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Image may be NSFW.
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image: Judit Klein
A large portion of the wildlife population relies on residential properties for food, water, shelter, and a safe habitat. Many birds migrate during various times of the year, so they are often seeking a space where they can take a break from the journey. You can turn your backyard into an oasis for birds by adding a few items and keeping them stocked with items that birds enjoy.
Bird feeders
If you have family members at home, having a thriving bird community visit your yard is a great way to teach children about nature and treating animals with kindness. If you install a bird feeder, a variety of bird species will come to feast on the birdseed and some will even collect it for their young.
Along with seed, you can add bacon drippings, mealworms, peanut butter, jelly, and even some of the leftovers from your dinner. Try to keep bird feeders away from windows to prevent birds from crashing into the glass.
Bird-friendly landscaping
Dense shrubbery and hedges can provide protection where birds can hide if a predator threatens the space. You might have a friendly pet cat that spends time outdoors, but for a bird, this lovable pet becomes a fearsome predator. As long as there are tall trees and plenty of room for a bird to build a nest high above the ground, birds should still flock to your yard if you provide a haven, along with other appealing options.
Water features
Just like any other living creature, birds need water for survival, but they also enjoy bathing on a warm summer day. If you build a pedestal for your birdbath, they will feel more protected from predators. Only add about 1-2 inches of water, and clean the birdbath each week.
When an animal drinks from a contaminated water source, it will typically remember and avoid the source in the future, even if the water is fresh and clean. Keep the birdbath near trees or bushes as well.
Create a stockpile
Birds often look for small twigs, leaves, and other items to build nests when they lay eggs. When you do yard work, save these items and build a pile in a corner of the yard. Birds will use the items for nests, and may also use it as shelter during a storm. After you rake the leaves, place piles of leaves beneath bushes and hedges to create a damp place for earthworms and other insects that birds can eat.
Safe haven
If you have a pet cat who goes outdoors, he or she may scare away the birds that you are trying to attract. If you really want to create an oasis for the birds, you may have to keep your cat indoors. Millions of cats throughout the country follow basic instincts and kill birds regularly, but indoor cats often enjoy watching them through windows without causing harm. Indoor cats also have a much longer life expectancy, since they avoid the dangers of cars, diseases, and other outdoor dangers.
Birds in your outdoor space
Birds are likely to respond to any positive steps you take to create a haven where they can eat, drink, bathe, rest, and be safe.
What kinds of bird-friendly features are in your space?
Which ones above appeal to you the most? Which one is missing?
What drawbacks might there be in welcoming wildlife into your space? How would you overcome them?
Tell us about it in the comments section of this post.
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.