More than 300 bird species found in North America during the summer will migrate to southern states, Latin America, or the Caribbean — some covering distances of nearly 7,000 miles. We need to help host these winged visitors for the next few weeks as the birds make their way to their winter destinations. Here are a few things you can do to help them along on their journey.
Provide Food
Put out feeders and provide foods high in fat such as suet, and a seed blend with lots of sunflower seeds to help birds refuel. They need high calorie foods to replenish their energy.
Provide Water
This morning, I had more than ten migrating robins in my birdbath. When I refilled after their splashing, another bunch jumped into the “pond”. All birds need water for drinking, bathing, and preening. Birds need open water sources for drinking and keeping their feathers maintained for flight and proper insulation as the nights get colder. Providing water can be as simple as putting out a bird bath — keeping it fresh and filled.
Provide Habitat or Shelter
Birds need safe places to rest. You can start by evaluating your property. Dead trees and brush piles provide shelter and food (insects) for migrating birds.
Landscaping your yard this fall? Select native evergreen and fruit bearing trees, shrubs, grasses, and vines. Design the garden so that plants flower and bear fruit throughout the spring, summer, and fall.