Heading south, anyone? Fall marks the beginning of migration season for most birds and 
its time for us to start thinking about how we can prepare our backyards to welcome those on their southbound journey. Also, how can we make a nice home for our year-round friends.
Fall migration is a great time for birders. We tend to see more birds mainly because birds born in spring and summer are now heading south with all the other birds. Migration is also a time for us bird watchers to notice varieties we normally do not see. Because of the hurricane season, these strong winds often bring in those tropical species and birds alike.
Cardinals, blue jays, titmice, and Carolina chickadees (just to name a few) we consider our year-round birds, but other birds migrate in the colder months. Both groups need a place to rest, refuel, and rehydrate – we can help by planting a few bird-friendly trees and shrubs. Below is the Wild Bird Journal top ten list. These shrubs and trees provide editable berries and shelter for our feathered friends while at the same time creating lots of brilliant autumn colors to boost backyard appearances.
- Cameo flowering quince bush
- Japanese flowering dogwood tree
- Arrowwood viburnum
- Evergreen holly
- Cranberry bush viburnum
- Winterberry holly
- Viking black choke berry
- Sumac shrub
- Red chokeberry
- Blackhaw viburnum
Don’t forget the water! Birds need something to drink as well. There are various types of bird baths on the market – take a look at the bird baths found at Birdfeeders.com.
With all of these great prep ideas, birds are sure to spend some time in your backyard sanctuary. These fall feathered friends will be landing in our backyards any day now, so get your binoculars ready and stock up on your seed and feeders at any North Texas Russell Feed & Supply!