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Author: Aimee

  • How to Start Bird Watching: A Simple Guide from My Backyard to Yours

    How to Start Bird Watching: A Simple Guide from My Backyard to Yours

    I didn’t set out to become a birder. It started with curiosity watching a little black-capped chickadee flit around the backyard feeder one morning while I was sipping coffee. I didn’t know its name at the time. All I knew was that it made me pause. And that was enough to open the door.

    If you’ve ever stopped what you were doing to notice a bird singing outside your window or followed a flash of red through the trees, congratulations you’ve already started birdwatching! The rest is just practice, presence, and a little patience.

    Here’s a simple guide to help you begin, no matter where you are.

    🌳 1. Start Where You Are

    You don’t need fancy gear or a nature preserve to start birding. Your backyard, porch, balcony, or even your window is enough. Birds are everywhere, especially in the Great Lakes region, where we’re lucky to have such rich birdlife through all four seasons.

    Just take 10 minutes in the morning or evening to watch and listen. That’s it. Birding is about slowing down and noticing what’s already around you.

    🔍 2. Get to Know a Few Common Birds

    Start small. Pick 3 to 5 birds you see often and learn their names, colors, and calls. In my yard, it was the cardinal, chickadee, and bluebird. The more you learn about them, the easier it becomes to notice new ones.

    You can use a simple bird guide or free apps like:

    • Merlin Bird ID – for easy photo or sound identification
    • eBird – to track your sightings and see what others are spotting nearby

    You can read my Top 10 Birds To See In Michigan to help you start recognizing common species.

    🍽️ 3. Offer a Little Hospitality

    Putting out a bird feeder is a great way to bring them closer. Start with a basic feeder and black oil sunflower seeds, most birds love them. You’ll likely see cardinals, chickadees, nuthatches, and finches within days.

    Later, you can add a suet feeder in winter or a hummingbird feeder in summer. Native plants are even better because they feed birds and insects naturally and help the whole ecosystem.

    Not sure what feeder is best for your yard? Take a look at my article on The 5 Best Bird Feeders For Your Yard to help determine which is best for you!

    📓 4. Keep a Bird Journal

    One of my favorite parts of birding is writing things down. Keep a little notebook or print out a birding journal page. Jot down:

    • What birds you saw
    • What they were doing
    • What the weather was like
    • How it made you feel

    It’s such a peaceful practice especially if you’re out with kids. They love pointing out birds, drawing them, and giving them nicknames.

    📸 5. Bring Your Camera (or Don’t)

    As a photographer, I always have the urge to grab my camera. But some days, I leave it behind on purpose. Birding doesn’t have to be about capturing the perfect shot it’s about connecting with the moment. And that stillness is something I’ve grown to love deeply.

    That said, photographing birds has helped me learn even more about their behavior, and it’s deeply rewarding. If you’re into photography too, start by practicing with common birds right near home. You don’t need a big lens just a lot of quiet observation.

    💚 6. Stay Curious

    The more time you spend watching birds, the more they’ll teach you about patience, seasons, migration, and what it means to truly belong to a place. I believe birding helps us care more, not just about wildlife, but about the forests, the lakes, and our own backyards.

    So if you’re wondering how to start birdwatching, the answer is simple: just look up. You’re already on your way.

  • Hummingbird Nectar Recipe (How to Make It Safely at Home)

    Hummingbird Nectar Recipe (How to Make It Safely at Home)

    If you’ve ever watched a hummingbird hover at your feeder, you know how magical these tiny birds can be. Providing a reliable food source not only helps attract them to your yard but also gives you the joy of seeing their daily visits up close. The good news? Making homemade hummingbird nectar is simple, safe, and only requires two ingredients you already have in your kitchen.

    In this post, I’ll share the best hummingbird nectar recipe, why it works, and some important tips for keeping your feeders healthy and safe.

    Why Make Homemade Hummingbird Nectar?

    While store bought nectar is convenient, homemade is:

    • More affordable – just sugar and water!
    • Safer – no dyes or additives.
    • Quick to prepare – less than 10 minutes.

    Hummingbirds thrive on natural flower nectar, which is made up mostly of sucrose (sugar). The recipe below mimics that natural sugar concentration perfectly.

    Easy Hummingbird Nectar Recipe

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup white granulated sugar
    • 4 cups water

    Instructions

    1. Bring the water to a boil.
    2. Stir in sugar until completely dissolved.
    3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
    4. Fill your clean hummingbird feeder.
    5. Store leftover nectar in the refrigerator for up to one week.

    Important Nectar Tips

    • ❌ No honey, brown sugar, or artificial sweeteners. These can harm hummingbirds.
    • ❌ No red food dye! Feeders are usually red already, and dyes aren’t safe.
    • ✅ Clean feeders often, every 2–3 days in hot weather and once a week in cooler weather to prevent mold or harmful bacteria.
    • ✅ Use the 4:1 ratio (4 parts water to 1 part sugar). This best matches the sugar content in natural flower nectar.

    Final Thoughts

    Making your own hummingbird nectar is one of the simplest ways to attract these tiny pollinators to your yard. With just a little sugar and water, you’ll create a safe and reliable food source and enjoy the reward of watching hummingbirds zip, hover, and sparkle right outside your window.

  • DIY Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeder (Easy Craft for All Ages)

    DIY Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeder (Easy Craft for All Ages)

    Looking for a simple, eco-friendly way to feed backyard birds? This DIY toilet paper roll bird feeder is the perfect quick project. It’s a great activity for kids, takes less than 10 minutes, and uses items you probably already have at home.

    Whether you’re just getting started with backyard birding or looking for a fun nature craft, this feeder is a win win, easy for humans, tasty for birds!

    🐦 Why Make a Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeder?

    • ✅ No tools required
    • ✅ Reuses cardboard tubes
    • ✅ Kid and bird friendly
    • ✅ Ideal for chickadees, cardinals, finches, and woodpeckers

    This feeder attracts a variety of backyard birds and encourages hands on learning for little nature lovers.

    🛠️ What You’ll Need

    • 1 empty toilet paper roll or paper towel tube (cut in half)
    • Peanut butter (or sunflower seed butter for allergies)
    • Bird seed mix (black oil sunflower is best)
    • Butter knife or spoon for spreading
    • String or twine (optional)
    • Shallow plate or tray

    📋 Step-by-Step Instructions

    Step 1: Spread the Peanut Butter

    Use a butter knife or spoon to coat the outside of the toilet paper roll with a thick layer of peanut butter. Make sure it’s well covered this is what holds the seed.

    📝 Tip: For nut-free options, use Crisco, lard, or sunflower seed butter.

    Step 2: Roll in Bird Seed

    Pour bird seed onto a plate or tray. Gently roll the peanut butter covered tube in the seed, pressing lightly so it sticks. Rotate until it’s fully coated.

    🐤 You can also sprinkle extra seed on by hand for full coverage.

    Step 3: Hang/Slide Onto a Branch or Hang on The Side of a Tree

    • Option 1: Slide the roll directly onto a small tree branch.
    • Option 2: Thread a piece of string through the roll and tie it around a thicker branch.
    • Option 3: Hang on hooked tree bark.

    🧼 Clean-Up and Reuse Tips

    • These feeders last a few days in mild weather. Replace them once the seed is eaten or the tube gets soggy.
    • Cardboard tubes are biodegradable, but remove any string or leftovers to protect wildlife.
    • Encourage kids to observe and record which birds visit!

    🌱 Bonus: Add a Learning Twist

    Turn this into a backyard science project:

    • Count how many birds visit in 10 minutes
    • Compare different seed mixes
    • Track feeder activity in a bird journal

    Final Thoughts

    This DIY toilet paper roll bird feeder is one of the easiest ways to get kids interested in birds and nature. It’s budget friendly, zero waste, and gives your backyard birds a tasty treat.

    So grab a cardboard tube, some peanut butter, and your favorite seed mix and watch the birds flock in!

  • Bird Baths 101: How to Choose the Best One for Your Backyard Birds (With Low Maintenance Recommendations)

    Bird Baths 101: How to Choose the Best One for Your Backyard Birds (With Low Maintenance Recommendations)

    If you love watching birds in your backyard, there’s one simple addition that can make your space irresistible to them and it’s not a feeder. A bird bath can attract twice as many species, especially during hot or dry seasons. Even birds that don’t typically visit feeders will stop by for a sip or a splash.

    But not all bird baths are created equal and no one wants to constantly scrub algae or dump mosquito filled water. That’s why choosing the right bird bath matters, not just for the birds, but for your sanity.

    In this post, we’ll explore what makes a bird bath effective and easy to maintain, and I’ll share my favorite low maintenance options you can add to your yard today.

    🐦 Why Birds Need Water and Why a Bird Bath Works

    Birds don’t just bathe for fun although it is fun to watch! Bathing keeps their feathers in top condition by loosening dirt, making it easier to preen and remove parasites. They also need clean water to drink, especially during summer heat and in winter when natural sources may freeze.

    Adding a bird bath to your yard helps support local wildlife while giving you an incredible front row seat to bird behavior. Even birds that avoid feeders like robins, wrens, and warblers will often visit a clean water source.

    🧠 What to Look for in a Great Bird Bath

    Before buying a bird bath, keep these features in mind:

    • Shallow Basin: Birds prefer 1–2 inches of water. Deeper water can be dangerous, especially for smaller species.
    • Textured or Sloped Surface: Slippery surfaces are tough for birds to grip. Look for gently sloped basins with textured or natural materials.
    • Easy to Clean: Avoid porous concrete or rough stone that holds onto algae and bacteria.
    • Stable or Anchored: Wobbly bird baths can scare birds away or tip over.
    • Proper Placement: Place your bird bath in a partially shaded area near shrubs or trees (but not too close for predators to hide).

    🪣 Low Maintenance Bird Bath Recommendations

    These options combine form, function, and ease of cleaning perfect for busy bird lovers. All of the links below are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no cost to you.

    1. Pedestal Bird Bath

    👉 Find It Here

    This classic pedestal bath is made of durable resin that’s both lightweight and weather-resistant. It resists algae buildup, and the smooth interior wipes clean in seconds. The hollow base can be filled with sand or gravel for extra stability.

    Why it’s great:

    • Lightweight but sturdy
    • Affordable
    • Easy to dump and clean
    • Decorative design fits most gardens

    🪞 

    2. Hanging Bird Bath

    👉 Find It Here

    This hanging bath is a shallow basin and is perfect for small birds and is incredibly easy to rinse and refill. The hanger gives you more options in where you can place it in your yard.

    Why it’s great:

    • Higher and away from predators
    • Perfect depth for safety
    • Very easy to clean and refill

     

    3. Deck-Mount Bird Bath

    👉 Find It Here

    This bird bath mounts directly to your deck railing, keeping it elevated and stable. If you live in an apartment and don’t have a yard this deck mount is a must get.

    Why it’s great:

    • Perfect for aparments
    • No need to bend or lift to clean
    • Great for decks or small yards as well

    🧼 Quick Tips to Keep Your Bird Bath Clean (Without Scrubbing Every Day)

    Even the best bird bath needs basic upkeep. But with the right setup, it takes just a few minutes a week:

    📍 Where Should You Put Your Bird Bath?

    Location matters just as much as the bird bath itself:

    • Partial Shade: Slows algae growth and keeps water cooler in summer.
    • Near Shelter: Birds like quick access to shrubs or trees for safety.
    • Flat Ground or Level Surface: Prevents tipping and keeps water even.
    • Visible Spot: You want to enjoy the view, too!

    Pro Tip: If you have room, offer both a ground level and elevated bath to attract a wider variety of species.

    💬 Final Thoughts

    A bird bath is one of the simplest ways to bring more life and movement into your backyard and with the right design, it doesn’t have to be a chore to maintain. Whether you prefer a rustic pedestal, a modern deck mounted option, or something minimal and practical, there’s a bird bath that fits your needs and keeps your feathered visitors happy.

    Still not sure which one is best for your yard? Drop a comment below or send me a message. I love helping fellow backyard birders build wildlife friendly spaces!

  • Why You’re Not Seeing Birds at Your Feeder (And What to Do About It)

    Why You’re Not Seeing Birds at Your Feeder (And What to Do About It)

    You’ve set up the bird feeders. You’ve poured in the seed. You’re waiting with your camera or binoculars by the window… and then… nothing.

    If you’ve been wondering why your feeder feels more like a ghost town than a bird rave, you’re not alone. It’s something just about every backyard birder has experienced at some point, myself included.

    Let’s go over a few common reasons birds might be skipping your yard and what you can do to turn things around.

    1. 

    It Takes Time (Especially If You’re Just Starting Out)

    Birds are creatures of habit. If your feeder is new or recently moved, it might take days or even weeks for birds to discover and trust it. They rely on memory, safety, and food reliability. So if they don’t already “know” your yard as a food source, it’s not personal they just haven’t added you to their route yet!

    What you can do:

    Be patient. Keep feeders filled with fresh seed and make your yard as welcoming as possible in the meantime.

    2. 

    The Seed Might Be Wrong (or Stale)

    Not all birdseed is created equal. Some cheaper mixes are full of fillers like red millet or cracked corn that many birds toss out or avoid entirely. And if the seed has been sitting in a garage or shed too long, it might smell or taste off to birds.

    Try this instead:

    • Black oil sunflower seeds – a favorite of cardinals, chickadees, and finches.
    • Nyjer (thistle) – for goldfinches and siskins.
    • Suet cakes – loved by woodpeckers, nuthatches, and wrens.

    Also, check for mold or clumping, especially in humid weather. Birds are picky—and rightfully so.

    3. 

    The Feeder Isn’t in a Bird-Friendly Spot

    Where you hang your feeder matters. Birds want easy access to food, but they also need cover and safety from predators (especially hawks and outdoor cats).

    Better feeder placement tips:

    • Near native shrubs or trees where birds can perch and hide.
    • Away from busy sidewalks, loud HVAC units, or high-traffic areas.
    • Ideally 10–12 feet from a window or add window decals to prevent collisions.

    Want a chart with ALL the information on where to place feeders?

    Click HERE to get your FREE Bird feeder Placement Chart and start getting more birds quick!

    4. 

    Predators or Bullies Might Be Scaring Birds Off

    If birds are visiting and then vanishing, it’s possible something is scaring them off. Hawks, cats, or even aggressive birds like grackles or starlings can dominate a feeder and make smaller birds steer clear.

    What helps:

    • Try baffle guards or squirrel-proof feeders.
    • Use feeders that cater to smaller birds (like tube feeders with small perches).
    • Plant dense shrubs nearby to give birds a quick escape route.

    5. 

    There’s Just Too Much Natural Food Right Now

    This might sound like a good problem and it kind of is! If you’re not seeing many visitors in mid summer or early fall, birds may be foraging on natural foods like insects, berries, and native seeds.

    What to do:

    • Keep feeders clean and filled anyway. Birds will return when food becomes scarcer.
    • Consider planting native species that keep them coming year-round like coneflowers, elderberries, or serviceberries.

    6. 

    The Feeder Might Need a Cleaning

    This one’s not glamorous, but it’s important. Dirty feeders can harbor mold and bacteria that are harmful to birds and can deter them from coming back.

    Quick cleaning tip:

    Every 2 weeks (more often in hot, wet weather), rinse feeders with a 1:9 bleach-to-water solution or a vinegar soak. Let them dry completely before refilling.

    Final Thought: You’re Not Doing Anything Wrong

    If your feeder is a little too quiet right now, don’t get discouraged. Sometimes it’s just a seasonal lull or a result of changing bird patterns. Keep showing up for them and refilling feeders, planting natives, offering clean water and the birds will come.

    And when they do, it’ll be all the sweeter because you’ll know how much love and care went into creating a safe space for them.

    Have you had this happen at your feeder?

    Let me know in the comments or tag me in your photos on Instagram! I’d love to hear what birds you’re seeing (or hoping to see) in your yard.

    Want to read more about the best feeders for your yard?

    Heres my full article on the 5 BEST bird feeders for any yard!

  • How to Attract Birds to Your Yard This Fall

    How to Attract Birds to Your Yard This Fall

    Fall is one of the best times to attract birds to your backyard and prepare them for the long winter ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just getting started, here are five simple ways to make your yard a fall bird magnet.

    🍁 1. Leave the Leaves

    Skip the raking (yes, really!). Leaf litter is full of insects, which are a vital food source for ground foraging birds like sparrows, towhees, and robins. Plus, fallen leaves provide shelter for overwintering insects that birds will eat later in the season.

    🌾 2. Let Native Plants Go to Seed

    Don’t cut back your native perennials just yet. Coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, goldenrods, and grasses provide natural seed heads that birds like finches and chickadees love to snack on. These plants also offer cover from predators as the foliage thins.

    🌻 3. Stock Up on High-Energy Foods

    Fall migration burns a lot of calories. Offer energy rich foods like:

    • Black-oil sunflower seeds
    • Suet cakes (great in cooler temps!)
    • Peanut bits
    • Nyjer seed for goldfinches

    Keep feeders clean and full, migrating birds may only stop once.

    Find my article on The 5 Best Bird Feeders For Your Yard for tips on the best ones to use.

    💧 4. Keep Water Available

    As natural water sources dry up or freeze, a clean birdbath becomes critical. Add a heated birdbath or a simple de icer to keep water accessible even on frosty mornings. Place it near shrubs for safety, and clean it every few days to prevent algae.

    🌲 5. Provide Shelter

    Birds need safe places to rest and stay warm. Dense evergreens, brush piles, or native shrubs create shelter from wind and predators. You can also leave up birdhouses some birds roost in them during cold nights!

    🌟 Bonus Tip: Log Your Fall Visitors

    Keep a simple journal or use an app like Merlin or eBird to track which birds show up. You might spot surprising migrants on their way south!

    Attracting birds in fall is about more than feeders. It’s about building a bird friendly habitat. A little effort now goes a long way in supporting your feathered visitors through migration and into winter.

    Curious which birds stay through fall in the Great Lakes?

    Check out our list of 10 Birds You Can Still See In Your Backyard This Fall to see which birds to look out for!

  • The 5 Best Bird Feeders for Your Yard

    The 5 Best Bird Feeders for Your Yard

    Attract More Birds with the Right Feeders for Every Season

    Creating a bird friendly backyard starts with choosing the right feeders. Whether you’re hoping to attract colorful finches, curious chickadees, or a variety of species throughout the year, the feeder you choose makes a big difference. In this post, we’ll explore the best types of bird feeders for your yard, what birds they attract, and how to use them effectively plus I’ll share links to some of my top recommended products.

    Want to attract more birds to your feeder?

    Download my FREE Feeder Placement Chart to learn exactly where to hang your feeders for the best bird activity. Whether you’re just get started or looking to improve your setup, this quick guide will help you create a bird friendly backyard in no time. Grab your free chart here.

    💡 Some of the links below are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    1. Tube Feeders – Great for Small Songbirds

    Tube feeders are a classic and essential choice for backyard birders. Their vertical design with multiple feeding ports makes them ideal for attracting finches, chickadees, and nuthatches.

    🛒 Find Tube Feeder Here

    Recommended For:

    • American Goldfinches
    • Chickadees
    • House Finches
    • Nuthatches

    Pro Tip: Use nyjer seed or black-oil sunflower seeds for best results.

    2. Hopper Feeders – Great for Mixed Seed & Variety

    Hopper feeders resemble little houses and hold a large amount of seed. They’re perfect if you want to attract a diverse range of birds while refilling less often.

    🛒 Find Hopper Feeder Here

    Recommended For:

    • Cardinals
    • Blue Jays
    • Grosbeaks
    • Sparrows

    Pro Tip: Choose a weather resistant model with a roof to keep seed dry and fresh.

    3. Platform Feeders – Best for Ground Feeders and Easy Viewing

    These open, tray style feeders attract a wide range of species, including those that prefer to feed on flat surfaces. They also make birdwatching super easy!

    🛒 Find Platform Feeder Here

    Recommended For:

    • Mourning Doves
    • Juncos
    • Cardinals
    • Towhees

    Pro Tip: Clean frequently as these feeders don’t protect against weather or droppings.

    4. Suet Feeders – Perfect for Winter Birds

    Suet feeders are a favorite in colder months when birds need high fat foods. Woodpeckers, nuthatches, and even wrens flock to them.

    🛒 Find Suet Feeder Here

    Recommended For:

    • Downy & Hairy Woodpeckers
    • Carolina Wrens
    • Nuthatches
    • Chickadees

    Pro Tip: Use suet cakes with added seeds or berries for extra appeal.

    5. Nectar Feeders – A Must for Hummingbirds

    For hummingbirds, a dedicated nectar feeder is essential. Look for red-colored feeders with easy to clean parts and bee guards.

    🛒 Find Nectar Feeder Here

    Recommended For:

    • Ruby-throated Hummingbirds
    • (Depending on region: Rufous, Anna’s, etc.)

    Pro Tip: Use a 4:1 water-to-sugar ratio and skip red dye, it’s not safe for birds.

    Bonus Tips for Successful Backyard Bird Feeding:

    • Place feeders near cover like trees or shrubs, but far enough from windows to prevent collisions.
    • Offer fresh water year round, especially in winter with a heated birdbath.
    • Rotate feeder types seasonally to match birds’ changing diets.
    • Keep feeders clean to prevent mold and disease wash with a 1:9 bleach solution every two weeks.

    Final Thoughts

    You don’t need to buy every type of feeder to get started just one or two well placed, well stocked feeders can make your yard a haven for local birds. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birder, having the right feeder can make every backyard moment more magical.

    🛒 Ready to get started? Check out my favorite feeders here:

  • Native Michigan Plants To Attract Cardinals

    Native Michigan Plants To Attract Cardinals

    Lets Turn Your Backyard Into a Northern Cardinal Haven!

    Few backyard birds are as striking as the Northern Cardinal with their bold red feathers and melodic calls, they’re a joy to watch year-round. If you’d like to see more cardinals in your yard, the secret lies in planting native species they love.

    In this post, we’ll explore the best native plants that attract cardinals by providing food, shelter, and nesting spots—all while supporting your local ecosystem.

    Why Native Plants Matter for Cardinals

    Native plants are adapted to your region’s climate and soil, which means they’re more resilient, require less maintenance, and offer the exact berries, seeds, and cover that birds like cardinals rely on.

    Northern Cardinals are non-migratory, so they need consistent food and safe cover, especially in winter. With the right native plants, you can make your yard a year-round sanctuary.

    Top Native Plants That Attract Cardinals

    1. 

    Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)

    Cardinals love the dense evergreen cover for nesting and the blue, berry-like cones as a winter food source.

    Benefits:

    • Excellent winter shelter
    • Provides year-round structure
    • Supports other wildlife, too

    2. 

    Dogwoods (Cornus species)

    Red Osier Dogwood and Gray Dogwood both produce berries that cardinals eat in fall and winter.

    Benefits:

    • Beautiful red stems in winter
    • Clusters of berries that persist into colder months
    • Provides cover and nesting habitat

    3. 

    Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

    These sunny wildflowers provide seeds cardinals eat in fall and winter once the blooms dry out.

    Benefits:

    • Attracts insects (cardinal nestlings need protein!)
    • Seeds for adult cardinals
    • Low-maintenance and blooms all summer

    4. 

    Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

    A pollinator favorite and a seed source for birds once the flowers go to seed.

    Benefits:

    • Supports birds and butterflies
    • Drought-tolerant
    • Beautiful in mixed borders and natural areas

    5. 

    Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)

    This small tree or shrub is a cardinal favorite for nesting and feeding.

    Benefits:

    • Early spring berries
    • Gorgeous spring blooms
    • Provides cover and perching sites

    6. 

    Sumac (Rhus spp.)

    Staghorn and Smooth Sumac provide vibrant red berries that persist through fall and winter.

    Benefits:

    • Red berries are a winter food source
    • Striking fall color
    • Colonizes quickly, ideal for naturalized areas

    7. 

    American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)

    This native shrub is known for its vibrant purple berries and arching stems.

    Benefits:

    • Late season berries
    • Attracts a variety of birds
    • Gorgeous addition to a native garden

    Tips for Creating a Cardinal-Friendly Yard

    • Layer Your Habitat: Cardinals prefer dense shrubs for nesting with nearby open spaces for foraging.
    • Don’t Deadhead Too Soon: Leave flower heads on plants like coneflowers and rudbeckia so birds can forage on seeds.
    • Skip the Pesticides: Cardinals eat insects especially during nesting season. A healthy insect population supports healthy chicks.
    • Add a Water Source: A simple birdbath, especially one with moving water, draws cardinals in.

    Final Thoughts

    Cardinals thrive in yards that offer year-round food, safe places to nest, and natural cover. By choosing native plants that match your region, you’re not only attracting these beloved red birds you’re helping restore the habitat they depend on.

    Want more tips to attract cardinals?

    Check out our full guide: How To Attract Cardinals To Your Yard for tips on the best feeders, foods, and more.

  • 10 Birds You Can Still See in Your Backyard This Fall

    10 Birds You Can Still See in Your Backyard This Fall

    Just because the leaves are dropping does not mean your backyard is going quiet.

    In fact, fall is one of my favorite seasons to birdwatch. There’s a different kind of energy in the air. Fall migration is happening, food sources are shifting, and some birds that stuck around all summer are starting to act a little differently. But here’s the fun part: not all birds fly south.

    Many stay right here through the crisp, cool months fluffing up their feathers, caching seeds, and filling the backyard with soft calls and quick flicks through the trees.

    So, if you’ve been wondering whether to pack up the bird feeders for the season, don’t! These 10 birds are still showing up in my yard this fall, and chances are, they’re visiting yours too.

    1. 

    Black-Capped Chickadee

    These tiny fluff balls are heart of the fall feeder scene. Always curious and never too shy, chickadees are year-round residents that get even cuter in cooler weather when they puff up like little feathered marshmallows. I’ve watched them stash sunflower seeds under bark like it’s a game and they always come back for more.

    2. 

    Northern Cardinal

    Their bright red feathers against gold leaves or fresh snow? Stunning. Male cardinals are especially showy this time of year, and I’ve found they tend to visit feeders more frequently as the temperature drops. A little black oil sunflower seed, and they’re yours.

    3. 

    Downy Woodpecker

    If you hear a soft tapping on a tree nearby, there’s a good chance it’s a downy woodpecker. These little drummers are regulars at suet feeders in fall. They’re not just cute they’re also important bug-eaters as they prep for winter.

    4. 

    White-Breasted Nuthatch

    With their upside-down antics and nasal “yank-yank” calls, nuthatches are hard to miss. I call them the acrobats of the bird world. They’re caching seeds like crazy in the fall, wedging them into tree bark to snack on later.

    5. 

    American Goldfinch

    While they lose their bright yellow color in fall, goldfinches don’t go far. Their fall and winter plumage is more of a soft olive or brown, but you’ll still spot them if you leave your thistle feeder out a little longer.

    6. 

    Blue Jay

    Loud, bold, and impossible to ignore, blue jays are around all year but I especially love watching them in fall as they cache acorns in the ground and carry peanuts off in their beaks. They’re clever, loudmouths, and completely entertaining.

    7. 

    Dark-Eyed Junco

    When I see juncos, I know cold weather isn’t far off. These little slate-colored snowbirds usually show up in my yard in late fall, scratching around under feeders or poking through leaf litter. They love millet and cracked corn and apparently, my garden beds.

    8. 

    Mourning Dove

    Often overlooked, mourning doves are calm, gentle presences in the backyard. I hear their soft cooing early in the morning and see them basking in patches of sun. They’ll stick around all fall and beyond especially if you sprinkle seed on the ground for them.

    9. 

    Tufted Titmouse

    One of my personal favorites with big eyes, a cute crest, and endless energy titmice are like chickadees’ slightly bolder cousins. I love watching them grab a sunflower seed, fly off to a branch, and hammer it open like it owes them money. They’re a fall staple at my feeders.

    10. 

    Red-Bellied Woodpecker

    Not just a woodpecker with a red head his one has a faint blush on its belly, and a call that sounds like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. They’re larger than downies, and they love suet and peanuts. I always get excited when I see one glide into my yard with that zebra-striped back and bright red crown.

    Final Thoughts

    Fall birding is quieter, slower but in the best way. It invites you to pay attention, to notice the subtler behaviors, and to appreciate the birds that stay behind when the skies clear of migrating flocks.

    So keep your feeders full, your binoculars nearby, and your ears open. You might just find that fall is the season where you connect with your backyard birds the most.

    Let me know what birds you’re seeing this fall I’d love to hear!

  • How To Attract Cardinals To Your Backyard (Step-By-Step Guide)

    How To Attract Cardinals To Your Backyard (Step-By-Step Guide)

    Ever spot a bright red cardinal and feel like it made your whole day? Same here. These birds are year-round favorites for a reason. They’re stunning, easy to recognize, and surprisingly easy to attract with the right setup. If you’re hoping to welcome more cardinals to your backyard, here’s exactly how to get started.

    1. Feed Them What They Actually Like

    Cardinals aren’t too picky, but they definitely have their favorites. If you want to catch their attention, start with the good stuff:

    • Black-oil sunflower seeds, hands-down their top pick.
    • Safflower seeds, cardinals love them, and squirrels usually don’t.
    • Peanuts and cracked corn, fun treats now and then.

    Cardinals are medium-sized birds, so they prefer tray feeders, platform feeders, or sturdy hopper feeders with enough space to perch. I have noticed they tend to skip the tube feeders with tiny perches.

    2. Pick a Peaceful, Safe Feeder Spot

    Cardinals are a little shy. They’ll visit more often if they feel safe.

    • Try placing your feeders near shrubs or dense trees so they can dart in and out quickly.
    • Avoid windy, open spots they like feeders tucked in or near natural cover.
    • If you have neighborhood cats around (I do!), keep feeders up high and away from low branches they could use to pounce.

    Need ideas on feeder spot?

    Download my FREE Feeder Placement Chart to learn exactly where to hang your feeders for the best bird activity. Whether you’re just get started or looking to improve your setup, this quick guide will help you create a bird friendly backyard in no time. Grab your free chart here.

    3. Don’t Forget Water

    Birds need water just as much as food, and moving water is especially inviting. A basic birdbath works great  just make sure it’s shallow (no more than 2 inches deep).

    What works best:

    • Adding a small bubbler or solar fountain (they’re inexpensive and fun to watch).
    • Keeping it clean and filled, especially in summer.
    • In the colder months, I recommend a heated birdbath to help all the birds get through our long northern winters.

    4. Create a Safe, Natural Habitat

    Cardinals love dense shrubs and native plantings where they can perch, nest, and hide. They won’t use nesting boxes, so skip those.

    Some great choices:

    • Dogwood, viburnum, and elderberry, they offer both food and shelter.
    • Evergreens! Cardinals use them for winter roosting and nesting.
    • If you’re okay with a wilder look, let part of your yard stay a little “messy” brush piles, untamed corners, and native thickets are bird magnets.

    5. Add Native Plants They’ll Come Back For

    If you really want to make your yard irresistible, plant things that cardinals naturally feed on:

    • Sunflowers, coneflowers, and black-eyed Susans. Seed heads are a fall and winter snack.
    • Berry bushes like serviceberry, chokeberry, or sumac.
    • Grasses like switchgrass or little bluestem for cover and seeds.

    Even a few native plant additions can make a big difference.

    6. Keep It Low-Key and Consistent

    Cardinals are most active early in the morning and just before sunset. Once they find a yard they like, they’ll return often but it takes a little time.

    Keep your setup consistent:

    • Refill feeders regularly.
    • Clean birdbaths weekly.
    • Keep the noise and activity down around feeding areas.

    Final Thoughts

    Attracting cardinals isn’t about doing everything perfectly   it’s about creating a space where they feel safe, fed, and welcome. With a bit of patience (and maybe a few sunflower seeds), you’ll start to notice those flashes of red more and more.

    Let me know if you’ve had success attracting cardinals or if you’re trying something new! I love hearing what works in other yards across the Great Lakes region.