The colors that attract birds to your yard and gardens
Almost everyone knows that hummingbirds, for example, are primarily attracted to reds, pinks, and oranges. But did you know that the color of the bird often determines your personal color preference? The Northern Cardinals look for areas where red flowers abound, and the Baltimore Orioles can’t resist orange flowers.
Color: how it relates to survival
It all ties in with the fact that for a bird, brightly colored feathers indicate successful foragers. If the plumage is healthy and shiny, then that bird has found a source of excellent nutrition. Their offspring will have inherited the same trait to effectively find the best nourishment rich sustenance. In this sense, birds are elites! They look for the ‘cream of the crop’ when it comes to mates. It’s all part of Nature’s elegant plan to ensure the survival of the species.
Purples, yellows, greens, blues and browns are very exciting hues for our feathered residents. These familiar and comforting colors are natural magnets for birds, as well as butterflies and beneficial bees. Plant mounds of flowers showcasing these hues and you’re sure to be surrounded by plenty of bubbly, joyous birdsong!
Do not use this color:
But there is one color you should avoid if you’re looking to bring birds into your gardens, and that’s white! For a bird, white indicates danger: flee at all costs. They have noticed that many birds of prey have white spots on their wings, chest, tail feathers, or back. It is such an effective warning that if they come to a garden with massive plantings of white flowers, the birds will move away from the area altogether. So use white sparingly in your bird-friendly landscaping.
When you visit your local garden center, keep the birds in your backyard in mind. Outdoor decorative items can play an important role in attracting birds to your garden. In fact, if you have an old bench, chairs, or tables that need a little “cooling,” bright hues like pink, yellow, red, blue, and green can be used separately or in combination. Think ‘happy’ and you can’t go wrong!
How about adding a birdhouse that has been ‘dressed’ in colour? or maybe a beautiful set of wind chimes! Birds love music, but they stay away from too much brightness. Remember to use more muted shades of bronze or copper instead of something dazzling. Also, avoid things that move fast in the wind, especially if they are shiny.
Plant beautiful flowers, vegetables, and colorful shrubs that offer ‘eye candy’ for your garden helpers, and they’ll stick around to eat garden pests and weed seeds. If you only have space for patio pots, paint them bright and choose flowers with birds in mind.
Go organic!
Use organic soil and mulch to ensure the health of plants, birds, and beneficial insects. Stay away from toxic ‘brand’ insecticides and herbicides. They not only poison the good bugs, but also the birds that eat them. And they end up in our soil and water, causing all kinds of diseases.
Make your yard and garden a feast for the eyes and for the birds. You will create a space that will be a pleasure for you and the nature that surrounds you.