Attracting birds to your backyard can be easy or complex, but these five steps can help you get started in attracting birds in simple, easy ways. In no time at all you’ll be sure to see new species, and you can start to enjoy the beauty, pest control and other benefits of attracting birds.
First, learn which types of birds are usually found in our area. Browse through a field guide and study bird range maps to discover your most likely backyard birds. Then you can start to adjust your backyard to satisfy to their needs. Also speak with neighbors who have backyard birds to learn about their most frequent bird guests. You can even contact a local bird club for a list of the most common backyard birds.
Next, offering different foods is the single best way to attract birds. It’s easy to get started feeding birds. A simple bird feeder or two, quality birdseed mix and a specialty feeder for suet, nectar, fruit or nuts will be a basic setup that can attract many different types of birds. Keep the feeders chockfull with fresh food and clean them regularly to make them most appealing to birds.
Not all birds like the foods you offer, but many more species will at least take advantage of water. Bird baths are easy to install and come in many styles, designs and sizes to accommodate different types of birds. For colder climates, consider a heated bird bath for fall and winter, or in warmer areas, opt for a solar bird bath that can attract birds with a small bubbler or fountain. Keep the bath filled with fresh water and clean it regularly to keep the birds coming back to drink and bathe.
Birdscaping your yard is easy and often less expensive than more ornamental, highly cultivated landscaping. Choose trees, shrubs, vines and flowers that can offer birds food, shelter and nesting sites, and plant in clumps and layers to provide good cover for different species. When choosing plants, be sure to add some evergreen species as well to keep attracting birds in all seasons.
Even the most bird-friendly yard won’t attract many species if the birds aren’t safe. There are many hazards birds face from diseases, predators and a wide variety of artificial threats, and backyard birders who take steps to minimize those hazards can enjoy more birds in their yard. At the same time, a safe yard is one where you won’t find so many dead or sick birds, and you can be more secure in your enjoyment of the birds you attract, knowing you’ve provided them a safe sanctuary.