The Popularity of Birdwatching

By Chris Petry

Unless you suffer from an unfortunate case of Ornithophobia, or the fear of birds, you likely don’t mind the sight of your state’s native birds, fluttering about your property. Sure, no one likes power washing the deck after the geese return from the Great North but birds, with their varied plumage and graceful whirling and twirling have an intriguing, if curious, allure. Plus, like their buzzing apian brethren, they’re absolutely crucial to the ecosystem.
 
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that over 51 million people identify as birdwatchers, or birders. In recent years, it’s become the fastest growing of all outdoor hobbies. While I was unable to find an accurate statistic, one can reasonably assume that millions of homes feature birdhouses, regardless of whether or not the owners are enthusiasts of the hobby. While that might seem purely anecdotal, a quick stroll around your neighborhood can reveal the prevalence of wild bird feeders and shelters.


 
Why should you take up birdwatching? Well, it’s a fun and educational hobby that can get the whole family outside. Should you choose to do your birdwatching from your backdoor, you can add birdhouses to your landscaping and that comes with its own unique advantages.


 
Wildlife experts regularly judge the health of a local ecosystem by the presence and diversity of birds. Birds are pollinators. They both relocate and disperse the seeds of countless plant species. They also serve as pest control. Smaller species of birds may eat the types of annoying insects that make barbecues and evenings on the patio less than ideal. Owls, hawks and eagles, if you’re lucky enough to have some hovering near by, take care of slightly larger pests like mice, shrews, voles and snakes. Providing an inviting environment for our feathered friends, including shelter, is a must.


 
The type of birdbox you choose to install on your property will determine the type of birds that visit. The size of the entrance hole, height from the ground and surrounding habitat will all impact the level of attraction. While there are hundreds, if not thousands, of commercially-constructed options available on the open market, you can also assemble your own custom birdbox with the right materials. Check out this comprehensive list of suggested items and tools, as well as assembly instructions, from WildLifeTrusts.org.
 
What time of year you place your birdhouse will also affect the number of birds that visit your home. The National Wildlife Federation suggests that, for those of us in the North, boxes are placed before late-March, giving the local birdies time to find and become comfortable with the new accommodations you’ve provided for them. It’s a good idea to pick up a birdwatcher’s manual to keep an eye on what types of birds are visiting the roost. If you notice a bird not common to your area, it’s suggested you temporarily remove the box, incentivizing invasive species to move on and free up space for native birds.
 
To bring birds in, you need to be conscious of the environment surrounding the bird box’s location. Planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers, providing a water source such as a birdbath, fountain, or pond and food items including seeds, nuts and berries are effective strategies to attract beaked visitors. 


 
A well-placed and maintained birdhouse is the perfect complement to a human dwelling. Still, before you can install a birdhouse, you’ll need your own home! For that, speaking to an agent from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Stouffer Realty is going to be a lot more helpful than a Birdwatcher’s manual. Speak to an agent from your local branch, today.