Every May, Magee Marsh in Ohio becomes the Warbler Capital of the World. During the Biggest Week in American Birding (May 8–17, 2026), thousands of migrating birds gather along Lake Erie—creating one of the most unforgettable birding experiences in North America. Here’s how to plan your trip, what to expect, and where to go.

Birding isn’t just a peaceful hobby—it may actually help protect your brain. New research suggests that learning to identify birds strengthens memory, sharpens focus, and could even slow cognitive decline as we age. Here’s why birding might be one of the best things you can do for your mind.

Backyard birding sometimes brings tough questions. Should you stop a hawk at your feeder? What about neighborhood cats or aggressive birds chasing others away? Learn when to intervene with backyard birds—and when the best action is simply letting nature take its course.

Want to attract more birds than just seed-eaters? Discover how fruit, nectar, mealworms, peanuts, and suet can bring orioles, hummingbirds, bluebirds and more into your backyard.

Choosing the right bird seed can make the difference between attracting colorful songbirds—or feeding a crowd of seed-hogging bullies. Learn which seeds bring in cardinals, finches, woodpeckers and more.

A bird field guide is more than a reference book—it’s a powerful learning tool. Discover how birders use field guides to study bird families, learn identification skills, and recognize species faster in the field.

A thoughtfully designed backyard bird feeding station can attract more species, reduce seed waste, and make birdwatching even more enjoyable. Learn how to choose feeders, place them safely, and create a bird-friendly feeding hub.

Hummingbirds are among the most remarkable birds in North America. Some species migrate more than 2,000 miles each year—and many Ruby-throated Hummingbirds even cross the Gulf of Mexico in a nonstop flight. In this guide we explore hummingbird distribution across the United States, famous hummingbird hotspots like southeastern Arizona and south Texas, and how backyard feeders can help these tiny travelers refuel during their incredible journeys.

Want more hummingbirds in your yard? The right plants can turn even a small garden or patio into a hummingbird hotspot. Discover the best flowers, native plants, and landscaping ideas to attract hummingbirds all season long.

Learning to judge relative size is one of the most useful skills a birder can develop. By comparing birds to familiar sizes like sparrows, robins, and crows, birders can quickly eliminate dozens of species and narrow down the possibilities. In this guide, we explain how experienced birders use size, habitat, and field marks together to identify birds faster.

Want to become a better birder? The secret isn’t expensive gear or exotic travel — it’s learning a handful of practical skills that help you notice, understand, and identify birds more confidently. In this guide we introduce 10 birding skills that instantly improve your birdwatching, from recognizing field marks and judging relative size to using a field guide effectively. Whether you're just starting or hoping to sharpen your abilities, these tips will help you grow as a birder.

Specialty bird feeding goes beyond traditional seed to attract hummingbirds, orioles, and bluebirds. Learn what works, what to avoid, and why patience matters.

Backyard bird feeding can help birds — or harm them. Learn what seed to use, which feeders work best, and how to feed responsibly.

Want more birds in your backyard? Simple changes like adding water, planting native shrubs, and offering safe feeders can transform your yard into a thriving habitat. Start small and build a refuge birds will return to all year.

Hummingbirds migrate thousands of miles each year—some even crossing the Gulf of Mexico in a single nonstop flight. Discover why they migrate, how far they travel, and how your backyard feeder can help during their incredible spring and fall journeys.

Hummingbirds may be tiny, but their lives are anything but delicate. From epic migrations and dizzying courtship dives to feeder squabbles and favorite flowers, here’s what their behavior teaches us — and how to turn your yard into a hummingbird haven.

Bird identification happens when all your skills come together. Learn how to observe like a bird detective and confidently identify the birds around you.

Many North American birds rely on tree cavities to raise their young — but natural nesting holes are disappearing. Learn which birds use nest boxes, why correct dimensions matter, and how one simple wooden box can support generations of songbirds. Includes a free printable nest box size chart.

FOY. Lifer. GISS. Dip.

If you’re new to birding, it can feel like everyone is speaking a secret language.

But here’s the truth: learning birding jargon isn’t about sounding smart — it’s about building confidence. In this guide, we decode the most common birding terms so you can think clearly, participate fully, and feel like you truly belong in the birding community.

Where should you hang a nest box? How big should the entrance hole be? Are gourds better than martin houses? Learn the essential nest box facts that help cavity-nesting birds stay safe and raise successful broods in your backyard