Feeder and yard layout

One of the best ways to enhance a backyard is to provide a water source in the vicinity of the feeders. A quiet pool or birdbath is acceptable, but any type of moving, splashing, or misting water in very shallow pools will generate considerable attention from birds.

Fall is also an excellent time to trim shrubs and trees. Use the trimmings to create a temporary brush pile that will provide perches and hiding places for migrating songbirds between visits to your birdbath and feeders. The size of the brush pile should be three to four feet high and four to eight feet in diameter, and it should be located about ten feet from your feeders. Any closer and it may provide a hiding place for cats to ambush the birds.

Create your brush pile when you see the first fall migrants, such as White-throated Sparrows, arriving at your feeders, then dispose of it in late November to early December when migration is complete.