Chesterfield residents and bird enthusiasts now have a new place to migrate for all of their wild birding supplies. Local residents Dave and Barbara Tipton have recently opened a Wild Bird Center® store, a retail establishment specializing in a wide range of backyard and birding products. The grand opening reflects the growing trend of bird watchers nationwide.
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, more than 70 million Americans fed, photographed and observed wildlife in 2006. And the greatest majority did so from their own backyard!
The Tiptons, co-owners and operators of the Chesterfield store, and self-proclaimed bird enthusiasts, recognize the potential of this market. Dave Tipton states, "Our backyards are an extension of our home and we want to help customers turn their yards into a tranquil respite where they can kick back, relax and enjoy the chirping of their feathered neighbors." Barbara agrees, "We offer customers an array of products to help them attract birds so that they can more fully enjoy the peace their backyard affords."
Dave was most recently the Safety Manager for a copper product manufacturing firm but also has 10 years' experience managing restaurants and as a Business Development Coordinator for a medical firm. Barbara holds several physical therapy degrees and served for 15 years as the Director of Rehabilitative Services for a local district hospital. The Tiptons have wanted to own their own business and are thrilled about the opportunity to turn their love of birding, photography and gardening into a business venture.
The Wild Bird Center acts as a "one-stop-shop" for all levels of birders, from casual to serious bird watchers. The store carries more than a dozen seed types, bird feeders, nest boxes, birdbaths, binoculars, and creative gifts such as garden accessories, CDs, stationary, nature books and decorative novelty items. The Wild Bird Center holds an exclusive line of MoBi Mesh feeders, the goldfinch-only feeder and the convertible bird- house design.
"Our birdseed and exclusive seed blends are field-tested and proven to attract a variety of birds," notes Barbara. Dave continues, "By combining our premium products with a strong avian knowledge, we are able to offer customers unparalleled service and the help they need to build a better backyard birding experience."
The Chesterfield store is located in Macomb County, a northeastern suburb of Detroit. Other Michigan Wild Bird stores include Ann Arbor, Brighton, Jenison and Benton Harbor.
Established in 1985, Wild Bird Centers of America, Inc. is a specialized franchise with more than 85 stores nationwide. Each Wild Bird Center is dedicated to helping customers build a better backyard birding experience, by providing the finest, field-tested, quality products for birders and nature lovers throughout the United States. Wild Bird Centers also serve as an active community resource, offering demonstrations, educational workshops and children's programs. For more information, visit the WBCA website at http://www.wildbirdcenter.com/