Want to help migratory birds reach their destinations safely? Here are some ways you can help make your space more bird friendly for all birds.
Migratory Blue-gray Gnatcatcher after it had returned to its breeding grounds in Guilford County, NC.
Here are some ways you can help birds.
* Plant native trees, shrubs, grasses, and flowers. Native plants and trees provide food for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife.
* Leave your leaves alone as insects (aka bird food!) rely on the habitat fallen leaves provide, especially throughout the winter months.
* If you live in an apartment, condo, or just have a small space, use containers to plant natives to help feed insects that help feed birds.
* Stop using pesticides and herbicides, which kill insects and the plants that many birds rely on for food.
* Make your home, office, or other building safer for birds by taking steps to treat your windows to reduce bird/window or building collisions. For more information, check out National Audubon’s Simple Solutions to Prevent Collisions.
Bird Friendly Window Before After, Allison Stewart/USFWS, Public Domain
* Turn off lights between dawn and dusk, especially during fall and spring migration seasons. For more information, see our page on Lights Out and take our Lights Out Pledge.
* Grab a pair of binoculars and get outside to enjoy the birds in your area. You can even participate in bird monitoring programs like eBird or Christmas Bird Counts.
* Take pride in the important contributions you are making to birds in your community and brag about it to others! Your passion for conservation could be contagious!