Bird breeding season is a critical time for our feathered friends, as they work tirelessly to raise the next generation. During this period, birds require extra support and protection to ensure their survival and success. For bird lovers, this is an opportunity to take action and contribute to the conservation of these beautiful creatures. We’ll explore some of the things that bird lovers can do to help birds thrive during this important time.
Creating bird-friendly Habitats
1. Providing Nesting Sites
Many bird species use cavities for nesting, but natural cavities can be hard to find in urban or suburban environments. You can help by installing birdhouses or nest boxes in your yard or community green spaces. Make sure to choose a box or house that is appropriate for the species of bird you are trying to attract, and place it in a location that is protected from predators.
2. Providing Nesting Materials
Birds can use natural materials like dry twigs, leaves, and grass to build their nests during breeding season. You can help by providing these materials in a pile outside or draped over vegetation in your yard. Additionally, leaving out human or animal hair can also be beneficial for birds. However, it’s important to avoid putting out dangerous materials such as tinsel, plastic, or tin foil, as they can be harmful to birds if they become tangled up in them or accidentally ingest them. Stick with natural materials and help birds create cozy nests for their chicks!
3. Providing High-Protein Foods and Drink
If you want to help breeding birds, try filling a birdfeeder with high-protein foods like suet, mealworms, and peanuts. These foods will give the birds lots of energy, and they’ll also provide a healthy food source for the baby birds once they hatch. But don’t forget that birds need water, too! Breeding season for birds starts in spring, but during this time water can be hard to come by. It might be frozen or scarce, which is why it’s important to provide a bowl of clean, fresh water every day (better to provide water year-round, birds have memories).
Creating a Safe Home for Birds
1. Avoid Disturbing Nesting Birds
If you notice a bird nesting in your yard or nearby, try to minimize your activity in that area. Avoid using loud equipment or disturbing the nest, as this can cause the birds to abandon their eggs or chicks.
2. Keep Cats and Dogs Away
Cats are major predator of birds, especially during breeding season when birds are more vulnerable. Keeping cats indoors can help reduce the risk of predation. Also, keep your dogs away from the bird’s nest as they can disrupt the nest or even harm the hatchlings. It’s essential to be mindful of your pets during this time to ensure the safety of the birds.
Creating bird-friendly habitats is not only beneficial for birds but also for the environment. By providing food, shelter, and nesting sites for birds, and minimizing risks from predators and other threats, we can support and protect birds during their breeding season and throughout the year. These small steps can make a big difference in preserving the natural balance of our ecosystem, and ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and diversity of birdlife.