Have you ever looked out your window and noticed a bright red cardinal or a chickadee hopping along a branch and felt that little spark of curiosity? That’s how it started for me, too. What began as a passing interest turned into one of the most peaceful and rewarding parts of my day: watching and learning about the birds that share my backyard.
If you’re curious about backyard birding but not sure where to begin, don’t worry you don’t need fancy equipment or tons of knowledge to get started. Just a little patience, a sprinkle of curiosity, and a few simple tools.
Here’s everything you need to welcome more feathered friends into your yard and start enjoying the magic of birdwatching.
Want a FREE printable checklist of Common Backyard Birds of the Great Lakes region? Grab your copy HERE and be added to my backyard birding newsletter, where I share tips and ideas for attracting a variety of birds to your yard, bird identification tips, and more!
1.
A Good Viewpoint
You don’t even have to leave your home! A window with a decent view of your yard is the perfect place to start. I like to set up near my kitchen window while doing dishes. It’s become a cozy ritual.
If you have outdoor space, even better! A small patio, balcony, or backyard can easily become a bird haven.
2.
Feeders & Food
Birds will keep coming back if they know there’s a reliable source of food. Here are a few simple options to start with:
- Black-oil sunflower seeds: A favorite for many species like cardinals, finches, chickadees, and more.
- Nyjer (thistle) seed: Great for goldfinches and other small songbirds.
- Suet cakes: A hit with woodpeckers and nuthatches, especially in cooler weather.
You don’t need a dozen feeders. Just one or two to start is perfect. I began with a basic tube feeder and it was busy with visitors within days!
3.
Water Source
Birds need water for drinking and bathing, and they will show up more often if you provide it. You can use:
- A shallow birdbath
- A simple bowl (changed and cleaned regularly)
- A heated birdbath in winter (if you’re in a cold climate)
Even just a pie pan with some water on a plant stand can do the trick!
4.
Binoculars (Optional but Fun!)
You definitely don’t need binoculars to enjoy backyard birding but if you have a pair or decide to invest in one, it makes identifying birds a lot easier. I use mine all the time now and still get excited every time I spot a new visitor.
5.
A Bird Guide or App
Getting to know your backyard birds is part of the fun. I recommend keeping a simple field guide on hand or downloading a birding app like Merlin or Audubon. They can help you ID birds by sight, sound, or even a quick photo.
6.
A Little Patience
Birding isn’t about instant results. Some days will be quiet, and that’s okay. Part of the joy is learning to slow down, tune in, and appreciate the little moments like a goldfinch fluffing its feathers or a sparrow singing from a fencepost.
Give it time, and your yard will soon feel like a tiny, thriving bird sanctuary.
Final Thoughts
Backyard birding is such a simple way to reconnect with nature and you don’t have to be an expert to start. Every bird you see, every call you hear, adds a little more wonder to your day.
So grab a feeder, pour your favorite drink, and take a few minutes to just watch and listen. You never know who might fly in.
If you ever have questions or want to share what birds you’re seeing, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s learn together.
Happy birding!
Want a FREE printable checklist of Common Backyard Birds of the Great Lakes region? Grab your copy HERE and be added to my backyard birding newsletter, where I share tips and ideas for attracting a variety of birds to your yard, bird identification tips, and more!
