Connecting Families with Nature on Thursday, March 27, 2008

On my calendar, Spring, not January, begins the new year. I feel renewed energy and so do the trees, shrubs and perennials that are beginning to show signs of new life. The birds, squirrels, frogs and other backyard critters are full of new energy as well. Spring provides the perfect impetus to prioritize my backyard nature list.

This year, mounting the bat house that I bought last year but didn’t find the perfect place to mount tops the list.  After all, I’ve been assured that my backyard will be home to thousands fewer mosquitoes if I provide housing for little brown bats.  Next is hanging a second hummingbird feeder.  It’s only March and already the turf battles have begun.  I must do what I can to keep peace and harmony in the haven.

I know that May is the perfect time to apply nematodes. The soil is damp and the temperatures not too hot for these beneficial creatures to go to work devouring the larvae of crane flies and root weevils.  I won’t miss the window of opportunity this year. 

Our mission at Backyard Bird Shop is to make you aware of and feed your hunger for information about the many ways to connect with nature in your backyard.  Our staff, many of whom have backgrounds in biology, gardening, and teaching, take pleasure in sharing information about attracting birds and enhancing your yard for nature.   We are passionate about nature in our personal lives and come to work with a desire to share our knowledge and appreciation for nature.