To attract birds to a specific area, three main "enticements" must be available - water, food and shelter. In this final segment, host Jackie Cicchino shares several good suggestions for providing the essentials.
Water:
- Use birdbaths to supply water for bathing and drinking.
- The water should be less than two inches deep (so the birds can bathe comfortably) and must be kept clean.
- Birdbaths should be placed in a shady location if possible; adding a source of running water (such as a dripping hose or recalculating pump) will make the water more appealing.
- Shallow dishes filled with water can be substituted for traditional birdbaths.
- Use large plastic plant saucers, or other sturdy shallow objects.
- Placing the water source on a pedestal or stump or hanging it from tree limb will give birds a better view of predators.
Food:
- To provide an ample supply of "bird food," plant a wide variety of flowering and fruit-bearing plants, as well as varieties that attract insects (a great protein source for birds). Oaks, hickories and maples are all good choices.
Shelter:
- Appropriate shelter for birds doesn't necessarily mean a birdhouse; birds will nest in most trees that provide protection from harsh weather and predators (such as hawks and cats). Evergreens and dense shrubs are ideal choices for good shelter.
