Feeding birds, watching birds, counting birds. These three simple actions can make a world of difference for the birds in your backyard this month. You can help celebrate National Bird Feeding Month by participating in the Great Backyard Bird Count, which takes place annually each February.
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society launched the Great Backyard Bird Count in 1998 with Wild Birds Unlimited as the founding and major sponsor. The 2026 four-day count event takes place on Feb. 13–16. For at least 15 minutes on one or more of these days, simply tally the numbers and kinds of birds you see. Visit birdcount.org for more details and instructions on how to submit your data.
Individuals, families, schools and organizations are encouraged to count birds at bird feeders and in backyards, local parks, or at other locations. By simply offering your birds a variety of foods and recording the activity you observe around your feeders, you will provide valuable information that helps scientists determine where bird populations are thriving—and where they need help.
Not sure which foods to offer your birds during the GBBC?
Keep it simple by providing suet for woodpeckers and other woodland birds, WBU Finch Blend for finches, and a WBU seed blend to bring in a wide variety of other backyard birds. Throw in some extras like peanuts or Bark Butter and your birds will come flying in to be counted.
“The count is fun, easy and educational,” according to a statement from Jeff and Joann Royer, owners of the Murfreesboro Wild Birds Unlimited. “It’s also a terrific way for Cornell and Audubon to learn more about the abundance and distribution of bird species.”
Organizers encourage you to be a songbird hero this month by sharing your sightings during the GBBC.
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For more information about the Great Backyard Bird Count or other ways to celebrate National Bird Feeding Month, visit Wild Birds Unlimited Murfreesboro at 2615 Medical Center Pkwy., Suite 1060, or contact your local bird feeding experts directly at 615-869-7975 or by visiting wbu.com/murfreesboro.
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Photos courtesy of Wild Birds Unlimited
