February is National Bird Feeding Month!

February can be a tough month. We may experience variable weather, cold temperatures, wind and a potential for (and a history of) big storms. Some days we wear hats, gloves and coats, other days maybe not as much. But what about the birds? Natural food is in short supply for them.

Consider that most birds weigh less than two nickels and we realize that winter can be very punishing for many of our backyard birds. This is why in 1994, John Porter a Congressman from Illinois proposed a resolution that February would become National Bird Feeding Month.

According to the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service survey results, bird watching is a hobby enjoyed by 47.8 million Americans! Bird feeding is an important hobby because it provides food, water and shelter for most birds that visit our yards.

Backyard feeding is an educational and entertaining pastime enjoyed by children and adults. It can provide a needed break from our hectic lives giving us some peacefulness afforded by watching birds in the tranquility of nature.

So whether you live in a rural, suburban or urban environment, there are always birds that can be attracted to your yard. Having the right combination of feeder and food is the key to a successful bird feeding experience.