Dear Readers,

I just learned that February is National Bird Feeding Month. Congress established the holiday in 1994, with the official proclamation made by Congressman John Porter (R-IL). The speech he made then rings true today. “During this month, individuals are encouraged to provide food, water, and shelter to help wild birds survive,” Porter said, adding: “Bird feeding provides a needed break from today’s frantic lifestyles.”

If you’d like to take a break from your frantic lifestyle, consider signing up for the 

Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC). Now in its 28th year, the annual event unites bird lovers across the world in citizen science. This year’s count takes place from Feb. 14–17. You only need to commit 15 minutes, and you don’t even have to leave your favorite chair — assuming it has a view. Click here to learn how to participate. 

One reason that we love birding is that it’s possible to enjoy wildlife from home. To encourage birds to visit, many of us put out birdfeeders, birdhouses, and birdbaths. But how close is too close? And should we worry about the recent outbreak of avian flu? Dr. Nahid Bhadelia, the founding director of Boston University’s Center on Emerging Infectious Diseases, reminds us that bird flu has jumped to over 40 mammalian species. She urges against putting out feeders in areas with recent outbreaks, and reminds us never to touch dead or ill birds. 

Our team reached out to the GBBC to learn more, and the group referred us to Cornell Lab’s recent statement on bird flu and feeders. Happily, the folks at Cornell and their sources say that most of us can keep our feeders out. Avian flu rarely affects songbirds, and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention categorizes the risk to humans as low.

That said, if you do keep a feeder, we recommend adhering to these best practices:

• Clean your feeders and birdbaths frequently and wear gloves. 

• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling feeders.

• Take down feeders if there’s an outbreak in your area. 

• Place feeders where pets and children cannot interact with scattered feed, feathers, bird droppings, or birds, all of which can transmit the virus. 

• Do not keep birdfeeders if you keep chickens or other poultry. 

• Avoid contact with birds that are dead or appear ill. 

• Keep wild birds wild: Never handfeed or handle them.

Following these suggestions will help ensure that you and your family can continue to safely enjoy backyard birds. If you’re interested in attracting more birds to your space, learning more about birds, or simply buying a fabulous pair of shoes with birds on them, keep reading. I’ve curated some great gifts for all the bird-lovers in your life. That, of course, includes you. (Oh, and Happy Valentine’s Day! If you’re looking for a present for someone special, find inspiration in one of our Gift Guides.) 

Happy birding and happy shopping, 

– Elizabeth Weinstein, Marketplace Editor 

P.S. Next week, we'll be launching an amazing sweepstakes featuring a curated collection of sustainable living products from brands that prioritize wellness, eco-conscious design, and intentional living, with over $3500 in prizes. Keep your eyes on your inbox, and look for more details in the next BuyBetter newsletter.