Whistling is one of the most effective ways to call birds. By mimicking certain bird calls and songs through whistling, you can attract a variety of bird species to your yard or outdoor space. The key is learning the specific whistles that different birds respond to and understanding when and how to use them properly.
Why Use Whistling to Call Birds?
There are several advantages to using whistling rather than recordings or other methods to call birds:
- Whistling is an organic sound that birds instinctively recognize and respond to
- It allows you to actively participate in the bird calling experience
- You can easily adjust tone, tempo, volume as needed in the moment
- It’s free and easy – no equipment required
- Fun way to interact with and attract various bird species
In short, whistling puts you in control of creating lifelike bird vocalizations to draw birds in. It’s an inexpensive yet effective technique for any birding or backyard bird enthusiast.
How to Whistle Like a Bird
Whistling like a bird takes practice, but anyone can learn with some dedication and by understanding a few key techniques:
Use the Correct Whistle Type
There are two main types of whistles to master:
- Pucker whistles – Made by pursing lips together and blowing out; good for lower, fuller sounds
- Teeth whistles – Made by blowing air over edges of front teeth; create higher, crisp sounds
Try both types and see which feels most natural and allows you to whistle clearly. You may need both for different bird sounds.
Whistle from the Diaphragm
Don’t just blow out a quick burst of air. Breathe deep into your belly and use steady exhales from your diaphragm to whistle slowly and evenly. This creates a fuller, more consistent tone.
Listen to Actual Bird Vocalizations
Study recordings of real bird calls and songs you want to imitate. Pay attention to variations in pitch, pace, trills, etc. Visualize how to shape your mouth to recreate those sounds.
Start with Simple Calls
Don’t jump right into complex bird songs. Begin with basic contact calls, which often use just 1-3 clear notes. Examples are chickadee “dee-dee-dee” and cardinal “what-cheer cheer.” Practice these repeatedly before tackling more elaborate melodies.
Whistle Every Day
Daily short practice sessions allow your mouth muscles to strengthen and your whistling skill to steadily improve. Set time aside to work on different bird calls – even just 10-15 minutes a day can make a big difference.
When to Whistle for Birds
Timing is key when whistling to call birds. Follow these tips to maximize your chances of success:
- Early morning – Many birds actively sing at dawn as they search for mates and mark territory
- Late afternoon – Increased activity again at dusk as birds prepare to roost for the night
- Year-round – Whistling can attract birds during any season, though mating and migration seasons are peak times
- Before feeding – Whistle before putting out food to draw birds’ attention
- Still weather – Less wind allows whistles to be heard more clearly over greater distances
Avoid whistling excessively or at night when birds are sleeping. Be patient – it may take days or weeks of regular whistling at optimal times before some bird species respond and make an appearance.
What Birds Can You Call with Whistles?
Here are some common garden birds and examples of how to whistle to get their attention:
Bird | Whistle Tip |
---|---|
Chickadees | Mimic “dee-dee-dee” calls with a simple 3-note ascending whistle |
Crows | Recreate “caw caw” sounds with short, guttural puckered whistles |
Cardinals | Whistle “what-cheer cheer” notes |
Blue Jays | Loud, raspy whistles to mimic their harsh “jay jay” calls |
Sparrows | Quick back-and-forth teeth whistling for chatty “chirp” calls |
Robins | Mimic ascending whistle of “cheerily cheer up cheerio” song |
Remember to keep practicing the unique whistle associated with each species. Consistency is key to having the birds recognize and respond to your whistled renditions of their vocalizations.
Whistling Tips for Specific Birds
Northern Cardinals
The Northern Cardinal’s “what-cheer cheer” call is a perfect starter whistle. Say it slowly, then try to mimic the sliding pitch with a long puckered or teeth whistle sustaining each note. Whistle louder and more insistently during spring mating season.
Black-Capped Chickadees
Chickadees are highly food-motivated, so whistle their familiar “dee-dee-dee” call before putting out sunflower seeds or other treats. Use short, discrete whistles replicating their tempo and pitch. Whistle patiently and repeatedly to pique their curiosity.
American Crows
Crows are intelligent and may approach a well-whistled version of their “caw” call. Use very short, gravelly-sounding puckered whistles. Whistle sporadically at different volumes to mimic real crows and keep them interested.
Mourning Doves
Doves coo a mournful “ooah-oo-oo-oo” song to attract mates. Blow a slow, sad-sounding whistle that rises and falls. Do this consistently early in the morning when doves are most active and vocal.
Black-billed Magpies
Magpies make a distinct “mag mag” call. Whistle sharply with teeth exposed to replicate the raspy chatter. Be persistent – magpies are intelligent but wary, so earning their trust through regular whistling takes time.
Tufted Titmice
Titmice sing a variable song like “peter-peter-petey”. Whistle short phrases of ascending notes using teeth, pausing between each phrase. Focus on crisp, clear notes at the exact pitch of titmouse vocals.
How to Attract Birds Once You’ve Called Them In
It takes skill to reliably whistle specific bird calls, but the technique really pays off when birds actually appear. Here are some tips to keep birds interested once you whistle them into your yard:
- Have feeders filled and ready – Offer favorites like sunflower seeds, suet, nyjer
- Provide a water source – Dripping hose, fountain, bird bath
- Don’t make sudden moves – Let the birds adjust to your presence
- Sprinkle extra feed – To reinforce flocking to your whistle
- Sit quietly and observe – Enjoy the show as birds move in and dine
- Resist over-whistling – Use just enough to keep them around
- Whistle again next time – So birds associate your yard with reward
With the right habitat and positive reinforcement, the birds you call in through whistling will remember the location and keep coming back.
Conclusion
Whistling to call birds takes some learning and regular practice, but the payoff is huge in attracting amazing avian species to your yard or garden. Start by listening to recordings of bird vocalizations you want to imitate. Master basic contact call whistles before attempting more complex songs. With daily repetition and proper technique, you’ll be whistling like the birds in no time. Then just whistle at optimal times such as early morning or dusk to bring your new skills to life. When birds appear, have feeders full and use additional whistles intermittently to keep them coming back again and again.