Christmas Bird Count: What a First-Timer Should Know
The 127th Christmas Bird Count runs Dec. 14, 2026–Jan. 5, 2027. Learn how first-timers join a circle, count birds, record effort and participate from the field or a feeder.
NestWatch for Beginners: How to Join & Report Nests
Learn how to join NestWatch, get certified, create nest sites and attempts, record visits correctly and report nest outcomes with minimal disturbance.
Project FeederWatch for Beginners: What You Count and Why
Learn Project FeederWatch for beginners: the Nov.–Apr. season, two-day count periods, maximum-at-one-time rule, what birds to include and how to submit.
Great Backyard Bird Count: How Beginners Can Participate
The 2027 Great Backyard Bird Count runs Feb. 12–15. Learn how beginners can count for 15 minutes, avoid double counting and submit birds with Merlin or eBird.
Why Many Birds Migrate at Night
Many birds migrate at night to use cooler conditions, avoid some predators and keep daylight for feeding. Learn how they navigate, call and appear on BirdCast radar.
How Weather Changes Bird Migration: Wind, Fronts & Rain
Learn how wind, fronts, rain and pressure change bird migration—and how to use BirdCast and weather patterns to plan better migration birding.
Should You Feed Birds in Summer? Hygiene and Natural Food
You can feed birds in summer, but heat changes the routine. Learn how to manage seed, suet, nectar, hygiene, water, natural food and warm-weather wildlife risks.
Winter Bird Feeding: What Changes in Cold Weather
Winter changes feeder use as cold, snow and short days raise energy demands. Learn what to feed, how to keep food dry, maintain hygiene and support birds safely.
