Gardening to Attract Birds

Gardening to Attract Birds

Feeding wild birds is a wonderful activity all year long, but
the birds especially appreciate your efforts in winter and
spring when natural food sources are scarce. Providing food
for birds not only helps the birds, but all of the bird
activity and their bright colors and chatter will liven up an
otherwise drab winter backyard.

Hanging out birdfeeders and filling them with birdseed may not
be enough to attract birds to your yard. In addition to food,
birds need water for drinking and bathing, along with nesting
spots and shelter from predators.

A pond, stream or birdbath can satisfy birds' needs for water.
Birdbath heaters can be used to keep the water from freezing
in cold climates. Some birds appreciate having a stone they
can perch on in the birdbath while they get a drink.

Trees, shrubs and vines provide nesting places and hiding spots
if predators are nearby. From a bird's point of view, a yard
that is filled with a variety of both short and tall trees,
bushes, vines and brush piles is more attractive than a vast
expanse of grass punctuated by the occasional small tree. If
your yard isn't a haven for birds, it can easily be transformed
with the addition of suitable trees and shrubs.

Evergreens of all kinds make excellent cover for birds,
especially in winter when their dense foliage blocks the biting
wind. Plants that have fruit that persists throughout winter are
important food sources for birds. These would include bayberry, hackberry, flowering crabapple and juniper.

Plant sunflowers, coneflowers and black-eyed Susans, and allow them to go to seed. These plants will attract goldfinches and chickadees who will happily feast on the seeds and entertain you with their cheerful songs and antics.

Have a great week and stay inspired!
-Mike McGroarty