If you’re a Lubbock renter, you may reflect on how to make your yard more bird-friendly. After all, most landlords won’t be glad if you start changing the landscaping without consent. You can take some easy steps to attract more birds to your yard! Let’s explore some of the proven ways to make your rental home’s yard more hospitable for birds. Read on for effective advice on bringing more birds into your life!
What a Bird Wants
One of the best practices to attract birds to your yard is by understanding what birds are looking for and including that in your yard. For instance, birds are attracted to shady areas that give a lot of spots to perch. They are likewise attracted to areas with plentiful food sources. So, a great place to start is putting out some bird feeders and filling them with bird seed. Bird seed is relatively inexpensive, and you can find it at most pet stores or online. If you want to get more creative, you can make your own bird feeders from recycled materials. Just be sure to research and purchase the right kind of bird seed for your local bird population. It’s likewise important to keep the bird feeders clean, so remember to empty and wash them regularly.
Attracting Hummingbirds
One of the most charming and appealing types of birds is the hummingbird. There are a few things you can do to attract them. Primarily, plant some flowers that hummingbirds love, such as bee balm or trumpet vine. You can also bring out a hummingbird feeder filled with sugar water. An easy recipe for hummingbird water is to combine 1 part sugar with 4 parts water. Be sure to change the sugar water every few days and clean the feeder regularly. Avoid using hummingbird food with red dye – it’s not great for them! Also, avoid using pesticides in your yard, as they can harm hummingbirds.
Add a Water Source
One more way to draw in birds is by providing them with water. Birds need water for drinking and bathing, so adding a birdbath is a great way to attract them to your yard. Birds love to splash around to cool off on warm summer days, giving you ample time to enjoy their antics. You can buy a pre-fabricated birdbath in a wide range of styles and materials at most hardware stores or online. Or, you could also make a simple birdbath out of a large plastic container. Just be sure to place the birdbath in a shady spot and clean it regularly to reduce mosquitos and keep the water fresh.
Introduce Native Plants
To attract local birds, you ought to try planting native plants in your yard. Native plants are those that are naturally found in your area, and they provide natural sources of food and shelter for birds. If you plan to plant in the yard, just be sure to ask your Lubbock property manager first. If they say no, it’s not the end – you can always get creative with some inexpensive planter boxes and pots. By planting native plants in your yard, you’ll attract birds and offer a useful resource for them. You can find native plants at most nurseries or online.
Add Places to Nest
Ultimately, you can make your yard more bird-friendly by creating nesting sites. Birds need places to build their nests, so you can help them by supplying nesting boxes or birdhouses. You can buy nesting boxes at most hardware stores or make your own out of recycled materials. A great thing about nesting boxes is that some birds will return every year to nest so you can enjoy them again and again! No matter what type of nesting site you choose, just be sure to place the nesting boxes in a shady spot and clean them regularly (between nesting seasons) to keep the birds safe.
Following these tips, you can easily make your yard more bird-friendly and attract more birds to your home. Get started today and enjoy the beauty of birds in your own backyard!
If you’re looking for a new rental home where you can create a bird paradise, browse our listings online to see the options in your area.
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