Did you know? The average wild bird weighs less than two nickels, and winter can be a very punishing time for our backyard friends. This explains why in 1994, John Porter, Illinois’ 10th District Congressman read a resolution that February would become National Bird Feeding Month. His proclamation was designed to encourage people to feed wild birds throughout the entire month when food sources are most scarce.
In fact, millions of wild bird enthusiasts now traditionally make special efforts in February to feed, watch and protect wild birds. Over 50 million people regularly feed wild birds in the USA, long recognized as one of the most popular outdoor activities for adults and children too.
Want to show your support? Here are some ways you can get involved:
- Help spread the word by sharing this post with everyone you know.
- Comment about National Bird Feeding Month on your Social Media Platforms.
- Take pictures of birds at your feeder and post them on your Social Media Platforms using #natlbirdfeedingmonth.
- Familiarize yourself with our unsung heroes and share your knowledge with others.
- Stock up on bird seed and suet to keep your existing feeders full throughout the month.
- Make this easy DIY bird feeder to pass out to friends and colleagues on Valentine’s Day.
- Give an inexpensive feeder and wild bird seed to someone you love.
- Add something new to your backyard station (i.e. birdhouse, feeder, birdbath).
- Symbolically adopt a bird through the National Wildlife Federation adoption program.
- Purchase your “I Love My Backyard Birds” women’s Tee to show your love of birds.
- Host a bird-watching party in your own backyard.
- Sign up for the Great Backyard Bird Count which will be held in February.
February is one of my favorite months of the year, and even more so because it’s National Bird Feeding Month. In fact, just last weekend I purchased another 80 lbs. of wild bird seed to stock up. Yep, we’re going through that much in about a month’s time, so if the birds aren’t in your backyard they’re probably in mine. Lol.
Anyway, I’m hoping you’ll jump on my bandwagon and do your part to feed the birds this month and promote backyard birding as and educational and environmental adventure. Because, February really is for the Birds! Literally.