Creating a bird watching station in the backyard offers many benefits for kids. Even better if they are helping to set it up themselves for ownership and achievement.
A kid-friendly birding station provides an engaging way for children to connect with nature and learn more about their local bird species. Kids can observe bird behaviors, identify different types of birds with a guide, and learn to record bird sighting in a nature journal.
Birding encourages focus, patience, and attention to detail. Sitting at a bird feeder offers a relaxing way to watch nature unfold in your own backyard.
Setting up a station is easy with basic supplies like a feeder, bird bath, food, and binoculars. With some simple tools, kids can become little birding experts!
Choosing a Location for the Birding Station
Choosing the right location is one of the most important steps when setting up a backyard birding station for kids. The ideal spot will help attract birds and give kids a front-row seat to all the action.
Backyard birding station – location checklist
Here are some key factors to consider when picking a spot:
Near a window
Position the station where kids can observe from inside through a window. Bird feeders and baths work best when placed within view of a window, porch, or deck. This allows kids to birdwatch in any weather!
Distance from trees/house
Locate feeders either very close to the house (within 3 feet) or far away (at least 10 feet). This prevents birds from accidentally flying into windows. Also avoid placing it right next to trees, or squirrels may jump on!
Open sightlines
Pick a spot with open sightlines in all directions. Birds feel safer and more likely to visit when they can clearly spot potential predators as they approach.
Some protective cover
While open, some shrubs or bushes provide cover so birds can hide if threatened. Nearby trees also offer quick escape routes.
Convenience
Choose an accessible spot for easy filling and cleaning. Near a hose or faucet is ideal for cleaning bird baths.
Bird habitat
Research birds you want to attract and what habitats they prefer. Tailor the location to their natural preferences.
Safety from predators
Ensure the spot deters prowling cats, snakes, raccoons, and other predators. Fences or other barriers add safety.
Elevated feeders
Pole or hanging feeders are best to stop squirrels. Add baffles on poles to block climbing. Ground feeders work for larger birds.
Sunny exposure
Most species prefer sun for feeding. Especially important for solar heated bird baths.
Soil condition
Dry, well-drained soil is better than wet, soggy spots. Raking and aerating soil can help.
Near native plants
Native plants attract more insects that birds feed on and provide shelter. Avoid invasive plants.
Creating a Birdwatching Spot for Kids
Creating a special spot just for kids that is cozy and stocked with activities will make birdwatching more interactive and enjoyable for them. It also teaches respect for nature.
Near a window
Position chairs or cushions right next to a window with a view of your yard and bird feeders. Being close to the action engages kids.
Use soft seating
Pillows, bean bag chairs, small rocking chairs, or cushions make cozy, comfortable spots for little birdwatchers. Allows them to sit quietly for longer.
Reduce glare
Install curtains or blinds to limit glare on the window. Glare makes it hard for kids to see outside clearly.
Add snacks
Provide healthy, easy snacks and water so kids can birdwatch without stopping to eat. Teach them to eat and move slowly and quietly.
Include stuffed birds
Having kid-friendly stuffed birds, puppets or toys lets them act out what they see. Encourages learning and play.
Craft a bird blind
Use sheets and blankets to make a little indoor fort or “hideout.” This adds fun and a sense of actively birdwatching. We also have suggestions on how kids can create a bird blind outdoors.
Offer quiet activities
In addition to watching, provide coloring, journaling, puzzles and books to engage them in different quiet ways.
Make it the kids’ space
Let kids decorate the spot with their own drawings, nature finds, and pictures of birds. Gives a sense of ownership.
Bird Watching Tools and Resources
While a bird feeder and food are all you need to get started with birding for kids, providing a few key tools can really enrich the birding experience for kids. Consider adding these to your kid’s birding kit:
- Child Field Guide – A guidebook with pictures and information about local birds supports learning. Choose one with clear illustrations, age-appropriate text, and an easy-to-use index. Show kids how to identify birds using the guide.
- Binoculars – Seeing birds up close excites kids’ interest. Get lightweight, child-sized binoculars and teach them how to adjust and focus. A strap prevents drops.
- Birdwatching or Nature Journal – Provide a notebook and pencils for sketching, recording questions and observations, and practicing writing. Date entries to compare sightings over time. There are lots of options and ideas on what to put in a birdwatching journal.
These basic items help maximize engagement and learning for young birdwatchers.
As their skills grow, you can add more tools like bird song recordings, nesting materials for observation, cameras for documentation, and bird identification apps.
Tips for Choosing Kid and Bird Friendly Feeders
- Involve kids in picking feeders so they feel invested. Have them research which types attract birds they want to see.
- Choose durable plastic, metal or glass feeders to withstand use by kids. Avoid delicate materials.
- Look for larger feeder openings for easier filling by little hands. Slip-off bases help too.
- Select feeders with drainage holes to keep seed fresh if kids overfill.
- Opt for squirrel-resistant feeders or place out of reach of squirrels. Kids will be disappointed if all the seed gets stolen.
- Vary feeder heights for access by short and tall kids. Low for filling, higher to view birds up close.
- Pick bright colors to attract kids. Also consider colored feeders like blue for bluebirds or red for hummingbirds.
- Go for gazebo styles or other fun shapes to interest kids. Just ensure the shape doesn’t impede bird access.
- Set up a new type of feeder and watch together to see what birds it attracts before getting more. Kids can observe differences.
- Consider your habitat and birds in your area. Choose feeders that attract the species you want your kids to observe.
- Select feeders with features suited to birds you hope to see such as:
- Wide, sturdy perches for heavy birds like doves
- Caged feeders so smaller birds can eat without getting bullied
- Nectar feeders to bring in hummingbirds to fascinate kids
Choose feeders that appeal to both kids and birds. By getting kids excited about the feeders, you’ll boost their overall engagement with the birding station.
Types of Bird Feeders
There are many different types of bird feeders available to meet the needs of various bird species. When setting up a backyard birding station, consider including a variety of feeder styles to attract a diverse range of birds.
Ground Feeders
Ground feeders or tray feeders sit directly on the ground or a platform. They allow birds like sparrows, juncos, doves, and quail to feed comfortably from the ground. Platform feeders with a roof help keep seed dry.
Hopper Feeders
Hopper or house feeders resemble little houses. Seed fills the house and gravity draws it down into built-in trays. Cardinals, chickadees, finches, nuthatches visit hopper feeders.
Hanging Feeders
Hanging bird feeders are suspended from a tree branch, hook, porch, or eave. Allowing birds like chickadees, nuthatches, titmice, and finches to perch and feed. Look for squirrel-resistant models.
Window Feeders
Small feeders like tray, hoppers, or tubes can attach right to windows with suction cups. Gives up-close views. Keep less than 3 feet away to prevent collisions.
Nyjer Feeders
Has tubes to hold nyjer seeds, appealing to finches. Some have cages to keep larger birds away. Check that the seed flows properly.
Oriole Feeders
Features cups for nectar and fruit like orange slices to entice orioles. Some have jelly trays. Place high in open tree canopies.
Hummingbird Feeders
Tube or saucer shaped feeders hold nectar to attract hummingbirds. Use a sugar-water ratio of 1:4. Red or yellow colors attract them.
Suet Feeders
Holds suet cakes or plugs for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees. Use tail prop suet feeders so birds can brace while eating.
Owl Feeders
Specifically made to hold large owl pellets, like mice shaped pellets. Attracts owls but protects other birds from the owl.
Nectar Feeders
General nectar feeders appeal to non-hummingbird species like orioles, tanagers, and woodpeckers. Easy to clean and fill.
Help kids to choose the Right Bird Food
Selecting the proper bird food is key to attracting a variety of bird species to your backyard station. Be sure to guide kids to pick bird food that meets the dietary needs of different birds.
- Black oil sunflower seeds – This is a favorite for many birds such as chickadees, nuthatches, cardinals, jays, woodpeckers, and finches. The thin shell makes it easy to open and get to the meaty seed inside.
- Safflower seeds – Cardinals, finches, and sparrows enjoy safflower. The hard shell deters squirrels.
- Nyjer seed – Finches and pine siskins thrive on this tiny black seed. Use specialty feeders made for nyjer which has small openings.
- Peanuts – Jays, woodpeckers, chickadees, titmice, and some sparrows will eat whole or pieces of peanuts. Buy raw, unsalted nuts.
- Fruit – Raisins, currants, apple chunks, orange halves, and berries attract orioles, bluebirds, thrashers, robins, and mockingbirds.
- Mealworms – Chickadees, robins, wrens, and bluebirds crave these nutritious dried larvae. Can mix into seed or offer in mesh balls.
- Suet – Insect-eating birds like woodpeckers, nuthatches, wrens, and chickadees relish suet. Offer in cages or meshes to limit messy drips.
- Nectar – Orioles, hummingbirds, and woodpeckers drink nectar. Use a sugar/water mix of 1:4 ratio. Change frequently to prevent fermentation.
- Bird seed mixes – Combinations allow you to appeal to many species at once. Add more sunflower seeds and nuts for diversity.
Avoid cheap fillers – Filler ingredients like milo, oats, wheat, and corn offer little nutrition.
Help kids to check the label thoroughly before buying mixes.
Tips for Offering Bird Food
- Provide a variety of foods to appeal to different species.
- Use specialty feeders designed for specific foods like suet cages or nectar feeders.
- Research the diet of birds you hope to attract and cater to their preferences.
- Offer fresh food and change out stale or wet food regularly to avoid spoiling.
- Adjust food throughout the seasons as birds’ needs change. More suet and nuts in winter.
- Supplement feeders with natural food sources like berry bushes, seed heads, and nectar plants.
- Don’t leave out more than the birds can eat in a day or two so food stays fresh.
- Consider your location – particularly hot or wet areas may require more frequent replenishing.
- Experiment with different bird food selections to determine what your local birds crave. Then consistently stock those preferred foods to keep happy birds visiting your feeders.
Tips for Attracting Specific Birds
Hummingbirds
Near nectar plants like trumpet vines. Prefer multiple small feeders to defend “territories.”
Woodpeckers
Suet feeders near trees. They perch before coming to ground feeders.
Bluebirds
Open grassy areas. Nest boxes on fence posts or poles.
Finches
Near thistle feeders loaded with nyjer seeds. Avoid areas near larger aggressive birds.
Orioles
Open tree canopies. Jelly and nectar feeders. Orange halves attract them.
Robins
Areas with grubs and worms. Platform feeders on ground.
Take the time to observe your yard and landscape for potential birding hotspots. With a little trial and error, you’ll discover the ideal setup to bring countless hours of birdwatching joy.
Add a Bird Bath for kids to watch
A bird bath is an essential addition to any backyard birding station for kids. Seeing birds splash and play in a bath entertains children for hours.
Beyond the fun, it also provides birds with the fresh water they need to thrive.
Choose a sturdy bird bath that is designed for outdoor use and winter weather. Ceramic, concrete, stone, and metal baths hold up best.
Place the bath on the ground or mounted on a pedestal for easy access by kids and ground-feeding birds.
Situate the bird bath within view of your indoor bird watching station window, but at least 10 feet from feeders to avoid contamination. Position it near trees, shrubs, or other protective cover so birds feel safe taking a dip.
Adding a solar powered fountain or mister not only attracts more birds but fascinates children. The movement and gurgling sounds draw attention.
Just ensure electrical parts are safely enclosed and climate appropriate.
Help kids to take care of the bird bath
Involve kids in regularly cleaning and filling the bird bath. Have them scrub with a brush and rinse with a hose weekly. Show them how to gently refill the bath shallowly, providing no more than an inch of water for safe bathing.
Remind children that bird baths need fresh water every 2-3 days in warm weather, or more often with frequent use. Stagnant water could spread diseases. Let kids take responsibility for inspecting and dumping old water as needed.
Use bath time as an opportunity to observe and identify birds with your child. Try keeping a list of spotted birds or have kids sketch bathing visitors in their nature journal. Chat about bird bathing habits.
Create some birdy bathtime luxury
Consider adding a heating element to birdbaths in cold climates so water stays liquid in winter.
This provides a critical water source when natural sources freeze over. Kids will love seeing steamy baths on frosty days.
With an engaging bird bath, monitoring and upkeep become fun teachable moments. Children learn about the needs of living creatures while doing their part to help backyard birds thrive.
Maintaining the Birdwatching Station
- Regular cleaning – Routinely wash bird feeders, bird baths, and ground trays to prevent disease. Disinfect 1-2 times a month. Have kids help scrub with a brush.
- Refill food – Check feeders daily and refill anytime seed gets low or wet. Remove old fruit, nectar, or suet. Letting kids help carry and pour teaches responsibility.
- Change water – Dump and refresh bird bath water every 2-3 days to keep it clean. Show kids how to rinse baths and use a hose to fill.
- Observe activity – Pay attention to when birds visit most and adjust feeding times or food as needed. Involve kids in making observations.
- Adjust set ups – Switch perch locations, move poles, add roofs, try new feeder styles if activity declines. Experimenting together keeps kids engaged.
- Track data – Have kids log the type and count of birds they spot each day on a chart. They can analyze patterns and trends over time.
- Manage pests – Stop ants, bees, squirrels and larger birds from stealing food. Talk about deterrent options and watch to see if they work.
- Download ID apps – Over time, download new bird ID and info apps to learn more about newcomers to your yard. Updated apps keep kids interested.
- Vary viewing – Occasionally move viewing spot or add a second window feeder so perspectives stay fresh. New angles offer new insights.
Staying on top of duties like cleaning and maintenance makes your yard as welcoming as possible to wild birds.
Involving children helps them understand what it takes to successfully manage a backyard habitat. So making it a shared responsibility keeps them invested.
Family Birding Station – Getting Started
Creating a child-friendly birding station in your backyard is easy and rewarding. Start by choosing a good spot for viewing and attracting birds.
Pick sturdy, engaging feeders and stock healthy foods to appeal to young birdwatchers and birds alike. Helping kids to choose and plant flowers and shrubs that birds love is also a good step towards a bird-friendly garden.
Set up a cozy indoor space for kids to observe comfortably. Equip them with a field guide, binoculars, and journal for active learning.
Get your kids involved in every step – from picking the feeders to recording sightings. Their sense of investment will fuel curiosity about nature.
Have them help with duties like filling feeders to build responsibility. Most importantly, make it fun.
Supplement dry facts with crafts, stories, and games centered around birds. Instilling an early wonder of wildlife can blossom into a lifelong passion.
So don’t wait! Gather supplies this weekend. Move that bench to a window, hang a feeder, and see who arrives for dinner…
Creating your family birding station will deliver countless amazing moments you’ll treasure. The backyard adventures await!
Contents
- 1 Choosing a Location for the Birding Station
- 2 Creating a Birdwatching Spot for Kids
- 3 Bird Watching Tools and Resources
- 4 Tips for Choosing Kid and Bird Friendly Feeders
- 5 Tips for Offering Bird Food
- 6 Tips for Attracting Specific Birds
- 7 Add a Bird Bath for kids to watch
- 8 Maintaining the Birdwatching Station
- 9 Family Birding Station – Getting Started