Jessica Janes loves birds and sharing their wonders with folks of all ages. She and her team at Wild Birds Unlimited, Alpharetta not only answer daily questions from customers (best food to attract a mama robin?) but also offer programs, classes and workshops for curious individuals, families and groups who want to learn together. Jessica and her husband Gregg bought the store on their daughter's ninth birthday in 2022 and haven't looked back.
"I have always been a lover of nature and animals, my husband Gregg jokes that I love animals more than him (he's not quite wrong....). I've been caring for and saving animals since grade school," says Jessica."I seem to be a magnet for stray and injured animals, since the purchase of the store we have had several parakeets, a redtail hawk, vulture, chicken, sparrow, robin, and so much more brought in and we've tended to or taken to various rescues."
She started her journey with Wild Birds Unlimited in her hometown of San Diego, where she bought her first feeder and with each move (CA to Houston, TX to Georgia) would find her local WBU to get the specialty food for my feeder. "We moved to the Alpharetta area right before COVID and being the social butterfly that I am, it made for a rough move." Since buying the store she has learned so much more about birds and nature. "None of it would have been possible without the help and support of my great and loyal team that is really more like family. I have eight additional kids now.... and being the neurotic Jewish mother that I am, I am always making sure there is food for everyone. It's common for us to have a communal nosh table in the backroom or to take someone on a random lunch date."
Her enthusiasm and love of nature is contagious. Kelly Lobuglio hosted her garden club's monthly meeting at Wild Birds Unlimited. "It was one of the most fun events we’ve ever done. Jessica is amazing and so knowledgeable. We loved exploring more about birds, especially their nesting habits and birdhouses," says Kelly. The group learned about how different bird species build their nests, the materials they use, and how they care for their young. "Birdhouses add an extra layer of interest, as you can tailor them to attract specific birds and create a welcoming habitat in your own garden. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature and support local wildlife. There are so many unique fines in Jessica’s beautiful store and if you haven’t been, I highly suggest you check it out."
Jessica works to keep the vibe fun and welcoming every day. "Between bringing in my grumble of pugs to greet everyone from time to time, our annual Mother's Day Mimosas, special events for our Daily Savings Club (our loyalty club) members, our annual Black Friday sale, and the Thank you for shopping small holiday gifts. We even had Santa and Mrs. Claus in store for a cookies and coloring with Santa event last year."
Check the plethora of events at Alpharetta.WBU.com
Wild Birds Unlimited, Alpharetta
3000 Old Alabama Rd. #116, Alpharetta
770.410.0799