🚪 Knock Knock! Birdfy Home Visit Series Episode Six - Valerie’ s backyard 🏡

While in Montana, a friend reached out asking if I'd be anywhere near California in August and if so, would I be interested in joining her on two pelagic trips on the Pacific Ocean. A pelagic bird trip is one that takes place on a boat many miles off the coast targeting seabirds. It didn't take long for me to respond: “send me the dates and I'll figure it out”. I knew at that time I'd be on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington state and could easily grab a flight from SeaTac Airport to San Jose, California. I booked my tickets and started studying. Northern Gannets were the only species of seabirds I have experienced and I couldn't wait. As we arrived at the Fisherman's Wharf in Monetary California, the boisterous sounds of sea lions filled the air. Western Gulls were patrolling for dropped snacks, and Sea Otters were floating on their backs in the harbor. It was already a great day and I hadn't yet stepped foot on the boat. We gathered around the meeting area to hear the captain cover topics from what we may see to what we should do if we become seasick. It was time to board. As the boat slowly left the harbor, I had no idea of the new world of birds and marine mammals I was entering. My first life bird of the trip were flocks of Sooty Shearwaters. Over the two days I would encounter thousands of them. Occasionally I would look to the horizon and see what looked like rainbows. Those were all whale spouts from the monstrous creatures' blowholes coming to the surface to breathe. At one point, we came to a feeding frenzy of Shearwaters, whales, and seals. The boat was taken out of gear and several Humpback Whales surrounded the boat with one even being directly below. I had always wondered what it would be like to experience such a massive creature up close. Would I be scared? But it was the opposite. These massive mammals appeared to be curious. They turned on their sides to get a better look at the boat and a feeling of calm came over me. Like we were meant to meet out there. Occasionally one would dive, and its massive fluke would be the last thing seen before disappearing into the depths. They were gentle giants. One of the birds I most wanted to encounter on the trip was an albatross and that wish would soon come true when one of the spotters called out a Black-footed Albatross. Throughout the two days we would have many of them, some even landing near the boat and offering wonderful photography opportunities. In contrast, some species would only appear for a moment and then they were gone such as the Flesh-footed Shearwater and the Ashy Storm-Petrel. After seeing 22 life birds over the two days, there was one surprise left on the trip back on day two. A spotter yelled “Laysan Albatross on the horizon!” Wisdom, who is the oldest known wild bird, is a Laysan Albatross and never did I think one would be on this trip. I quickly looked back at the spotter to see where they were looking. I then turned in that direction and put my binoculars to my eyes. I think…maybe, maybe that's it? A giant white bird with a dark back so far out I couldn't make out much more than it was big. I watched as it appeared to either land or go out of sight due to the curvature of the Earth. It was that far away. A spotter saw I was leaning against the wheelhouse trying to steady my binoculars. They asked if I was on the bird. I said “I think so”. As the boat continued in the direction of the bird, I was finally confident. “I'm on it”. The captain asked if I was sure. “Yes, it is with two Black-footed Albatross sitting on the water”. “How sure are you? We're running late and it's out of our way” the captain said. “100%” was my answer. I couldn't put my binoculars down as I was the only person still on the bird. I could see two seals between me and the bird and told the captain to line them up. Finally another spotter saw the bird. It took about 20 minutes for the boat to get closer and the albatross just sat on the water and gave us incredible views. As I walked off the boat I was overjoyed that I not only received an invite for this trip, but also that I took my friend up on her kind offer. I've learned over the last few years that some of my most memorable birding moments are spontaneous outings with friends, and this was one of those. I started checking my camera and couldn't believe some of the shots I captured. I hope you enjoy them even a fraction as much as I did taking them. Joyful birding, everyone.

| By Gary S. Locatelli If you’ve ever watched birds on a hot day, you know how much they love a cool place to splash around. Discover fun, budget-friendly DIY bird bath ideas using everyday items. Learn how to make homemade birdbaths and attract more birds to your garden. In this guide, we’ll explore simple and creative homemade bird bath ideas, inspired by popular YouTube tutorials and practical tips. Whether you’re looking for a Dollar Tree DIY bird bath, a rustic upcycled version, or something sturdy like a DIY concrete bird bath, these projects will get you started. Why Make Your Own Bird Bath? It’s budget-friendly—most projects cost next to nothing. It’s eco-friendly—you can upcycle items instead of tossing them. It attracts more birds, giving you endless opportunities to enjoy birdwatching. Paired with a Birdfy Bath Pro or a Birdfy Cam, you can capture beautiful videos of birds splashing around. Birdfy Bath Pro - Solar-Powered Smart Birdbath with Fountain Birdfy Cam - Versatile Standalone Backyard Birdwatching Camera How to Make a Bird Bath? Making a DIY bird bath is simple, fun, and gives you the chance to add your own creative touch to the garden. Up next, we’ll walk you through five different DIY bird bath ideas with step-by-step instructions and the materials you’ll need — let’s get started! 1. Flower Pot Bird Bath (Stacked Planter Style) Inspired by this YouTube tutorial: What you need: 2–3 clay or plastic flower pots (different sizes) A large plant saucer or shallow bowl Optional: paint for decorating Steps: Turn the largest pot upside down as the base. Stack a smaller pot on top, right side up. Place the saucer or bowl on top to hold water. Paint or decorate to match your garden style. This stacked look adds height, making it easier for birds to spot. Plus, it’s sturdy and stylish! 2. Hanging Bird Bath with a Basket Inspired by this DIY idea on YouTube: What you need: A wire hanging basket (often sold for plants) A coconut liner or plastic liner A shallow bowl that fits inside Chain or rope for hanging Steps to make a hanging bird bath: Place the liner inside the basket. Set the bowl securely inside. Hang the basket from a tree branch, porch hook or the Birdfy Feeder Pole. Fill the bowl with fresh water. This creates a floating effect and looks beautiful in a garden or patio space. Hung on the Birdfy Feeder Pole and paired with a Birdfy Cam, you can enjoy videos of birds cooling off. 3. Upcycled Dish & Stand Bird Bath Inspired by this video tutorial: What you need: An old lamp base, plant stand, or even a candlestick holder A large shallow dish, pie pan, or serving bowl Outdoor-safe adhesive (if attaching permanently) Steps to make a upcycled bird bath: Clean and prepare the base stand. Place the dish on top, securing with adhesive if needed. Fill with water and set in a shady part of your garden. This version has a classic look and is perfect if you love homemade bird baths that blend into your yard décor. 4. DIY Concrete Bird Bath (For Durability) If you want a more permanent bird bath, concrete is a great choice. What you need: A large leaf (like rhubarb or hosta) Quick-set concrete A sand pile or mold Cooking spray Steps to make a concrete bird bath: Spray the leaf with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place it face down on a mound of sand. Spread wet concrete over the back of the leaf. Let it dry completely, then peel off the leaf. Set the concrete bath on a stand or directly in the garden. This creates a stunning, nature-inspired piece that lasts for years. 💡Having trouble cleaning? Check out our concrete bird bath cleaning guide! 5. Dollar Tree Bird Bath (Budget-Friendly!) For a quick and fun project, try a Dollar Tree DIY bird bath. What you need: Plastic planter pots or a plant stand A serving bowl or tray Hot glue or adhesive (optional) Steps: Turn a planter pot upside down as the base. Glue another pot or tray on top. Place a bowl on top to hold water. This is one of the cheapest and easiest DIY bird bath ideas, perfect for kids to help with. Bonus Tip: Keep Your Bird Bath Clean & Fun No matter which bird bath DIY ideas you choose, make sure to: Change the water every 2–3 days. Scrub the bath weekly to prevent algae. Place it in a shady spot to keep the water cool. Add a few pebbles or rocks so smaller birds can perch safely. And if you want to see your feathered visitors up close, pair your bath with the Birdfy Bath Pro – Smart Bird Bath with Camera. It automatically records videos of birds splashing around, so you don’t miss a moment. Or, if you already have a birdbath, the Birdfy Cam is a great way to capture their playful behavior in both feeders and baths. Final Thoughts Making a homemade bird bath is an easy, rewarding project that brings life and color to your backyard. From simple stacked pots to durable concrete designs, there’s an idea here for every budget and style. The best part? You get to enjoy hours of birdwatching right from your window. So gather some everyday items, get creative, and start building your own bird bath today. Your local birds will thank you—with songs, splashes, and visits all summer long!

Grandparents Day is a heartfelt holiday, a special time set aside to honor the immense love, support, and wisdom our grandparents give us. In the United States, it holds special significance. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter officially declared it a national holiday, celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day each year. In 2025, Grandparents Day will fall on September 7th. On this day of gratitude, giving a thoughtful gift is a meaningful way to show love and appreciation. In this guide, we’ve gathered 17 heartwarming, unique, and affordable Grandparents Day gift ideas to help you find the perfect present and bring joy to your grandparents. 17 Best Gifts for Grandparents For Nature Lovers 1. Birdfy Smart Bird Feeder If your grandparents love birdwatching or nature in general, a Birdfy Smart Feeder makes the best gift for grandma and grandpa for the daily nature discovery! The classic Birdfy feeder features a high-definition smart camera that captures crystal-clear feather-level details and records delightful visits from backyard birds, filling their mornings with cheerful birdsong and warm smiles. Its smart AI recognition makes it fun and effortless for them to learn about every feathered friend that stops by for a visit. 🎁 For more types of bird feeder gifts, please visit our Shop Center. 2. Birdfy Smart Birdbath The Birdfy Bath Pro is a smart birdbath designed for grandparents’ backyards. Each morning, your grandparents can relax as they watch birds splash and play in the water, bringing both vitality and serenity to their day. Beyond its beauty, this birdbath also provides the same smart birdwatching experience as Birdfy feeders—making it both a relaxing ritual and a connection to nature. 3. Gardening Tool Set For grandparents who enjoy tending to their garden, a gardening tool set is both practical and thoughtful. From pruning flowers to designing their backyard space, this kit makes every moment in the garden more enjoyable. A complete set may include essentials like a folding stool, gardening trowel, mini rake, shears, cleaning tools, gloves, watering can, and a storage box. It’s a useful grandparents day gift that encourages creativity, movement, and joy in everyday life. 4. Farmhouse Home Décor Farmhouse-style décor adds a touch of warmth and nostalgia to your grandparents’ home, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a meaningful gift that not only enhances their living space but also brings daily comfort and joy. 5. Hiking Poles A set of hiking poles makes a wonderful addition to any walker’s or hiker’s gear. They’re especially practical for grandparents, offering extra support for everyday strolls, park walks, or outdoor hikes. With many affordable options ranging from $20 to $50, they’re both thoughtful and budget-friendly. 6. Binoculars Binoculars are easier to use than cameras and make outdoor activities more enjoyable for grandparents. Whether it’s birdwatching, spotting wildlife, or simply taking in nature, binoculars are lightweight, portable, and won’t feel like a burden—just a simple way to bring the beauty of the outdoors closer. Warm Wishes 7. Digital Photo Frame A digital photo frame is a modern twist on the classic picture frame, effortlessly bridging the miles between you. Simply send photos directly to the frame using email or Wi-Fi, giving your grandparents the joy of seeing new family moments appear instantly. It’s a beautiful way to feel close, no matter where you are, and keeps them connected to your life in a heartfelt and visual way. 8. A Family Gathering Sometimes, the most meaningful gift is simply your presence. One 76-year-old grandfather once shared online that what he truly longs for isn’t material things but time with his family. This Grandparents Day, consider planning a family dinner, hosting a small get-together, or enjoying a cozy movie night together. The memories you create will be far more precious than any store-bought gift. 9. Family Portrait If your grandparents love to be active, plan a special day together. You could explore a beautiful park, wander through a favorite museum, or revisit a place that holds special meaning for your family. Hire a professional photographer to capture a family portrait that includes them. Such a photo, taken at a place they treasure, will become a lasting keepsake filled with love. 10. Cozy Pajamas Good sleep is essential for older adults, and a pair of soft, cotton pajamas can help grandparents relax and sleep better. Every time they put on these pajamas, they’ll be wrapped not only in comfort but also in your care and thoughtfulness. 11. Fuzzy Lap Blanket A soft lap blanket provides warmth and comfort while reading, watching TV, or taking a nap—especially during the cooler fall and winter months. It’s a practical yet heartwarming gift that grandparents will use every day. 12. Personalized Mug A mug may seem simple, but it carries warmth in everyday use. To make it extra special, you can customize it with a heartfelt message, a family photo, or even your grandparents’ names. Every sip of coffee or tea will remind them of your love. Leisure & Relaxation 13. Nostalgic Foods or Snacks from Their Youth Surprise your grandparents with the snacks or foods they used to enjoy when they were younger. These treats can spark fond memories and emotional connections, while also giving you a chance to sit down together and hear their fun childhood stories. 14. LEGO Sets LEGO isn’t just for kids — many sets are designed specifically for adults. Gifting a LEGO set for Grandparents Day is a fun and creative choice. You can either give them a set to build on their own or complete it yourself and present the finished piece as a unique display for their home, adding both charm and a touch of playful art. 15. Streaming or Music Subscriptions If your grandparents enjoy movies or music, consider gifting them a subscription service. Whether it’s Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, or another platform, it’s a thoughtful way to bring more entertainment into their daily lives. 16. Smart Speaker Do your grandparents love music or even dancing? A portable Bluetooth speaker or smart speaker lets them enjoy great sound anytime, anywhere — indoors or outdoors. It’s a simple yet delightful gift that brings music into their everyday moments. 17. Inspiring Books Books always make meaningful gifts. You might choose novels filled with emotion and rich storytelling. For something more personal, consider books that celebrate family bonds, like Grandparenting or Grandparents’ Day, which strengthen the connection between grandparents and grandchildren. How to Choose the Right Grandparents Day Present When thinking about the best Grandparents Day present ideas, start by considering their daily interests and habits. A gift that fits their lifestyle will always feel more personal and thoughtful. Pay attention to their health needs, convenience in everyday life, and the emotional value a present can bring. For grandparents who enjoy nature, consider a Birdfy smart feeder or new gardening tools. Meanwhile, for those who treasure family connections, a personalized keepsake is always a heartfelt and meaningful choice. Conclusion Grandparents Day is a special occasion to show gratitude and love for the wisdom and care grandparents bring into our lives. A Grandparents Day gift is more than just a material item—it carries emotional meaning and lasting memories. Whether you choose something practical, sentimental, or experience-based, the thought behind it is what truly matters. These Grandparents Day ideas can help you express your appreciation in a heartfelt way. If you’re looking for a meaningful and unique gift, the Birdfy smart feeder or birdbath makes a wonderful choice—it combines nature, technology, and joy, creating moments grandparents will cherish every day.