Birding

Discover the joy of Birding - no experience required.

Become a better birder, connect with nature, and enjoy every moment outdoors.

Why Birding Matters - Our Mission

Birding invites us to slow down, look closely, and reconnect with the living world around us. In noticing birds—their colors, songs, migrations, and quiet presence—we become more attentive to nature and to ourselves. Birding sharpens our curiosity, restores a sense of calm, and reminds us that wonder can be found anywhere, from a backyard feeder to a distant trail. It also builds awareness of the delicate ecosystems we share, encouraging stewardship, contributing to ecosystem conservation and care for the natural world. At its heart, birding is not about how many species you know or how far you travel—it’s about being present, learning continuously, and finding joy in the simple act of paying attention.

We are having so much fun with our smart feeder. It adds a whole new level to our backyard birdfeeding experience and the warblers seem to like it too. Can’t wait to get our hummingbird smart feeder up in a couple weeks.

Birding Journal:

Feb 15, 2026

Skip and I completed our Great Backyard Bird Count census for 2026. We had a great census and I thought we should share it.

Yellow-rumped “Myrtle” Warbler; Orange-crowned Warbler; Pine Warbler; Lesser Goldfinch; American Goldfinch; House Finch; Northern Cardinals; Eastern Bluebirds; Bewick’s Wren; White-winged Dove; Blue Jay; Black-crested Titmouse; Carolina Chickadee; Brown-headed Cowbirds; White-crowned Sparrow; Red-bellied Woodpecker; Turkey Vultures; American Crows

You have 1 more day (last day is Feb 16, 2026) to participate. It’s a great way to add to the common knowledge about the health of our birds’ populations.

Happy Birding!

Who we are

At Rather Be Birding, every product, post, and photo comes from a lifelong love of birds. I’m Marj — birder, backyard feeder, and nature enthusiast — here to help you bring more birds, beauty, and joy to your own backyard and your life. Because no matter the season, there’s always something new to discover when you’d rather be birding.

A Red-tailed Hawk soaring in a clear blue sky with its wings spread wide.

Red-tailed Hawk

A chickadee, perched on a cluster of red berries with a green background.
A godwit with a long pink beak walking on sandy beach near water
Close-up of a golden eagle's head with a green background.
A Painted Bunting with a blue head, green wings, and red body perched on a rock.

Contact Us

Keep in touch and tell us about your birding experiences. Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!