Attracting birds to your back yard is a work in progress. They are capable of clearing your property of unwanted insects and are a valuable commodity. Here are some questions to ask yourself. What kinds of birds visit my area? What types of growth are they attracted to? What types of activity does your family enjoy in this area? What times of day do you see what types of birds?
Landscaping is an important part of your birdfeeder plan. The plantings should provide food for the birds every month of the year. Consider small trees and shrubs that offer a variety of fruit types vs. the large shade trees that often shade the yard and discourage other types of plant growth. Some popular small trees and shrubs with birds are: blueberries, elderberries, hollies, cherries, and dogwoods.

Insects are also an important food source for birds. Birds that are highly dependent upon insects are Chickadees, titmice, nuthatch, and woodpeckers. They also like the high fat high oil content birdseeds. Be sure to place feeders with a variety of seed and food types in an area that allows predators dense cover. This will minimize but not totally eliminate their activity around your feeders.

Water is also an important element for attracting birds to your backyard. A clean, full, birdbath will encourage a more stable population of birds in your yard. A pond or a small pool will attract more wildlife than almost anything else.

The hollow and dead tree trunks that make the natural habitat for bats and birds can be readily replaced in small yards and suburban neighborhoods, with a nesting or brooding box. A few birdhouses combined with natural habitat, food, and water can provide your backyard a wide variety of birds throughout the year. Be sure to empty the boxes at the end of each summer of any nesting or debris.

If you want more information about attracting birds to your yard and garden, check out the net or your library. You can also ask your local County Extension Office, as many have bulletins and fact sheets available for free.
Gardens can be designed and grown for the enjoyment of local wildlife as well as your own enjoyment. A backyard wildlife sanctuary can attract a continuous variety of birds throughout the seasons. Birds and butterflies are the most popular all wildlife to attract. They are also quite easy to attract, if you provide their food, water, cover, and shelter.