If you’d like to have an environment in your yard that will attract more birds you need to do some “birdscaping.” It’s as simple as adding bird boxes, water sources, flowers, and plants. Here are 10 ways to attract more birds.
10. Use Multiple Feeders
Having more than one feeder in your yard will attract more birds. Using multiple feeders with different feeder styles and various foods will attract a wide variety of bird species. For example, your multiple feeders could offer sunflowers, peanuts, fruit, jelly, and mealworms. You can also provide foods that attract the species you’re interested in.
9. Birds Prefer Natural Shelters
Natural shelters create spots where birds will feel safe. These offer nesting space and protection from predators. These can be created by adding flowers, shrubs, and trees to your backyard. Adding logs, rocks, and a water source will help create an environment that mimics nature. This can provide a safe space during winter months.
8. Set up a Birdbath
Birdbaths attract birds. A birdbath is not only for bathing. Birds also use them for drinking water. Feeder birds prefer elevated water sources, while ground-level birdbaths will attract birds that prefer nature-like pond structures. Either way, a birdbath can be simple. A shallow, sloped water source with a rough surface providing grip. Ideally, a water depth of 1-2 inches.
7. Use Moving Water
Birds love and are attracted to moving water. Adding a waterfall or dripping feature to a birdbath or water source will attract feeder birds. It will also attract birds that may not visit birdfeeders. Consider creating a bird-oriented pond that blends in naturally with your surrounding environment. Birds will view it as a natural habitat.
6. Birds Seek Clean Water
If you set up a birdbath or a water source for birds, empty and refill it daily. Water can become contaminated quickly. Diseases can spread among birds and to other animals and humans. If you use water pumps, add a filtration system. Otherwise, periodically drain and clean your water source. Never use cleaning chemicals that can harm wildlife.
5. Set up Nest Boxes
During spring and summer, birds seek a safe place to raise their young and keep them free from predators. Nest boxes, or birdhouses, provide a place for mothers to lay a clutch of eggs. The size of the entrance hole determines what species will use the box. At least 46 North American bird species are known to use nest boxes.
4. Set up Roost Boxes
Roost boxes are designed to trap heat. Wintering birds need shelter from the elements. Roost boxes in your yard can provide a cozy place for birds to escape the winter chill, rain, and snow. Roost boxes are larger and provide enough room for more birds to roost together than could squeeze inside a typical nest box.
3. Bright Colors Attract Birds’ Attention
Birds are visually oriented and have developed sensitivity to color. They are most attracted to bright colors, especially those not commonly found in nature. Using colorful and flowering plants is an easy way to attract birds to your yard. Birds on the fly can spot bright colors in your landscape from the sky.
Read More: Toxic Houseplants to Keep Your Pets Away From
2. Use Seed-Producing Plants
Planting flowers and plants in your yard that produce seeds creates a food source that will attract birds. Such plants attract towhees, sparrows, quail, finches, doves, and more. The best choice is native plants because they are adapted to your region’s climate. Local birds are already used to these plants and seek them out.
Read More: Pet-Safe Pest Prevention: 10 Eco-Conscious Tips
1. Use Plants that Produce Nectar, Seeds, and Fruit
Establishing plants in your yard that produce nectar, seeds, and fruit can be visually attractive while creating an ecosystem. This provides sustenance for numerous living things. Insects, butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and songbirds will seek out this environment. At the same time, you are helping to provide a critical element that sustains bird populations.
Read More: 10 Birds that Make for Great Pets
