Now that warmer temperatures have arrived, many of us are enjoying the company of all sorts of melodic birds. Unfortunately, according to Partners in Flight, landbird numbers have been declining dramatically since 1970.
Partners in Flight is a network of more than 150 organizations and wildlife agencies, such as the S.C. Department of Natural Resources. Leading the charge in the Palmetto State is SCDNR wildlife biologist and Bird Conservation Coordinator Amy Tegeler.
“The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources has designated 159 bird species of concern in our State Wildlife Action Plan,” says Tegeler. “And many of those species are declining.”
Wildlife biologist Amy Tegeler says there are many ways we can help birds in our own backyards.
- Keep feeders clean. Seed feeders should be cleaned at least once per month. Nectar feeders should be cleaned each time they are refilled.
- Clean surrounding area. In addition to keeping the bird feeders clean, it is essential to remove spilled seed and hulls.
- Offer fresh food. Spoiled food is unhealthy for birds.
- Use safe feeders. While cleaning the feeder, inspect it for sharp points or edges that can scratch or cut birds.
- Provide space. Use multiple feeders and spread them out over a large area to reduce crowding.
- Promote healthy birds. Don’t wait until sick or dead birds are seen before cleaning feeders.
If you would like to learn more about how you can help in the mission to strengthen bird populations, here are a few resources that may be helpful.
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
And a recent eBird article of interest:
Discover the Birds in Your Yard or Garden
Check out Birds of a Feather in the May-June 2020 edition of South Carolina Wildlife magazine for a detailed interview with SCDNR wildlife biologist Amy Tegeler.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed on South Carolina Wild are solely those of the authors, and do not reflect official policies, positions, or endorsements of activity or products by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
