As William Cullina mentions in his article on plants for birds, the sad reality is that songbirds are disappearing: “Habitat loss, pesticides, and the accompanying decline of insect populations have contributed to a loss of 25 to 30 percent of North American songbirds since 1970.”
But all is not lost. Waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, have seen an increase in population because of serious efforts to restore and protect wetland habitat. The same kind of efforts can be employed to benefit songbirds, and gardeners can help.
William says, “If each gardener played a small part, we could collectively have a large positive impact. Using waterfowl conservation as a model, we could help to reverse the songbirds’ decline. At the Morris Arboretum, we are beginning a long-term study to see if introducing more native plant species, removing invasive plants, and restoring meadows and hedgerows will have a positive impact on bird diversity.”
Find plants that will support your local bird populations below, and find even more plants for birds in William’s article, Native Plants for the Birds.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Dramm 17050 50′ ColorStorm 1/2″ Standard Soaker Hose
D&X Garden Sprinkler
Nelson Multi-Pattern Stationary Sprinkler
RAINPOINT Sprinkler Timer with Brass Swivel
Gilmour 811673-1001 Sprinkler
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Midwest Regional ReportsPlants for Birds in the Midwest
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Mountain West Regional ReportsPlants for Birds in the Mountain West
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Northeast Regional ReportsPlants for Birds in the Northeast
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Pacific Northwest Regional ReportsPlants for Birds in the Northwest
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Southeast Regional ReportsPlants for Birds in the Southeast
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Southwest Regional ReportsPlants for Birds in the Southern Plains
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Southwest Regional ReportsPlants for Birds in the Southwest
