Why Do Birds Gather At Walmart?

One of the most common sights at many Walmart parking lots is the gathering of birds, particularly flocks of blackbirds. Have you ever wondered why these birds choose to flock to places like Walmart? The answer lies in their natural instinct to seek out easy sources of food.

It’s no secret that where there are people, there is often food to be found. In the case of Walmart parking lots, birds are attracted to the abundance of food scraps and discarded items that can be easily scavenged. From dropped grocery items to leftover fast food wrappers, there is no shortage of edible goodies for our feathered friends to feast on.

Humans, being the messy creatures that we are, tend to leave behind a trail of crumbs wherever we go. Whether it’s accidentally dropping a bag of chips or tossing out the remains of a sandwich, we unwittingly create a buffet for birds looking for a quick and easy meal.

Walmart, with its wide selection of food products, draws in countless customers every day. As a result, the parking lots become a hotspot for avian visitors seeking out a free meal. It’s a convenient and reliable food source that requires minimal effort on the part of the birds.

Birds are opportunistic feeders, meaning they will take advantage of any easily accessible food source. The presence of humans in places like Walmart only serves to increase the likelihood of finding a tasty treat. It’s a symbiotic relationship of sorts – we provide the food, and the birds help clean up the mess.

Not all birds are drawn to the chaos of parking lots, but certain species, like blackbirds, have adapted to urban environments and have learned to thrive on the scraps left behind by humans. Their ability to adapt and take advantage of new food sources has allowed them to flourish in these man-made landscapes.

While some may find the sight of birds in parking lots to be a nuisance, it’s important to remember that they are simply trying to survive in a world that is constantly changing. By understanding their behavior and what attracts them to certain locations, we can learn to coexist peacefully with our feathered neighbors.

In conclusion, birds gather at Walmart and similar locations primarily for the easy access to food that human activity provides. Their natural instinct to seek out food sources, coupled with the abundance of scraps left behind by shoppers, makes these places a prime destination for hungry birds looking for a quick meal. So, the next time you spot a flock of birds in a Walmart parking lot, remember that they are just trying to make a living in a world filled with tempting treats.

Photo of author

Don Atkins

Don Atkins is a proud Canadian and experienced biology teacher living in Toronto. With a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Saskatchewan under his belt, Don has 10 years of teaching experience and is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. He also volunteers at the Northeastern Avian Rescue, using his expertise to help birds in need. Don's enthusiasm for ornithology is undeniable, and he loves nothing more than to share it with those around him.