Birds bring beauty, song, and life to our environment—but many species are declining due to human activity. Fortunately, we can all take simple actions to help birds. Here are 10 effective steps you can take right at home!
1. Make windows safer, day and night
Millions of birds die each year by colliding with glass. To prevent this, add decals, screens, or bird-safe window films that make the glass visible to birds—especially near feeders and green spaces.
2. Keep cats indoors
Cats are natural predators, and even well-fed domestic cats kill billions of birds annually. Keeping cats indoors protects birds and helps your pets live longer, healthier lives.
3. Reduce lawn, plant natives!
Replace parts of your lawn with native plants, trees, and shrubs. Native vegetation provides essential food and shelter for birds, especially during migration and nesting seasons.
4. Avoid pesticides
Pesticides can poison birds directly or reduce the insects they rely on for food. Use natural alternatives or let your garden grow a little wild to support a healthier ecosystem.
5. Drink Coffee! It's good for birds
Choose “shade-grown” or “bird-friendly” certified coffee. These coffees are grown in forested habitats that support bird populations, particularly migratory species.
6. Protect our planet from plastic
Plastic pollution is harmful to birds, who can ingest or become entangled in it. Reduce single-use plastics, recycle properly, and participate in clean-up efforts.
7. Watch birds, share what you see!
Join birdwatching communities and contribute your sightings to citizen science platforms like eBird. Your observations help researchers monitor bird populations and plan conservation efforts.
8. Provide clean water
Birds need clean water for drinking and bathing. Add a birdbath to your yard or balcony, and keep it clean and full year-round—especially during hot or dry seasons.
9. Support bird conservation groups
Donate to or volunteer with organizations that protect birds and their habitats. Even small contributions can help fund research, education, and conservation projects.
10. Turn off lights at night
Artificial lights at night can disorient migrating birds. Turn off unnecessary lights or use motion sensors, especially during peak migration periods in spring and fall.
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