One of the most aesthetically pleasing and rewarding elements to your landscape is the addition of birds. These beautiful creatures come in all shapes, sizes and colors; and compliment your yard to the fullest. Although they make a great attraction, birds can be a little tricky to retain in your yard.  With a little pre-planing and simple maintenance, you’ll be able to keep the wonderful works of flight around.

Providing the Basics: Food and Water
The quintessential elements that attract birds are food and water.  Without the basic elements, it is guaranteed they will not stick around your yard.  Many experts suggest that providing a water source is the most important. Birdbaths are a common way to fill this need. All baths should gradually deepen, and be no more than two to three inches deep.  There should also be some form of rocks or stones added for the birds to perch on.

Birdbaths must be placed in an open area or clearing, away from all trees and shrubs.  This ensures that the birds can keep a look out for all predatory enemies. For the best results, try to find any type of moving water system.  Birds are drawn to noisy water, and by adding equipment such as a mister, dripper or circulation pump to your bath, the number of birds will soar.

Birds also need a food source.  They eat constantly, so there needs to be an ample amount of food available.  Like a bath, a birdfeeder is a simple way to attract numerous types of birds. Experts at Wild Birds Forever, an online nature store, suggest placing a wide variety of bird feeders and types of food around your backyard. Providing different options attracts the widest variety of wild birds.

Another way to lure birds to your area is by gardening.  Birds love to feast on many of the insects that inhabit the common garden.  This not only rids your garden of pests, but replaces the need for harmful chemicals that are typically used to destroy the intruders.

Shelter
Planting trees and shrubs is another surefire way to attract birds.  Birds love the source of food that these plants produce, as well as the shelter that each plant provides.  All birds need a place to nest and protect their young, and trees are the best source for it.  According to the US Fish & Wildlife Service, you’ll get the best results by planting trees or shrubs that are native to your area.  This will greatly increase your chances for bird watching, as the creatures are more familiar and accepting of regional food and shelter sources.