8 Ways to Attract More Birds to Your Yard, According to Experts

Fill Your Yard With Native Plants

Native birds thrive on native plants. Before you think about bird feeders (which are also important!), focus on the flowers, shrubs, and trees that are naturally occurring in your region. With these, you’re providing the birds with the fruit, seeds, nectar, and insects they need to survive season after season.

"Creating a habitat in this way provides what birds need, naturally, all year long—including during migration, nesting season, and the winter. This will greatly increase the diversity of birds you see," says Winston.

Install Bird Feeders

"Supplementing natural foods with bird feeders is also a fun way to attract many species and see them up close," says Winston. Birds like cardinals, jays, finches, chickadees, and sparrows are particularly drawn to seed feeders, while suet and peanut butter draw woodpeckers and nuthatches. If you want the thrill of seeing a hummingbird up close, hang a sugar-water feeder.

Note that placing feeders within 3 feet of windows can help keep birds safe by reducing collisions with glass, according to researchers.

Once you’ve committed to supplying bird feeders, make sure to keep them stocked and clean.

Plant Native Shrubs and Trees for Nesting

Beyond supplying food, native shrubs and trees are also necessary for shelter and nesting. While birds are adaptable, they’re going to seek out the places their instincts recognize, and those are the places that will evolve to accommodate them year-round. 

"If you have a forested area in your yard, leave dead branches and snags that provide nesting places for woodpeckers, as well as other cavity-nesting species such as chickadees, titmice, wrens, and bluebirds," says Winston. "Include native evergreens to supply important shelter from the cold."

Put Nest Boxes in Your Yard

While many birds build recognizable bird nests, others prefer to nest in cavities. For these birds, which include wrens, nuthatches, and bluebirds, place a nesting box in your yard. This can be mounted on a tree or a pole. 

Leave Leaf Litter and Unmowed Areas

"Leave leaf litter and un-mowed areas under trees and shrubs to provide important shelter for both birds and the insects they need," says Winston. While these areas might seem like an eyesore to you, they’re a critical piece of the landscape that protects birds. If they’re given a choice between a pristinely landscaped yard and one that feels more untouched, they will probably be drawn to the one that resembles their natural habitat.

Put a Bird Bath in Your Yard

A bird bath isn’t just a pretty decorative feature. "A well-tended bird bath can greatly increase the diversity of birds that nest in your yard, visit during migration, and spend the winter—and if the bird bath is well-placed, you can sit back and enjoy the show as warblers, grosbeaks, and more stop to drink and wash up," says Winston. 

But, of course, a bird bath can also become a spot where bacteria and insects can thrive, so make sure you clean it regularly and replace the water every few days.

Add a Water Feature

If you want to go one step further when it comes to birds and water, consider adding a moving water feature to your yard. "Birds are particularly attracted to the sound of running water, so adding a small trickle or drip to your bath will reap rewards," Winston says. You could also try a fountain or a small pond with a pump. Now you’ve created a bird-friendly garden and a relaxing space for you to enjoy your new avian friends.

Focus on Color

Birds have incredibly sensitive, sharp vision, and they spot the best places to eat and sleep based on the color of flowers and foliage. By planting colorful flowers, shrubs, and trees, you’ll draw in birds looking for their next meal or place to sit and hang out for a while.