Bird watching is one of the many pleasures that comes from creating a wildlife-friendly yard. Local birds as well as migratory birds may be visitors. Many times our yard has hosted a flock of birds that descends on a particular tree and feeds voraciously on its blossoms, berries, or insects.
By choosing trees, shrubs and plants that contribute to the food web, you provide an attractive environment for our feathered friends. We learned more about this idea of host plants from Dr. Doug Tallamy in his online talk for the Bring Back the Natives virtual event (see Bring Back the Natives – Open and Native Plant Finder).
Succulent crickets provide nourishment
Moths and caterpillars provide protein
Add water and nearby shelter, and you provide even more resources for the well being of birds, and other wildlife. You benefit by attracting more birds all through the seasons.
A young Blue Jay enjoys a quick bath in July
A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker stops for a snack in January
Many years ago we installed sun shades on our pack patio (see Patio Shades). The shades can be raised and lowered as needed to block the bright sun and protect us from cool marine breezes. We've also discovered that the shades provide a sort of "duck blind" for observing birds. The birds are still aware of our presence, but seem to feel protected and secure enough for a quick bath and preening on nearby shrubs.
Observing a Little Brown Bird from behind the "duck blind"
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