Simply For The Birds

More often than not, it seems that birds aren’t attracted to the birdbaths that owners place in their yards.  This can be attributed to several different factors, and some of them have little to do with the environment itself.  However, if birds feel that they’re in an area that’s too open, they’re more liable to avoid the birdbath for fear of being spotted by predators.  It’s a good idea to make sure there are shrubs or bushes with leaves near the birdbath to provide cover if needed.  You might also think about placing a water wiggler in the birdbath.  Moving water is known to attract birds, and a water wiggler might be just the thing to encourage the avian population to use your birdbath.

For the sake of the owners and the birds, make sure your birdbath stays clean.  This will prevent mosquitoes from nesting near the edge of the water, and as we all know, mosquitoes can carry a host of dangerous diseases, and are an overall nuisance to people and animals.

As I was looking out my window this late winter day, I observed much bird activity.  There were Robins grubbing for insects, Hummingbirds flitting around, House Finches taking a rest on the bare branches of a nearby tree and ducks splashing in the pond.  As spring draws near, we will start seeing the arrival of even more birds - Bluebirds, Orange Orioles, Goldfinches and Ruby Throated Hummingbirds.  It made me think that not only flowers bring spring colors, but our backyard friends do as well.

We can easily attract these colors of spring by providing nesting material, water, birdhouses and seed feeders.  Now is the time to get prepared for their arrival.  Don’t procrastinate; spring will be here before we know it!

Providing nesting materials for the birds that will be arriving soon, is a great way to watch the birds building nests.  Watch them come and peck out a bit of the nest material and fly off to where they are building their nests.  If you add nesting boxes and seed feeders, you will increase you chances of having the Nesters build closer to you.  Watch the fledglings open their mouths in anticipation when they see their parents coming with food. You will be able to watch them grow and if you are lucky - their first flights.

There is nothing more rewarding than to be a part of providing for the birds.  If you haven’t tried it, you should!

By placing your feeders so that they are in view of your windows, your whole family will be able to enjoy the feeding antics of the birds.  Place bird feeders at different heights and have the bird seed easily accessible so that the younger generation can take an active part in providing for the birds.  Remember to keep your bird feeders and the ground underneath clean of old seed.  Old seed can harbor disease.

Birdbaths provide an important element for the health and welfare of our backyard friends.  Keep the birdbaths in sight of the windows and also near some trees or bushes so the birds can make a get away if they are feeling threatened. Be sure to keep the water fresh and clean to ensure the continued use by the birds.