Here in the Upstate we have a tremendous diversity of birds, especially during the migrations. Living on a river, I have a great oppotrunity to attract and observe everything from cardinals and blue jays to hummingbirds and flycatchers. Birdwatching is relaxing and fun for adults, and promotes interest in the natural sciences for children.

So how do we entice birds into our yards? They are full of non-native grasses, trees and shrubs, offering very little food for hungry birds. A big part of the answer is to plant NATIVE shrubs, perennials, and vines to offer them the berries, nuts and flowers they need. So add native shurbs and vines to your bedding areas for more beauty AND more birds. Lists of native plants are available from the Native Plant Society and the South Carolina Wildlife Federation (www.scwf.org). Just take the list along when you go plant shopping.

Bird feeders are another great way to persuade seedeaters to sing and perform for you. Hang feeders near windows, high enough that cats can't jump there. Black oil sunflower seed is the best for the greatest variety of birds. You can also have a thistle feeder which is the best attractant for goldfinches and house finches. A suet cage is effective year-round for woodpeckers, chickadees, and wrens. It might also attract nocturnal prowlers (raccoons, possums, etc.) so you may want to bring it in at night or mount it on a pole with a baffle. A further note: don't put your seed on the ground since this might cause it to spoil. Also, don't keep feeders or seed bags on your screen porch or in the garage since they might attract unwanted visitors to those areas.

For hummingbirds, plant vines with trumpet-shaped flowers, such as cross vine and trumpet creeper. If you use liquid feeders, hang them in the sun and clean them AT LEAST weekly, sooner if possible. Please DO NOT use honey or artificial sweeteners, as these are hazardous to the birds. Commercial mixes (without red food coloring) are inexpensive and easy to use... just add water.

Lastly, remember that all birds need water, especially during the summer. Set out a shallow pan or birdbath for them. If there are cats around, please keep this in the open and in a place inaccessible to cats. Even with the river at my house, my birds need a safe, easy place to get water.

Let me know if you see any unusual birds!