Home > Down to Earth Tips > Down to Earth Tips - January
January
Attracting and feeding wild birds and song birds is a popular pastime for many people. Not only does it provide nourishment, it is also an interesting and rewarding way to view these fascinating creatures in their natural surroundings. Most of the wild birds in our area remain active year-round. Since food becomes scarce at this time of year, wild birds can certainly benefit from a helping hand.
There are three essentials for wild bird survival: WATER, SHELTER and FOOD. In every season of the year, a plentiful source of fresh water is absolutely necessary to the well-being of birds. Bird baths are the most popular way to establish a fresh water source in your garden. They come in various sizes, shapes and materials. Most bird baths are two to three feet in diameter providing ample room for community drinking and bathing. Choose a bird bath that gradually slopes to a depth of no more than three inches. Birds shy away from water that is any deeper. The surface of the bird bath should be textured or slightly rough so the birds will have sure footing. Also, try to place the bird bath where natural predators will not have easy access to the birds.
In addition to manufactured bird houses, shelter and nesting areas can also be found in abundance right in your own yard. Oaks, maples, pines and birch trees are just a few of the large canopy trees that birds will choose for nesting. Densely formed trees and shrubs, such as magnolia, Leyland cypress, Canadian hemlock and others, conceal and protect wild birds from predators. Plants with thorns or spiny leaves, such as pyracantha, barberry, and certain hollies also offer protection.
Many of the same trees and shrubs mentioned above will also provide food for the birds. At various times throughout the year, Mother Nature provides an extensive menu for wild birds. Flower nectar, seeds, nuts, berries, fruit and insects are excellent food sources for birds and other small wildlife. When food is not abundant in nature, it is a good idea to supplement their diets with packaged bird feed and suet cakes.
The birds commonly sited in your yard have definite preferences, but almost all birds will eat sunflower seeds. North Carolina’s state bird, the Cardinal, prefers sunflower seeds, safflower seeds and cracked corn. Most Sparrows like white millet, cracked corn and canary seed. The Brown Thrasher, Georgia's state bird, prefers sunflower seeds. Finches favor thistle, sunflower and canary seeds. Woodpeckers, Robins, Mockingbirds and Wrens are insect eaters and are attracted to suet. Suet provides the quick energy and heat that certain birds need to survive. Mourning Doves and Pigeons are not picky eaters. They will eat almost any kind of seed or grain.