Benefits

• Providing a bird-friendly habitat in your backyard has practical as well as aesthetic benefits. As land is cleared for urbanization and agriculture, habitat loss is having a negative effect on wildlife. Thoughtful landscaping will help increase bird populations by providing a suitable habitat. Additionally, a well-landscaped property adds to its natural beauty and increases property value. A bird-friendly environment will increase your opportunity for bird-watching and wildlife photography. Finally, several bird species such as house wrens, brown thrashers and orioles provide natural insect control.
  
  

Landscape Features

• Bird feeders provide nutrition to native species.bird feeder image by tomcat2170 from Fotolia.com
  
  Attract birds to your yard with the addition of several landscape features. Start by deciding which birds you want to attract. Add feeders and food that appeal to those species. Providing nest boxes and nesting materials will also attract birds. A bird bath or other source of clean water for drinking and bathing is another important feature.
  
  

Geographical Considerations

• According to Borgmann and Rodewald at Ohio State University, "To provide the most beneficial habitat for birds, bees, and butterflies, native trees and shrubs should be emphasized." Contact the botany department of a nearby college for a list of native trees, shrubs and wildflowers. These plants should be the framework for your landscape design because local bird species have already adapted to them.
  
  

Plant Selection

• Use a variety of trees, shrubs and wildflowers to provide a habitat for different species of birds. By planting different types of canopy trees and fruiting shrubs, you provide a natural forest structure to your yard. In addition to providing sap, buds and seeds, conifers provide shelter and nesting sites. Plant nectar-producing shrubs to attract hummingbirds and orioles. Nut and acorn trees provide both food and nesting habitats for several bird species. Finally, plant trees that produce fruit in different seasons so that birds have food throughout the year.
  
  

Problems and Solutions

• A habitat that appeals to desired bird species may also appeal to unwanted pests. If large birds are crowding your bird feeders, try a feeder specifically designed for small birds. Some of these feeders have perches that cannot support larger birds. Others are encased in a large mesh that allows only small birds to feed. If squirrels are chasing away birds, make sure your feeders are out of jumping range or have a baffle between the feeder and the tree to prevent squirrels from getting to the food. Other mammals such as mice, rats, raccoons, skunks and even bears can also be attracted to bird feeders. Careful placement of feeders and the use of drip trays to catch falling seed may help deter these unwanted animals.