Things to do for outdoor birds

Birds are one of nature’s most fascinating creatures. Their grace, color and songs add joy to our lives as a magical piece of nature. But birds deserve to live freely outdoors, not just in cages or courtyards. Observing birds in their natural habitat is an excellent opportunity to observe their natural behavior and contribute to their natural life cycle.

5 valuable tips for outdoor birds

It is necessary to pay attention to some important things for outdoor birds. In this article, we’ll explore the must-haves for birds. What should we pay attention to so that birds can live in a healthy environment? How should their nutritional needs be met? How should water supplies and shelter be provided? We invite you to the magical world of natural bird life to find answers to these questions.

In this article, we discuss steps and important tips you can take to keep birds safe and happy. We also cover topics such as migratory birds, methods of using natural resources and keeping food sources clean. You too will learn how to attract, view and help needy birds.

1. Create a safe environment

Birds are creatures created to fly, sing and explore freely in nature. However, human activities can lead to loss of natural habitats and threaten bird safety. Therefore, protecting bird habitats and creating a safe environment increases their chances of survival and ensures the sustainability of their populations.

One of the first steps in creating a safe environment for birds is to protect their natural habitat. Forests, woodlands, wetlands and scrub are important habitats for many bird species. Protecting these areas and preventing their destruction is critical so that birds can meet their feeding, shelter and breeding needs. You can support local conservation organizations to protect natural habitats, visit nature reserves and participate in campaigns to protect green spaces around you.

2. Prepare a container of water in the summer heat

With the warming of the weather, the need for water of living beings increases, on the other hand, the amount of water in nature decreases. In concrete cities like Istanbul, there is not even a drink of water on the street. Living things die. Put a bowl of water in front of the door. This is how you become the savior of the dying street creatures.

3. Leave a plate of food for the winter

Especially on snow days, living creatures have trouble finding something to eat in nature. Leave bread-grain products in high places where birds can see them.

Yes, we are human beings, it is the most fundamental duty of humanity: to think along and to help. Let’s empathize by putting ourselves in the shoes of living creatures on the street, then we will understand. That the birds need us, even in the blistering heat after winter. Let’s put pots of water on the street, how about building a house for it?

4. Offer houses and housing

Providing nests and shelters for birds allows them to feel safe and continue their reproductive cycles. Birds can be provided with suitable shelters with elements such as nesting boxes, natural materials and suitable vegetation. It is also important to provide water sources and take pest control measures. With these simple steps you can provide birds with a safe environment and help protect their natural habitats.

5. Protect from hazards

It is important to ensure the safety of birds and protect them from potential danger. For glass surfaces, solutions should be considered to prevent bird strikes, the use of harmful chemicals should be minimized and nature-friendly alternatives should be preferred. In addition, a safe water source must be ensured in bird areas and appropriate measures must be taken to deal with threats such as hunting or domestic animals. In this way we can offer the birds a peaceful environment in their habitat, while maintaining their safety and health.

What can you do for birds that need help?

Birds can face many threats in their natural habitat and sometimes need help. If you notice a bird needs help, you can help it by following these steps:

Recognizing injured birds

To recognize an injured bird, it is important to observe the signs. Symptoms such as difficulty flying, bleeding, drooping wings or a visible injury may indicate the presence of an injured bird. If you suspect a bird has been injured, make sure you are safe before approaching the bird and consult local bird protection agencies or vets if necessary.

Approach it the right way

Once you’ve confirmed that a bird needs help, you’ll need to approach it appropriately to help it. Remember that birds can be stressed, so act calmly and slowly. If possible, use protective equipment such as a towel or gloves to stress-free trapping the bird.

Opportunities to provide assistance

There are several options available for a bird that needs help. If it is an emergency and there is a serious injury, it is important to see a vet as soon as possible. In some areas, there may be local bird protection organizations that rehabilitate and care for the birds. By contacting them, you can explain the situation and deliver the bird properly.

Food and water resources

If you must feed a bird in need yourself, follow the feeding guidelines recommended by your veterinarian. It is important to provide a suitable diet for the birds and provide fresh water. But remember, it’s best to leave the treatment of an injured bird to the professionals.

Release back to natural habitats

Once a distressed bird has recovered from treatment, the ideal is to return it to its natural habitat as much as possible. Provide a suitable environment and choose a place where the bird can live safely.

Special requirements for migratory birds

Migratory birds cover thousands of miles each year, migrating between their habitats at different seasons. During these migratory periods, migratory birds have special needs and by taking the right precautions we can make their journey easier and protect their health. Here are some key points to consider under “Special Requirements for Migratory Birds”:

Food and water resources

Migratory birds expend energy over long distances and their nutritional needs are intense. Therefore, it is important to provide adequate food and water sources for the birds. You can feed migratory birds and meet their water needs by keeping natural resources such as fruit trees, flowers and water holes in your yard or bird roosts.

Safe living areas

Migratory birds need a safe place to rest and sleep during their long journeys. By providing suitable hiding places such as trees, shrubs or nesting boxes, you can provide birds with a safe resting place. At the same time, creating safe areas out of reach of hunters is important to ensure the safety of migratory birds.

Track migration routes

During migration periods, birds follow certain routes. Knowing bird migration routes will help you track them and support projects to protect migratory birds in their natural habitat. Protecting migration routes gives birds regular access to the stopping and feeding points they need.

Avoidance of artificial barriers

It is risky for migratory birds to encounter artificial obstacles in their path. In particular, structures such as glass buildings, high-voltage lines or wind turbines can pose a risk of birds being run over during migration. By taking appropriate precautions in areas where such barriers exist, you can ensure that birds complete their migration safely. For example, you can apply bird strike solutions to glass buildings or install bird protection devices on power lines.

What food should I feed outdoor birds?

You can offer a varied feed for birds that live outside. Foods such as seeds (e.g. sunflower seeds), fruits (e.g. apple slices), dried insects, special bird food and nectar are suitable for birds. Different species may have different nutritional needs, so the best option is to provide variety and mimic the birds’ natural feeding habits.

How can I meet the water needs of birds in my garden?

You can offer various options in your garden to meet the water needs of the birds. You can provide clean and fresh water by using a water bath or water bowls. Make sure the water is fresh by regularly checking the water sources. You can also place stones or small branches around water sources so that birds can safely reach the water.

How should bird nest boxes be prepared and placed?

Nest boxes for birds can come in handy when natural nesting places are lacking. Nest boxes must be of the correct size and material. Because different bird species have different nesting needs, it is important to choose a nesting box that is appropriate for your target bird species. You can place nest boxes near trees or structures, but be sure to keep them away from dangerous or disruptive areas. It is also important to clean and maintain nest boxes regularly.

What dangers should I protect birds from?

To protect birds, it is important to be aware of some dangers. Glass surfaces can get bird strikes, so you can put anti-shock stickers or foil on the windows. Pesticides and harmful chemicals can pose serious dangers to birds, so try to opt for organic methods in your garden. Predators (domestic cats, for example) can be a threat to birds, so keep an eye on your pets. It is also important to protect their natural habitats and prevent their decline.