If you have a bird feeder hanging near a window of your house, chances are pretty good that you already know what a source of entertainment they can be! “Everybirdie” (sorry) has to eat at some point, and they all love to eat a lot of the same things. Trusty old birdseed and sunflower seeds, for example. So, it often happens that when news of a well-stocked feeder spreads, it becomes the happening spot in the neighborhood for the winged set. You get a front-row seat for all the action. The perfect way to spend a weekend morning.
But do you ever wonder what happens when you’re not around? Who else visits? What do they look like, and what are their habits? These questions began coming up for Lisa, a native of Germany who had recently moved to Michigan. (1) She was a bit of a bird nerd back home, and these birds were all completely new to her. So she decided to get up close and personal with them, with a helping hand from technology.
A Bird Feeder Cam Brings Fun And Interest
Lisa, who goes by the handle “ostdrossel” on social media, bought a motion-activated bird feeder cam that allowed her to study the birds in a way that few people ever do. The rig is pretty simple and involves a camera box, macro lens, and of course the all-important feeder which it is all attached to. She experimented with some different kinds of food until she found a blend that suited the majority. Now her camera clicks away daily, up to 7000 times, sending back an array of stunning and sometimes hilarious shots. Each one offers a glimpse into these little birds’ world, allowing the viewer to enjoy lunch right there with them.
Lisa’s nightly routine often involves sifting through the day’s shots. (1) Mourning doves, spiky blue jays, black crows, gorgeous red cardinals and starlings too; it seems everyone is ready for their close-up at some point. Many come back to visit often so she starts to recognize certain members of her bird clan. Silly faces, gorgeous colors, interesting markings, and downright odd behavior pack the highlight reel every time, bringing joy to this now-viral home study project of hers.
Bird Feeder Cam Tips And Tricks
If a bird feeder cam is sounding like a fun option for your own home, check around for what’s available, including Amazon. A quick search will reveal several different options at various price points, and one of Lisa’s friends even reviewed the rig that she uses… with mixed results. (2) There are apps, SD cards and wireless networks to work with, and ironically there are wires to consider keeping dry, so the main takeaway if this is an idea that appeals to you, is to keep it simple. Put the feeder in a nice stable place with a clear view, preferably attached to your house. The camera is motion-activated and has its own wifi signal, which is great, but that comes with limitations in terms of range. Do your research and get the best one for you!
As you might have already suspected, given how viral they’ve become, those amazing shots of Lisa’s definitely take some doing. But aren’t they wonderful? Every day a brand new set of moments are captured, and never the same thing twice. What a great way to learn about these special little guys who bring life to the neighborhood!
