Keep the Birds Happy. Create a Winter Habitat!
December 9, 2013 | By webadmin
We love hearing colorful birds singing and whistling through our gardens in spring, summer and fall, but especially in winter. When the landscape appears its most bleak, there is nothing more lovely than seeing a bright red cardinal float by and land in a berried tree such as a Yaupon Holly or Juniper.
How do you attract birds to your landscape? There are 3 main components to keeping birds safe through winter:
- Food. Berried plants are a great place to start. Plus, shrubs and small trees such as Beautyberry or Yaupon holly are beautiful and tough in north Texas landscapes. In addition, offer bird feeders with suet, shelled nuts and seeds, and fresh fruit.
- Water. Yes, birds will need water to bathe in as well as drink through winter. They’ll need access to unfrozen water to keep flight feathers clean so they are able to fly properly and puff up in order to insulate themselves to keep warm.
- Shelter. Evergreen plants are perfect to keep smaller birds hidden from pray. Hang a feeder next to an evergreen tree or shrub so birds have a quick place to hide. They also give birds a roosting nest. At night, they’ll rest here to keep out of the elements. Birds will often roost in an old birdhouse, rotted out tree hole, or under the eaves of your
By providing food, water and shelter, you are giving birds a place to forage safely and with an abundance of success. This month in the landscape be on the lookout for Cardinals, Eastern Bluebirds, Red-headed Woodpeckers, and a variety of Finches.
What birds or other wildlife are you seeing in your own gardens? We’d love to see pictures posted to our Facebook page!
