Bird feeders can indeed cause unintended harm—spreading disease, altering natural population levels, and even disrupting migration patterns. If you’re looking for a lower-maintenance way to enjoy birds while supporting their well-being, I recommend adopting the “Two-thirds for the Birds” approach.

Instead of feeders, plant diverse native plants that provide food, shelter, and nesting materials year-round. Here’s how:

• Spring Migration and Hatching: Choose early-blooming natives like Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) or Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)​, which provide nectar and attract insects—essential for hatchlings.
• Summer Fledging: Add plants with berries ripening in summer, like Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) or Silky Dogwood (Swida amomum), to fuel growing birds.
• Fall Migration: Support long-distance travelers with late-season fruits from Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) or Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia).
• Overwintering Populations: Evergreen species like American Holly (Ilex opaca) and seed-rich grasses such as Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) provide food and shelter through the cold months.

This way, you’ll have a living, thriving bird sanctuary—no filling, no cleaning, just the joy of seeing birds in their natural habitat. Plant once, enjoy for years. How’s that for practical stewardship?

Better yet, replace your old fence with a living hedge. Densely planted diverse shrubs offer layers of food and shelter throughout the year. Look for American Hedgerows in The Steward's Almanac.