Creating a Bird-Friendly Garden Year-Round

A truly bird-friendly garden goes beyond just feeders. By incorporating the right plants, water features, and shelter options, you can create a habitat that supports birds throughout all seasons.

Native Plants: The Foundation

Native plants provide natural food sources and support local ecosystems. They produce seeds, berries, and attract insects that birds need. Consider these native options:

• Coneflowers (Echinacea) - seeds loved by goldfinches
• Black-eyed Susan - attracts seed-eating birds
• Elderberry - berries feed many species
• Oak trees - support hundreds of insect species

Water Features

Water is essential for bird survival. Create multiple water sources:

• Shallow birdbaths (1-2 inches deep)
• Dripping water features for sound attraction
• Ground-level water dishes for ground-feeding birds
• Heated water sources for winter

Shelter and Nesting Sites

Birds need places to rest, hide from predators, and raise young:

• Dense shrubs for cover and nesting
• Evergreen trees for winter shelter
• Brush piles for ground-dwelling species
• Nest boxes for cavity-nesting birds

Seasonal Considerations

Plan your garden to provide resources year-round. Spring flowers support insects, summer berries feed fledglings, fall seeds prepare birds for winter, and winter shelter protects from harsh weather.

Avoiding Hazards

Make your garden safe by avoiding pesticides, keeping cats indoors, and placing decals on large windows to prevent bird strikes.