Nature Centered from Wild Birds Unlimited

A podcast from Wild Birds Unlimited about feeding the birds and enjoying nature right in your own backyard. Relax, enjoy the birds, and stay Nature Centered.

Practicing What We Preach

John Schaust returns to critique Brian’s yard (a call-back to ep 50). Does he practice what he preaches? Plus, we catch up with our retired co-host on owl banding, adventures, and how we can all help the birds with high-protein foods for the end of nesting season and peak molting season.

08-14
33:15

Golden Guide to Goldfinches

How many goldfinch species can be attracted to your yard? Brian is joined by two WBU store owners (Dripping Springs, TX & Ventura, CA) to talk goldfinches and their differences: seasonality, attracting, nesting, molting, mimicry, and more.

07-10
38:59

Seasonally Savvy Summer

Being seasonally savvy in summer means fewer feeders can be ok, but the key is foundational feeding. Brian explains the benefits of a foundational feeder and food in summer and how it helps Dad (bird dads & people dads).   

06-12
16:22

Simple Steps to Saving the Song Birds

Have you heard song birds are in trouble? As stewards of our own space, we’ve never been more empowered to make a difference to help save the song birds. Brian shares some simple steps you can implement to make a difference, no matter where you live.

05-08
30:28

Native Plant Program & Perks

Does it matter where you source your native plants? It turns out—yes, it does. Brian is joined by Mary Phillips, Head of Habitat/Native Plant Impact & Certifications for the National Wildlife Federation, to explain why. They dig into native plant trends, the importance of sourcing responsibly, and what keystone plants are—plus how they benefit both birds and people. 

04-10
37:39

The More the Merrier

How many bird species visit your yard? Brian shares that now is the perfect time to prepare to attract more bird species to your yard and how it will enhance your enjoyment of the hobby and your well-being.    

03-13
19:24

GBBC & Bird ID

Brian is joined by special guest, Becca Rodomsky-Bish, leader of the Great Backyard Bird Count at Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Together, they explore how you can have fun while making a difference for birds. Tune in for expert bird identification tips, helpful resources, and inspiration to join this global birdwatching event! 

02-06
34:56

Winter Survival Tips for You & Your Birds

Brian is joined by special guest Holly Merker, co-author of Ornitherapy: For Your Mind, Body, and Soul and co-host of The Mindful Birding Podcast. Listen in to learn how birds benefit our wellbeing and how we can help the birds thrive during winter months.  

01-09
41:03

Apropos Apps & Recommended Reading

John and Brian share some of their favorite apps and recommended reading for birders and backyard hobbyists that are great for you and for gift-giving. Plus, a salute to John's last episode as a podcast host.

12-05
37:07

Participate & Connect with Nature

Brian is joined by guests Emma Greig and Olivia Carvahlo to talk about how easy it is to participate with PFW and connect more deeply with nature. Emma, Project Leader for Project FeederWatch in the US, and Olivia, Community Engagement Specialist in Canada, tell us just how simpleand how incredibly helpful it can be! Join tens of thousands already participating. 

11-07
41:55

Hot Pepper. A Hot Topic.

John and Brian discuss hot pepper foods, the science and the biology behind why it works for the birds and keeps the critters at bay. Plus, a special announcement at the end that you don’t want to miss. 

10-03
26:59

Why We Love Insects!

John & Brian discuss why insects are important for the birds and how to cultivate more insects in your yard. They also explain the connection between insects and the 7 Simple Actions to help Save the Song Birds.

09-12
30:55

Where Are the Birds?

John & Brian address challenging questions like: What happens when bird activity slows down? Where did the birds go and why? What can you do to get them back?   

08-01
23:21

Why Kids Love Bird Feeding

John & Brian are joined by two very special guests, kids who love bird feeding, Xander and Rhain. Prepare to be inspired by their passion and love for birds and bird feeding. They also share their tips for helping more kids get into the hobby. 

07-11
25:14

Habitat for Birds & Pollinators!

Join John & Brian as they offer resources to help you find native plants to increase the birds and pollinators in your space - whether you have a yard, patio or balcony; to include container gardening. 

05-31
25:41

Feed the Birds, Feel Better

John and Brian are joined by a special guest, Holly Merker. She is an author, podcast host, birding guide, and nature-based wellness provider. They discuss how watching and feeding birds creates a sense of wonder and community, a sense of connection with people, and can change the direction of your life. Plus, a special callout for the Mindful Birding podcast episode 13. 

05-02
35:43

Environmental Benefits of Bird Feeding

John and Brian discuss how feeding and watching birds naturally promotes conservation, ultimately benefiting the environment. This includes making environmentally conscious choices with bird feeding products, installing native plants, and participating in citizen science programs. 

04-11
27:05

Keeping Birds Safe in Your Yard

John and Brian talk about preparing for springtime bird activity in our yards and how to keep the birds safe and ensure they thrive. 

03-07
32:37

Count the Birds. Make a Difference.

John and Brian are joined by the project leader for GBBC, Becca Rodomsky-Bish. They discuss how watching the birds and sharing what you see will benefit the birds for conservation and how it will benefit your well-being. 

02-08
30:46

It’s OK to Feed the Birds

Join John and Brian as they discuss some studies about the pros (and cons) of bird feeding. It really is ok to feed the birds! Listen to this weeks episode to find out why.

01-11
26:55

Susan Kllimchuk

Brian, is your dog a Chihuahua? aye carumba! LOL

01-14 Reply

Susan Kllimchuk

How to keep the cats away? Get a dog who doesn't chase the birds.

01-09 Reply

Recommend Channels