Qualifications for a Bird Preserve at Home

Planning a Home Bird Sanctuary

• Creating a home bird preserve may require establishing a bird-friendly area within an existing backyard or garden, or dedicating an new, predator-free space for the purpose. Considerations for planning a sanctuary for wild birds include whether to add new plants or trees for shelter and food, and where to set up feeding stations and baths. Any area intended for wild birds should be kept free of pesticides and other chemicals, especially if nesting is encouraged.

Shelter for Wild Birds

• A backyard bird preserve needs enough trees and plants of varying sizes to offer shelter and nesting sites, as well as gathering places for social activity. Even discarded wood and fallen tree branches can offer shelter and nesting places for some kinds of birds. Bird houses of varying types, either hung in trees or placed on stands or tree trunks, also offer shelter for some species.

Feeding Wild Birds

• Feeding wild birds is a essential part of maintaining a sanctuary. Berry- and seed-producing plants can be added to the landscape, and feeders holding a variety of foods such as suet, nuts, nectar and seeds can be hung or placed on stands. Many wild birds also eat insects, which benefits gardens and eliminates harmful insects around homes.

Bird Baths and Water Features

• A successful bird preserve needs adequate water for bathing as well as drinking. Birdbaths filled with clean water accommodate both these needs. Likewise, water is essential for maintaining the plants and trees in the "bird garden." Other water features, such as ponds or water gardens, provide opportunities for birds to drink or bathe and enhance the appearance of the sanctuary. They also give visiting water birds a place to rest and swim.