FLIC
KR/PLANT
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FE(^20) September/October 2019
Cardinal Cache
Birds need shelter to sleep, hide,
escape the elements, and nest. The
more diverse the shelter options,
the more birds you’ll attract. There
are three layers of multilevel habitat
that birds use for shelter: lower
layers (e.g., flowers or low-grow-
ing grasses); middle layers (e.g.,
shrubbery); and upper layer ele-
ments (e.g., trees, tall cacti). Many
neighborhoods have excellent trees
and houses with flower beds, but
what about shrubbery? This layer is
often missing and is one of the most
important places for nesting sites.
Shrubs also provide quick and easy
hiding places for birds fleeing from
hazards, such as a passing hawk.
They also have an additional benefit
of providing fruits or seeds. Due
to these benefits, shrubs act as a
nursery, grocery store, and a refuge
for birds. To make your property a
bird sanctuary, have at least a few
different varieties (see “Shrub Hub,”
Page 22).
northern mockingbirds, when other food resources can
be scarce.
To increase the amount of food in your yard, consider
the entire planting season and the diversity of resources
available on your property. If possible, have blooming
plants and food resources available during every season to
provide a wealth of resources for birds throughout the year.
Wet ‘n’ Wild
Out of everything needed to create a bird sanctuary,
water is the easiest addition to make. Adding water can be
as simple as taking a 2-to-3-inch-deep tray, filling it with
water, rocks, and sticks, and placing it outside. The rocks
and sticks provide traction for birds and escape routes for
small creatures, such as insects, that may also use the water source.
Water will attract many species of birds for drinking and bathing that wouldn’t
otherwise visit a bird feeding area. Hawks, owls, warblers, and many other species
may be drawn to the water feature, especially if it’s made available when open
water is hard to come by, such as in arid habitats or freezing temperatures.
As with bird feeders, make sure to empty and clean your birdbath once a week
with a mild soap. This will not only keep the water bath safe for the birds, but
will also disrupt the mosquito life cycle so you won’t create a breeding habitat for
unwanted bloodsuckers.
Once your water feature is set up, you can enjoy the birds frolicking in it. But
it may take some time for birds to discover this new source of water. Don’t be
discouraged if a few weeks go by before a bird uses your water dish. Eventually
they’ll find it, and your yard will be filled with wet, happy birds.
Providing flowers,
shrubs, and trees in
your yard offers plenty
of opportunity for
birds to seek shelter
from predators.
Just as important,
this diverse habitat
also attracts bugs
and produces other
food for your many
feathered friends.