Getting started on your birding adventure is an exciting time for anyone. If you are new to birding, one of the most important things you need to think about is what birds you would like to attract. The type of feeder you use is a major factor in this. For example, a simple platform feeder can attract a wide variety of birds. You can fill this with almost any type of bird feed you like, doing this allows many different birds to find your feeder and enjoy the seeds you have to offer.
Having bird feeders out is just one way to attract birds to your backyard, did you know that there are certain things you can plant to help attract them? An incredibly successful plant to attract a few different birds is sunflowers. Sunflowers seeds are a favourite of Cardinals, Chickadees, Finches, Grosbeaks, Nuthatches, Woodpeckers, and more! It is common to find goldfinches perched on your sunflowers picking out the seeds for a quick snack. When the gardening season is done, you can harvest the seeds from your sunflowers and use them in your bird feeders!
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Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly coloured, nectar-rich flowers. Planting these types of flowers and having a hummingbird feeder filled with delicious nectar is a great way to increase your chances of having this beautiful bird stop by.
There are many other helpful tools and accessories you can add to create a welcoming environment for birds and to enhance your birding experience.
- A bird bath creates a space for the birds to cool off and hydrate during the warmer months.
- Feeder cleaning brushes help to get into the hard-to-reach places of your bird feeder when cleaning.
- An ant moat will prevent ants from getting into your nectar feeders.
- Window silhouettes help to warn birds that there is a window present and help lessen the chance of them flying into it.
So, when you are ready to start your birding adventure know that there are plenty of options and ways available to attract and create a beautiful outdoor space for our feathered friends.