Attracting Backyard Birds

A great way to make your backyard a vibrant outdoor living space is to encourage wildlife to come mingle with you. Bird watching is both exciting and relaxing. It’s a hobby that can take you on adventures in various parts of the world, but you can also build your own bird sanctuary in your yard by choosing the right plants and backyard decor and accessories. Keep reading to learn the best ways to attract birds to your yard.

Find the Right Feeders

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Have you ever known a college student to turn down free food? Well, think of birds as the college students of wildlife. If you provide the food, they will show up. It’s important to do some research on what types of feeders would attract the types of birds you’re interested in. As a basic rule of thumb, there are 3 different kinds of specialized bird feeders – ground feeders, elevated feeders, and suet feeders (feeders for insect-eating birds). Figure out that types of feeders you need and do some shopping or DIY to get feeders that work with your backyard and bird-watching goals. 

Build Homes and Habitats

Image via Duncraft

Birds are sure to stop by your yard when they have a place to call home. Shelters are useful for birds to build a nest or simply wait out a rainstorm. If you have little ones at home, building your own birdhouse is a great DIY craft opportunity to spend time with your kids. If you’re less into DIY, there are tons of places to grab a ready-to-go birdhouse. Do your research to find a birdhouse that attracts the types of bird you’re interested in seeing in your backyard. 

Make Water Available

Image via This Sweet House of Madness

Where there is water, there is life. Wildlife is attracted to places where they can get everything they need in one fell swoop. If you’ve already set up bird feeders and birdhouses in your backyard, consider investing in a small pond or standing bird bath. This a great opportunity to add a relaxing focal point in your outdoor space and attract the wildlife you’re interested in seeing.

Grow Your Own Bird Seed

Image via Best Fun for All

Bird feeders are a quick and easy way to attract birds, but you can also opt to play the long game. Growing the right kind of plants can make a huge difference in your outdoor wildlife. By planting native plants that attract the birds and animals in your region, you’re both creating a unique outdoor experience and making an impact on the environment around you. If you’re willing to be a little patient in building your bird sanctuary, look into a few plants that attract birds. Some top plants that birds enjoy are sunflowers, coneflowers, and black-eyed susans.