Attracting birds to your garden

by tfAngel via Flickr

For the past few years, I have found that I enjoy attracting an assortment of birds to my yard to add movement and color to the garden. My favorites, of course, are brightly colored goldfinches - but then that may be because they are so easy to attract. Many offer them finch or thistle seed in special feeders, but I find mine happily visit my feeder filled with sunflower seeds.

If you are new to bird feeding check out these tips for attracting and keeping birds in your  yard.

• Provide fresh food and always fill empty feeders promptly.
• Hang birdfeeders out of the reach of cats or other predators.
• Place birdfeeders near shrubs or bushes for shelter and to offer quick protection if predator's strike.
• Offer a source of fresh water - birdbaths add beauty, but a shallow saucer of water will do.
• Vary the food offered to meet the needs of your birds. While sunflower seeds attract the widest selection of birds - don't overlook suet feeders and special blends of seeds.
• Place bird feeders in a location where you can view them easily.
• ENJOY your feathered friends!

Until next time ... HAPPY GARDENING!