Frequently Asked Questions

 
 
 

    • Generally, if you can approach a bird then it is injured. If injured, the bird is already experiencing a lot of stress.

      • Please handle with care and delicacy.

      • If transporting, place them in a dark box and keep a quiet environment.

      • Do not feed or make them drink water. Improper feeding and drinking can lead to choking or fluid in their lungs.

    • Call City Wildlife, describing the details at (202) 882-1000. Business hours: 9am - 5pm every day.

    • Do not put yourself at harm rescuing an injured bird. Calmy assess the situation and take appropriate measures. One injured animal is already enough, no need to make it two.

  • Here are some easy tips to make your life and home more bird-friendly:

    • Plant native trees and plants in your property.

      • Native plants provide healthier food and increase insect biodiversity.

      • Safely remove any invasive species as well, which may be killing trees or taking up space for native species.

    • Install bird-friendly windows.

    • Buy bird-friendly (or shade-grown) coffee.

      • Bird-friendly coffee is grown with the habitat, rather than in replace of it. Growing the coffee with the trees means more space for birds, and, as an added bonus, often tastes better too!

      • Chesapeake Coffee Roasters is the only provider of bird-friendly in our area.

    • Turn off unnecessary light at night, install timers and/or sensors for exterior lights, and avoid any upward facing light.

      • Light pollution negatively impacts bird migration, and is a major factor in the millions of bird-building collision deaths every year. Turning off our lights goes a longer way than we typically believe.

  • Sometimes it can take a while for birds to recognize your bird feeder as a safe space. Keeping it clean and well stocked often will help.

    Sometimes predators have learned the feeder can be used as a hunting ground. The birds you’re most likely wanting to attract will come back in time once/if the raptor has moved on.

    Sometimes it’s just the location of your feeder. Make sure your feeder is visible and in a safe area.

  • Practice. Merlin. Book Recommendations.

  • If an event of ours is full please join the waitlist. It is not uncommon for people to cancel, and spots do come available.

  • Not at all! Birders of all experience level are encouraged to join us at any of our events.

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