As I was working in my lawn this weekend I noticed several bird species enjoying the warmth of spring as much as me. With their cheerful songs they were busy collecting nesting material and scouting the lawn and flower beds for food. Their activity was a reminder that our lawns can and should be for the birds, too. They not only add beauty and cheerfulness to the landscape, but help us keep damaging insect populations in check.
If you haven’t removed old nesting material from your birdhouses, or put out your hummingbird feeders, yet, you had better get these done today. We have had hummingbirds visiting our feeders here in Starkville since the last week in March and the bluebirds and nuthatches have already occupied our nest boxes.
For those of you who have never hung a hummingbird feeder near a kitchen window or put up a simple bluebird box I encourage you to do so. You will be amazed to what they will add to your landscape and the entertainment they will provide.
Published April 7, 2008
Dr. Wayne Wells is an Extension Professor and Turfgrass Specialist. His mailing address is Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Mail Stop 9555, Mississippi State, MS 39762. wwells@ext.msstate.edu
