The study began in September 2005 and will run through August 2008. Upon completion, Project Wildbird will be the most comprehensive study on bird feeding ever performed. The study results will provide people who feed birds with scientifically-substantiated recommendations on the best feeds and feeders to attract birds.

The feeders and seed outside Schumacher’s window were provided by WBFI Research Foundation, and Schumacher has signed on to monitor the birds that visit his feeders year-round. His feeders are currently filled with black oil sunflower seeds, ground sunflower chips, striped sunflower seeds, and white millet.

“So far I’ve seen sparrows and lots of mourning doves,” Schumacher says. “This is probably the worst time of year to be doing this because the grasses are just starting to dry out and there’s a lot of seed available.”

In a month or so, though, as the weather turns colder and seed becomes scarcer, Schumacher says he expects to see sparrows, doves, bluebirds, cardinals, and finches flocking to his feeders.

“There’s not that much variety here,” Schumacher says, “but it’s interesting. I like watching birds. I do artwork, and the birdfeeders are right outside the window where I do my work.” (Kate Newton Schmelyun)

To Learn More About Monarch Landing, Click Here!