Colorado Springs Birding, Nature & Local Gift FAQ
General Store Information:
Where is Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs located?
Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs is located at 2450 Montebello Square Drive, Colorado Springs, CO. We serve bird lovers throughout the Pikes Peak region and across southern Colorado.
Whether you are looking for bird seed, a new bird feeder, a bird bath, a Colorado nature gift, or just have a question about a bird visiting your backyard, we would love to see you!
How can I contact Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs?
You can visit us at 2450 Montebello Square Drive, Colorado Springs, CO, call us at 719-596-1819, or email us at [email protected].
If you aren't sure what bird food, feeder, bird bath, or other product is right for your backyard, please ask! Helping customers solve bird-feeding problems and enjoy the birds around them is one of our favorite parts of being a locally owned birding and nature store.
What are your store hours?
Our current store hours are:
Monday - Saturday: 9am-5:30pm
Sunday: 11am-3pm
Holiday hours and unexpected closures will be posted on our website and social media.
What holidays is Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs closed?
We are closed on select holidays so our team can spend time with family and enjoy a little time away from the store. Our regular holiday closures include:
New Year's Day, Easter, Mother's Day, Memorial Day, Father's Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
We also close annually for inventory from December 31 through January 2.
Holiday hours can occasionally change, so we recommend checking our website or social media before making a special trip around a holiday.
Can I shop Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs online?
Yes! You can shop with us online from anywhere in the United States. Our online store makes it easy to order many of the bird-feeding basics you need, including bird seed and other bird food, bird feeders, pole systems, bird baths, bird houses, and other backyard birding essentials.
We ship bird seed, bird feeders, and bird-feeding supplies anywhere in the United States, so you can support our locally owned Colorado Springs small business no matter where you are.
Our online store is a convenient place to find many of our most popular bird-feeding products, but our physical store carries so much more. When you visit us in Colorado Springs, you'll find a much larger selection of bird food, feeders, bird baths, houses, birding optics, nature gifts, books, products from local artists, and other items that may not be available through our online store.
And when you order from our local online store, your order isn't being picked and packed at a distant fulfillment warehouse. Our Colorado Springs team picks, packs, and ships your order right here from our store.
Do you offer curbside pickup or local delivery?
Yes! You can order online or call the store for curbside pickup or delivery orders.
Curbside pickup can be a convenient option if you know what you need but don't have time to come inside and shop. If you have questions about placing a curbside or delivery order, give us a call and we will be happy to help.
What is the Daily Savings Club (DSC)?
The Daily Savings Club® (DSC) is our annual membership program designed to help regular bird-feeding customers save money while supporting the birds and wildlife they love.
For $25 a year, Daily Savings Club members receive:
- 15% off the everyday price of bird and wildlife food for a full year.
- $10 in Bird Bucks for every $200 spent on purchases. Bird Bucks can be used toward future purchases.
- An additional 5% off sale prices on bird and wildlife food.
- A gift for joining or renewing, with options that can include free food or a donation to a local nonprofit.
Daily Savings Club memberships are specific to the Wild Birds Unlimited store where they are purchased. Because each Wild Birds Unlimited location is independently owned and operated, DSC memberships do not transfer to or provide benefits at other independently owned Wild Birds Unlimited stores.
The Daily Savings Club is about more than saving money. Our members also help us give back to the local community through donations to conservation and community organizations.
If you regularly purchase bird food, the Daily Savings Club can be a great way to save throughout the year while helping support the birds, wildlife, and community we all enjoy.
Do you offer feeder filling?
Yes! We offer bird feeder filling services to help make keeping your backyard feeders stocked a little easier.
We can arrange a one-time or recurring visits, including weekly service. We can also make arrangements to fill your feeders before a vacation or other extended absence.
A member of our staff will contact you the day before your scheduled visit to make sure you still need service and to arrange for the purchase of any additional food you may need.
Feeder filling costs $25 per visit within 5 miles of the store or $35 per visit within 10 miles. Daily Savings Club members receive an additional $5 off each visit. Customers provide the bird food used for the service.
To schedule feeder filling or ask questions about the service, call us at 719-596-1819 or email [email protected].
What is your return and exchange policy?
We want you to be happy with your purchase and confident that the products you bring home will work for you and the birds in your yard.
We gladly accept returns or exchanges of unused merchandise in or with its original packaging at any time after purchase. Food products cannot be returned, even if unopened, because we cannot verify how they have been stored or guarantee their freshness for another customer. Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Refunds are issued in the original form of payment or as store credit for the same amount paid. An original receipt is required unless the purchase is associated with the customer's name in our system. Returns and exchanges without a receipt may be eligible for store credit at the store's discretion.
We also offer warranty support on select products and can often help with feeder repairs and replacement parts. If you have a question about a product you purchased from us, please don't hesitate to contact the store. We are always happy to help troubleshoot a bird-feeding problem and find a solution whenever we can.
Do you offer gift cards?
Yes! Wild Birds Unlimited gift cards make a great choice for bird lovers, gardeners, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys watching the wildlife in their backyard.
Physical gift cards can be purchased in our Colorado Springs store or online. Wild Birds Unlimited gift cards can be used at participating Wild Birds Unlimited stores throughout the United States and Canada, making them a convenient gift even if the recipient doesn't live in Colorado Springs.
Has Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs won any local or industry awards?
Yes! We are incredibly proud to have been recognized both by our Colorado Springs community and by the bird-feeding industry.
In The Gazette's Best of the Springs 2025, Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs earned Gold for Best Gift Store and Bronze for Best Hobby Shop. We have also placed in both the Best Gift Store and Best Hobby Shop categories in other years, recognition that means a great deal to us as a locally owned Colorado Springs small business.
We have also been named a Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave multiple times, reflecting recommendations and support from people right here in our local community.
On the industry side, we are especially proud of our recognition from the Wild Bird Feeding Institute (WBFI). The WBFI's Best Retail Store award is open to bird-feeding retailers throughout the United States and Canada. Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs won the award in 2023, the award's inaugural year; was runner-up in 2024; and returned to win Best Retail Store again in 2025!
That recognition means a lot to our team because it reflects what we work hard to provide every day: exceptional bird-feeding products, knowledgeable help, education, and service, all while remaining deeply connected to our local community. We're incredibly grateful to every customer whose support has helped make our store both an award-winning Colorado Springs gift and hobby store and a trusted resource for people who love birds and nature.
What Do You Carry?:
What does Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs sell?
Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs specializes in high-quality bird food, bird feeders, bird baths, bird houses, and backyard birding supplies. We also carry birding optics, hummingbird supplies, nesting products, nature gifts, books, garden products, and a rotating selection of products from local and Colorado artists.
If you are searching for where to buy bird seed, bird feeders, bird baths, bird houses, or birding supplies in Colorado Springs, we can help you find the right products for the birds in your backyard.
But our store is about more than what is on the shelves. Our friendly staff has extensive experience with backyard bird feeding and birding, and we are happy to help you choose products, identify birds, solve feeding problems, and create a more bird-friendly yard!
What kinds of bird food do you carry?
We carry a wide variety of high-quality bird food designed with birds in mind, including seed blends, sunflower, peanuts, suet, Bark Butter, hummingbird food, and specialty foods.
Quality matters to us. Our bird foods are made with the highest-quality ingredients, with zero fillers and no artificial additives. We also avoid pesticides and herbicides in our bird foods because we believe the food you put out for your birds should be as wholesome as possible.
We also carry seasonal and specialty bird foods, including options designed for changing needs, reducing waste, limiting unwanted birds, and addressing common backyard bird-feeding problems. We can help you choose food based on the birds you want to attract, the feeder you have, the season, and any challenges you are experiencing in your yard.
What types of bird feeders do you carry?
We carry a wide variety of bird feeders for Colorado Springs backyards, including tube feeders, hopper feeders, platform feeders, suet feeders, hummingbird feeders, window feeders, squirrel-resistant feeders, and specialty feeders designed for particular types of food or birds.
We also carry feeder poles, baffles, mounting systems, and other accessories to help you create a complete feeding station.
Not sure which feeder is right for you? Tell us what birds you are hoping to attract, where you want to place the feeder, and what challenges you are dealing with. We can help you find a feeder that fits your yard and your birds rather than simply recommending the most expensive option.
Do you sell bird baths and fountains?
Yes! We carry a variety of bird baths, fountains, and other water products for backyards, patios, decks, and gardens.
All birds need water for drinking and bathing, so providing a clean, reliable water source can attract birds that may not visit your seed feeders!
We can help you choose the right bird bath based on your available space, how you want to mount it, and how easy it will be to maintain. We carry options including pedestal, deck-mounted, and pole-mounted bird baths.
Do you sell bird houses and nesting products?
Yes! We carry bird houses and nesting products designed to provide nesting opportunities for cavity-nesting birds.
Different bird species have different requirements for their nesting homes, including entrance-hole size, placement, habitat, predator protection, and proximity to food and water. We can help you choose a bird house that is appropriate for the birds in your area.
We also carry nesting platforms for species such as House Finches and American Robins, which build open nests rather than using traditional enclosed bird houses.
Do you carry hummingbird feeders and supplies?
Yes! We carry hummingbird feeders, hummingbird food, cleaning supplies, and accessories to help you attract and care for hummingbirds.
Colorado Springs is visited by several hummingbird species during the warmer months, generally from mid-April through October, including Broad-tailed, Black-chinned, Calliope, and Rufous Hummingbirds. We can help you choose the right feeder, learn how to prepare and maintain hummingbird nectar, and find the best location for your feeder.
Do you carry binoculars and other birding optics?
Yes! We proudly carry Nocs Provisions binoculars and other birding optics in a variety of styles and magnifications.
Our selection includes everyday binoculars, monoculars, and a convenient mini spotting scope. They are great for backyard bird watching, exploring Colorado trails, or heading out on a birding adventure.
Nocs offers optics that are practical and approachable for beginners while also providing options for experienced birders who are ready to upgrade their equipment. We carry a variety of colors and styles, and our team can help you compare different options and find the right fit for how you plan to use them.
Do you carry products to help make my yard more bird-friendly?
Yes! Creating a bird-friendly backyard involves much more than putting out a feeder.
We carry products that can help provide food, water, shelter, and nesting opportunities, including bird feeders, bird baths, bird houses, nesting products, feeder poles and baffles, pollinator-friendly plants and seeds, and other backyard habitat supplies.
We can also help you think through feeder placement, water sources, shelter, native plants, window safety, and other ways to make your yard a healthier and more welcoming place for birds and other wildlife.
Do you carry Colorado-themed nature products?
Yes! One of the things that makes our store unique is our selection of Colorado-themed nature gifts and products.
Our selection includes artwork, home décor, garden items, books, wildlife-themed gifts, and other products inspired by the birds, wildlife, landscapes, and natural beauty of Colorado. We also regularly feature work from local and Colorado artists and makers.
Our selection changes throughout the year, so there is often something new to discover when you visit.
Bird Feeding Questions:
What is the best bird seed for birds in Colorado Springs?
There isn't one bird seed that is best for every backyard or every bird. The best bird food for your Colorado Springs yard depends on the birds you want to attract, the type of feeder you use, where you live, and even the challenges you may be having at your feeders.
Different birds have different preferences. Chickadees, nuthatches, finches, woodpeckers, juncos, sparrows, and other common Colorado Springs birds don't all eat the same things, which is why choosing the right food can make such a noticeable difference in who visits your feeders.
We carry a wide variety of high-quality bird foods, and we can help you choose a food based on the birds you want to see and the way you like to feed them.
Sometimes the "best" bird seed is also the one that solves a particular problem. If you're tired of weeds growing beneath your feeders, want less waste, are feeding too many pigeons or starlings, or need help discouraging squirrels, we can recommend foods and feeders specifically for those situations.
Not sure what you need? Come talk to us! Tell us what birds you're seeing, what you'd like to attract, what feeder you're using, and what's driving you crazy. Helping people solve bird-feeding problems is one of our favorite parts of what we do.
What bird seed attracts the most birds in Colorado Springs?
Sunflower is one of the most widely enjoyed foods among backyard birds, but attracting a greater variety of birds usually means offering a variety of foods.
Different foods appeal to different species. Sunflower, peanuts, suet, and other specialty foods can each bring different visitors to your yard. The feeder you put that food in matters too.
Rather than simply trying to attract the greatest number of birds, we can help you choose foods that attract the birds you actually want to see.
What bird seed won't grow weeds under my feeder?
If you're tired of plants sprouting beneath your bird feeders, look for shell-free no-mess bird foods.
Much of what grows beneath a feeder comes from uneaten seeds that fall to the ground. No-mess blends use foods with the shells or hulls removed, so birds can eat more of what you're putting out and there is much less material left beneath the feeder. Because the shells and hulls have been removed, the bird food itself won't germinate beneath your feeder.
They're a great option for feeders over patios, decks, landscaped areas, and anywhere you simply don't want a pile of shells or germinating seed.
If weeds or mess beneath your feeders are a problem, ask us about our no-mess options and we can help you find one that works for the birds visiting your yard.
How should I store my bird seed?
Proper storage helps keep bird food fresh and keeps unwanted visitors like mice, squirrels, insects, and other pests from getting into it.
We recommend keeping bird food in a cool, dry location and using a tightly sealed container. Avoid leaving seed in an open bag where rodents can reach it, and remember that mice and squirrels can chew through many lightweight plastic containers.
We carry several bird seed storage solutions, including heavy-duty plastic and metal pails designed to help keep your food protected and make scooping and filling feeders easier.
It's also a good idea to buy an amount your birds will use within a reasonable period rather than storing large quantities for a long time. Fresh food is better for the birds, and good storage helps make sure more of the food you buy ends up in your feeders instead of becoming dinner for the mice!
Why are there moths, worms, or webs in my bird food?
Because our bird foods are not treated with pesticides, they can occasionally develop grain moths, beetles, weevils, or other stored-food insects. You may first notice small worm-like larvae or fine webbing before seeing adult moths.
Often, insect eggs are present in grain or seed from the original harvest and hatch later, especially in warm conditions. Insects can also come from outside sources and be attracted to the food.
While we completely understand not wanting these insects in your home, their presence does not necessarily mean the food is unusable. Many birds will happily eat the insects and larvae too!
To help prevent infestations, buy only as much food as your birds will eat within a few weeks and store it in a cool location outside your living space in a tightly sealed container.
If you find insects or webbing, you can eliminate the insects by freezing the food for five days. For larger amounts, divide it into smaller bags and remove what you need the day before feeding. Thoroughly clean and dry your storage container before adding fresh food.
And if you're unsure about something you find in your bird food, bring us a photo or give us a call. We're always happy to help!
How can I keep squirrels or raccoons away from my bird feeders?
There are several ways to discourage squirrels and raccoons, and the best solution depends on your yard and feeder setup.
Placement can make a huge difference. Properly positioned poles and baffles can prevent animals from reaching feeders from the ground, while squirrel-resistant feeders can help when placement alone isn't enough.
Food can also be part of the solution. Some bird foods use hot pepper ingredients that birds can eat but mammals generally avoid.
If you're battling squirrels or raccoons, bring us a photo of your feeder setup! Often we can spot the route they're using and help you figure out a solution without replacing everything you already own.
How can I discourage pigeons from taking over my bird feeders?
Pigeons can become frustrating when they dominate feeding areas or consume large amounts of food intended for smaller backyard birds.
Changing the type of food you offer, using feeders designed for smaller birds, adding cages, adjusting feeder placement, and reducing the amount of food that reaches the ground can all help.
There isn't necessarily one solution that works for every yard, so we like to look at the whole feeding setup. Tell us what you're feeding, what kind of feeder you're using, and how the pigeons are accessing it, and we can help you find ways to make your feeding station less attractive to them while continuing to feed the birds you enjoy.
How can I discourage starlings and other bully birds at my feeders?
Starlings can be persistent, but changing your food and feeder setup can often reduce the amount of time they spend at your feeding station.
Certain foods are less appealing to starlings than others, and cage-style feeders can allow smaller birds to reach food while limiting access for larger species. Adjusting what you feed, how you offer it, and where feeders are positioned can make a significant difference.
Before giving up on feeding altogether, come talk to us. We can help you troubleshoot your setup and find options that continue to support the birds you want without making things quite so easy for the ones taking over.
How do I choose the right bird feeder?
Start with the birds you want to attract.
Different feeder designs work better for different birds and different foods. Tube feeders, hopper feeders, platform feeders, suet feeders, hummingbird feeders, window feeders, and specialty feeders all serve different purposes.
Where you plan to put the feeder matters too. We can help you consider feeder location, available space, squirrels and other wildlife, the type of food you want to offer, ease of cleaning, and how close you'd like the birds to your favorite viewing spot.
You don't need to know exactly what you're looking for before you come in. Tell us what you'd like your backyard bird-feeding experience to be, and we'll help you build from there.
Where is the best place to put a bird feeder?
The best location balances visibility, bird safety, accessibility, and protection from predators and weather.
You'll want a location where you can watch and enjoy the feeders, where birds can comfortably approach the feeder, and where you can easily reach it for filling and cleaning. Nearby natural cover can give birds places to retreat, but feeder placement should also take predators and squirrels into consideration.
Windows are another important part of the decision. Depending on the location, feeders can sometimes be placed very close to windows to reduce the speed birds can build up before a collision, while other locations may require additional window-collision prevention measures.
Every yard is different. If you're not sure where your feeder should go, photos of your yard can be incredibly helpful. We're always happy to help you think through possible locations.
Should I feed birds year-round in Colorado Springs?
Yes! Birds can be fed throughout the year, and every season brings something different to the feeder.
Winter can be an especially valuable time to offer high-energy foods as birds cope with cold temperatures and shorter days. Spring brings migration and nesting season. Summer brings nesting birds, fledglings, and hummingbirds, while fall migration can introduce completely different visitors to your yard.
Changing what you offer throughout the year can help you meet birds' changing needs and can make backyard bird feeding even more interesting.
Do birds become dependent on bird feeders?
Wild birds generally use feeders for about 20% of their diet. They continue to forage for naturally occurring foods such as seeds, fruits, insects, and other resources.
That means you shouldn't feel guilty if you go on vacation or your feeder is empty for a little while. The birds know how to find food. And don't worry, having feeders available won't prevent birds from migrating when it's time for them to go!
Feeders are one way we can supplement the natural resources available in our yards while also getting an incredible opportunity to observe birds up close.
How often should I clean my bird feeders?
Regular cleaning is an important part of responsible bird feeding. How often depends on the feeder, weather, and amount of use, but here's a good rule of thumb:
For seed feeders:
- Give them a look and rinse about once a week.
- Thoroughly clean them every couple of months, or anytime they need it.
- For routine cleaning, use 1 part white vinegar to 10 parts water.
- For particularly dirty or greasy feeders, a little Dawn dish soap can help.
Always rinse thoroughly and let feeders dry completely before adding fresh food. Don't forget to clean trays and remove accumulated seed, shells, and droppings beneath your feeders, too.
Hummingbird feeders need extra attention:
- Never let nectar sit for more than 3 days.
- At 90°F or higher, change nectar every day.
- Clean the feeder every time you change the nectar.
Clean feeders + fresh food = healthier birds!
What should I do if I see a sick bird at my feeder?
If you notice a bird that appears sick, removing your feeders temporarily can help reduce the opportunity for birds to congregate closely in one location.
While the feeders are down, thoroughly clean and disinfect them, clean the area underneath them, and provide fresh, clean water in bird baths. Use 1 part bleach to 10 parts water when you clean after seeing a sick bird.
If you're unsure what you're seeing, you can always contact us. We can help you determine whether the behavior you're observing is unusual and point you toward appropriate bird-health or wildlife resources when needed.
How do I attract hummingbirds in Colorado Springs?
Hummingbirds can be attracted with a combination of nectar feeders, flowering plants, water, insects, and a bird-friendly habitat. A well-maintained hummingbird feeder provides an additional food source and an incredible opportunity to watch these tiny birds up close.
For homemade hummingbird nectar, the recipe is simple:
1 part plain white table sugar + 4 parts water
That's it! NO honey, brown sugar, organic sugar, dyes, or other additives. Extra nectar can be refrigerated for up to two weeks, and you don't need to fill your feeder completely if your hummingbirds aren't drinking it before it's time for a change.
Keeping nectar fresh is extremely important. Clean your hummingbird feeder every time you change the nectar, and change it more frequently as temperatures rise.
We can help you choose the right hummingbird feeder, safely make and maintain nectar, decide where to place your feeder, and add other features to your yard to make it more welcoming to hummingbirds.
When should I put hummingbird feeders out in Colorado Springs?
We recommend putting your hummingbird feeders out around Tax Day, April 15. Migration timing varies from year to year and can be influenced by weather, but having a clean feeder with fresh nectar ready means you'll be prepared when those first hummingbirds arrive.
And don't worry about leaving your feeder up in the fall. Keeping a hummingbird feeder available will not prevent hummingbirds from migrating. In fact, late-season feeders can provide an important food source for migrating hummingbirds passing through after some of our summer residents have already headed south.
We recommend keeping your feeder up until you haven't seen or heard a hummingbird for two weeks, which in Colorado Springs is usually sometime in mid to late October.
Will leaving my hummingbird feeder up keep hummingbirds from migrating?
No! Leaving your hummingbird feeder up will not prevent hummingbirds from migrating.
Migration is driven by natural cues and instinct, not by whether a feeder is available. Hummingbirds will leave when it's time for them to migrate, even if your feeder is still full of fresh nectar.
In fact, keeping your feeder up can help late-season migrants passing through Colorado Springs by giving them another place to refuel along their journey. Some of those birds may have traveled from much farther north and can pass through after the hummingbirds you watched all summer have already left.
So don't worry that you're convincing a hummingbird to stay behind. Keeping the feeder up isn't stopping migration. It's providing a pit stop for birds already on their way!
Can you help me figure out why birds aren't coming to my feeder?
Absolutely! This is exactly the kind of question we love helping with.
Sometimes the solution is as simple as changing the food, moving the feeder, or simply giving birds more time to discover it. It can take birds anywhere from a few minutes to a few months to discover a new feeder, so patience really is key!
Other times, there may be issues involving feeder style, nearby cover, predators, squirrels, spoiled food, seasonal bird movement, or changes in which birds are currently in the area.
Bring us photos of your feeder and yard if you can. Tell us what you're feeding, how long the feeder has been up, and what birds you're hoping to attract. We'll help you troubleshoot.
You don't have to buy something to ask us a bird question. Whether you're brand new to bird feeding or have been doing it for decades, we're always happy to talk birds!
Bird Baths, Habitat & Backyard Birds:
Do birds really need a bird bath?
Yes! Water is just as important to birds as food, and providing a reliable source of clean water can attract birds that may never visit a bird feeder.
Birds use water for both drinking and bathing. Bathing helps them maintain their feathers, which is important for insulation, flight, and overall feather condition.
A bird bath can be especially valuable in Colorado's dry climate, where natural sources of clean, accessible water aren't always easy to find.
What kind of bird bath is best?
The best bird bath is one that is shallow, easy to access, and easy to keep clean.
Birds don't need a deep pool of water. A shallow basin gives them a place to drink and bathe while allowing them to feel secure. A textured or gently sloping surface can also provide different depths and better footing.
Where you want to put your bird bath matters too. We carry a variety of bird baths and mounting options for yards, gardens, patios, and decks, and we're happy to help you find something that works for your space.
Where should I put a bird bath?
Choose a location where birds can easily see and access the water while still feeling safe.
Nearby shrubs, trees, or other cover can give birds somewhere to retreat after bathing, but avoid placing a bath where predators can easily hide and ambush visiting birds.
You'll also want to put it somewhere you can easily reach for cleaning and refilling. A beautiful bird bath isn't very useful to the birds if it's so inconvenient that keeping it clean becomes a chore!
How often should I clean my bird bath?
Bird baths should be dumped, rinsed, and refilled with fresh water every day or two, and given a thorough cleaning whenever you see algae, droppings, or other buildup. During hot weather or periods of heavy use, they may need attention even more often.
A copper disk placed in the bird bath can also help slow the growth of algae and some bacteria, making it easier to keep the water fresh between cleanings. It doesn't replace regular cleaning and fresh water, but it can be a helpful addition to your bird-bath routine.
Clean bath + fresh water = healthier birds!
Can I provide water for birds during the winter?
Absolutely! Birds still need water when it's cold, and finding accessible liquid water can become more difficult when natural water sources freeze.
A heated bird bath or bird bath heater can help keep water available during freezing Colorado Springs weather. Heated bird baths aren't meant to make the water warm. They simply help keep it from freezing.
Providing open water in winter can bring some wonderful visitors to your yard, including birds that may not be interested in your feeders.
Will a bird bath attract mosquitoes?
A properly maintained bird bath will not become a mosquito nursery.
Mosquitoes need standing water to complete their development, so regularly dumping, rinsing, and replacing the water interrupts that process. Moving water can also make a bird bath less attractive to mosquitoes while making it more noticeable to birds.
Keeping your bird bath fresh and clean is good for the birds and helps keep mosquitoes from getting established.
How can I attract more birds to my yard?
Think beyond the feeder!
A bird-friendly backyard provides the basic things birds need to survive: food, water, shelter, and places to raise their young.
Feeders and bird baths can supplement those resources, but your landscaping matters too. Trees, shrubs, grasses, flowers, and other plants can provide natural food, nesting sites, protection from weather, and places to hide from predators.
The more layers and resources your yard provides, the more useful it can become to birds and other wildlife.
Are native plants good for birds?
Yes! Native plants can be one of the best additions you can make to a bird-friendly yard.
Plants that are native to our region can provide seeds, berries, nectar, shelter, and nesting habitat. Just as importantly, native plants support insects, including the caterpillars and other invertebrates that many birds rely on for food.
Even a small amount of native habitat can help. You don't have to completely redesign your yard. Adding a few native flowers, grasses, shrubs, or other plants can begin providing additional resources for birds and pollinators.
Do birds need insects even if I feed them?
Yes! Bird feeders supplement natural food sources, but they don't replace a healthy habitat.
Many birds rely heavily on insects, particularly during nesting season when growing nestlings need protein-rich food. Even birds we think of as seed eaters may feed insects to their young.
Creating habitat that supports insects, especially native insects, is another way to support the birds visiting your yard.
Should I use pesticides if I want a bird-friendly yard?
If your goal is to create habitat for birds, reducing or avoiding pesticide (and herbicide) use whenever possible is a great place to start.
A bird-friendly yard doesn't have to be perfectly manicured or insect-free. Sometimes a few chewed leaves are a sign that your backyard ecosystem is doing exactly what it's supposed to do.
Do you sell bird houses, and will birds actually use them?
Yes! But not every bird uses a bird house.
Bird houses are designed primarily for cavity-nesting birds, and different species have different requirements for entrance-hole size, interior dimensions, placement, and habitat.
Other birds build open nests and won't use an enclosed bird house at all. Some of those may use nesting shelves or platforms instead; we can help with those options as well!
Choosing a house based on the birds you hope to attract is much more effective than simply choosing one because it looks cute. We're happy to help you find the right option and talk about where to place it.
How can I prevent birds from hitting my windows?
Windows can be dangerous for birds because reflections of sky, trees, and other habitat can make glass look like a clear path to fly through. The good news is that there are ways to make windows more visible to birds and reduce collisions.
For window treatments to work well, they should create a visible pattern across the outside surface of the glass, rather than relying on a single decal in the middle of a large window.
We carry several bird-friendly window solutions, including Window Gems, reusable prismatic window clings that help break up reflections while creating beautiful rainbows indoors, and Flock Blocker, a reusable template that makes it easy to create an effective dot pattern across your windows.
If you aren't sure what solution will work best for your windows, take a photo and bring it in. We're happy to help you figure out how to make your windows safer for birds while still preserving your view!
How can I make my backyard safer for birds?
Creating a bird-friendly yard isn't only about attracting birds. It's also about reducing some of the hazards they face.
Keeping feeders and bird baths clean, preventing window collisions, keeping cats indoors or otherwise safely contained, reducing pesticide use, providing appropriate cover, and maintaining healthy feeding areas can all make a difference.
You don't have to do everything at once. Small changes add up, and we're always happy to help you find practical ways to make your yard safer and more welcoming for birds.
What birds might I see in my Colorado Springs backyard?
One of the best things about backyard birding in Colorado Springs is the variety!
Depending on your neighborhood, habitat, elevation, and time of year, backyard visitors can include House Finches, Black-capped Chickadees, Mountain Chickadees, American Goldfinches, Pine Siskins, Dark-eyed Juncos, White-breasted and Red-breasted Nuthatches, Pygmy Nuthatches, Northern Flickers, Downy Woodpeckers, Mourning Doves, American Robins, jays, sparrows, hummingbirds, and Cooper's Hawks, among many others!
Migration can bring completely different visitors through the area in spring and fall, while some species are much more noticeable during winter or summer.
Part of the fun is that you never know exactly what might show up next!
Gifts, Books & Local Artists:
Do you sell gifts as well as bird-feeding supplies?
Absolutely! Bird feeding may be at the heart of what we do, but we're also a gift store for bird lovers, nature lovers, and anyone who loves Colorado.
You'll find a constantly changing selection of gifts, home and garden décor, artwork, books, puzzles, games, jewelry, accessories, children's items, and plenty of things that are simply fun.
Whether you're shopping for a serious birder, gardener, nature lover, Colorado enthusiast, curious kid, or that person who is impossible to shop for, there's a good chance we can help you find something.
And yes, it's completely okay to come into Wild Birds Unlimited and leave without buying anything for the birds!
Do you carry gifts made by local Colorado artists and makers?
Yes! Supporting local is a huge part of who we are.
Throughout the store you'll find products from Colorado Springs and Colorado artists, authors, makers, and small businesses. Our selection can include artwork, pottery, jewelry, cards, books, home and garden décor, and other locally made gifts.
Our local selection changes regularly as artists bring us new work, so there's almost always something different to discover.
When you purchase one of these pieces, you're doing something pretty special: you're supporting a local artist and a locally owned small business at the same time!
Do you sell outdoor art and garden gifts?
We do! Our love of birds tends to spill over into the rest of the backyard.
We carry a changing selection of outdoor art, garden décor, and nature-inspired gifts for gardens, patios, porches, and other outdoor spaces. You'll find pieces that celebrate birds, wildlife, nature, Colorado, and sometimes things that are just colorful, beautiful, or fun.
If you're looking for outdoor art or unique garden gifts in Colorado Springs, we're definitely worth exploring.
Do you sell books about birds and nature?
Definitely. We're bird people, nature people, and, admittedly, book nerds!
We carry books for birders and nature lovers of all ages, including field guides, bird and wildlife books, nature writing, children's books, and books about Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region.
We're especially happy when we can feature local nature authors and books with connections to Colorado.
Whether you need a field guide, a gift for a bird lover, a book for a curious kid, or just your next good nature read, we're always happy to talk books.
Is it true that you have a lending library?
Yes! Because as much as we love selling books, we also believe good books are meant to be shared.
Our free lending library gives customers another way to explore birds, wildlife, and the natural world. We also have birding books and field guides for destinations around the world, making our lending library a great stop before your next trip. Borrow a guide to help you learn what birds you might encounter at your destination, then bring it back when you return.
Whether you're exploring close to home or heading somewhere completely new, take a look at the library before you go. You might just find the perfect travel companion!
Do you carry books and gifts for kids?
Absolutely! Helping kids become curious about birds, wildlife, and nature is something we love.
We carry a selection of children's books, games, puzzles, activities, educational products, and nature-themed gifts for young nature lovers.
Sometimes all it takes is the right book, activity, pair of binoculars, or close encounter with a backyard bird to spark a lifelong interest in nature.
Do you offer children's story times or activities?
Yes! Our monthly kids' reading and craft time combines two things we love: books and nature.
It's always free to attend and normally held on the first Saturday of each month, although the schedule can occasionally change around holidays or special events. We read a nature-themed children's book together and pair it with a related craft or activity to take home.
These events are designed to be fun, welcoming, and accessible. Kids don't need to know anything about birds to participate. Curiosity is enough!
Check our current events before visiting for the latest date, time, and featured story.
Can you help me find a gift for a bird lover?
Absolutely! And you don't need to know anything about birds yourself.
Tell us a little about who you're shopping for and your budget. Whether they're a backyard bird feeder, serious birder, gardener, nature lover, book lover, or someone who simply enjoys watching wildlife outside the window, we can help you find something.
And if you're completely stumped, Wild Birds Unlimited gift cards are always an option!
Is Wild Birds Unlimited a good place to find unique gifts in Colorado Springs?
We certainly think so, and we're incredibly proud that our community seems to agree!
In addition to everything for the birds, you'll find local art, Colorado-made products, books, outdoor and garden décor, nature gifts, children's items, and unusual finds that you may not expect to discover in a bird store.
We're especially proud to have earned Gold for Best Gift Store in The Gazette's Best of the Springs 2025, as well as placing in the Gift Store category in other years.
So whether you're searching for a unique gift store in Colorado Springs, gifts for bird lovers, Colorado gifts, local artists, local authors, or outdoor art, come wander around. You definitely don't have to be a birder to find something you love here.
Birding & Education:
I'm new to birding. Can you help me get started?
Absolutely! You don't need to know anything about birds before you walk through our door.
Whether you've just noticed your first interesting bird outside the kitchen window, want to learn the names of the birds visiting your feeders, or are ready to pick up a pair of binoculars and head out on the trail, we're happy to help.
We can help with bird identification, choosing binoculars and field guides, learning what birds you might see around Colorado Springs, finding local places to go birding, and connecting with other resources in the birding community.
There is no test, no required level of knowledge, and no such thing as a silly bird question. Birding starts with noticing a bird and wanting to know more about it.
Can you help me identify a bird?
Absolutely! Bring us a photo if you have one, even if it isn't a great photo. A blurry picture can sometimes tell us more than you might think!
If you couldn't get a photo, tell us what you remember. Size, shape, color, markings, behavior, habitat, location, time of year, and even the sounds you heard can all provide clues.
We're always happy to help with bird identification, and if we don't immediately know the answer, we're pretty happy to have a bird mystery to solve.
Is there an app that can help me identify birds?
Yes! One of our favorite resources is Merlin Bird ID, a free app from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Merlin can help identify birds using a series of questions, photos, and even sounds. Its Sound ID feature can listen to the birds around you and suggest possible matches, making it a fantastic tool for learning bird songs and calls.
It's especially useful when you're beginning to notice just how many birds you can hear that you never actually see.
Apps are wonderful tools, but they aren't infallible. Think of an identification as a suggestion to investigate rather than a guarantee, especially when identifying unusual birds.
Where are the best places to go birding in Colorado Springs?
We're fortunate to have some fantastic birding opportunities throughout Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region.
Where you should go depends on what you'd like to see, the season, how far you want to travel, and what kind of trail or experience you're looking for. From neighborhood parks and open spaces to wetlands, grasslands, foothills, and mountain habitats, you can experience an incredible variety of birds without traveling very far.
Stop in and tell us what kind of birding adventure you're looking for. We're always happy to talk about local birds and places to find them.
How can I learn what birds are being seen around Colorado Springs right now?
Bird populations change constantly with migration, weather, and the seasons, so what's being seen around Colorado Springs today may be quite different from what you'll find a few months from now.
Birding apps, local birding groups, community reports, and conversations with other birders can all help you keep up with what's around.
And, of course, you can always ask us! One of the benefits of being a local bird store is that customers are constantly telling us what they're seeing, from the first hummingbird of spring to an unusual visitor that suddenly appeared at a backyard feeder.
Do you offer birding classes or educational events?
Yes! Education is a big part of what we do.
Throughout the year we host and participate in educational programs, presentations, bird walks, special events, and opportunities to learn more about birds, wildlife, conservation, and the natural world.
Topics and events change throughout the year, so check our current event calendar or follow us on social media to see what's coming up.
Many of our events are free or low-cost because we believe learning about birds and nature should be accessible to as many people as possible.
Can someone from Wild Birds Unlimited speak to my school, club, or organization?
Yes! We love sharing our enthusiasm for birds and nature with the community.
We may be available for educational talks and presentations for schools, classrooms, clubs, community groups, and other organizations. Topics can vary depending on your group and what you'd like to learn about.
If you're interested in arranging a presentation, contact us at [email protected] and tell us a little about your group, audience, and what you have in mind.
Do I need to be an experienced birder to attend your events?
Not at all! We want our events to be welcoming to everyone.
Birding is supposed to be enjoyable. You don't need expensive equipment, a life list, or years of experience to participate.
Beginners are always welcome.
Do you support accessible and inclusive birding?
Yes! We believe birds and nature should be accessible to everyone.
People experience nature in many different ways and with different abilities. Birding doesn't have to mean hiking miles down a difficult trail. It can happen from a bench, a window, a backyard, a vehicle, an accessible trail, or simply by listening.
We are proud to support Birdability and its work to help make birding and the outdoors more accessible and inclusive.
We also believe there's no single "right" way to enjoy birds. If watching a chickadee at your kitchen window brings you joy, you're birding.
Can you recommend birding resources around Colorado Springs?
Absolutely! One of the advantages of visiting a locally owned bird store is that we can connect you with more than products.
We can help point you toward local birding organizations like Aiken Audubon Society, field guides, birding apps, accessible birding resources, conservation groups, educational programs, local events, and places to explore.
We're also happy to connect people with organizations doing great work in our community. Birding becomes even more rewarding when it leads to learning about the habitats, conservation efforts, and people helping protect the birds we enjoy.
Do I have to be a customer to ask you a bird question?
Absolutely not.
You don't need to buy bird seed, own a feeder, or purchase anything at all to come in and ask us questions!
Bring us your photo. Tell us about the strange sound outside your window. Ask what kind of hawk is hanging around your neighborhood. Ask where you might find a particular bird or how to get started birding.
We may be a retail store, but education is part of who we are. If we can help someone learn something new about a bird, appreciate the wildlife around them, or feel more connected to nature, that's a pretty good day at Wild Birds Unlimited!
Community, Conservation & Local Impact:
Is Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs locally owned?
Yes! Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs is locally owned and operated. Our store has been part of the Colorado Springs community since 1991, and our current owners, Heather and Shelley, have operated the store since 2021.
We are also part of the Wild Birds Unlimited franchise, and we're proud to be both. Being part of Wild Birds Unlimited gives us access to outstanding bird-feeding products, research, resources, and expertise, while being locally owned means the decisions about how we participate in our community happen right here in Colorado Springs.
The people working in our store live here. We bird here. We support local organizations, work with local artists, participate in local conservation efforts, and care deeply about what happens in the Pikes Peak region!
At our heart, we are a local small business with the resources of a larger bird-feeding family behind us.
How does Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs give back to the community?
We're so glad you asked! Giving back isn't something we save for a special occasion. It's part of how we operate our business.
Throughout the year, we support local conservation organizations, wildlife rehabilitation, environmental education, community nonprofits, local events, and other causes that make a difference in our region.
That support can take many forms, including financial donations, product donations, sponsorships, fundraising, educational programs, event partnerships, food drives, and simply using our space and our voice to help local organizations reach more people.
We also look for ways to respond when our community has an immediate need. Sometimes that means collecting supplies. Sometimes it means helping raise money. Sometimes it means finding a way to connect our customers with an organization doing important work.
We can't support every cause, but we believe a local business should be an active part of the community that supports it.
What conservation organizations does Wild Birds Unlimited support?
We work with and support a variety of organizations involved in birds, wildlife, habitat, conservation, climate, accessibility, education, and land protection.
These relationships can change and grow over time, but organizations we have supported or partnered with include Aiken Audubon Society, Palmer Land Conservancy, Southern Plains Land Trust, Colorado Climate Advocates, and Restored Lands Nonprofit, along with wildlife rehabilitation organizations and other local and regional nonprofits.
Sometimes that support is financial. Other times it may involve sponsorships, events, education, fundraising, donated products, volunteer involvement, or helping introduce our customers to an organization's work.
We believe conservation works best when people and organizations work together.
Does shopping at Wild Birds Unlimited help support local causes?
Yes, in more ways than you might realize.
When you shop with us, you're supporting a locally owned Colorado Springs business that intentionally reinvests in its community.
Your purchases help make it possible for us to sponsor events, donate to local organizations, support conservation projects, provide educational programming, work with local artists and makers, donate products and supplies, and respond when organizations in our community need help.
And when you purchase something created by one of the local artists, authors, or makers we carry, your purchase supports another local business or individual too.
We know you have choices about where you spend your money, and we're incredibly grateful when you choose to spend it with us.
How does the Daily Savings Club help local organizations?
Our Daily Savings Club isn't only about saving money on bird food. It also gives us another opportunity to give back.
Throughout the year, we use our DSC program to support local conservation and community organizations. Joining or renewing can include the option of directing the value of a membership gift toward a local nonprofit, and our store uses the program as another way to connect bird feeding with conservation and community support.
It's a simple idea: saving money on the food you buy for your birds can also help something good happen in the community.
Do you support wildlife rehabilitation?
Yes. Wildlife rehabilitators do incredibly difficult and important work caring for injured, orphaned, and displaced wildlife, and we're proud to support that work when we can.
Our support has included donations, fundraising, supplies, partnerships, and opportunities for wildlife organizations to connect directly with our customers through educational events.
Live educational birds can also create a powerful connection. Seeing a hawk, owl, or other raptor up close and hearing its story can turn curiosity into understanding, and understanding into a desire to protect wildlife and habitat.
Do you support causes beyond birds?
Absolutely.
Birds may be what brought many of us together, but a healthy community and a healthy environment are much bigger than birds alone.
Over the years, our community involvement has included organizations and projects related to wildlife, habitat, conservation, climate, accessibility, education, food insecurity, and other local needs.
We believe being a responsible local business means paying attention to the community around us and helping where we reasonably can.
How does Wild Birds Unlimited support local artists and other small businesses?
One of our favorite ways to support local is simply to make room for other local people to succeed.
We carry work from Colorado Springs and Colorado artists, authors, makers, and small businesses throughout our store. That means when you choose a locally created gift, artwork, book, or other product, you're supporting more than our store. You're also supporting the person who made it.
We also collaborate with local organizations and businesses for events, programs, and community projects whenever opportunities make sense.
We don't believe small businesses have to exist in competition with one another. We strongly believe we can help build a better local community by supporting each other.
Do you donate to local organizations or community events?
Yes! We regularly receive requests for donations, sponsorships, and community partnerships.
While we aren't able to say yes to every request, we especially look for opportunities connected to birds, wildlife, conservation, education, accessibility, the environment, and our local community.
One of the most rewarding projects we do is donating a complete bird-feeding setup to local organizations where it can help people connect with birds and nature. We've donated feeding stations and supplies to places including the Ronald McDonald House, a local memory care community, our neighbors at GiGi's Playhouse, and local nature centers. We love knowing that these feeders can bring a little bit of nature closer to people who may not always have an easy opportunity to get outside and experience it.
And we're always looking for the next place where a feeder could make a difference! If you know of a local nonprofit, school, care facility, community organization, or other deserving location that could benefit from a bird-feeding setup, please encourage them to reach out to us.
For donation or sponsorship requests, or to suggest a location for a feeding station, contact us at [email protected] and tell us a little about your organization, project, or idea.
Why does a store care so much about conservation?
Because you can't care about birds without eventually caring about the places they live.
Putting out a feeder can seem like a small thing. But then you start learning the chickadees in your yard. You notice when the hummingbirds return. You watch a pair of birds build a nest. You learn where they migrate and what they need along the way.
Before long, those birds aren't just background scenery anymore.
That's one of the things we love most about backyard bird feeding. Connection can lead to curiosity, curiosity can lead to understanding, and understanding can lead to conservation.
We don't expect everyone who walks into our store to become a conservationist. We just hope that helping people experience birds a little more closely gives them another reason to care about the natural world around them.
Why should I support a locally owned small business like Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs?
Because where you shop can have an impact far beyond what you take home.
Shopping locally helps support local jobs, local artists, local organizations, community events, conservation projects, educational programs, and the people who live and work in your community.
At Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs, we want the money our community spends with us to do more than keep our doors open. We want some of it to find its way back out those doors and into the community through partnerships, donations, education, conservation, and support for other local people doing good work.
We're incredibly grateful to everyone who chooses to shop with us. Your support allows us to support others!
Still have a question? Come see us!
Stop by Wild Birds Unlimited of Colorado Springs, give us a call, send us an email, or bring in that blurry bird photo you've been trying to identify.
Whether you need help with your feeders, want to learn more about the birds in your backyard, or just need to tell someone about the really cool bird you saw this morning, we're always happy to talk birds!

