Backyard Birding

55 million American watch birds.

Why the fascination with birds?

1. First of all, this is an activity that can take place right in the backyard. No packing up the car or long waits at the airport. Just step outside your door, or peer through a kitchen window to catch a glimpse of the American goldfinchor vivacious cardinal.

2. It's easy to get started in backyard birding. Hang a hopper feeder (or two) and off you go. Some stations activate in a day or two, others can take several weeks. But make no mistake--if you offer food, the birds will appear!

3. This hobby can be a GREAT family activity! What better way to get the kids away from their computers, games,and the television than to bring them outside and exercise their minds?

   Kids are like sponges, they just devour everything. Start their backyard birding early by involving them with bird feeder projects and identification. You'll create an interest that will last them a life time.

4. Bird watching is an inexpensive activity. Sure, there is some set up cost, but once your station is in place, your only expense is seed. So, give up one meal at the restaurant, and stock up. The cost is small compared to the returns you'll receive in enjoyment.

5. Backyard birding can be as social or as individualistic as you would like. If the former appeals to you, join a bird watching club. Don't have one near you? Start your own or participate in online chat groups like the one at http://birding.about.com.

   Prefer to use backyard birding to get away (my preference), then do just that. You be amazed at how a few hours with your station on a Saturday will just melt away stress.

6. Birds are the quintessential expression of life. Many attributes of people can be found in birds. Ever see blue jays dive bomb a cat in defense of a nest? Pretty amazing. Did you know robins make several hundred trips a day to feed their chicks?

   I could go on and on. The male house wren builds several partially completed nests and shows them to his gal. She picks the one she wants and they complete the nest. Does that sound somewhat familiar, guys?

   Did you know the male ruby-throated hummingbird can become so aggressive they'll tear out one-anothers feathers? Ever seen the male cardinal feeding bits of food to his mate during nesting season? Hmmm. Almost human-like, isn't it.

Watch the birds, folks and you'll find meaning in their existence, and maybe shed a bit of light on your own!

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I hope you found this article about backyard birding useful. Click here for more great information about bird feeders and bird houses.