Create a Bird-friendly Habitat in Your Backyard

Scientists have identified habitat loss as one of the biggest reasons for the decline in bird populations. You can make a difference by adding native plants to your yard.

A plant is native if it has occurred naturally in a particular region, ecosystem or habitat without human introduction. Native plants provide shelter and nesting areas for birds, as well as natural sources for nectar, seeds, berries and insects.

Native Plant Facts

Native plants typically grow healthier and stronger than non-natives.
Native plants are low maintenance, requiring less watering, fertilizer and pesticides.
Native plants assist in managing rainwater runoff and maintain healthy soil as their root systems are deep and keep soil from being compacted.

For you, native plants add a wealth of beauty, texture, varying heights and bloom times, providing a stunning display over multiple seasons. For birds, native trees and plants are home to caterpillars and other insects, which provide food for nestlings.

Adding native plants is one of the 7 Simple Actions to Help Birds. Stop by the store to learn more about native plants and actions you can take to help #SaveTheSongBirds.

Not sure where to start? There are several websites to find native plants by zip code:

California Native Plant Society Calscape Finder

Calscape.org

Calscape finds the native plants for your area using your address.

The Calscape Garden Planner finds the perfect plants by asking 4 Questions:

1. City where the garden will be located?
2. Which Garden style is your goal?
a. Simple & Elegant
b. HOA Friendly
c. Outdoor Living
d. California Natural

3. How sunny is your planting area?
a. Full Shade
b. Partial Sun
c. Full Sun

4. What are your priorities in creating a native garden? (Yes, you can select all that apply)
a. Pollinator Habitat
b. Bird Watching
c. Water Conservation
d. Deer Resistant

Then, it allows you to download or print the file. It even gives you pictures of the plant—a major plus!!!