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The Backyard Birding Breakdown: Backyard birding statistics, stories and advice

The Backyard Birding Breakdown: Backyard birding statistics, stories and advice

We surveyed over 800 backyard birders to learn more about your habits, preferences, problems and favorites at the feeder. We crunched the numbers and can't wait to share the results with you!

How will you stack up against other bird nerds? From your favorite time of day to watch birds to your best birding moments, we've gathered up the most popular birding opinions and present to you: The Backyard Birding Breakdown!

So, go grab a cup of coffee, settle into your favorite birdwatching nook, and dive into the full report!

🐦 It's all about you

How do you measure up against other bird lovers? Are you a beginner or an expert? And what first ignited your passion for birding? Let's get to know a little bit about the birders behind the statistics with these first results!

There’s always room to spread your wings! Over half of the participants in our survey have been birding for over a decade, but they still see themselves as birding hobbyists with plenty of room to spread their wings. Birders love that there’s always something new to discover, and that’s what keeps this hobby exciting and fun!
Birding is a joyful journey. A whopping 90% of birders agree: feeding birds is a relaxing, joy-filled experience! It gives us a sense of purpose as we help our feathered friends survive and thrive; especially in the winter. Birding not only boosts our mental health but also deepens our connection with nature, making it a win-win for everyone!
Squirrels, and bees, and bears, oh my! Let’s address the squirrel in the room: Pests can be real party poopers when it comes to feeding your backyard birds! They gobble up all the seed, scare away our feathered friends, and can even cause damage to your property. We put together a naughty list of the top troublemakers birders are up against.
The backyard birder’s ultimate checklist. Birding is a blast because you can keep it simple or go all out! We asked you about the birding gear you use on your property, and your responses created an epic list that would be any birder's dream come true! How many items can you check off your list? Let's find out! Seed bird feeder Hummingbird feeder Shepherd’s hook Binoculars Stagnant bird bath Traditional hanging hook Bluebird house Ant moat Predator/pest baffle Deck hook Wren house Bird bath fountain Bat house Insect house Smart bird feeder/house Heated bird bath Native plants Field guide

☕ Your birding hot takes

Let's face it. You've got a lot of opinions and you're not afraid to share them! Let's see if you share some of the most popular opinions amongst backyard birders in these next stats - or if you're a unique bird singing your own tune. (Don't worry! We appreciate rare birds here.)

Rise and shine, early birders! It turns out most of you bird nerds are early birds too! We asked for your favorite time of day to watch your birds, and over half of you agree - kickstarting the morning with some birdwatching and a cuppa joe is the best way to start the day.
Your most-loved bird feeders. Survey says: Hummingbird feeders are the top pick among backyard birders! Hot on their claws are suet feeders and tube feeders. We couldn't agree more—this winning combo is sure to attract a colorful array of birds to your yard!
What’s the best season for birding? It’s a close call between spring and winter, but the consensus among birders is clear: the thrill of spring migration and nesting season takes the cake for backyard birdwatching excitement! Winter earns a solid second place—it's prime time for bird feeding when food is scarce and the chill is real. So, what's your pick for the ultimate birding season?
Who wins the birding popularity contest? Whoa, talk about a dazzling winner's circle! The top three backyard bird beauties are a burst of color! The Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Northern Cardinal, and Eastern Bluebird come out on top in the contest for the most-loved backyard bird. Have you spotted them in your backyard?

 📖 Best birding tips & tales

If there's one thing we love about the birding community, it's the willingness to help others enjoy their birding journey to the fullest! We asked you to share your favorite birding moments and your best tips for beginners. Your answers did not disappoint. Take a look!

What’s your favorite birding moment? I fell and broke my shoulder and after getting home from the emergency room I looked out my window and a cardinal male and female pair were on my patio. I always think it is my mom and dad visiting to say everything will be ok. It was such a beautiful ending to a horrible day.
What’s your favorite birding moment? A few springs ago, I stood in my backyard and I was literally surrounded by my avian friends. Everywhere I looked I saw birds at my feeders and flying to and fro.
What’s your favorite birding moment? Many years ago, when my 2 sons were 2&1/2 years old and 17 months old. We had a feeder outside in front over the picture window. Having Thanksgiving dinner, when a cardinal landed on the feeder, for the first time. My wife told the boys it was Santa Clause bird. There to watch them, to see if they were being good. They were there every day up to and including the day before Christmas. Next day it was gone. Never saw it again.
What’s your favorite birding moment? Feeding birds during bad weather/ice storms.
What advice would you give to someone starting out with backyard birding? Window feeders are enjoyable when placed on a window outside a room where you are the most and they also help to slow the birds down to not fly into the window.
What advice would you give to someone starting out with backyard birding? Start slow, and see where it goes. You learn a lot on the way and learn what you like, and other things not liked so much.
What advice would you give to someone starting out with backyard birding? Just relax and enjoy. Don't make it a job.
What advice would you give to someone starting out with backyard birding? Plant plants that birds love and bushes that provide them cover to feel safe.
What advice would you give to someone starting out with backyard birding? No need to buy hummingbird nectar. It’s easy enough to make it at home for much cheaper.
What advice would you give to someone starting out with backyard birding? Patience and persistence is key. It takes a little while for the birds to realize you have feeders/birdbaths in your yard but once they do, it’s amazing! Whenever you get the chance to sit outside and birdwatch, even if it’s only for 5 minutes, do it!

🏁 And that's a wrap!

A big THANK YOU to all who participated - we are seriously inspired by each and every one of you! We'll see you all in next year's Backyard Birding Breakdown!

Psst... If you want to participate in next year's survey, make sure you're subscribed to our email newsletter.

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