Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Each spring approximately 350 species of migratory birds travel between non-breeding grounds in Latin America, Mexico and the Caribbean and nesting habitats in North America.
Although birds are uniquely adapted to the incredible trials of migration, it can still take a toll on them. Many travel hundreds or even thousands of miles on these seasonal voyages. Out of necessity, these winged creatures stop for rest and snacks to refuel their tiny bodies for the remaining leg of the journey.
According to the US Fish & Wildlife Service, it is estimated that nearly half of the birds who set out for a southerly migration in the fall will not return in the spring due to the difficulty, danger and stress of migration itself. This is why birds can use assistance to make their migration voyages more successful.
"Preparing your backyard for migrating birds is easy, and it's so rewarding to spot songbirds or other long-distance travelers at your feeder or birdbath and taking shelter in the rest stop you've provided," said David Mizejewski, naturalist for National Wildlife Federation.
Habitats containing food, water, and shelter are beneficial to the weary winged traveler and can be in the form of areas other than wide open spaces and parks. Creating a bird-friendly habitat on balconies, backyards, stoops and porches offer assistance to these tiny travelers.
"Inclement weather, collisions with windows, buildings or cars, predation, and of course loss of habitat are among the many challenges migrating birds face during the Spring migration," says John Robinson, chief ornithologist with ScottsMiracle-Gro. "When you factor in that up to 50% of all migrant birds may perish during the annual migration, it is important to offer food, water, and shelter especially at times when natural food supplies may be low. Simply hanging a bird feeder may give the birds that added advantage they need to successfully migrate, breed, and raise another brood of young."
Creating a habitat to act as a welcome seasonal home or resting spot for birds in your own backyard is as easy as providing the following elements.
A bird feeder filled with high quality bird food, like Scotts® Songbird Selections® Regional Bird Blends
A brush pile for shelter from the weather
A fresh water source such as a bird bath
Trees or shrubs to offer protection from predators
Creating a backyard haven is a welcome respite and source of enjoyment for both the wild birds and bird watchers alike.
Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2011/04/26/3578897/help-for-migrating-birds.html#ixzz1KdG1XRC0
