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.
Fall Migration in the Backyard: What Changes and When
Fall migration changes backyard birds in waves. Learn when southbound migration unfolds, why fall plumage is harder, and how to make your yard safer and more useful.
Spring Migration in the Backyard: What Changes and When
Spring migration changes backyard birds in waves. Learn what shifts from early to late spring, when migration peaks, and how to make your yard safer and more useful.
Is Birdwatching Good in the Rain? What Weather Changes
Birdwatching can be worthwhile in light rain, and migration weather can create excellent post-storm birding. Learn when rain helps, when birds shelter, and when to stay home.
