Some say that money makes the world go round, but a European study points to a different catalyst: birds. In fact, birds and happiness are so closely linked that, according to the study, the more diversity of bird species surrounding a person, the happier they are. Researchers found that birds are so powerful as mood boosters that their effect is equal to an increase in income. But as wild bird enthusiasts and nature lovers, are we really that surprised? Let’s take a look at why birds make us so happy, and how we can inject a little more of that joy into our lives every day.
How Birds are Linked to Our Happiness
Birds Keep Us in the Moment
There’s a reason why birdwatching boomed during the pandemic (and, by the way, shows no signs of relenting): birds keep us mindful. Think back to the last time you saw a bird alight on a tree branch, twist its head to inspect something more closely, and then coo, cackle, or chirp to its heart’s content. Didn’t it bring you immediately back to the present?
At a time when people are more anxious and depressed than ever, watching the birds takes on much more significance. In fact, birds and happiness are often linked in nature research. One study after another points to what we seem to know intuitively: appreciating birds makes us feel lighter, calmer, and more hopeful.
Birds Signal Season Changes—and Hope
We’ve all experienced it: that dip in serotonin as the winter months arrive, making it just a little harder to get out of bed or finish that project. Even if you don’t have seasonal deficit disorder, we’ve all had days that were harder than others due to the seasons changing. How do birds help in these times of transition?
We look to the birds for a sense of purpose and routine. Watching them forage for food in winter, settle down to nest in spring, feed their offspring in summer, and prepare to migrate in fall tells our brains that there is order in the universe. Amidst the chaos and noise of the world, and our own lives, watching birds go about their business is soothing to the soul. Research has even proven that the simple act of looking out the window to the birds at our bird feeders bring us measurable comfort and hope.
Birds Remind Us to Take Care of Nature
Watching birds carry twigs to build a nest, sip water at our backyard birdbath, or fuel up at our bird feeder reminds us of birds’ needs. And if the crippling loss of 1/3 of our bird population in just 50 years has taught us anything, it’s that we need to start thinking seriously about helping to meet those needs. We need birds for the smooth running of our ecosystem. But we also need them because they are a source of joy and wonder.
There are many things we can do to help the declining bird population. Doing so is critical for the health of our environment, but the benefits are felt much closer to home. When we help others, it makes us feel good. And countless studies, like the ones conducted by Exeter Medical School, bear this out: performing acts of service alleviates symptoms of depression and improves our overall wellbeing. Once again, birds and happiness go hand in hand.
How to Bring More Bird Joy to Your Life
Go birdwatching in your backyard
If you’re new to birdwatching, why not start in your own backyard? Our handy beginner’s guide to backyard bird feeding will bring the birds in no time. All you need is one or more bird feeders and some high-quality bird seed mix and you’re ready.
Try new bird seed to bring new birds to your feeders
Looking to attract more—and more different types—of birds to your yard or garden? Why not switch things up and try offering a different type of bird food. Perhaps you can try mealworms to bring in bluebirds, or orange slices or nectar for orioles? Of course, you can also try black-oiled sunflower seeds, a favorite of most birds.
Learn about the birds in your area
Even just looking at photos of nature is enough to lower stress hormones. So grab a local field guide to learn about the different types of birds in your area. You can also check out fun nature videos like the ones we share on the Chirp YouTube channel.
Watch a live bird cam
Ever wonder what kinds of different birds they have across the US—or even the world? That’s the beauty of live bird cams: you don’t have to be there in person to enjoy a whole new world of birds. We have a few of our favorites to get you started.
Join a guided bird walk
Want to join some likeminded nature lovers, and get an instant dose of bird happiness? Join a guided group bird walk, like the ones we host monthly at the Chirp Nature Center. Bring a friend, or your entire family, for a trek through one of Big Bear Valley’s birding hotspots. Serotonin boost guaranteed!
