Inviting Birds to Your Garden

When we create spaces in our gardens for migratory and resident songbirds, as well as birds of prey, we're not only enhancing the beauty of our outdoor spaces, but we're also fostering a vibrant environment that benefits us in more ways than one.

Birds are more than just colorful ornaments in our landscapes; they are living beings that can bring immense joy and learning opportunities to our lives. Engaging in birdwatching is like a meditative journey that can relieve stress and connect us to the natural world around us. As we observe these feathered creatures, we embark on a journey of discovery, learning to identify different species, understanding their habits, and appreciating their unique behaviors.

Gardeners know the frustration of dealing with insect pests that can wreak havoc on our beloved plants. Thankfully, birds are natural allies in our battle against these pests. During the breeding season, which coincides with the peak of the garden growing season, birds become voracious insect hunters. Caterpillars, beetles, aphids, and other common garden pests become a vital part of their diet as they tirelessly forage to feed their hungry offspring.  See  A Case for Caterpillars.

Birds of prey, like hawks and owls, play a crucial role in maintaining balance within our garden ecosystems. These majestic creatures are formidable predators that help control rodent populations around our homes and gardens. By inviting birds of prey to our outdoor spaces, we contribute to a natural form of pest management that supports the health of our gardens.

The benefits of having birds in our gardens extend beyond pest control. Songbirds, such as finches, towhees, and sparrows, have an appetite for a variety of seeds. This includes seeds from both native plants and those that might be classified as weeds. By consuming these seeds, these birds inadvertently contribute to weed control, helping to keep unwanted plant species in check.

Creating a welcoming haven for birds involves more than just offering food; it entails selecting the right plant species that provide sustenance and shelter. Native plants play a pivotal role in drawing birds to our gardens. The National Audubon Society has a Native Plants Database that assists home gardeners in finding plants for their region and what birds those plants will attract.

Native Plant Species Birds Find Irresistible

Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis)

These multi-stemmed woody shrubs, 12 feet in height, boast clusters of small, dark berries that birds relish. Apart from being a nutritious food source, elderberries attract insects that, in turn, become a protein-rich diet for birds during the breeding season. Over 120 species of birds benefit from elderberries, including vireos, thrashers, catbirds, and ground-nesting birds, such as grouse. For more information on the benefits of growing elderberry, see Elderberry in the Garden and in the Kitchen.

Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea and Ratibida pinnata)

Coneflowers not only beautify your garden but also produce seeds that birds adore. Each species provides seeds that are essential energy during lean times. Purple coneflower adds a pop of color to the landscape and is a favorite of goldfinches. Plant grayhead coneflower along the edge of woodlands, in the back of garden beds, or along fences, as it can grow to 12 feet tall. Carolina wrens, chickadees, and cardinals will enjoy the seeds summer throughout early winter.

Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata, C. tripteris, C. verticillata)

Ranging in height from 2 feet to 9 feet, these cheerful yellow blooms develop seeds that sustain seed-eating birds throughout the growing season. Finches, grosbeaks, sparrows, and mockingbirds feast upon the seeds. Plant coreopsis in masses or incorporate it throughout the garden to benefit birds and pollinators.

Spicebush (Lindera benzoin)

Spicebush is a woody shrub that grows 6 to 12 feet tall. Berries ripen in the fall in time for the migration of many songbirds; they are a great fuel source with 50% fat. Spicebush is host to two species of swallowtail butterflies. Blue jays, nuthatches, sparrows, and waxwings use spicebush as a source of food and shelter. Note that this species is dioecious, i.e., female and male flowers are on separate plants. Grow both in order to have berries for the birds. To learn more, see Spice Up Your Garden with Spicebush.

In a world where balance can be elusive, inviting birds into our gardens offers a profound connection with nature's cycles. The melodies of songbirds, the regal flight of birds of prey, and the intricate interactions among various avian species remind us of the delicate tapestry of life we are part of. As you tend to your plants, consider how you can also tend to the needs of these remarkable creatures, creating a sanctuary of joy, learning, and harmony in your very own backyard.