February is National Bird-Feeding Month
It is an annual 28 day long celebration, aimed at educating the public on the wild bird feeding and watching hobby. The recognition was created in 1994, after U.S. Congressman, John Porter, proclaimed that February was one of the most difficult months in the United States for wild birds in a formal resolution. During this month, individuals are advised to provide food, water, and shelter to the wild birds in their backyards.
This year, The Weather Network is teaming up with the Canadian Wildlife Federation to better educate Canadians about the importance of taking proper actions to improve the fate of our most beloved bird species.
The main threats leading to the decline in North American bird populations include:
- loss of habitat
- invasive species
- pesticides
- toxic chemicals
- pollution
- climate change
- disease and more
As a result, nearly 20 per cent of native bird species are at risk of extinction.
In Canada, we are no strangers to beautiful and intelligent birds— like Northern Cardinals, Cedar Waxwings, Blue Jays and loons, just to name a few. Not only does observing the birds bring you closer to nature, it also helps with cardiovascular health and practicing patience. As many Canadians are sequestered to the comfort of their own backyards this season, safe, at-home activities like bird-feeding, bird-watching and nature photography are among common hobbies many are picking up this year.
For the third year in a row, The Weather Network is asking Canadians to share their bird photos and videos in support of the month-long initiative. Bird-lovers are encouraged to upload their submissions to Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #ShareYourFeathers.
Be sure to follow @weathernetwork on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to catch some incredible bird content, along with tips and tricks from the Canadian Wildlife Federation on how to help these beautiful creatures, all February long.
