Birds are considered a universal symbol of happiness and joy by many cultures. Birds are often represented as messengers of love or harbingers of good things to come.

For many of us, our backyard birds are part of our holiday tradition. Have you ever noticed that you make a special effort to make sure that your feeders are topped off and ready for each family gathering? Have you noticed that every year, all your friends and relatives make comments about how much they enjoy your special yard? Yes, birds are already part of your family’s traditions and holiday memories.

A great new tradition to start would be to gather the family and participate in Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count. Christmas Bird Counts are annual, early-winter bird counts sponsored by the National Audubon Society. This 123-year tradition (yes, since 1900!) provides beginners and experts alike with the chance to enjoy beautiful natural areas while watching and counting birds.

“These counts are very valuable,” said Jeff Royer, co-owner of the Murfreesboro Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop. “They provide insights into the long-term health of bird populations and the environment.”

Or consider the Scandinavian holiday tradition of feeding the birds on Christmas Day. Maybe it’s a holiday wreath made of edible seeds, fruit and suet, or simply a heap of seeds placed on your doorstep. For a simple and festive adaptation of this tradition, hang a Wild Birds Unlimited Seed Cylinder character like Preston the Penguin or Buttons the Snowman from your porch. Folklore has it that when you attract birds to this offering, it will ensure good luck for your family in the new year.

As we celebrate this special season, the Wild Birds Unlimited team encourages the community to bring nature home for the holidays. The store specializes in bringing people and nature together with bird feeding and nature products, expert advice and educational events. For more information on the Christmas Bird Count, and on Wild Birds Unlimited products, visit wbu.com/murfreesboro.