Providing shelter for birds: How to support your local feathered friends

by Ann Hayward 03/18/2024

Have you ever wanted to provide shelter for birds in your backyard? There are a number of ways you can support your local ecosystem with your landscaping and exterior design, and creating shelter is just one way to help the birds.

Whether you want to attract winter birds or provide a perfect space for birds year round, here are some of the basics to know:

What is the best material for a birdhouse?

Natural hardwoods are the perfect material for birdhouses, as they mimic the birds' natural habitat. Wood is also durable and holds up well against the elements if properly treated. Avoid using weaker wood options like plywood, as they tend to break down quickly.

Bird shelters for storms & harsh weather

Your landscaping choices have a massive effect on the safety of backyard birds during storms and extreme weather conditions. Evergreen landscaping with plenty of dense shrubs, ground covers and sturdy trees will provide winter shelter at a variety of heights for birds to use.

A brush pile is another natural shelter you can provide in your garden. Use sticks, twigs and branches to form a large pile full of nooks and crannies for birds to hide in. Building in a cone shape is a simple way to establish a shelter with minimal effort.

Bird feeders with shelter from predators

Another way to help your local bird species is by providing bird feeders with protection from hungry predators. Placing feeders near shrubs or trees for an easy escape is a smart tactic. Another option is to use feeders with wire cages surrounding the food source. These allow small birds to access the feeder while keeping hawks and other predators out.

Full bird habitats

If you want to create a perfect bird habitat in your backyard, you'll need to do more than simply provide shelter. Some other things you can do to support local birds include:

Provide fresh, clean water sources.
Plant diverse native plants for food.
Add nesting boxes for the breeding season.

Research the needs of birds in your specific region to provide the best possible food and shelter options. With these tips, you'll be on your way to creating a sanctuary for important wildlife.

About the Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]