Nesting: Bringing Bird Families Home
Think Spring!
What a great time of year! Longer days and warmer temperatures help to rapidly reawaken the natural world around us during this true season of renewal. Our fields and forests celebrate with splashes of amazing colors…from freshly blooming wildflowers to the return of migrant songbirds decked out in their finest breeding plumage.
Yes, nesting season is just around the corner. A new generation of birds will soon be entering the world.
Many of them will call your yard home. You might even say that their families will become part of your family. And you can make a significant difference in how well these extended families will thrive and survive in your own backyard.
Consider providing a little “pre-natal” boost for your birds. The need for protein and calcium increases substantially for birds as they prepare for nesting and during periods of egg-laying. Obtaining a sufficient amount of these nutrients determines the number of eggs a bird is able to produce and impacts the health of young birds. Wild Birds Unlimited’s Nesting SuperBlend™ is a great bird food to help you provide the essential protein and calcium needed by nesting families.
For birds that use nesting boxes (think bluebirds, wrens, titmice, etc.), it is important that they are made from high-quality materials that will help insulate the youngsters from extreme cold or heat. Proper drainage and ventilation are a must, and the box has to be easy to clean in preparation for the next tenant. Nesting boxes should also be specifically designed for the type of bird that is likely to make your yard its home, and they should be placed in a location that is safe and enticing.
WBU has a complete line a high quality nest boxes to help get you started, including our environmentally-friendly EcoTough boxes that are made from recycled milk jugs. Using recycled materials is just one of the ways that WBU supports the 7 Simple Actions that scientists say we can all do to help birds.
And for a fun and entertaining look into the world of our nesting neighbors, be sure to check out the WBU Nature Centered Podcast episode, “Nesting: A Bird’s Eye View.” Hosts John and Brian will share the expert advice that will help you to attract, foster and enjoy more bird families around your own home.
March Birds to Watch in Your Central Illinois Backyard
March is a month of transformation in Central Illinois. While the weather can’t quite decide between snow and sunshine, the birds have already made up their minds: Spring is coming.
The Early Arrivals
Keep your eyes on the ground and the skies! American Robins are appearing in larger numbers, often seen hunting for those first brave worms in thawing soil. You might also spot Red-winged Blackbirds returning to nearby wetlands and even visiting backyard feeders; their iconic "kon-ka-ree!" call is the true soundtrack of a Central Illinois spring.
The Love is in the Air
Courtship is officially in full swing. Listen for the clear, whistled "fee-bee" of the Black-capped Chickadee and the loud, rolling "cheer-cheer-cheer" of the Northern Cardinal. You may even see male cardinals "mate-feeding" the females—a sweet gesture where they pass a seed beak-to-beak to strengthen their bond for the nesting season ahead.
Activity at the Feeders
As natural food sources are at their lowest point of the year, your feeders will be a hub of activity. American Goldfinches are beginning their dramatic transformation, swapping their dull winter olive for bright, mustardy yellow. Dark-eyed Juncos are still here for now, but they’ll soon be heading north, so enjoy their "smacking" calls while you can!
How to Help This Month
March can be unpredictable. High-protein foods like shell-less blends and suet are vital for birds returning from long journeys. This is also the perfect time to clean out your nesting boxes! Bluebirds and Chickadees are already scouting for the perfect home to start their families.
The Perfect Gift for Every Nature Lover
Every nature lover is different, so finding the ideal gift for them can be difficult. That's why our gift cards are the perfect gift for every occasion. They allow your friend or loved one to choose what part of nature he or she wants to enjoy. The best part: our gift cards are redeemable at every Wild Birds Unlimited location.