In spite of the cool and windy weather we’ve been having, it is finally April and we are seeing signs of spring pop up everywhere. Along with the daffodil and hyacinth blooms, things are greening up and our local wildlife is on the move.

For backyard bird enthusiasts, our migrating population is starting to reappear and preparations for nesting have already begun among some of our feathered friends.

Bluebirds start nesting in our area as early as late March, so watch your boxes for increased activity. On that note, although Bluebirds don’t eat from seed feeders, they are big fans of mealworms. If you want to encourage and support these gorgeous birds, you may want to put a dried mealworm feeder out for them. There are cake style feeders as well as tube feeders for loose mealworms available at most any store or site that sells wild bird supplies.

If you have the right habitat, you may also have noticed that the Eastern Phoebe’s are back. I noticed them about three weeks ago and was hoping that there were enough bugs out there for them to sustain themselves. These birds are another of my favorites because not only are they insatiable insect eaters, they are also songbirds that are not shy and seem rather curious about the human and pet activity in my yard.

Lastly, it’s also time for the Hummingbirds to come back! The males will start to arrive in the middle of the month and will be followed shortly after by the females. There are very few flowers blooming at the time of their arrival and they will be very depleted from their trek up from Mexico.

Make sure to get your feeders out by next week so they’ll have something to eat when they get here. Supplying them with an early food supply may also help tempt them to nest close by. This is also a good time to plan your garden to include flowers that attract Hummingbirds; salvia, bee balm and most plants that attract pollinators are great for these little birds.

Shelter needs: Canned dog and cat food, dry cat food (no dyes please), dog treats, peanut butter, twin blankets/comforters, paper towels, liquid hand soap, and gift cards for pet supply and grocery outlets.

Source: Backyard bird enthusiasts: It’s time to prepare for the return of the migrating population