by Roger Shamley

Doug has been living and working in the Chicago area for 20 years. He has been very involved in most of the studies and surveys relating to bird conservation and ecology. His presentation highlighted a number of points, foremost of which was that habitat loss due to urban development has been extensive during this period of time.

The greatest needs of migrating birds are for food and suitable habitat. Food replenishes energy lost during migration, and suitable habitat offers a resting place and protection from predators when tired birds are most vulnerable. Doug further noted that areas dominated by oak trees attract a greater variety of birds than other trees, such as maples.

Doug suggested that birders be more diligent in their record keeping, recommending that they submit observations to E-Bird. (Go to the BCN website www.bcnbirds.org.) Recognizing that not everyone would avail themselves of that option, he proposed, as an alternative, that birders keep detailed records to serve the same purpose for the individual birder, that is, to track changes in bird numbers and dates of sightings.

Doug noted that much improvement in habitat is taking place along the lakefront, and made particular mention of landscaping improvements at Magic Hedge, Northerly Island, 47th Street and the lakefront, and Wooded Isle.

The meeting was well attended with intelligent and enthusiastic participation by those in attendance. Of particular interest to a number of those present was how local involvement in habitat restoration, even in one's backyard, is often the beginning of involvement in matters relating to ecology, conservation, and bird watching.

Suggestions for backyard planting:

Making your yard attractive to wildlife is primarily a matter of providing shelter, water, and food, and avoiding the use of pesticides. Emphasize native plants. Tall trees provide shelter, food (seeds or fruit), nesting places, and protection from strong winds.

If your plans for a bird-friendly yard include trees that will not drop fruit you should consider:
• Flowering plum
• Spirea
• Redbud
• Lilac
• Dogwood
• Mock orange
Other plants (not trees) to consider:
• Forsythia
• Honeysuckle
• Jasmine
• Trumpet vine

There are other amenities and additions that are good for birds. They include:

Birdbaths—to provide some protection from cats and other predators, place in an open area; a location 10-20 feet from shrubs or bushes offers a safety zone. In freezing weather, thaw water with boiling water or use a birdbath heater.

Brushpiles—instead of hauling away or shredding tree prunings and brush, make piles to shelter birds and other wildlife, but be sure to keep the piles away from the house.

Bird houses—install them away from the activity around bird feeders and facing away from the prevailing wind. Mount on metal poles to discourage predators.

Meadows—plant native grasses, wildflowers, and low shrubs for food, shelter, and nest building materials

Vines—flowering vines offer shelter, nesting sites, and nectar; many also bear berries and foliage that are sources of food for birds and butterfly larvae.

Bird feeders—locate feeders near trees or shrubs so birds can fly to cover; keep them off the ground to protect the birds from cats. Set up feeders in the fall and maintain them through winter when natural foods are scarce

Suggested reading: The National Audubon Society Bird Garden by Stephen W. Kress. Also, try the National Audubon Society website. Click the link to “Audubon at Home” on the toolbar, and then go to “Plants for Birds and Wildlife” for additional information.