Blog
WBFI Members can submit blog posts on the info hub page!
The Cicada Spectacle: A Feast for Feeder Birds During the arrival of billions of cicadas in a rare double-brood event across the U.S., a hidden spectacle unfolds for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As these insects emerge from their underground slumber, they not only amaze with their deafening mating rituals but also provide a feast for our feathered friends. Billions of cicadas, adhering to 13-year and 17-year cycles, will orchestrate an emergence last observed…
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2024 Feeder Bird of the Year – Northern Cardinal After an exhilarating season of fierce competition, the Northern Cardinal has emerged as our 2024 WBFI Feeder Bird of the Year! Known for its brilliant red plumage and captivating melodies, the Northern Cardinal holds a special place in the hearts of bird enthusiasts across the eastern United States. Its striking appearance and cheerful demeanor make it a cherished MVP to backyard feeders and woodland habitats alike. …
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Why Retailers Should Flock to Bird Feeding – Insights from NHS 2024 The WBFI journeyed to Las Vegas for the National Hardware Show 2024, eager to connect with professionals in the outdoor hobby industry and unveil the latest innovations in bird feeding. Teaming up with Cascade Wild Bird Feeders, we collaborated to raise awareness of the impact of bird feeding, transcending its status as a mere hobby. Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Las Vegas, WBFI…
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Join the Movement: Project FeederWatch and Inclusive Birding At the Wild Bird Feeding Institute, we’re passionate about birding and fostering an inclusive environment for all bird enthusiasts. That’s why we’re thrilled to share information about Project FeederWatch, an initiative by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Birds Canada, sponsored by Wild Birds Unlimited, aimed at making birdwatching more inclusive. What is Project FeederWatch? Project FeederWatch is a participatory science project that revolves around bird feeding…
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2024 Feeder Bird of the Year Competition Attention bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike! Brace yourselves for the electrifying return of the WBFI Feeder Bird of the Year tournament, where the stakes are high, and the competition is fierce. Each matchup will feature two incredible feeder bird species vying for the prestigious title of the 2024 Feeder Bird of the Year. But here’s the best part – it’s up to you to decide the winner!…
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WBFI Member Spotlight – Randall Putz WBFI is proud to spotlight Randall Putz, Owner of Chirp Nature Center, a dedicated member of the Wild Bird Feeding Institute, and a member of the WBFI Scientific Industry Response (SIR) committee. Nature has been an integral part of Randall Putz’s life, stemming from his upbringing in a nature-loving family in Santa Barbara, California. Putz’s earliest memories involve dancing in the wind with his mom during Santa Ana wind…
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NEW WBFI Market Research Report – Key Future Insights Revealed The Wild Bird Feeding Institute and the charitable WBFI Research Foundation are excited to publish the findings of our new report that shows insights into the growth of the wild bird feeding industry in partnership with Ask Your Target Market (AYTM).  The report shows key insights so birding businesses, researchers, ornithologists, investors, and consumers can understand our hobby and how we can continue to…
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5 Ways to Celebrate National Bird Day National Bird Day, celebrated each year on January 5th, is the opportune moment to reflect on the wonders of our feathered friends and acknowledge the challenges they face in our rapidly changing world. Â From the vibrant cardinals in your backyard to the pigeons gracefully navigating city parks, birds captivate us with their presence. Unfortunately, many birds are endangered or protected primarily due to habitat loss. Recognizing this,…
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Happy New Year – A Letter from the WBFI Research Foundation President WBFI Community, As we step into the promising days of 2024, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for entrusting me with the role of President of the WBFI Research Foundation (RF). It has been an incredible journey serving in this capacity over the past year, and I am humbled to be part of a team comprising exceptionally talented individuals-the esteemed…
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The Harmony of Bird Feeding: Benefits for Birds and Humans Ashley Dayer, an associate professor in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation at Virginia Tech, is the lead author of a recent article published in People and Nature. This article emphasizes the benefits of bird feeding not only to birds but also to humans, suggesting a role for it in shaping public guidance and policy. Dayer recognizes the need for wildlife agencies and decision-makers…
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