Here’s a simple DIY deck project that is fast and easy, and great for those who love bird watching.

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”]

Make the deck into a bird watching sanctuary. This is especially attractive for a retired person who has the patience and the time to contemplate; or for nature lovers of all ages.  Birds won’t shun a yard that is occasionally filled with people, but they will be more comfortable with a predictable environment.

Even if you don’t know a thing about birds, attracting them is simple. The basic components are:

• A bird bath.
• Places to perch.
• Bird seed.
• A bird manual, with information on birds in your area.
• Binoculars.

[/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”]

Bath:  Bird baths can be wonderful stone-carved Grecian pillars, or they can be shallow plastic bowls anchored with a few stones in the bottom. The general idea is to give the birds a place to play and drink and cool off. It doesn’t have to be a fountain, you can fill it from a pitcher. Have more than one for variety.  Try this DIY Bird bath with the kids using old ceramic pots.

Perch:  The birds will perch just about anywhere. They will be shy at first, so a tree near the back fence is ideal until they get used to you. If your don’t have trees in the yard, deck rails will do, or you can build them a special rail a few feet off the ground, placed so that they can observe before coming closer.

Food:  The bird seed can be in feeders, or it can be spread on a surface, or even on the ground. Birds don’t go well with vegetable gardens, so be sure to protect any areas that are reserved for growing. Some gardeners, as documented on the GardenWeb site, just feed birds in the wintertime. Birds eat insects, but they like seedlings and fruits, too. Seasonal accommodation of birds can be a fascinating use for your deck in the colder months.

Also consider peanuts, but be careful to put them where the squirrels can’t reach them.  Blue jays are known for cracking peanuts open; and that’s been a lot of fun for kids to watch.

Manual:  Whether you plan to do your bird watching year-round, or just in the colder months, you will find yourself growing curious about the various feathered friends that wander into your deck area. For a great list of bird watching books, visit this list from Goodreads.

Once the birds “get to know you,” you will be able to sit on the deck while the braver ones visit. And as you get to know the various types of birds that frequent your haven, your enjoyment will only increase.

Bird Watching for Kids:  We found this printable book for kids on Pinterest.  Just print it out and let the kids have fun explore the outdoors this summer.

Baby Birds:  During this time of year, you’ll find plenty of nests, eggs, and new baby birds.  Remember, don’t touch the eggs while in the nest.  Let the mother feel comfortable.  Children love seeing the baby birds hatch.  Enjoy the bird watching this time of year!

If you find the birds have left something less than desirable behind, just scrub your deck before it stays on for too long.  If you’re looking to clean your deck thoroughly, try the DeckMAX Cleaner.  Contact us for more great ideas about utilizing and enjoying your deck.