Birds can add to the natural beauty of any garden, lawn, or yard. Indeed, the chirping, fluttering of wings, and small measured steps are all a pleasure to watch.  A lot of things can be done to your existing yard to make it more inviting for the winged race. Some of these are pretty easy to execute too.

Like any other animal species, birds are more likely to flock to your yard if you provide them with shelter, food, and water. However, simply meeting their physiological needs is not enough, as they also look for a welcoming environment where they can socialize with other birds.

Here are 6 ways in which you can make your garden a paradise for the birds:

        1.            Create a Diverse Bird Feeding Station

To create a bird-friendly environment, first and foremost address their basic need of survival which is food.

Instead of having just one feeder in your yard, it’s better to create a feeding station for birds with multiple feeders. Different birds take up different feeder styles and therefore, to attract a variety of birds in your yard consider giving them the benefit of having plenty of options.

Different species of birds also feed at different levels. So, build your feeding station with 3 or 4 feeders placed at different heights and give your yard the best chance of attracting all kinds of birds.

      2.            Install a Bird Bath

All birds need water, along with food to survive. So, having a water source in your yard is as important as providing  birds with a reliable food station.

Most wild birds and curious species are attracted naturally to the sound of moving water and thus, adding some movement to your installed bird-bath with a dripper or a circulating pump will go a long way.

A stationary water source may not be as appealing to birds. Also, it can get overcrowded. By having multiple water sources and several bird-baths, you can create a diverse water environment to appeal to the different bird species.

    3.            Plant as much Native Species as Possible

Native plants have adapted to the climatic condition of your area over thousands of years and fed on  native fruits and seeds.

So, planting native species in your garden will naturally attract the local flock as they are familiar with their rich food source as well as shelter.

    4.            Go for Plants with Flowers, Berries & Seeds

If you plant trees like rowan, hawthorn, and honeysuckle and shrubs like berberis and cotoneaster, birds will have more reasons to come to your yard to meet their need for food – be it during the hot summer or bitter winter.

Many flowers turn into a winter food source for birds by providing them with ripe seed-heads as seasonal bounty. So, before you get rid of the winter sheds, consider leaving the seeds from the plants for your avian friends.

Similarly, berry bushes keep their fruits throughout the winter and when the  temperature drops down,  birds are sure to come.  

      5.            Use Organic Fertilizers & Avoid Pesticides

To admire the beauty that colorful birds bring to your yard, you need to make sure that the environment you provide them with is hospitable and secure.

One of the hidden dangers for birds could be the harmful toxic fertilizers and pesticides that you use for lawn care. With almost 60 million birds dying each year due to chemical exposure, you want to be extra cautious.

To safeguard the food supplies for birds, strictly avoid using any fertilizers and pesticides that are not organic. Instead of chemicals, you could use something as simple as corn gluten to protect the life of the feathered race.

    6.            Consider Rooftop Nests

If you have a flat roof with gravel on top, you can add a cluster of pots and containers to create a snug little place for birds. These shelters on your roof will come with an added benefit of protection from cats, dogs, and other ground predators.

However, to protect birds from the direct sun, you need to plant some small species or arbor the roof with vines to give them a shady shelter. Also, do not forget to install a bird bath as just like a shelter in the heat the birds would need water to quench their thirst.

 Conclusion

A healthy bird population can greatly help in controlling insects and pests that might plague your garden or lawn. For this reason alone, it’s worth considering making your backyard landscape a nurturing environment for wild birds.Moreover, the vibrant colors and beautiful calls of these feathered creatures  can lend a sense of tranquility to your life. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to make your yard a favorite destination for birds!