A fresh year brings fresh habits—even for birdwatching! Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just dipping your toes into the world of feeders and field guides, some of these practices might already be second nature to you. But you’d be surprised how many bird lovers miss these simple, impactful changes.
Here’s our guide to what’s in and what’s out for creating a backyard haven that’s good for the birds and the planet.
🟢 What’s In:
Bird-Friendly Coffee
Your morning cup can do more than wake you up—it can help protect vital habitats for migratory birds. By choosing Certified Bird-friendly Coffee, you’re supporting farms that preserve shade-grown environments, providing essential shelter and food for birds during their long journeys. It’s a simple, delicious way to make a big difference!
Eco-Friendly Storage Pails
Keep your birdseed super fresh in portable, galvanized metal cans. Stylish and practical, and they even come in a variety of colors—my favorite is the cheerful Sky Blue!
Feeders Made in the USA from Recycled or Natural Materials
Durable, sustainable, and bird-approved. Bonus: You’ll feel good about your purchase! Check out our selection here.
Old-School Bird Journals & Pocket Guides
Because nothing beats the charm of jotting down your sightings by hand or flipping through a field guide in the moment. Bonus: no batteries required!
The Merlin App (the Right Way)
Merlin is a fantastic tool for identifying birds and learning their calls. However, using the app’s bird call feature to attract birds can cause real harm. Birds might perceive the sound as a territorial threat, leading to unnecessary stress and wasted energy responding to a call that isn’t real. It can also distract them from essential tasks like feeding or caring for their young. Let’s enjoy their natural songs without interfering with their rhythm!
🔴 What’s Out:
Plastic Feeders That Don’t Last
One cold snap and they’re toast. Upgrade to something durable and eco-friendly like this best-seller made from our Amish friends.
Neglecting Feeder Cleanliness
The “fill it and forget it” approach to feeders is out! Dirty feeders can harbor bacteria, mold, and diseases that put your birds at risk. Make it a habit to clean your feeders regularly—and do it the right way: wear gloves, use a safe disinfectant like a diluted bleach solution, and always clean outdoors (not in your kitchen sink!). For more tips on safe feeder cleaning, check out this helpful video guide.
Skip the Red Nectar for Hummingbirds
Those bright red bottles might catch your eye, but they’re often filled with artificial dyes and preservatives that can harm hummingbirds. Instead, make your own nectar at home: simply mix 1 part white sugar with 4 parts water. It’s the healthiest, simplest, and most budget-friendly option for your feathered visitors.
Letting Birdseed Sit Too Long
Birds deserve fresh, high-quality meals—not the stuff that’s been sitting in the back of the garage or on the shelf of a big box store for months. Our HappySeed Boxes are custom-made-to-order and freshly mixed for each customer, ensuring your feathered friends get the best nutrition every time.
Cracked Corn and Red Milo in Seed Mixes
These are junk filler seeds that most birds won’t eat. They’ll just toss them out of the feeder, creating waste (a waste of your money too!) and a mess. Opt for seed blends with high-quality ingredients like those found in our HappySeed Boxes.
Being a bird-feeding hobbyist comes with its responsibilities, but the rewards are absolutely worth it. By taking care of your feeders and choosing the right products, you’re creating a safe, welcoming space for birds—and bringing more joy to your own life in the process.
Here’s to another year of happy birdwatching! 🐦💛