UW-Whitewater Bird Camera — Live Webcam Online
University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and Its Natural Surroundings
The University of Wisconsin–Whitewater (UW-Whitewater) is located in the scenic city of Whitewater, Wisconsin, USA. The university campus sits within a unique natural region — Kettle Moraine State Forest, which serves as an important corridor for migratory birds in spring and fall. This area supports numerous resident bird species year-round, making it an ideal location for birdwatching.
The city of Whitewater got its name from the white sand in the bed of the local Whitewater Creek. Today, the city boasts 22 parks and 4 lakes, creating an extensive network of wildlife observation spots. The university actively uses this natural wealth for educational and research purposes.
The University Bird Camera: A Window into the World of Birds
A dedicated UW-Whitewater Biology Nature Cam has been installed on campus, providing a live stream of birds in their natural habitat. This webcam allows viewers to observe birds in real time without disturbing their daily routines.
The camera is mounted on a wooden structure in the campus garden area and is aimed at a special feeding station. This is more than just a broadcast — it's a unique opportunity for students, researchers, and bird enthusiasts from around the world to study avian behavior, feeding preferences, and social dynamics.
Which Birds Visit the Feeder in Whitewater
Wisconsin is renowned for its diverse bird population. The university feeding station hosts many species characteristic of this region. Among the regular visitors are Northern Cardinals with their bright red plumage, American Robins, and Black-capped Chickadees.
The camera frequently captures birds with black-and-white plumage and a red breast — these are Pine Grosbeaks, which draw attention with their striking contrast. The feeders are also visited by yellow-orange birds, sparrows, and other small songbirds. Species diversity varies depending on the season and time of day.
Feeder Types and Their Visitors
The feeding station on camera is equipped with several types of feeders, allowing it to attract the maximum diversity of birds. The setup includes:
• A hanging orange nectar feeder shaped like an orange slice
• A black mesh feeder for suet and seeds
• A red tube feeder on the left
• Two wooden trays filled with seeds
This approach aligns with ornithologists' recommendations for attracting birds. As experts note, to maximize bird diversity in Wisconsin, it is recommended to use tube feeders, platform feeders, and window feeders. Different bird species prefer different designs: some like to perch on dowels, while others cling to mesh surfaces.
Feeds and Their Impact on Species Composition
The variety of feed at the station directly influences which birds visit the feeders. Black oil sunflower seeds attract cardinals, chickadees, and nuthatches, while Nyjer seeds draw American Goldfinches. Each type of feed has its own "target audience" among birds.
The wooden trays on camera are filled with various seeds, creating conditions for feeding birds of different sizes and with different dietary preferences. This is important for maintaining biodiversity on campus and attracting both resident and migratory species.
Seasonal Bird Activity at the Feeder
Bird activity at the feeding station changes with the seasons. In spring and fall, migratory species can be observed using the campus territory as a stopover for rest and refueling during long flights. In summer, the feeders are visited by local nesting birds feeding their young.
In winter, the feeding station takes on special significance — during the cold period, many birds depend on artificial food sources. It is at this time that the cameras record the greatest species diversity, as birds are forced to expand their diet and visit feeders they previously ignored.
Night Bird Observation
An interesting feature of the bird camera is the opportunity to observe nocturnal species. Wisconsin is home to nocturnal bird species, including owls, nightjars, and marsh birds adapted to life in the dark. Although the main activity at the feeder occurs during daylight hours, the night camera can capture the appearance of these elusive inhabitants.
Night bird observation has practical significance for species conservation. Data collected during peak nocturnal bird activity create valuable records for conservation efforts and nocturnal mapping. This is especially important in the context of climate change and the reduction of natural habitats.
Environmental Education and Research
The University of Wisconsin–Whitewater bird camera is not just entertainment — it is a serious educational tool. The university offers a bachelor's program in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior (Biology - Ecology, Evolution and Behavior), where Wisconsin's wetlands, fields, and forests serve as a living classroom.
Students can observe bird behavior in real time, collect data for coursework and theses, and study the impact of urbanization on bird populations. The camera allows for long-term observations without human presence, minimizing stress for the birds and increasing data reliability.
How to Attract Songbirds to Your Garden
The experience of the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater can be useful for anyone looking to attract songbirds to their property. To attract songbirds to your garden, it is recommended to set up several feeders with different types of seeds, provide fresh water for drinking and bathing, and create a natural habitat with plants.
The camera shows that in addition to feeders, the station includes a bird bath — an important element, especially in hot weather and in winter when natural water bodies freeze. The presence of water attracts not only birds but also butterflies, dragonflies, and other beneficial insects.
What You Can See on the Camera
The University of Wisconsin–Whitewater bird camera broadcasts a view of an outdoor feeding station mounted on a wooden structure in a green suburban setting. In the foreground are several types of feeders: a hanging orange nectar feeder shaped like an orange slice, a black mesh feeder for suet and seeds, a red tube feeder on the left, and two wooden trays filled with seeds.
Various birds feed at the feeders and trays: birds with black-and-white plumage and a red breast (Pine Grosbeaks), yellow-orange birds, sparrows, and other small songbirds. In the background are green trees, shrubs, and vegetation providing natural cover for the birds. In the bottom left corner, a bird bath is visible, which is especially important during warm weather.
The camera is aimed at the feeding station in a green suburban area, allowing observation of birds in their natural habitat. The live stream operates around the clock, enabling viewers to see both daytime and nighttime campus inhabitants. This is a unique opportunity for anyone interested in ornithology, ecology, or simply wanting to enjoy the beauty of Wisconsin wildlife.
