You love watching the flurry of activity offered by backyard birds. Each day, they provide endless entertainment with their incessant pecking around the feeder, splashing in the birdbath, and the hours spent flying about, gathering food for their nestlings.

There's always a new visitor at the birdfeeder and occasionally, you think you've spotted a species never before seen in your neighborhood. Nothing could be better than this...except if the birds you were watching were in your own yard rather than your neighbor's.

So, how can you make your yard a magnet for nesting birds? There are some easy and inexpensive ways to create a haven for bird of all varieties.

First, a feeder is a staple for birdwatchers. Birdfeeders may be filled with a variety of seeds and foods including thistle, corn, raisins, sunflower seeds, grape jelly, mealworms, nectar, oranges, millet, and suet. Different birds are attracted to different types of foods and feeders, so the variety of bird you invite will depend on both of those factors.

If you're unsure, black oil sunflower seeds are always a good all-around bet for the beginner or for those who simply welcome birds of any kind to their yard. Suet is excellent for birds during winter months when they need to pack on a few extra ounces to battle cold temperatures, and always consider whether a birds prefers a hanging feeder or a pedestal mount since some, like cardinals, will opt for a secure feeding station.

A water source such as a basin or pedestal birdbath provides a place for birds to bath or to take a quick drink. Make certain the birdbath or basin is cleaned regularly to ward off bacteria and disease. Also be sure that it is stable to prevent tipping or breakage and possible bird injures.

Mounting a few birdhouses around the yard may attract nesting birds. Select a birdhouse appropriate for a particular species and position it at the proper height. Different birds prefer different types of houses so the holes should be sized accordingly, as well. Houses should be secured away from direct sunlight and if it is placed on a pole, make sure that the pole is constructed of metal or PVC pipe to deter climbing animals such as squirrels and raccoons. It is also wise to secure a baffle below the house for additional protection from predators.

Hummingbirds are particularly attracted to nectar. In addition to a nectar feeder, planting a flower garden or supplying hanging basket filled with common varieties such

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about How to encourage birds to nest in your backyard?
We want to hear your view. Write now!