Choosing bird-friendly coffee is one of the most impactful ways a daily habit can support global biodiversity.

The Problem: Sun-Grown Coffee

Traditional coffee was naturally grown in the shade of tropical canopies. However, to increase yields, much of the world’s coffee production shifted to "sun-grown" monocultures. This process requires clearing vast amounts of rainforest, destroying the complex ecosystems that migratory birds and local wildlife depend on.

Why Bird-Friendly Coffee Matters

• Bird-friendly coffee (specifically those certified as "Gold Standard" Shade-Grown) preserves the environment in several key ways:
• Habitat Preservation: It requires a tall, multi-layered canopy of native trees. This provides a home for hundreds of bird species, as well as orchids, butterflies, and amphibians.
• Natural Pest Control: Because birds and bats live in the canopy, they act as natural "pesticides" by eating insects that would otherwise damage the coffee crops.
• Climate Resilience: Shade trees protect coffee plants from extreme temperature swings and heavy rainfall, while also sequestering carbon and preventing soil erosion.
• Chemical-Free Farming: To earn the official "Bird-Friendly" seal (created by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center), the coffee must also be 100% organic, meaning no synthetic fertilizers or toxic pesticides.

How to Identify It

While many coffees claim to be "shade-grown," the most rigorous certification to look for is the Smithsonian Bird Friendly® seal. Unlike some other labels, this one guarantees a specific canopy height and insect diversity that truly supports bird populations.

For a limited time, take 20% Off all  Birds & Beans® coffee.

Offer valid in-store only on Friday, January 16th and Saturday, January 17th, while supplies last. Offer not valid on previous purchases or sale items; cannot be combined with any other offers or coupons. Offer ends 01/17/26.

Birds & Beans® is certified 100% organic, 100% Fair Trade, and 100% Smithsonian Bird Friendly®