Home » Plants & Animals » Small Hookbills » Planning for Wild Bird Care

Planning for Wild Bird Care

© Mary Wilson

Most people who keep pet birds are also concerned about outdoors wildlife. There are many things that a bird owner can do fairly cheaply that will help the wild birds. In the winter time it is important to provide shelter and food for Mother Nature's feathered children.

As parrot owners know, our birds waste an inordinate amount of food. One of the things that can help outdoors birds is not to throw away the seed that isn't eaten. Instead, keep it in a container and every other day, or so, depending on amount, dump it into the yard. By pouring the seed into the grass, wild birds can feed on the parrot's leftovers, and other wildlife, such as squirrels and rabbits, also enjoy sunflower seeds.

Another thing, although it may be costly, is to place a bird feeder in the yard. The only thing to remember is that once you begin feeding the birds in colder weather is to not stop feeding. Birds are creatures of habit, as we pet owners know, and once wild birds find a food source, they will continue to return through out the season.

Wild birds also need shelter. Shrubs and bushes along property lines make great homes for outdoor creatures of all types. Evergreen plants make better homes than deciduous plants, since they retain their leaves year long. This gives the birds a place to shelter against the cold winds and snow.

Man made structures also provide a safe haven for wild birds. Wooden bird houses, enclosed shelters, even awnings provide ample shelter for birds. The birds that remain in the northern climate, for the most part, are capable of handling the cold winter nights; however, they appreciate the windbreak.

Many holiday decorations can also provide shelter for birds. The corn stalks that adorn houses in the fall make a great haven, as do old Christmas Trees (the natural kind please).

In the winter, we not only have to look at our feathered friends indoors, but outdoors as well. Now is the time to begin planning.