Appeal to Songbirds With a "Birdscaped" Yard

When it comes to making a home and yard more appealing to people, homeowners understand the value of landscaping. Making yards more attractive to birds and other wildlife takes a slightly different type of planning that’s called "birdscaping."

People typically make their landscaping choices based on what looks good and is easy to maintain. If you take the next step and consider how those choices affect your feathered friends, you can create a backyard habitat that will support birds.

Birdscaping centers on offering a combination of food, shelter, water and places where birds can safely raise their young.

Attracting a variety of birds takes a variety of foods. Native plants that provide seeds, nectar, berries and other food sources is very helpful in attracting more birds to your yard. You can supplement the plants you have with feeders.

Depending on the species, anything from small shrubs to brush piles to mature trees will provide that shelter, so having several types will serve the needs of many birds. Use plants that are native to our local climate and suitable for your yard’s type of soil.

Having a clean source of water will also attract a wider variety of birds. Many bird species that are not attracted to feeding stations are attracted to a reliable water source. Birds need water just as much as they need food, because their high metabolic rate and respiratory system drains moisture from their bodies quickly. Birds use water for more than just a thirst quencher; they also use it for bathing and preening their feathers. Clean feathers are important for birds’ health and optimum flying ability. Water is most attractive when it is audible and moving. Water sources can include small pools and waterfalls, bird baths, drippers, and misters.

Birds won’t come to a feeder or bath unless they feel secure. They need protective cover to escape predators and for rest. Native bushes and trees as well as small brush piles will give your birds the sense of security they need.

Trees, shrubs and other plants that provide shelter can also be safe nesting areas for non-cavity nesting birds. To entice cavity nesters, add nesting boxes around your yard. Provide nesting materials, such as string and yarn (2 to 4 inches long), feathers, bark strips, pine needles and pet hair, to make nest building a little easier.

The final element ensures the viability of your yard as an ongoing habitat. People seek out the perfect neighborhoods in which to raise their children, and birds do the same. As more natural habitat is destroyed, it’s important that we provide usable replacements such as nesting boxes.