{"id":7389,"date":"2020-04-14T19:24:20","date_gmt":"2020-04-14T19:24:20","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.cwf-fcf.org\/?p=7389"},"modified":"2020-04-16T12:15:24","modified_gmt":"2020-04-16T12:15:24","slug":"give-shelter-to-backyard-birds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.cwf-fcf.org\/index.php\/en\/give-shelter-to-backyard-birds\/","title":{"rendered":"Give Shelter to Backyard Birds"},"content":{"rendered":"

One of the joys of spring in Canada is the return of many of our bird species.<\/h2>\n

They grace our backyards with their bright colours and chipper songs. But with so many backyards to choose from, how can you make your property the go-to spot for birds <\/a>this season? Many species look for the same amenities we all do when choosing somewhere to visit \u2013 the ideal place to stay. Providing birds with safe, suitable shelter is one of the best ways to attract them to your yard and help them to thrive.<\/p>\n

Why do birds need shelter?<\/h3>\n

Shelter<\/a> is an important source of safety and security for our winged friends. Branches, leaves and long grass can provide a haven for birds by hiding them from the view of predators, such as cats or larger birds. Dense vegetation can also help shield them from harsh weather. A safe shelter is especially important for nesting birds that need to protect themselves, their nests and their hatchlings.<\/p>\n

Most shelters are also important food sources. Plants offer a feast for birds, providing them everything from berries to seeds to sap. Plants also host insects, which can be essential to a bird\u2019s diet.<\/p>\n

How can I provide shelter for birds in my backyard?<\/h3>\n
\"\"
Providing a mix of different types of vegetation will help to attract and support a variety of backyard birds.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Birds benefit from many kinds of shelter. Providing a mix of different types, sizes and densities of vegetation will help to attract and support a variety of backyard birds. For instance, providing native evergreen and deciduous trees and a mix of shrubs \u2013 such as spruce, cedar, maple, oak, serviceberry and dogwood \u2013 will help a variety of species meet their specific needs.<\/p>\n

Native plants<\/h4>\n

When choosing trees, shrubs and other plants for your yard, remember to include as many regionally native species as possible. Native plants are the perfect food for birds, providing them with fruit that has the right amount of fat. They are also the perfect food for insects.<\/p>\n

But who wants insects in their trees and shrubs, you ask? Birds do! Many bird species need juicy caterpillars and other insects to feed their young and often themselves, too.<\/p>\n

As a result, birds don\u2019t tend to nest in non-native invasive plants, such as Norway Maples, that can\u2019t support the same number of insects as our native species. After all, birds would have to search for food elsewhere, leaving their young for longer periods and expending more energy.<\/p>\n

Tall grass<\/h4>\n
\"Leaving
Leaving the grass in a section or corner of your yard to grow tall provides ideal shelter for many bird species.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Grow it, don\u2019t mow it<\/a>! Leaving the grass in a section or corner of your yard to grow tall provides ideal shelter for many bird species. It also provides essential habitat for our threatened pollinators, including many bees and butterflies. And it allows you to spend less time doing one of summer\u2019s least exciting chores \u2013 mowing!<\/p>\n

Shrubs<\/h4>\n
\"A
A variety of shrubs is a great way to help our feathered friends.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Shrubs are another source of shelter for birds \u2013 and they offer a feast of insects! If you have a small yard without much space for trees, then providing a variety of shrubs is a great way to help our feathered friends.<\/p>\n

Trees<\/h4>\n
\"Even
Even in winter, an evergreen continues to provide shelter.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Planting trees, both deciduous and evergreen, is an ideal way to provide birds with food, shelter and nesting spots. Even in winter, an evergreen continues to provide shelter in its canopy and trunk while deciduous trees remain beneficial for cavity nesters.<\/p>\n

Dead or dying trees \u2013 known as \u2018snags\u2019 \u2013 are also helpful by providing nesting cavities and insects for certain birds, including woodpeckers, Tree Swallows and bluebirds. However, make sure a snag is safe before leaving it on your property.<\/p>\n

Birdhouses<\/h4>\n

\"\"You can supplement natural shelter on your property by installing a birdhouse or nesting box. Before doing so, read our tips for selecting the right birdhouse<\/a> to ensure you choose a product that is safe and appealing for the bird species you want to attract.<\/p>\n

We hope these tips help you to create a safe oasis for Canada\u2019s many beautiful birds<\/a>. Where do you see birds taking shelter on your property? Let us know in the comments!<\/h4>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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