backyard sanctuary

Birds in the Winter Garden

Put your winter garden to work as a haven for birds. Leaves and brush left to compost provide foraging and roosting places, smother this year’s weeds, and feed next spring’s plant growth. Watch for juncos and towhees in the leaf litter, and wrens in the brush. Maybe even a Song Sparrow, like this... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  backyard sanctuary, gardening
Related bird:  Song Sparrow (Melospiza melodia)

A Natural Feast for Hummingbirds

Hoping to attract hummingbirds to your yard or balcony? One way is to grow native plants. Native plants provide cover, and they offer nectar in spring and summer. They also attract insects, the most important part of a hummingbird’s diet. Just add a source of water for drinking and bathing, and... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  backyard sanctuary
Related bird:  Anna's Hummingbird (Calypte anna), Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris), Allen's Hummingbird (Selasphorus sasin), Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus)

Magical Warbler Moment

Imagine watering your garden on a hot August day, when a small yellow-and-gray warbler flutters into the spray and begins taking a shower. The Yellow-rumped Warbler, probably mid-way through its fall migration, is unafraid. Yellow-rumped Warblers use many types of habitat. They breed high up in... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  backyard sanctuary, birdwatching, reflection
Related bird:  Yellow-rumped Warbler (Dendroica coronata)

Tree Swallows March North

Every March sees the annual spring migration of Tree Swallows. The swallows spend the winter along the Caribbean, in Central America, and in the warmest parts of South Texas and California. Some will nest as far north as northern Alaska and Canada. Tree Swallows nest only in cavities, such as old... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  backyard sanctuary, migration
Related bird:  Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor)

Flocking and Foraging

In winter, a foraging flock might include several species of birds: chickadees, kinglets, and even a Downy Woodpecker. Many bird species eat alone, so you might wonder why these birds have chosen to dine together. Different species flocking together to find food enhances the success of all. One... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  backyard sanctuary
Related bird:  Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens)

October Planting for Wildlife

October is the perfect time to plant for the benefit of next year's birds, including this Cedar Waxwing. Your new plants will put their resources into their roots rather than leaves or flowers. And the season's reliable rain will reduce the need to water. To attract the greatest variety of birds... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  backyard sanctuary, birdfeeding, gardening
Related bird:  Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum)

Birdbaths in Winter

Does the image of a frozen birdbath bring to mind a small yellow bird with ice skates? Birds need water in all seasons, for drinking and for bathing. When the water is frozen, you can thaw it with hot water. Or go the slightly more expensive route and add a heater. read more »

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Topics & Themes:  backyard sanctuary, birdfeeding
Related bird:  European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris)

Birds Need Water in Summer

Summer is a crucial time to keep your backyard birds supplied with water for drinking and bathing. Birdbaths set at different heights serve a great variety of birds. A wide, shallow birdbath that deepens a bit in the center will suit a broad range of birds - including this Orange-crowned Warbler.... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  backyard sanctuary, birdfeeding, gardening