As the Washington Post reported on September 19th, we have lost 3 billion birds in North America in the last 50 years. To put it another way, that’s nearly 30 percent fewer birds since 1970. You would be right to be alarmed.

But there are things we can do to help:

1. Keep kitties indoors, or attach a bell on them when they go outside;

2. Put decals on windows to help our feathered friends know where the glass is;

3. Don’t use harmful pesticides in your yard - there are great alternatives, located here;

4. Partner with insects in your garden. The majority of birds depend on insects, especially caterpillars, to feed their young, not bird seed;

5. Plant native and bird-friendly plants. This is an excellent time to change out your lawn for bird and pollinator-friendly plants, and maybe qualify for a rebate!

Happy Gardening - and Birding!