Do you have a garden? Tips on how to turn it into a bird garden.
At the Walk of Wisdom , we love birds! Our route around Nijmegen resembles a flying bird and pilgrims collect bird rings with the names of the municipalities (more) along the way. We sponsor the national and local bird protection.
At the dawn of spring, we share tips from the Bird Protection Society for a bird-friendly garden in order to contribute to the largest nature reserve in the Netherlands. You can read that such a garden requires little maintenance, but a lot of fun in a catchy article about a garden in Hardinxveld-Giessendam: ‘proud of my bird garden’ (link).
Characteristics of a ‘bird garden’
As little paving as possible (preferably a maximum of 1/3 of the garden).
Nesting boxes for birds, mammals and insects.
Climbing plants and shrubs (preferably with thorns) next to or against a façade.
A natural pond with a gently sloping bank.
Shrubs and trees with fruits, berries and nuts.
Natural fence where animals (such as hedgehogs) can pass underneath.
A species-rich planting with structure.
Plants (preferably native) for caterpillars, butterflies and bees.
Compost heap
Clutter corners and branch walls
More: the ‘bird sanctuaries’ page of the Dutch Society for the Protection of Birds link
Photo: Bart Kouwenberg, B-art photography link
