[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 16 (Wednesday, February 23, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: February 23, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                    NATIONAL WILD BIRD FEEDING MONTH

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                        HON. JOHN EDWARD PORTER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 23, 1994

  Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize February, one of 
the most difficult months in the United States for wild birds, as 
National Wild Bird Feeding Month. During this month, individuals are 
encouraged to provide food, water, and shelter to help wild birds 
survive. This assistance benefits the environment by supplementing wild 
bird's natural diet of weed seeds and insects. Currently, one third of 
the U.S. adult population feeds wild birds in their backyards.
  In addition, Mr. Speaker, backyard bird feeding is an entertaining, 
educational, and inexpensive pastime enjoyed by children and adults. 
Bird feeding provides a needed break from today's frantic lifestyles. 
Adults enjoy the relaxation and peacefulness afforded by watching 
birds--nature serves to relieve the stress and can get one's day going 
on a tranquil note.
  Young children are naturally drawn to the activities involved in 
feeding wild birds, which can serve as excellent educational tools. 
Children can identify different species of birds with a field guide and 
can learn about the birds' feeding and living habits. These 
observations can then provide excellent research opportunities for 
school projects and reports.
  Feeding wild birds in the backyard is an easy hobby to start and need 
not overtax the family budget. It can be as simple as mounting a single 
feeder outside a window and filling it with bird seed mix. For many 
people, the hobby progresses from there. They discover the relationship 
between the type and location of feeders, and the seeds offered in 
them, and the number and varieties of birds attracted. Parents can 
challenge an inquisitive child's mind as they explore together these 
factors in trying to encourage visits by their favorite birds.

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