This bird-counting puzzle is a colorful test of careful observation. The birds are spread across the fence at different heights, and the variety of species can make the scene feel busier than it really is. A good strategy is to count the birds from left to right, starting with the top rail and then moving down.
The correct answer is 9 birds. The image includes a cardinal, blue jay, goldfinch, chickadee, robin, sparrow, mourning dove, bluebird, and woodpecker. Counting each one once gives a total of nine.
Because the birds differ in size and color, it is easy to focus on the brightest ones and overlook a smaller bird nearby. A slow scan is the safest way to avoid mistakes.
If you counted all 9 on your first try, you have a sharp eye for detail.
