How to Attract Songbirds to Your Yard

Being able to enjoy the relaxation and seclusion of a yard means something different to everyone.  Having birds in your yard can provide many hours of enjoyment, along with the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to feed and take care of wild birds.  Songbird numbers have been in decline in the U.S. in recent years due to destruction of habitat and the increasing number of urban pigeons, who compete with them for food and resources.

Use Bird Feeders

The first and most important way to attract more birds is by using bird feeders.  Depending on the size and variety of bird you wish to attract, hanging various feeders throughout your garden and yard will bring the bird flocking in a matter of days.  If you live in a warm area such as California, hanging out nectar feeders will attract a wealth of hummingbirds.  You can buy bird feeders from any home improvement center or gardening store, or make your own.

Make Your Own Winter Survival Bird Food

During winter, make your own ‘winter survival’ bird food by melting a pound of lard in a pan over a medium heat, and mixing in several handfuls each of birdseed and bird peanuts.  Pour this into a mold made of a half coconut shell (or plastic tub), drill a hole in it and hang it on a piece of string from your bird feeder.  This will provide much-needed calories and fat for the birds, helping to insulate them so they survive the cold.  You will be saving many bird lives if you do this!

Bird Feeder Tips

One thing to remember when selecting and installing feeders in your yard is to choose ones that will not be accessible to other pests.  Squirrels in particular can invade the feeder and eat the seed that was intended for birds.  There are feeders specifically designed to be squirrel resistant, making it possible to keep your feeders intact in spite of squirrels in the yard.  Keeping your feeder full will help attract more birds to your yard.

It’s also important to place feeders in various places throughout your yard, which will allow different types of birds to be attracted.  Finding out about common types of birds in your area will help educate you about the types of feeders and seeds to use. 

Install a Bird Bath

Aside from a feeder, birds will also be attracted to a water source in your yard.  Having a birdbath is another great way to attract birds.  Keeping fresh water in the bath will keep birds coming year round. 

Provide Shelter

Shelter in the form of birdhouses are also a good idea to have throughout the yard.  Many birds will nest in the houses, giving you the chance to observe the babies once they hatch.