Nature Centered from Wild Birds Unlimited

Squirrels – do you love them or loathe them? If you have trees nearby, chances are you have squirrels. In this encore episode, John and Brian take a different look at our furry friends. Whether you deter them or feed them, we all have opinions on the infamous backyard critters. Plus, we have all the deterring and feeding options!  

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.

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.

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).   

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.

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. 

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.    

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! 

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.  

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.