openmeadowdaily

Backyard Birding checklist

16 steps to a bird-friendly yard.

Track your progress with a free accountGet the free Backyard Birding Workbook

Getting started

This week.

  • Watch from one window each morning for a week Guide
  • Identify a bird by size and shape first Guide
  • Start a yard list Guide
  • Practice finding birds with binoculars Guide

Feeding birds

Feeders done right.

  • Choose a feeder for the birds you want Guide
  • Fill with black oil sunflower seed Guide
  • Clean feeders every two weeks Guide
  • Make nectar with 1 part sugar to 4 parts water Guide

A bird-friendly yard

Safer for birds.

  • Put out a shallow birdbath Guide
  • Plant one native shrub Guide
  • Add markers to your worst window Guide
  • Keep cats indoors Guide

Going further

When you're hooked.

  • Join a bird count Guide
  • Keep away from nests Guide
  • Learn three bird songs Guide
  • Move feeders within 3 feet or beyond 30 feet of windows Guide