Always keep dogs and cats under
control. Don't let them roam. Cats can disturb, maim, or kill nesting
birds as well as young birds just out of the nest during breeding
season. The bacteria transmitted in a cat bite will quickly cause
infection and become life threatening. If cats are permitted outside,
put at least two bells on their collar to help alert birds that danger
is nearby, giving them extra time to escape.
Before you cut down or prune trees
and shrubs, check very carefully for nesting birds. You could
unintentionally destroy a nest by trimming too closely or destroy
the habitats provided in the tree. It is always best to leave dead
trees or snags standing. They provide food and shelter for many birds
throughout the year. As an added benefit, you can enjoy the wildlife
attracted by snags!
Never feed wildlife. Natural diets
are always more nutritious for wildlife than human food. Bird feeders
can be stocked with balanced mixes of different seed, appropriate for
the birds in your area. Old bakery goods do not supply nutritional
levels for good health, especially when birds are preparing for
migration or breeding.
Many birds depend on insects in
and around our backyards. So, limiting the use of insecticides can
help protect the health of our wildlife and water resources too.
Instead of using dangerous chemicals, contact local conservation
groups to obtain ideas for environmentally safe alternatives.
If woodpeckers drum on your house
it could mean several things: you may need to have your house inspected
for termites, the bird is displaying territorial behavior and
communicating with other woodpeckers or it is attempting to begin a
nesting cavity. You can try supplying a nest box for them to use.
Your local Audubon Society can provide you with instructions.
Reflections from windows can
confuse birds. This may cause them to fly into the glass or
repeatedly peck at what they see as their competition. Some simple
remedies include breaking up the reflections with stickers, decals,
or aluminum pie pans. Strips of colored plastic flapping in the
wind or balloons with big eyes painted on them also break up the
reflective pattern.
Never litter! All species of birds
can become easily entangled in man-made products such as plastic,
fishing line, cans, and bottles. Struggling to be free of such
entrapments often results in serious injury or death. Help by
disposing of litter properly, and recycle whatever you can.
If you take a bird to a wildlife
rehabilitator, you can help by taking a donation of food, money, or
volunteer your time and talents. Keep in mind that most organizations
rely solely on donations from caring people like you. Your
thoughtfulness will be greatly appreciated.
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