How to Create a Peaceful Backyard Bird Sanctuary (DIY-Friendly!)
Intro Paragraph:
Welcome to my backyard! I’ve always dreamed of having a space where birds could feel safe, welcome, and at home—and I finally decided to build it myself. Whether you’re a fellow bird lover, a weekend DIYer, or just looking to bring a little peace and nature into your world, this guide is for you. Today, I’m sharing how I'll build my small backyard bird sanctuary, step-by-step, using simple tools, a little creativity, and a whole lotta heart. 🐦💚
🌿 Step 1: Choose Your Sanctuary Spot
Pick a quiet area of your yard with a bit of natural cover (like bushes or trees). If you don’t have much greenery, no worries—you can plant some easy-to-grow native shrubs or set up potted plants for instant shelter. I'm clearing out a 30x30 area in my backyard and covering it in gravel to start. This is the project I'm on right now.
Tip: Birds love a mix of sun and shade, so aim for a balanced spot if possible.
🏠 Step 2: Add Birdhouses and Feeders
This is where your creativity shines! I making my birdhouses from [scrap wood/repurposed items—you choose], and adding a mix of feeders: seed, suet, and nectar (for hummingbirds!). A quick note for using nectar: One part sugar, three parts water, boil and let cool before placing in your hummingbird feeders. Make sure to hang them at different heights to attract a variety of birds.
Tip: Clean feeders weekly to keep your feathered guests safe.
💧 Step 3: Provide Water
A small birdbath or shallow dish with clean water is essential. I'll be sharing what I come up with, because I think I might go with a small pond and fountain. The small birdbath I ordered is also linked above but I still want the pond.
🌸 Step 4: Plant Native Flowers & Shrubs
Native plants provide natural food sources and shelter. I'm choosing the following because they are native to Alabama. Please check what works for your state.
Flowering Natives (Pollinators + Seed for Birds)
These provide nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies, and seeds for finches and sparrows.
-
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – Loved by goldfinches, butterflies, and bees
-
Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – Bright blooms, great seed heads for birds
-
Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa) – Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies
-
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) – Great for fall bloom and pollinators
-
Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) – Sunshine yellow, easy to grow
Don’t forget to mulch and water regularly while they take root.
🛋️ Step 5: Make It Yours
I'm adding a little bench nearby to sit and enjoy the birdsong every morning with my coffee. You could add fairy lights, stepping stones, or even a bird cam like I'm doing to capture the magic.
📸 Bonus: Document Your Sanctuary’s Visitors!
I purchased the Solareye Birdfeeder with camera that has a solar panel so I don't need to keep changing batteries. I'll be putting together a review video of that here on the blog as soon as I get it set up (I just got it in today. You can check my shop link at the top of the page to see which I chose.
Final Thoughts:
Building a backyard bird sanctuary doesn’t require a lot of space—just a bit of love, patience, and intention. I hope this inspires you to create your own little haven for the birds (and yourself!). If you do, tag me or leave a comment—I’d love to see what you create!
No comments :
Post a Comment