Having birds in your garden can create an animated and entertaining space where you can enjoy watching them eat, search for caterpillars, use a birdbath, or drink water. However, merely setting up a birdhouse does not guarantee that birds will come and take up residence. Some bird species may not be interested in a small-sized home, while others may not like its location or may not even be aware of its existence. To attract birds to your garden, it’s important to consider their food, water, and nesting needs. Keep in mind that birds are not concerned about how beautiful your garden looks, but rather whether it provides a safe environment with necessary resources.
We consulted with two gardening experts on effective ways to attract birds to your garden without relying solely on a birdhouse. These methods include planting native plants, offering food and water sources, and resisting the temptation to tidy up your garden excessively.
Meet Our Experts:
– Nicole Dillon, a micro-flower farmer and owner of Breemar Flower Farm in Ashland, Virginia.
– Barbara Smith, a Consumer Horticulturist with the Clemson Extension Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC).
Why You Should Attract Birds To Your Garden:
Designing your outdoor spaces with avian visitors and wildlife in mind is crucial for fostering healthier ecosystems. “Our backyards play a vital role in providing habitat for native birds and wildlife,” says Nicole Dillon. By planting the right vegetation, our yards can contribute to the protection of natural resources by aiding in carbon sequestration and water management.
Birds serve an essential function in the ecosystem as pollinators, transferring pollen from flower to flower and aiding in seed dispersal. Additionally, they help control pests by consuming insects, thereby reducing the need for insecticides. “Birds play a crucial role in pest management as many insects make up a significant portion of their diet,” explains Barbara Smith.
Here are nine effective strategies to attract more birds to your yard without relying on a birdhouse:
1. Grow flowers that bloom at different times of the year to provide a continuous food source for birds.
2. Plant a diverse range of flowers that bloom for varying durations and throughout different seasons to cater to different bird species’ needs.
3. Cultivate native plants that are adapted to the local climate and provide essential food sources for birds and insects.
4. Grow butterfly host plants to support the lifecycle of butterflies by offering suitable locations for egg-laying and caterpillar development.
The transformation begins when caterpillars hatch. Not all caterpillars will ultimately become butterflies, as some may fall prey to birds. “To attract birds, especially young ones, offer their primary food source—caterpillars and insects—rather than seeds,” advises Dillon. She highlights several top flowering host plants, such as lance leaf coreopsis, swamp sunflower, evening primrose, rudbeckia hirta, Wreath goldenrod, old field goldenrod, wrinkle leaf goldenrod, and calico aster.
Allow Plants to Go to Seed
Following the blooming stage, plants proceed to seed production for their continued survival. You can collect seeds for the next season if desired, leaving the rest for birds to consume. “Keep seed heads intact throughout fall and winter, like purple coneflower, black-eyed Susans, sunflowers, asters, rattlesnake master, goldenrod, among others, as many birds rely on these seeds during colder months,” notes Smith. Some plant seeds also provide nesting material, such as lamb’s ear and milkweed fluff.
Observing birds feasting while adding a touch of entertainment. “Watching goldfinches perched on purple coneflower stalks feeding on the seeds is a delightful sight,” says Smith.
Avoid Over-Tidying the Yard
Resist the urge to tidy up the garden as one season transitions to the next. “While it may be tempting to prepare the garden for winter, remember that wildlife thrives in a more natural environment,” cautions Dillon. Leave leaves, brush, and stems, as they provide food, shelter, and nesting materials for various creatures.
Provide Water Sources
Birds require accessible, clean water for drinking and bathing. A moving water source prevents stagnation and attracts birds. Consider a DIY water feature with a floating solar-powered fountain to both entice birds and deter mosquitoes.
Install Hanging Baskets
Utilize hanging baskets to create a vertical garden space for flowers or vegetables. These baskets can serve as safe spots for birds to build nests. Dillon recalls fond memories of witnessing baby birds being raised in hanging baskets and recommends placing them in shaded areas.
Create a Welcoming Environment
Have a pesky empty patch in your garden that just won’t cooperate with your planting efforts? No need to despair – the birds will be delighted! “If you find yourself faced with a barren stretch of land in your yard that stubbornly resists any attempts at cultivation, consider it a boon for our avian friends,” advises Dillon. Surprisingly, mud can serve as a valuable habitat for swallows, swifts, and robins. Dillon recommends keeping the bare area moist to attract these feathered guests.
Another wonderful way to support our bird population is by setting up bird feeders. Providing a reliable source of food is crucial, especially during the chilly winter months when natural food supplies dwindle, and our avian companions require extra sustenance. “Offering food in the winter can significantly enhance the survival chances of birds during cold spells, or help sustain migrating birds passing through,” explains Smith.
Before setting up feeders, it’s important to research the bird species in your region to determine the most suitable food options. “Black-oil sunflower seeds are a fantastic choice that appeals to a wide variety of birds,” notes Smith. “The shells are thin and easy for birds to crack open.” Suet is another excellent energy source for birds, particularly in colder weather. “Suet cakes are a magnet for woodpeckers, nuthatches, finches, titmice, and various other small bird species,” says Smith.
If finches are frequent visitors in your area, consider offering thistle seed to cater to their preferences. “Nyger, or thistle seed, is a top pick for finches, especially purple, house, and goldfinches,” suggests Smith. To attract Orioles, slice fresh oranges and place them out – these vibrant fruits are a favored treat for these magnificent birds. As for doves and blue jays, cracked corn is sure to entice them to your garden, adds Smith.
However, maintaining clean feeders is crucial to the health and well-being of the birds. Neglecting to clean feeders regularly can lead to diseases that may prove fatal to these delicate creatures. “Dirty feeders with moldy seeds can harbor harmful bacteria, ultimately causing diseases that could have devastating effects on bird populations,” warns Smith. Bacterial infections may result in blindness, while fungal diseases can lead to respiratory problems in birds.
So, how often should you clean your bird feeder? “Ideally, feeders should be thoroughly cleaned at least once or twice a month,” advises Smith. In regions with high humidity or frequent rainfall, more frequent cleaning may be necessary. The cleaning process is straightforward – a solution of three parts water to one part white vinegar can be used to soak and scrub the feeder, removing any old seeds or droppings. After cleaning, ensure the feeder is completely dry before refilling it with fresh seeds.
