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This Monday, January 5, is National Bird Day.
If you think bird watching is just for retirees in beige vests, think again.
In the dead of winter, when the trees are bare and the sky is gray, birds are the only vibrant, chaotic, interesting thing happening in your backyard.
Plus, let's be honest: Watching a Cardinal fight a Blue Jay for a peanut is significantly more entertaining than your 2:00 PM Zoom meeting.
This holiday is about appreciating wild birds (and helping them survive the cold). Here is how to turn your window into the best channel on TV.
The Upgrade: The "Smart" Bird Feeder
If you want to get into birding but don't have the patience to sit still with binoculars, you need technology to do the work for you.
Enter the Smart Bird Feeder with Camera.
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The Pick: The Bird Buddy Smart Feeder.
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Why it went viral: It’s like a doorbell camera for birds. When a bird lands, it sends a notification to your phone and captures a high-res photo or video.
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The "Pokémon" Factor: The app uses AI to identify the bird species and adds it to your "collection." It gamifies nature. You’ll find yourself interrupting dinner to say, "Guys, a Tufted Titmouse just visited!"
Shop Smart Bird Feeders on Amazon
The Low-Tech Option: The DIY Pinecone Feeder
If you want a sensory activity for the kids (that costs almost nothing), go old school.
January is the hardest month for birds to find food. This high-fat snack is a lifesaver for them.
The "Recipe":
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Forage: Go for a walk and find a large, open pinecone.
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Stick: Tie a piece of twine around the top.
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Spread: Smear peanut butter (or suet/lard if you have nut allergies) deep into the crevices.
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Dip: Roll the sticky pinecone in birdseed until covered.
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Hang: Place it on a branch visible from your window.
The Book: The Bible of Birds
You don't need to be an expert, but it helps to know who is visiting.
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The Pick: The Sibley Guide to Birds.
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Why: It is universally accepted as the best field guide. The illustrations are detailed, and it covers the variations you’ll actually see. Keep it on the coffee table near the window.
Shop The Sibley Guide on Amazon
Why It Matters
National Bird Day is actually an advocacy holiday designed to raise awareness about the plight of captive birds and the importance of wild conservation.
By putting out a feeder in January, you aren't just getting entertainment; you are providing a critical calorie source for creatures trying to survive the freeze.
So this Monday, fill the feeder, download the app, and enjoy the show. Share your photos and tag us on Instagram and TikTok @onmanyoccasions so we can celebrate with you. Don't forget to use #NationalBirdDay and #OnManyOccasions—we might feature you on our page! 🐦✨
Happy Bird Day!
Hungry?
After you feed the birds, it’s time to feed yourself.
National Tempura Day is coming up on Jan 7.
Get your frying oil ready and check the rest of the schedule in our Free 2026 Celebration Calendar.
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