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
Hannah Sosinski
I started my career in the real estate industry at the age of sixteen and instantly fell in love.
I worked alongside one of the top producing agents in the country as their administrative assistant for nearly nine years before I took the leap to begin my own journey in the real estate industry.
Working alongside an agent who sells over three hundred houses a year educated me strongly on the Pittsburgh and greater Pittsburgh housing market. While working alongside this agent, I was lucky enough to be involved in several different types of real estate transactions and learned to properly determine home values, many aspects of negotiations and have learned how to close challenging deals while also handling a large amount of deals at the same time.
I have also spent the past seven years working as a property manager throughout Allegheny, Washington and Fayette County. I have managed everything from Section 8 to Luxury units.
Exploring the options of the real estate industry can be overwhelming. While working with me you’re able to sit back and relax as I have worked with many investors, home sellers and buyers and can help guide through the sale or purchase of your home and make it as easy on you as possible.
Whether you’re a first time home owner, downsizing, sizing up, looking to make your first/second or third investment, selling your home, etc. I can use my years of education to help guide you through the purchase or sale of the largest investment of your life.
I look forward to chatting about real estate with you!