backyard birding basics
Are you ready to become a backyard birder? If so, there’s no better time than right now!
There are plenty of new opportunities for birders to build the ideal environment for their feathered backyard friends. But before you hop out onto the twiggy perch, take a moment to check out these backyard birding basics.
From setting up feeders correctly to understanding what birds are in season, this post has all you need to know when adding winged wonders into your garden space.
So, if you’re ready for some exciting avian adventures in your very own backyard, keep on reading to learn what you need to know about being a successful backyard birder!
Start With The Basics
The good news is that attracting backyard birds is relatively easy. However, the challenge comes with figuring out how to do it effectively.
All you need to get started with backyard birding is food, water, and shelter – three basic elements that will help birds feel right at home in your backyard. From there, understanding the different types of feeders, their placement, and the variety of foods that entice different species will help create a thriving backyard bird sanctuary.
As you become more experienced in creating a backyard oasis for our feathered friends, you’ll soon find your backyard full of colorful feathered friends!
Food
Food is a must when it comes to attracting birds to your backyard. Sure, getting a bag of birdseed or a feeder is easy enough — but don’t forget that different birds like different kinds of food!
You’ll want to check what types of foods backyard birds in your area are drawn to and then make sure your backyard buffet caters to their particular tastes! Things like nyjer seeds, sunflower seeds, peanuts, insects, suet, berries, and fruits are popular for backyard birders.
Freshness matters too. If the birds seem uninterested in what you've got on display (despite being a gourmet selection), try replacing it with freshly stocked treats!
Another thing to consider is the location of your feeding station.
Make sure you pick a location that is sheltered from the wind but still gets plenty of sunshine. Generally, the south side of your home is ideal for this.
You’ll also want to give your feathered visitors an easy way out by placing your feeder within 10-15 feet of a tree or shrubs. That way, they’ll have somewhere safe to escape and hide if needed.
Finally, make sure you can easily see the feeding station from your windows for maximum backyard birding potential.
Water
Bird baths are one of the easiest ways to offer backyard birds another vital resource- clean drinking water!
Taking a few extra steps during winter, like adding a heater disk or keeping a heated water dish outside, can ensure there is safe water available.
It’s critical to make sure that the water doesn’t exceed 1-2 inches deep. Providing a rock or ledge for them to stand on can prevent birds from becoming stuck in deeper waters.
You’ll also need to change out and refill it with fresh water weekly to keep feathery friends happy and healthy all year round.
Access to clean water is key for backyard birding success!
Shelter
Creating the proper bird shelter is critical for encouraging backyard wildlife year-round. The best backyard birders know that a simple birdhouse isn’t enough to keep our friends of flight coming back consistently.
A variety of shrubs and trees are essential. Evergreens help protect birds on chilly nights, while deciduous species provide natural food sources like berries. Dogwood, chokeberry, winterberry, hawthorn, and holly are great options.
Don’t be tempted to put away your birdhouses in wintertime either; some species will still find them useful for a bit of extra shelter. Make sure you keep an eye on those birdhouses to ensure they remain clean and cozy!
Capture The Moment
One of the joys of backyard birding is capturing the beauty of these creatures with your camera. So, grab that coffee cup, head over to a familiar perch, and get ready to take lots of pictures of your new backyard birds!
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