"Not humans, but birds often experience the most beautiful mornings in the world!" ~Mehmet Murat Ildan American Robin (Turdus migratorious) In the northern hemisphere, April is the perfect time of year to go on birding walks. The newly returned birds will be energetic, and full of song as they build nests, lay eggs, and raise broods. Early morning is ideal for bird watching and nature study, preferably a walk through the woods, or along field edges near thickets. Varied bird activity is commonly found near water sources like rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, creeks and the seashore. Mallard Ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) Adding a water feature to your property, especially a running water fountain will attract numerous birds. See my post on Landscaping for Wildlife for additional ideas. For the best birding educational experience, it is important to go in a small group and keep it as quiet as possible. Successful bird observation requires attentive listening. It is...
"Conservation is at the heart of all gardeners who work alongside nature and allow their backyard to become a wildlife habitat." ~Homegrown Herb Garden Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexipus) on Milkweed (Asclepias) Do you enjoy observing nature, listening to birds sing, and watching the graceful wings of a butterfly as it feeds on the sweet nectar of flowers? If so, then landscaping for wildlife will add beauty and purpose to your property, Wildlife habitat is greatly reduced as human communities continue to develop the land for housing, shopping, and recreation. This causes wildlife species to seek new sources of habitat where they can live and thrive. Wild Raspberries (Rubius idaeus) Even the smallest of properties can be enhanced to benefit wildlife. You can make your property wildlife friendly by adding simple components such as native plants, water sources, and feeders. The four basic need of wildlife are: Space Food Water Shelter Space to live and multiply. Each species h...