There is nothing more exciting than finding a new bird to add to my life list and sharing my birding experiences with others who enjoy observing and interacting with birds. From feeding tips to identification puzzles, I’m here to answer all your birding and wild birds questions. If your questions are not answered below, email me with your inquiries, comments or suggestions and I’ll be happy to respond! You can also catch all the latest birding and bird blurbs if you follow me (AboutBirdies) on Twitter or become a Birding / Wild Birds Facebook Fan!
- What is this bird?
I’m glad to help you identify birds. When asking for help, please email me as good a picture of the bird as possible, or several pictures from different angles. Include any details about where and how you observed the bird, including the city or state (geography can make a huge difference), location such as a field, backyard or park, time of year, what the bird was eating or doing and any other information you happen to have. For more details, read the guidelines for submitting bird photos.
- How do I start birding?
There is no right or wrong way to get started birding; just start watching and enjoying birds and you’re a birder. As you learn more about this rewarding hobby, you may want to pick up some basic supplies to help you identify more birds, and you will want to follow sound birding ethics to ensure you don’t harm any birds – or yourself – accidentally.
- How can I start feeding the birds?
Feeding the birds in your backyard can be as easy as sprinkling some seed on the ground or as complex as creating a specialized feeding station or bird sanctuary. If you’re just getting started, I recommend some easy backyard birdfeeders and different types of birdseed that will attract the most species.
- How can I find new birds to add to my life list?
Building a life list is easier than it may sound. Carefully observe the different species in your backyard and your neighborhood, and consider bird watching on vacation or attending a birding festival to learn more about the diversity of birds in your region. Advanced birders may even want to travel to far-flung destinations to find even more unusual species.
- How can I keep up on the latest birding news?
The easiest way is to subscribe to my free birding newsletter. Each week, this newsletter will deliver news and updates to your inbox, including the featured Bird of the Week. Check back with the site regularly for even more news, updates and information you can use in the backyard or on any birding trail you find.