The Big Yard $5 / month

The Big Yard is a Substack focusing on birdwatching from the author's yard during quarantine, emphasizing the connection with nature, observation of diverse bird species, and the personal joy and scientific contribution it brings. It explores the intricacies of bird behavior, environmental interactions, and citizen science.

Birdwatching Nature and Environment Citizen Science Wildlife Observation Quarantine Experiences

The hottest Substack posts of The Big Yard

And their main takeaways

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

235 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
  1. Observing and appreciating the beauty of birds in the yard, like Arizona Woodpeckers and Acorn Woodpeckers.
  2. Neighbors coming together to protect wildlife, like elf owls nesting in a power pole.
  3. Creative solutions, like building nest boxes for owls, can help preserve habitats.

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

235 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
  1. January brings a variety of bird species to the yard, like the pine siskin and other finches
  2. The author shares concerns about the nesting habitat of elf owls being affected by utility work
  3. Despite efforts to protect the owls' habitat, there is uncertainty about the outcome
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The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

314 implied HN points • 12 Oct 23
  1. The author enjoys birdwatching and fishing in nature
  2. Observing birds and fishing have similarities in focus and attention to detail
  3. The experience highlights the beauty and tranquility of nature

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

294 implied HN points • 16 Sep 23
  1. Birds and viruses can teach us about change.
  2. Even in isolation, connecting with nature like birdwatching can bring joy.
  3. Quarantine can have unexpected benefits, like focusing on health and hobbies.

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

255 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
  1. The Big Yard hosted 98 species of birds in September, a new record
  2. Notable bird sightings included a Flame-colored Tanager, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and Band-tailed Pigeons
  3. The author anticipates more bird observations in October at the Big Yard

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

235 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
🔬 Science Birdwatching Wildlife Nature
  1. The author observes various bird species in their yard, documenting their sightings and behavior.
  2. The yard attracts a diverse range of bird species, including flycatchers and woodpeckers.
  3. The author reflects on unexpected wildlife encounters and wonders what future sightings October may bring.

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

196 implied HN points • 19 Oct 23
  1. The author observes a variety of birds and their behaviors in their yard.
  2. Water scarcity attracts both birds and unwanted animals to the yard.
  3. The author encounters challenges with wildlife like skunks, bears, and coyotes in their living space.

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

235 implied HN points • 07 Sep 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Birdwatching Nature Animals
  1. The author shares observations from their yard and how wildlife interactions have been impacted by a severe monsoon season
  2. The author discusses using spray to deter skunks and the challenges of dealing with their presence in the yard
  3. A focus on the variety of bird species that visit the yard, highlighting the importance of intimacy with the environment

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

216 implied HN points • 29 Mar 23
  1. Turkey vultures rely heavily on their sense of smell to find carrion.
  2. Turkey vultures have an amazing ability to detect decaying matter, even better than other birds.
  3. Observations and experiments with turkey vultures challenge previous beliefs about their sense of smell.

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

196 implied HN points • 22 Mar 23
  1. The author shares a story about birdwatching in their yard and their experience with Facebook.
  2. The author encountered issues with their Facebook account being hacked and disabled.
  3. The author's daughters suggest focusing on blog subscriptions rather than using Facebook.

The Big Yard: Notes from a Pajama Birdwatcher

176 implied HN points • 06 Feb 23
  1. Birdwatching can contribute to citizen science by providing data points and breaking records.
  2. Platforms like eBird allow bird enthusiasts to track sightings worldwide and organize data effectively.
  3. Engaging in citizen science activities, even from home, can contribute to education, research, and conservation efforts.