Critter Corner: A Wing and a Prayer

The season migration that takes place every spring and fall through Ohio is nothing short of amazing. Hundreds of species of birds fly down from Canada. Many continue south, while others stay for the mild Ohio winters. These birds face dangers from collisions with cell phone towers and traffic, hunters, general loss of habitat and the arduous journey. No matter how small a space you have there are steps you can take to speed them on their way.

Dave Pretnar from Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop said that although it has been rainy lately "Water is still the number one attraction for birds". This can be as simple as a bird bath that is cleaned out daily or a water feature. Add an aerator, since birds are drawn to the sound of running water.

If you have an apartment of very limited space you can still help them by applying decals, netting or other visual warnings on reflective surfaces. Fun jello-like stickers are available for the holidays and stick easily, or get youngsters to cut out shapes and letters then tape to glass doors and windows. The collision is not always instantly fatal, but often stuns the bird making it easy prey.

Providing food does not keep migratory birds from continuing on their route, rather gives them energy to keep going. Put out high protein suet and seeds near sheltered areas and watch as they stop in in for a bite.

A sheltered place to rest is important as well. Animal friendly planting is great, but may take a while to grow in. If you have a larger yard a brush pile made from different sized pieces of wood, branches and leaves is a nice addition. Click here for detailed directions sheltering brush pile.

The last tips are common sense. Keep dogs quiet and away form feeding areas. This is the time to keep cats strictly indoors as the tired birds are easy prey to the well fed house cat.

If you are interested in more birding information check out Ohio Nature.

Do you have a feathered visitor you'd like to share? Send us your photos!