Light the Beacon! The Birds Have Returned!

Spring is here! While the cold and snow may not disappear for everyone in the US and Canada at the same time, we at least know warmer temperatures and longer days are on the horizon. As the daylight lingers, our favorite feathered friends begin to return to our communities, announcing their arrivals with song, color, and antics galore. As they return, let us prepare a welcome feast, an inviting sanctuary, and a safe haven from the threats of migration.

Combine two hobbies that have a positive impact on human health by adding a bird-friendly yard and garden to your bird feeding space!

Prepare your home and garden.

Bird feeders will bring the birds to the yard, but we can go a step further. Planting native trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses creates a space where nesting birds can find native insects and protect their chicks from predators. However, bird feeding does not need to stop when native plants are in full bloom. For example, chickadees are a species that will appreciate the additional seed source while collecting thousands of native caterpillars for their nestlings.

Creating a safe home for birds does not stop at the garden. Creating bird-safe windows, keeping cats indoors, and limiting pesticide use are additional steps to ensure our local birds do not face unnecessary challenges.

Connect with your local bird club, gardening group, or conservation agency to take the first steps toward creating a space that is friendly for birds and other wildlife!

Fill your feeders (with something new).

It is easy to get into a rut with our bird feeding habits. This spring, step out of the same old, same old with black oil sunflower seeds. Grab a new style of feeder for some Nyjer and lure in the small finches. Add a splash of white millet to a ground feeder to attract a Mourning Dove. Mix together some berries and mealworms to create a buffet for bluebirds and robins. There is nothing wrong with some quality sunflower seed, but if you diversify your food offerings this spring, you are likely to diversify your bird findings.

Take a walk down your bird feeding aisle this spring, and check out some new ingredients for your bird feeders!