Some birds, such as purple martins, are highly social and build nests in close proximity to each other. Special large bird houses, called martin houses, are available for social birds. Though installing a martin house in your yard may be costly, it will attract purple martin, swallows, and swifts, all of which eat hundreds of mosquitoes each day and will make your yard more enjoyable during the summer months. Bird houses should be installed on a tall post in an open area of the yard away from the house, trees and any large bushes. Landscapes A bird-friendly landscape is one that provides a habitat for nesting, eating and social activity.
Trees provide natural settings for nests as well as perches for social interaction.
Berry bushes and other flowering plants offer additional food and nectar. Before adding new trees, bushes or plants to the yard, ask a local garden center representative to recommend the appropriate foliage that will attract local birds. Also tell the representative about the existing plants in the yard to make sure that none are toxic to animals. Now that your yard is bird-friendly, find an animal book or encyclopedia to help you identify the different birds flying and feasting in your yard. Then, sit back and enjoy the sights and sounds of your feathered friends.