Landscaping for Hummingbirds
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.
Using Relative Size to Become a Better Birder
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.
Be a Better Birder
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
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: Help or Harm?
Backyard bird feeding can help birds — or harm them. Learn what seed to use, which feeders work best, and how to feed responsibly.
Simple Backyard Changes That Attract Birds
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.
Why Hummingbirds Migrate
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.
The Secret Lives of North American Hummingbirds
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.
Birding - Putting It All Together
Bird identification happens when all your skills come together. Learn how to observe like a bird detective and confidently identify the birds around you.
Birds That Use Nest Boxes
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.
Birding Jargon
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.
Nest Box Facts Every Backyard Birder Should Know
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
Planting for Hummingbirds
Want more hummingbirds without relying only on feeders? Discover the native flowers and plants that naturally attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and pollinators — plus easy regional plant lists to help you turn any backyard (or patio!) into a colorful wildlife haven.
The Secret Lives of North American Hummingbirds
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.
What to Pack for a Spring Migration Birding Trip
Headed to a spring migration hotspot? Don’t forget the essentials. From binoculars and field guides to lightweight rain gear and comfort items, here’s a practical packing checklist to help you stay comfortable, prepared, and focused on the birds.
Beginning Birding by Ear
Birds are often heard before they’re seen. Learn how beginning birders can identify birds by sound, starting with simple calls and listening exercises.
Hummingbird Myths, Debunked
Hummingbirds inspire wonder—and a surprising amount of misinformation. In this post, we debunk common hummingbird myths and explain what actually helps these tiny powerhouses survive and thrive.
Texas Coast Birding Hotspots for Spring Migration
Every spring, millions of birds funnel along the Texas Coast, turning barrier islands, wetlands, and even cemeteries into migration magic. This road trip—from South Padre Island to High Island—may change the way you see birds forever.
How to Prepare for a Birding Hotspot Adventure
Birding hotspots are thrilling — but they reward preparation. This practical guide walks you through travel logistics, weather planning, clothing, gear, and studying birds so you arrive confident, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the experience.
The Biggest Week at Magee Marsh: North America’s Migration Spectacle
Magee Marsh in May is a warbler wonderland. Here’s how to plan for the Biggest Week: lodging tips, crowd strategy, expected weather, and a simple “cram plan” so you’re ready when the birds drop in.

