Attracting Birds

When planning a garden to attract birds, there are many things to consider Birds have four basic needs: Food, water, shelter, and a place to raise their young.

FOOD ranges from seeds, fruit, nectar, sap, insects to small animals. Different types of birds eat many different types of food. It is generally best to feed birds all year round. They become used to having food available, and make part of their daily routine a stop at favorite feeding places.

If you decide to feed only through the fall and winter, be sure that you continue providing food well into the spring, until natural feeding areas have abundant supplies of food.

Once you have started feeding the birds, don’t stop feeding until you are sure that winter is over. In our area, that is generally about the first of May. If you stop feeding the birds, they may not be able to find natural food and could possibly starve.

Place feeding stations in areas where you cart enjoy watching the birds from your windows. Try to avoid areas near low-spreading limbs from which squirrels can jump. Try to find an area somewhat protected from winds, and try to see that there is a clump of evergreens within 10-20 feet from the feeder into which small birds can escape far protection.

Window feeders, tray feeders, cylinder feeders and many other styles are available. Protective covers, called baffles, are used to discourage squirrels are a desirable tool to have on any feeder. Baffles are also available for post feeders.

Many different types of birds can be attracted to your garden. Several feeders, each with a different type of food can be placed in your yard. The extra dividend you receive of having a large selection of birds is well worth the effort. The chart on the back will help you in providing the types of foods specific birds prefer.

WATER is very important in attracting birds. It can be supplied in your garden by the use of bird baths and pools or naturally from plants (sap, nectar, moist, fruit, dew). Garden birds like shallow water to drink from and bathe in. It is highly recommended to provide water for the birds all year long. Electric elements, known bird bath heaters, are available to keep the water from freezing during cold weather.

SHELTER is needed from the hot sun, cold wind, rain and predators. This can range from a clump of grass to a high tree depending on the type of bird. By providing nesting boxes in your garden you can encourage birds to set up permanent residence with you. The pleasure of having birds set up housekeeping, watching them raise their young, and enjoying their beauty and songs is hard to beat.

Different types of birds prefer different sizes, locations, types and styles of houses. Check with one of the reference books that fully discuss the subject before you provide nesting boxes.

Many trees, shrubs, and vines attract birds to gardens. The plants provide shelter, nesting sites, food and cover for the bird. Evergreens are very good for providing nesting sites and cover for birds. Fines, spruces and many other attractive landscape specimens are excellent. Dogwood, blueberries, raspberries, and yews are among plants that provide food for the birds. Vines like the Virginia creeper and Trumpet creeper and others provide food for birds too. Many attractive landscape specimens are ideal for birds.

 

<- Back to Tips & Info