Have you ever wanted to provide shelter for birds in your backyard? There are a number of ways you can support your local ecosystem with your landscaping and exterior design, and creating shelter is just one way to help the birds.
Whether you want to attract winter birds or provide a perfect space for birds year round, here are some of the basics to know:
What is the best material for a birdhouse?
Natural hardwoods are the perfect material for birdhouses, as they mimic the birds' natural habitat. Wood is also durable and holds up well against the elements if properly treated. Avoid using weaker wood options like plywood, as they tend to break down quickly.
Bird shelters for storms & harsh weather
Your landscaping choices have a massive effect on the safety of backyard birds during storms and extreme weather conditions. Evergreen landscaping with plenty of dense shrubs, ground covers and sturdy trees will provide winter shelter at a variety of heights for birds to use.
A brush pile is another natural shelter you can provide in your garden. Use sticks, twigs and branches to form a large pile full of nooks and crannies for birds to hide in. Building in a cone shape is a simple way to establish a shelter with minimal effort.
Bird feeders with shelter from predators
Another way to help your local bird species is by providing bird feeders with protection from hungry predators. Placing feeders near shrubs or trees for an easy escape is a smart tactic. Another option is to use feeders with wire cages surrounding the food source. These allow small birds to access the feeder while keeping hawks and other predators out.
Full bird habitats
If you want to create a perfect bird habitat in your backyard, you'll need to do more than simply provide shelter. Some other things you can do to support local birds include:
- Provide fresh, clean water sources.
- Plant diverse native plants for food.
- Add nesting boxes for the breeding season.
Research the needs of birds in your specific region to provide the best possible food and shelter options. With these tips, you'll be on your way to creating a sanctuary for important wildlife.
About the Author
Pablo Torres
Pablo Torres is a qualified Real Estate Agent with over 10 years experience in real estate sales, due diligence and contract negotiations. Knowledgeable of South Florida neighborhoods. Currently, Pablo focuses his skills on all markets in the Miami metropolitan area.
He has the ability to understand sellers, buyers and renters needs with excellent communication. Fluent in English and Spanish with working knowledge of Portuguese. Pablo has impeccable reputation and a passion for real estate.
He graduated with a degree in International Business from Florida International University (1998) and a masters in business administration from Nova Southeastern University (2003). He had embarked on a career in commercial banking before being driven to switch to one of his passions-real estate.
Dedication, perseverance and punctuality allowed Pablo to sell different types of properties. His expertise with South Florida's cultural diversity has allowed him to sell real estate to both buyers and sellers.
Part of what makes Pablo so successful is his dedication to exceptional customer service and his devotion to their needs, whether they are buying or selling properties. Pablo has many repeat customers who cite his willingness to work long hours to resolve the toughest issues, as a reason why they stick with him. Torres integrity, attention to detail and careful handling of a transaction, exceeds their expectations. Sellers know that Pablo's extensive and personalized marketing strategies, means that their listing is seen by most buyers.
As a real estate professional, Pablo has the tools to represent your interests in virtually any transaction. Pablo's ability to interview, reason and figure out the smallest details makes every successful transaction a seamless process. Pablo is the right real estate professional to hire.
