Robin

Help Homeless Birds

Every day the birds we know and love are losing habitat from the increasing urbanization of our forests, fields and wetlands, i.e., “green spaces.” We can help protect native and migrant birds’ environments by making sure our yards have what they need: a place to live and nest, nesting materials, a variety of fresh food and water and shelter from predators and inclement weather.

Provide a variety of dwelling spaces, from traditional bird houses for cavity-nesting birds to brush piles for ground-dwelling birds. Don’t forget the value of coniferous trees, shrubs and vines that offer our friends dense thickets in which to perch, hide and take shelter from wind and storms. During nesting season, a suet cage filled with small strands of yard, straw or animal or human hair can be a big help to expectant parents in search of building materials. Better yet, an open compost bin offers a wealth of small and large plant materials with which to build a nest.

Provide Berries for Birds

To stock the pantry, supply a wide variety of vegetation, preferably locally native trees, bushes and plants. Those that bear fruit or berries are especially attractive to birds. Place a few different feeders, such as tray/platform, tube, hopper and suet in various locations. It’s important to keep the feeders clean, because mold and bacteria that can grow in old, especially wet seed, can cause diseases that may be fatal to the diners.

Water features are a sure way to attract birds. Moving water is a welcome sign that also deters mosquitoes. Fountain, pond or pedestal bath, keep it clean and try to add a few different levels so large and small birds can use the water for drinking and bathing.

Look But Don't Touch!

Be sure to keep cats and dogs who might prey on birds or their nests inside or behind secure fences.

For more information, visit the Birds and Blooms and  All About Birds Web sites.

If anyone would like to join us, we’re meeting next Tuesday (December 6) at 10:30 a.m. at Sharon’s house. We need some extra buttons, if anyone would care to donate.

No experience needed! Come and join the fun. Craft shop provided by Sharon and entertainment by Rina (just ask her what happens to giant grasshoppers and other uninvited pests in her garden).

Saturday, February 25, 2012
Robinson Road Community Center
7424 Robinson Road (just off Hanna Road), Oak Ridge North, 281-292-4648

We’re asking that every member bring 25 plants to donate to the event.

Several members have been gathering at Mary Podolski’s house to work on some items we are crafting to sell at the garage sale. They include little jars with “button” flowers, wooden recipe holders and plant markers.

If anyone would like to join us, we’re meeting next Tuesday (December 6) at 10:30 a.m. at Sharon’s house. We need some extra buttons, if anyone would care to donate.