Certified Wildlife Habitat

Love is in the Air: Courtship Behavior in Backyard Birds

February is the month of love, and not just for those who celebrate with a Valentine’s Day card and a box of chocolates.  As spring approaches you may be observing … Read more

Squirrel in the Snow

10 Nutty Facts to Make You Appreciate Squirrels

Why exactly is National Squirrel Appreciation Day (January 21) so popular? Maybe it’s because squirrels are adorable, and extremely fun to watch. Maybe it’s the many hats they wear (not … Read more

Northern Cardinals by Laura Hedgecockk

Tips for Winter Bird Feeding

As temperatures drop across much of the country, it’s time to put more thought into what your backyard birds are eating. Providing high-quality food during winter not only entices more … Read more

Frogs That Freeze Solid

Different animals use different strategies to survive winter. Some species migrate south, others grow thick coats, and some fatten up or stash food reserves. Many species hibernate or go dormant to … Read more

Animal Prints by Charlene Clark.

Who Goes There? Identifying Animal Tracks In Your Backyard

Are you eagerly awaiting the snowy season in order to take a peek at what critters have been scurrying through your backyard? Studying prints left by animals is an ancient … Read more

Nuttall's woodpecker fledgling by National Wildlife Photo Contest entrant Anthony Mancini.

8 Wonky and Wonderful Woodpecker Adaptations

Each winter I’m absolutely thrilled to see woodpeckers in the woods of Virginia. Woodpeckers are a welcome part of my cold weather hikes, when wildlife sightings become more rare. I’ve had … Read more

Winter Berries for Birds

Food is one of the four essential elements for wildlife habitat, and berry-producing shrubs are one of the best food sources for birds, particularly in the winter when other food … Read more

Don’t Forget Water for Birds in the Winter!

Throughout the hot summer months, backyard birders like me faithfully supply all the fresh water our feathered friends need for drinking, bathing or simply cooling off. By this time of … Read more

What to do With Fallen Leaves

Updated September 2024 You shouldn’t feel obligated to get rid of every last fallen leaf in your yard this fall. Leave the leaves — they offer a lot of benefits … Read more

Weekly News Roundup: President Obama is on a roll and more!

Shortly after broadening the Pacific Remote Islands National Marine Monument, President Obama has used his legal authority once again to create a new national monument! The San Gabriel Mountains National … Read more