Holiday Gift Ideas for Every Bird Lover

A pair of binoculars laying on an open birding book on the grass.

Florida is home to more than 500 species of birds that spend all or part of their lives here. The mild climate and diverse habitats attract a range of bird species, from year-round residents to those travelling here in spring and summer to raise their young. Some migratory species use Florida as a stopping point on their journey to rest and feed. Many of these birds can be found in backyards and gardens across the state. This appeals to birders who enjoy viewing, identifying, or photographing bird species.

If you know someone who loves birds, why not gift them something special this holiday season that helps them connect with nature and enhance their bird-viewing experience? Here are some bird-themed gift ideas for a passionate bird connoisseur (or aspiring birder).

Bird Books

There are countless books for the avid birdwatcher, featuring anecdotal stories, field guides, natural history, birding tips, and more. Books can inspire people to get outside and connect with nature, whether that’s in their backyard or at one of Florida’s many parks. The UF/IFAS Bookstore offers numerous books on birds and gardening for wildlife. Some bird-relevant books that would be excellent gifts include:

The cover of a book titled Florida's Birds: A Field Guide and Reference with an illustration of two wading birds. — Just one of the many birding books available at the UF/IFAS Bookstore

Binoculars

One challenge with observing birds is they are not always easy to see from afar, so binoculars come in handy. They make superb gifts for any bird-lover and come in a range of types and styles depending on budget and preference. According to a survey by Audubon, most birders prefer 7- or 8-power binoculars because they are bright and have a wide field of view, which makes it easier to spot birds and follow them in flight. Optics with objective lenses larger than 42 mm are heavier but brighter, while those smaller than 30 mm are lightweight but aren’t bright enough to show detail in poor lighting.

Bird-watching Trip

Florida offers many parks, refuges, and other natural areas that serve as a birding paradise, where many seasoned and aspiring birders flock to. Florida birding hotspots include:

A planned birding trip to one (or more) of these locations or elsewhere could make a fun and exciting gift this holiday season. There are guided birding excursions and tours available for the novice or experienced birder in areas throughout Florida.

Bird Houses

Cavity-nesters use cavities or holes in trees for nesting, which is the case for 25 bird species in Florida. Bird houses offer an accessible cover for cavity-nesting birds looking for a place to roost. Birdhouses make great gifts (store-bought or homemade) that help not only local bird species but provide viewing opportunities for bird aficionados. While not all cavity-nester species will choose a birdhouse to nest, there are certain aspects of construction you can take into consideration to help attract birds. Learn more in the UF/IFAS publication, Helping Cavity-nesters in Florida.

Bird Feeder

Another gift idea is a bird feeder. There are various designs—tube, hopper, platform, suet, nyjer, nectar, or fruit feeders—equipped to attract different species. Tube feeders that dispense seed generally attract smaller birds, while hopper-style feeders attract large birds such as blue jays, cardinals, grosbeaks, and woodpeckers. Nectar feeders primarily attract hummingbirds with sugar water designed to mimic flower nectar. A suet feeder holds a suet cake inside a wire cage, which attracts woodpeckers, wrens, nuthatches, titmice, and chickadees.

Bird Bath

Water in the landscape is another draw for birds. Bird baths can provide birds a safe space to rest, drink, and clean their feathers. These make excellent gifts for creating a tranquil environment in the yard or garden. When choosing a bird bath, look for one with a shallow basin, rough surface, and gently sloping sides so birds can have sure footing. You may choose either a ground-level or pedestal-style basin. The ground-level basins mimic natural water sources but can leave birds exposed to predators.

Bird-Friendly Plants

Native bird-friendly plants make excellent gifts for your avid bird lover. Adorning the garden or yard with bird-friendly plants will support local wildlife and increase bird viewing opportunities. Plants that provide seed, berries, and fruits can attract various bird species. For example, many birds feed on the berries and fruits of native plants such as holly, American beautyberry, and red mulberry. Sea grape, Chickasaw plum, and native persimmon are also excellent food sources for birds. Nectar-producing plants like firebush and shrimp plant attract hummingbirds. Native wildflowers bear seeds throughout the year and attract insects, offering a host of bird-food options. For more information, see our articles on Bird-Friendly Plants and Hummingbird Gardens.

Nonprofit Bird Organization Membership

There are numerous local and national organizations that support bird research and conservation that offer membership programs, with an option for “gifting” a membership to someone else. Contribution to a good cause in support of birds might be a meaningful gift opportunity for that bird-lover. Some organizations that offer membership include:

Birds are highly sought-after across the world and continue to bring wonder to the lives of many. For local expertise about bird species in your area, contact your UF/IFAS county Extension office.