Birdlife in the Garden
One of the great aspects of working in the garden is the birdlife, which occupies the yard and surrounds. Watching them fly by and perched on branches as I, potter around the garden.
Indigenous Plants
A great way to attract birds and in particular native birds is by planting some native trees such as grevilleas, wattles, and banksias, the list goes on. These plants produce a wonderful flower, which attracts birds and makes for a very attractive plant in its own right.
The type of indigenous tree, grass, or shrub you grow will vary depending on what type of birds you want to attract and of course what birds are in your area. There are generally great resources available such as the local council or State Government environmental department such as the Natural Resource Management Board, which is in South Australia. The South Australian State Government has recently launched backyards for wildlife, which also provides excellent advice for those of us in South Australia.
Organic Garden
Having an organic garden will also, aid in attracting birds as there will be no chemicals in your garden.
An organic garden increases the amount of insects in your garden. Birds provide a great organic pest control measure. Birds love slugs and snails and will help keep a ecological balance in your garden.
Attracting birds can have its downside in the vegie garden. Some birds love to forage around in the dirt and eat those seeds you just planted but chicken wire placed over the plant bed is a good deterrent.
Water
There are a variety of birdbaths available at different nurseries, hardware stores etc that can be placed in the garden to attract birds. I think one of the most enjoyable aspects of having birds is watching them frolic in the water, splashing water all over themselves, it is rather amusing.
Nest Boxes
Nest boxes can be used to attract birds, which is something I have never done. I have heard though to be wary of the size you have as possums also like to use the boxes and you will soon know about it if they move in.
Safety
One of the most important aspects for attracting birds is to make a safe environment for birds. If you have a cat it would be best to make it an inside house cat. Any cat should be discouraged from the garden, if you want to attract birds. Dogs can also scare birds, so if you have a dog, which loves to chases birds, make the front yard a place to attract birds and allow your dog to roam freely in the backyard.
Having birdlife in your garden is one of the best aspects of having a garden. Planting trees and shrubs, which attract native birds, will help maintain the native bird population in your area and bring delight to your gardening experience as they whiz by you in the garden.
