1.      Put out different kinds of feeders and a variety of seeds, fruit, worms and suet. Each species has a preference as to what they eat and where they prefer to dine. For example, cardinals like to eat fruits and seeds on a feeder that has a tray where they will perch to eat. Goldfinches eat mainly seeds such as thistle and sunflower seeds and typically like tube feeders with multiple perches. If you can, place your feeders close to the windows in your home so you can watch as close as possible without disturbing them.

2.      Don’t forget to hang a feeder to attract hummingbirds. These are usually filled with a colorful, red sugar and water mixture. Once the hummingbirds find it in your yard, you’ll have visitors all summer. Just keep it filled.

3.      Put up some birdhouses in your yard. You may want to do a little research on what types of birds will nest in your area. Make sure the birdhouse and the hole to get into it are the appropriate size.

4.      Birds are attracted to the sound of running water. If you already have a pond or fountain you’re ahead of the game.  Even a small bird bath with a “bubbler” installed will work. The birds will come for a drink or a quick bath. If you decide on getting a bird bath, make sure to change the water regularly to keep it clean and to keep the mosquitos from breeding.

5.      With all these birds you’re attracting you don’t want one to take a header into your windows. One way to prevent this is to place a decal of some sort (an owl or hawk silhouette work well) on the outside of the window pane. Instead of seeing the reflection in the window (that looks like more of your yard), the birds will focus on the decal and veer off.

With these tips you should be able to attract many different varieties of birds. Hopefully Mother Nature will cooperate and bring us the warmth of spring soon. This Michigan winter has been for the birds!  (I know…. that was bad! J)

 

 

(Source:  http://www.globalanimal.org/2011/09/03/see-more-birds-in-your-backyard/ )