In 1994, Congressman John Porter proclaimed February as

Individuals are encouraged to provide food, water and shelter to help birds survive during the harshest month of the year, when natural food resources can be scarce and water is often frozen.  Birdwatching is entertaining, educational and helps us relax.  It is estimated that one third of the U.S. population feeds birds.  It's a great hobby for all ages, and a great way for families to spend quality time together.  So make sure your feeders are stocked with seed, nuts and suet, fill your birdbath with fresh water (add a heater for days when the temperature dips below freezing), put up a few bird houses in time for the upcoming nesting season and get your binoculars and field guides ready to watch birds!

Also this month, the 15th Annual Great Backyard Bird Count takes place
February 17th - 20th. The GBBC is one of our favorite events and we encourage all of our customers to participate.  You can do as much as all four days, or just 15 minutes on one day.  It's up to you!  Visit birdsource.org/gbbc before the count to print out an easy regional checklist and to get tips on participating.  Count as an individual, a family, a school, church or neighborhood group.  Photographers, be sure to submit your pictures to the Photo Gallery!  Watch the results as they come in live...it really is a hoot!

To help you get ready for the count, we will be having daily bird quizzes on our  Facebook page  this week!  Be sure to visit our page and make your guesses as we post photos of some birds likely to be seen during the count.