Save - spend life happy

spend life happy

SaveHome & Family How to Attract More Birds to Your Garden

How to Attract More Birds to Your Garden

Attracting birds to your garden is probably simpler than you think! Put those DIY skills to work with a few easy projects that'll give you hours of joy!

How to Attract More Birds to Your Garden

Birds add life and joy to the garden! There's nothing quite like the sound of birds as you spend time in your garden. But how can you attract them? And are there budget-friendly ways to do it? The good news is attracting birds is actually simple. In fact, there are probably some quick and easy changes you could make today!

What do birds want?

If you're wondering how to attract birds to your garden, then you need to know what they like. Different birds have different preferences, but they all need a few simple things. Birds are looking for food, shelter, and water. Check those boxes and you'll find your garden filling up with birds in no time at all.

Set up a birdseed feeder

Putting out food is a quick and easy way to attract birds to your garden. Birdseed can be purchased at most pet stores and even at the grocery store. Buy a feeder, make your own, or simply scatter seed on the ground! You'll attract different birds at different heights, so play around with where you hang your feeder and see who arrives!

Try a feeding tray

Different types of birds like different foods! Putting out fruit, cheese or meat will attract a completely different crowd to the seeds. It's easiest to set up a feeding tray and then add food to it. Got a bruised apple? Some berries that are past their best? A piece of cheese that's gone hard? Add them to the tray!

Suet balls for hungry birds

Suet balls are perfect for helping hungry birds get enough calories in winter. Buy them at your garden center or turn it into a fun project and make your own! They're delicious, calory-dense snacks that will keep birds coming back to your garden again and again!

Bath time!

Birds need water for drinking and for bathing. Adding a birdbath is a simple and easy project that comes together quickly. The best part? This can be a really affordable addition! There are some beautiful ideas, so jump onto Pinterest and pick the look you love! Choose a spot near a tree or some shelter to help the birds feel safe visiting your bird bath. They don't want to feel exposed and they like to quickly fly to a nearby branch if they sense danger.

Get some moving water

Birds love moving water! A water feature adds beauty to your garden and will attract birds from all around the neighborhood! There are lots of options to choose from and you're sure to find something that works for your yard. A water fountain, stream, or even an artificial waterfall are all lovely options. Water features can be pricey so be prepared to pull out your DIY gloves (and youtube videos) for this one!

Top Tip: Low on time and money? Simply putting on the sprayer can help attract birds! Set up your sprayer and watch to see who arrives for a shower!

Plant trees

This is more of a long-term plan than a quick win! Birds love having trees to sit in and build their nests. If you can find a tree that fruits, even better! Mulberry trees are a great option because their fruit is delicious for humans and birds and there's usually more than enough for everyone to share! 

Use plants to attract birds

Try adding plants that birds love to your garden. Native and indigenous plants are often the best option! Choose plants that provide shelter and food for visiting birds. Try plants that produce at least one of these:

  • Seeds for grain lovers
  • Flowers that attract hummingbirds and other nectar feeders 
  • Fruits for everyone! There are a few exceptions, but almost all birds love fruit! 

All these plants can be arranged into a beautiful garden that the humans in your life will love as well! And the best part? Native plants are usually hardy and easy to grow!

Nesting boxes

Add nesting boxes to your garden to give your birds a place to lay their eggs. Choose a sheltered spot where they'll be protected from direct sunlight and strong winds. The more sheltered and secure the better! If the birds like what you've chosen, they should move in and start laying their eggs soon! Baby birds in the garden? What could be sweeter?

Roosting boxes

Nesting boxes can provide some shelter in the winter, but if you want to give your birds extra protection, then a roosting box is the way to go. These boxes are designed to keep birds snug and warm through the winter months. They're usually designed to house quite a few birds and are built for warmth! 

Add some color!

Try using colorful plants to attract birds. Birds love color, so adding colorful plants and flowers to your garden will help them spot your yard as they fly around looking for food. Who doesn't want a colorful garden full of birds?

Plan your spot

As you plan your garden, remember to plan your place in it. How would you like to enjoy the birds? From a quiet spot at the window? As you work in the garden? Get the most joy by making sure you can see the birds from your favorite places. 

Give me more joy!

The simple things in life can bring so much joy! Save knows that you don't always need to break the budget to enjoy life! Find out about starting your own book club, learn to make compost, or plan the ultimate camping trip with kids. Save has all the best tips and tricks to help you make life wonderful!

And remember to sign up for Save.com's Coupon Book Finder to stay on top of all the latest bargains! It's super quick and simple! Just enter your address to find out where you might find Coupon Book offers in your neighborhood.