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

by Linda Cappello, Broker, GRI, ABR 10/29/2023

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
Author

Linda Cappello, Broker, GRI, ABR

Linda A. Cappello, Owner/Broker of Cappello Realty Shoreline Properties. Cappello Realty is a full service boutique Real Estate firm that specializes in 06855 - East Norwalk, and services all of Norwalk and Fairfield County, CT. Linda has been in the Real Estate business for 20+ years, spending 18 of them as a Owner/Broker. Being a Broker adds a lot responsibility to her job. She is responsible for overseeing every transaction and agent in the office. This is a challenge that she looks forward to and takes very seriously. She is constantly taking continuing education classes and attending seminars to keep abreast of the ever changing market as well as the industry standards, rules and regulations.  

She is a native to East Norwalk, and has an in-depth knowledge of the city that she loves, as well as the intricacies of the many unique neighborhoods and areas that Norwalk offers. Linda offers her clients a network of professionals ranging from Attorneys, Mortgage Brokers, Home Stagers and Home Inspectors to any and all pros that you may need for a successful transaction and for the convenience of her clients.  

"My job doesn't end at the closing table. It goes far beyond that, keeping in touch and staying friends who refer their family and friends. A lot of my business is referral business which is the greatest accomplishment and honor of all. Earning my clients trust."