Bird-friendly garden: creating habitats for native birds

Watching birds in your own garden is an experience for young and old alike. A bird-friendly garden not only creates aesthetic diversity, but also provides an important habitat for endangered native bird species. Especially in our cultivated landscape, where natural retreats are being lost, near-natural gardens play a central role in species conservation. The good news: with simple means, you can create a garden that offers birds protection, food and nesting opportunities - and also becomes an oasis of relaxation for you.

Why a bird-friendly garden is so important

The native bird world is increasingly suffering from the loss of suitable habitats. Especially in residential areas, habitats for blackbirds, tits and robins are becoming increasingly scarce. A near-natural garden counteracts this trend by providing a variety of structures for foraging, nesting and retreats.

Plant diversity increases the number of insects - and therefore the food supply. Even small areas with wild growth, hedges and dead wood create micro-habitats. The combination of flowers, fruit and natural materials ensures that various bird species settle here all year round.

Effects of the environment on bird species

Birds prefer structurally rich gardens: Wild hedges, native woody plants, open grassy areas and deadwood corners. Species such as the house sparrow or the blue tit cope well with human proximity - provided they find safe nesting sites and a stable supply of food. Gravel gardens or exotic plant species, on the other hand, are usually of no value to them.

The most important principle: If you want to encourage native birds, you should avoid pesticides and excessive tidying up. Every unused corner can be a valuable natural habitat.

Birds love these plants and garden structures

The success of a bird-friendly garden depends largely on the right planting. It is crucial to choose native species that provide birds with food either directly or indirectly.

• Shrubs such as blackthorn, hawthorn, elder or privet provide berries and shelter
• Trees such as rowan, apple or hazelnut attract many songbirds
• Insect-friendly wildflowers such as viper's bugloss, wild carrot and sunflowers provide a good supply of food

Choose plant species that are native to your region. If possible, buy untreated woody plants - ideally from certified wild plant nurseries.

Structural elements: Nesting boxes and more

In addition to planting, other elements also play a role:

• Nesting boxes help cavity-nesting birds such as tits and nuthatches - make sure the hole size and height are suitable
• Birdbaths or small ponds improve the animals' drinking water supply and hygiene
• Feeders support birds, especially in winter - set them up hygienically and clean them regularly

Piles of dead wood, open compost heaps or dense wild hedges also serve as nesting sites, hiding places or hunting grounds for many birds. Leave leaves and faded plants for a few months in the fall - they provide winter food and shelter.

Understanding seasonal characteristics and bird behavior

If you want to provide targeted support for birds, you should know their life cycles. Many native species start breeding as early as March. Therefore, prepare bird boxes and retreats in late fall and keep them clean in winter. Some species spend the night in nesting boxes.

Implement winter feeding correctly

In cold winters, the food supply drops drastically. Feeding can be useful from the end of November. Sunflower seeds, oatmeal or tit dumplings are suitable - preferably without plastic netting. Be sure to keep them clean to avoid diseases.

Choose protected, weatherproof feeding areas that do not allow cats and martens access. A feeding column with weather protection or a feeding house with a drainage system will prove its worth here.

Birdwatching with a camera: using technology close to nature

Modern technology makes it possible to observe birds undisturbed. A bird-friendly camera provides fascinating insights and helps to better understand behavior, species diversity and breeding seasons - ideal for children or older people.

Choosing the right camera for your garden or balcony

• Nest box cameras: compact, with infrared LEDs for night-time views, WLAN-capable for live images via app
• Outdoor cameras: Weatherproof, at least 1080p resolution, solar-powered or powered by cable
• Motion sensors: Useful for automatic recording during activity

Important: The Wi-Fi signal should be stable, use a repeater if necessary. Nest box cameras should be mounted centrally under the roof, outdoor cameras slightly elevated with a clear view of feeding areas or bird baths.

Manufacturers such as Netvue or Green Backyard offer complete packages especially for nature lovers. You can find information on this at NABU.

Legal basics and common mistakes to avoid

The Federal Nature Conservation Act (§39 BNatSchG) protects wild birds and their nesting sites all year round. Hedges, shrubs and trees may not be radically cut or removed between March 1 and September 30. Failure to do so may result in fines.

Anyone planning major gardening work should carry it out outside the breeding season. If you are unsure, it is advisable to consult the local nature conservation association or local authority.

You should avoid these mistakes in the garden

• Exotic plants such as thuja or cherry laurel: no ecological benefit for birds
• Ornamental gardens with extensive sealing: habitats are lost
• Pesticide use: harmful to insects - the main food of many young birds
• Glass surfaces without bird protection markings: Collisions possible

Excessive tidiness can also be harmful. Leaves, dead wood and old seed stands are important winter supplies for animals and birds. Make a conscious decision to use "wild corners" instead of perfect lawns.

Conclusion: Do good with every square meter - protect birds in your own garden

A bird-friendly garden starts with the right attitude: native plants, retreats, no chemicals and a feel for natural cycles. Even small balconies or terraced house gardens can become a valuable habitat for starlings, tits and robins.

With modern technology such as WLAN cameras, observation is not only easier, but also educational. This creates valuable nature moments - right on your own doorstep.

Start now: plant a hedge of wild shrubs, set up a bird bath and watch how life gradually returns. Every step counts - for the bird world and for your own personal closeness to nature.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about bird-friendly gardens

Which shrubs are particularly bird-friendly?

Native species such as elder, privet, hawthorn, blackthorn or wild roses are ideal. They offer fruit, nesting opportunities and protection.

When should I put up nesting boxes?

Ideally in late fall, in February at the latest. Some species also use nest boxes as roosts in winter.

Should I feed all year round?

Winter feeding from November to February makes sense. In summer, it is better to create natural food sources using plants.

How do I prevent cats from getting to the birds?

Place feeders at a height of at least 1.5 meters to save space and without climbing aids nearby. Use thorn bushes as natural protection.

Where can I get bird-friendly plants?

Organic nurseries or certified wild plant suppliers are recommended. Pay attention to the origin and untreated plants.