VS: Climate Change and Bird Safety

Natural disasters are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. Birds are particularly vulnerable to these disasters, as they rely on their habitat for food, shelter, and nesting.

Here are 5 things you can do to help birds prepare for natural disasters:

1. Provide food and water sources.

One of the most important things you can do to help birds prepare for a natural disaster is to provide them with food and water sources. This can be done by setting up bird feeders and water dishes in your yard or by planting native plants that provide food and shelter for birds.

According to the National Audubon Society, birds need a variety of food sources to stay healthy, including insects, fruits, seeds, and nuts. You can provide these food sources by planting a variety of native plants in your yard, such as sunflowers, zinnias, and black-eyed Susans.

You can also set up bird feeders in your yard. Be sure to fill the feeders with high-quality birdseed, such as black oil sunflower seeds or safflower seeds. You should also clean the feeders regularly to prevent the spread of disease.

2. Create a safe place for birds to shelter.

Birds need a safe place to shelter from the elements, especially during a natural disaster. You can create a safe shelter for birds by planting trees and shrubs in your yard, or by building a birdhouse.

Trees and shrubs provide birds with shelter from the sun, rain, and wind. They also provide birds with a place to roost at night.

Birdhouses can also provide birds with a safe place to shelter. Be sure to place the birdhouse in a sheltered location, such as under a tree or on the side of a building. You should also clean the birdhouse regularly to prevent the spread of disease.

3. Keep your yard free of hazards.

One of the best ways to help birds prepare for a natural disaster is to keep your yard free of hazards. This includes removing any potential hazards, such as sharp objects, poisonous plants, and open bodies of water.

Sharp objects can injure birds, and poisonous plants can make birds sick. Open bodies of water can be a drowning hazard for birds.

By keeping your yard free of hazards, you can help birds stay safe and healthy.

4. Be prepared to evacuate.

If a natural disaster is approaching, you may need to evacuate your home. If you have birds, it is important to be prepared to evacuate them as well.

You can do this by creating an emergency evacuation plan for your birds. This plan should include a list of evacuation supplies, such as food, water, and a carrier. You should also identify a safe place to evacuate your birds, such as a friend’s house or a local animal shelter.

5. Help birds after a natural disaster.

If a natural disaster strikes, you can help birds by providing them with food, water, and shelter. You can also help birds by cleaning up debris and removing any potential hazards from your yard.

By following these tips, you can help birds prepare for and recover from natural disasters.