What can I do to make my garden more bird-friendly?

There’s nothing better for me than enjoying my parents’ garden over the holidays while drinking my morning coffee and watching the birds flit around. A little freedom, a little lightness—lessons I can definitely learn from. Unfortunately, however, it’s not quite as romantic as I imagine. According to NABU, nearly half of all bird species in Germany are threatened with extinction. IMAGE: ©RLS Photo | Stock.Adobe.com

In their annual count, only 2,025 garden birds were spotted, the fewest ever recorded in Germany. Humans are also to blame because we are destroying the birds’ habitat, contributing to the decline of insects, and disrupting the entire ecosystem through climate change. So, in my opinion, it’s high time to give my little friends a helping hand. If you feel the same, I have some tips on how to make your garden (or your parents’ garden) more bird-friendly.

4 tips for creating a more bird-friendly garden

Native Plants: The more diverse, the better. Whether they are bushes, shrubs, trees, or flowers, native plants provide birds with small habitats where they feel comfortable and promote insect diversity and abundance. Bonus points are awarded for species such as mountain ash, whose fruits birds can eat directly.

No pesticides: If you care about bird welfare, avoid using them altogether if possible. Pesticides kill insects, poison berries, and accumulate in the fatty tissue of many bird species. This can lead to reduced fertility and immune system disorders.

Let it grow wild: I will definitely use this excuse the next time I have to clear away leaves :D. Insects feel very comfortable among the leaves, which also provide birds with a good source of food in the fall. Weeds also promote insect diversity because snails, caterpillars, and larvae feed on them.

Water Sources: A shallow bowl is ideal. Refill it every other day and clean it regularly to prevent disease. Birds appreciate the cooling effect and easy access to water, especially in the summer.

By the way: If you’re wondering why I didn’t mention feeding stations, please read my previous post on the subject. In it, I explain why I can’t make a clear recommendation.

I hope I’ve given you some ideas on how to make your garden more bird-friendly! Do you have any tips of your own? Share them in the comments!