SONGBIRDS

but glow like a stoplight for birds. For fuller protection, supplement the decals with WindowAlert UV Liquid, making marble-sized dots to create a “visual barrier” across glass surfaces. To learn more, go to WindowAlert.com.

You can limit other hazards to birds by ensuring cats, dogs and other predatory (but otherwise adorable) pets are monitored while

outside to prevent attacks. Dogs can be trained not to attack birds. If this proves to be an issue, consider consulting a professional dog trainer on how to break this bad habit.

Feed them

Birds in transit expend a lot of energy, but you can ease their hunt for food. Avoid the temptation to feed birds yesterday’s bread. Stale breads that have developed mold could be potentially harmful to birds.

Instead, populate your garden with native flowering species and supply a bird feeder stocked with a variety of seeds.

Strategic placement of a bird feeder is key in preventing bird strikes. Place your feeder either closer than 3 feet or farther than 30 feet from windows. Clean your feeder periodically to ensure its contents are fresh and free of potentially toxic mold.

Want to beautify your backyard naturally? By taking a few simple measures, you will give birds an incentive to visit.