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7 Easy Steps To Attract More Birds To Your Yard
Did you get an expensive, attractive bird feeder for Christmas?
No doubt you excitedly filled it with birdseed and waited for
flocks of new birds to visit their new restaurant.
Little or no activity? The reason may be that it takes more than
a feeder to turn a typical backyard into a bird haven,
regardless of the season. Plants that provide suitable places
for nesting and cover from weather and predators combined with a
year-round source of fresh water are essential elements.
A combination of just 7 ingredients will greatly increase your
chances of attracting lots of feathered friends to your yard.
Evergreens, primarily conifers, are essential for
providing dense shelter and well-hidden nesting sites, as well
as food from their seed-producing cones. There are evergreens
suitable for every size space and type of growing conditions. Be
sure you carefully choose a plant that won't grow too tall or
spread beyond the desired area.
Deciduous shrubs and trees, plants that lose their leaves
in autumn, are the second most important element to a
bird-friendly landscape. Many produce berries for food as well
as flowers in the spring and beautiful fall color. Some bird
species will use crotches, where branches meet, for nesting in
the spring.
Ornamental grasses are a real treat for birds as they
provide both seeds and shelter. Another benefit is the only
annual maintenance needed is a trim back in the spring. Again,
select carefully, as some grasses seed prolifically and should
be avoided or used carefully.
Perennials provide nectar and seed sources for your
backyard birds. Purple coneflowers and black-eyes Susans supply
both. Resist the tendency to cut the plants back in the fall.
It's better to leave the seed heads on the plants so the birds
can get to the food when they need it most - in winter. The best
perennial gardens have plants that bloom at staggered times so
you have a continuous supply of
flowers. Good combinations
include wood geraniums and columbine for spring, bee balm and
phlox for mid-season and asters and sedums for August and
beyond. Of course, the combinations are endless, so choose
plants that are native to your area and work within your
landscape plan.
Annuals bloom all summer long and some, like the
butterfly bush and trumpet vine, are sought after nectar sources
for hummingbirds and butterflies. Even common, inexpensive
plants like zinnias, sunflowers and petunias are welcome
additions to a birdscaped garden.
Birdbaths are essential, since all bird species need
water for drinking and bathing. Water that moves and splashes in
fountains or ponds will draw more birds because of the sound,
but a simple shallow dish or birdbath can be just as effective.
Birdhouses and feeders will, of course, attract even more
bird varieties. House wrens are about the only bird that will
nest in a swinging birdhouse, so most should be post or tree
mounted. Feeders should offer a variety of food, including seed,
suet and sugar water, so consider having several different types.
Birdscaping isn't rocket science, but it does take a bit of
research and planning to select trees, shrubs and flowers that
serve your birds best. Your efforts will be rewarded with not
only the enjoyment of watching your favorite feathered friends
but a chance to snap those great bird photos you've been
dreaming of.
I hope you will visit WildBirdGoodies.com to
find other great information on caring for your wild birds - and
maybe find the perfect birdhouse, bird feeder or bird bath that
you've been seeking.
About the author:
Janet Winter is a web designer, travel agent and writer on many
topics. She loves her wild birds and delights in providing
helpful resources and unique products for feathered friends at
WildBirdGoodies.com
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