If you want to watch birds, you no longer have to wait by the window!

Author: Duan Yuechu

In today's era of integration of technology and nature, smart bird feeders, as an innovative device, are gradually entering the public eye, bringing people a unique bird-watching experience and playing an important role in the interaction between man and nature.

1. What is a smart bird feeder?

A smart bird feeder is a bird feeding device that combines modern technology elements. It is usually equipped with a high-definition camera and Internet connection function. Unlike traditional bird feeders, its built-in camera can capture clear images of birds eating, playing and other activities, which can be transmitted in real time to mobile phone applications or other smart devices connected to it via the Internet. For example, the Bird Buddy smart bird feeder, its camera not only has excellent image quality, but also has certain intelligent recognition functions, which can distinguish common bird species and provide users with relevant bird information, allowing users to increase their knowledge while bird watching.

2. How to use the smart bird feeder

It is relatively easy to use a smart bird feeder. First, you need to install the bird feeder in a suitable location, generally in an open area in the courtyard where birds are active, to ensure that the camera can clearly capture the range of birds' activities. Then, download the corresponding application through your mobile phone, and follow the prompts to pair the bird feeder with the mobile phone. After the connection is successful, the user can view the situation around the bird feeder in real time on the mobile phone. During use, the bird feeder should be cleaned regularly to keep it clean and hygienic to prevent food residues from breeding bacteria and affecting the health of birds. At the same time, it is also necessary to reasonably select and add bird food according to the habits of birds and seasonal changes. For example, in winter, you can appropriately increase oil-rich foods to help birds store energy.

3. What is the use of using a smart bird feeder?

1. Entertainment value

Smart bird feeders provide people with a convenient way to watch birds up close. Users do not need to wait outdoors for a long time, just open the mobile app and they can watch the wonderful moments of birds anytime and anywhere. Whether it is the colorful cardinal, the lively and agile pine warbler, or the small and cute hummingbird, they can all be clearly presented on the screen. This unique viewing experience allows people to find peace and fun in their busy lives, and also inspires more people to be interested in bird watching. For example, Marin Plank originally had no interest in birds, but after coming into contact with the smart bird feeder, he was deeply attracted by the cute appearance and interesting behavior of the birds. He even received many bird-related gifts at Christmas and became a bird lover.

2. The significance of popular science education

Through smart bird feeders, people can more intuitively understand the living habits, behavioral characteristics and ecological environment of birds. Some smart bird feeder applications also provide a wealth of bird knowledge, including bird species, food habits, migration routes and other information, allowing users to learn relevant scientific knowledge during bird watching. This is a vivid and interesting way of nature education for children and students, which helps to cultivate their interest and love for natural science and enhance their awareness of protecting nature.

3. Bird protection

The popularity of smart bird feeders has also contributed to bird conservation. On the one hand, it can attract more people to pay attention to birds and raise public awareness of bird conservation. For example, the National Audubon Society's cooperation with Bird Buddy is to let more people understand the importance of bird conservation through the platform of smart bird feeders. On the other hand, the data collected by some smart bird feeders, such as the frequency of bird visits and species distribution, can provide valuable research materials for ornithologists and conservation agencies, helping them better understand the survival status of birds and develop more effective conservation strategies.

However, while enjoying the convenience and fun brought by smart bird feeders, we should also pay attention to reasonable use to avoid excessive interference with the natural life of birds. At the same time, we should pay attention to the privacy and security issues of smart devices to ensure that personal information is not leaked.

Reference: “Smart bird feeders gaining popularity, spurring interest in bird watching,” Associated Press news report, January 8, 2025.