IN THE BACKYARD

Watching and feeding birds in your own backyard is an enjoyable and inexpensive hobby. Content in this section covers an array of topics, from the basics of bird feeding to habitat development. You will learn about the best bird feeders, the best bird seed to attract more birds and a greater variety of birds and other tips on how to attract birds.

Content for three very popular groups of birds is also included – Purple Martins, Hummingbirds and Bluebirds. Information for each species describes housing and nest boxes, gardening tips for the hummingbirds and the favorite food of the bluebirds.

The male Rose-breasted Grosbeak is often reported at feeders, especially during spring migration. It is primarily found in the eastern half of the United States.

Female Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are much different in appearance than the males.  The more subdued coloration helps the female remain hidden while on the nest.  It is very similar in appearance to the female Black-headed Grosbeak of the western United States. Both photographs by Alan Wilson.