Suet for Birds: What It Is, When to Start, Which Feeder
Nearly half of Cornell's 98 common feeder birds take suet, and three will use nothing but a cage. What it is, when to start, and which feeder to hang.
Hilly Shore Labs7 min·September 4, 2026
The Blog
Birding guides & honest gear advice
Practical, jargon-free birding advice — gear comparisons, backyard how-tos, and the answers to questions every new birder has. No fluff, no gatekeeping.
Showing 8 posts tagged #buying-guide
How to Choose a Bird Bath: What Actually Matters
The ornamental concrete pedestal is the bird bath most people buy and the one Cornell steers you away from. Depth, texture and cleanability decide it.
Hilly Shore Labs6 min·August 31, 2026
Compact Binoculars: The Exit-Pupil Trade Nobody Explains
Compact binoculars trade away dawn light. We compare exit pupil, weight and price across five 8x25-8x32 pairs, and say when to buy full-size.
Hilly Shore Labs5 min·July 28, 2026
Bird Buddy vs Birdfy vs FeatherSnap (2026): Which Wins?
Smart feeders that snap photos and ID birds for you. We compare Bird Buddy, Birdfy, FeatherSnap, and a value pick to find the real winner.
Hilly Shore Labs5 min·July 19, 2026
How to Choose Your First Birding Binoculars Under $200
You don't need to spend a fortune on your first pair. Why 8x42 wins under $200, the specs that matter, and how to actually use them in the field.
Hilly Shore Labs4 min·July 19, 2026
8x42 vs 10x42 Binoculars for Birding: Which Wins?
8x42 is the right pick for most birders — wider view, steadier image, brighter in shade. 10x42 suits open country and raptors.
Hilly Shore Labs3 min·July 19, 2026
Do You Need a Spotting Scope? When It's a Waste of Money
You don't need a spotting scope to start birding — get binoculars first. When a scope is worth it, when it's wasted money, and what to buy instead.
Hilly Shore Labs3 min·July 19, 2026
Heated Bird Baths: Do You Actually Need One?
In freezing climates, open water is one of winter's rarest resources — a heated bath makes your yard a magnet from December to February. In mild regions, skip it.
Hilly Shore Labs3 min·July 19, 2026