The best way to attract birds to an Australian garden is to build habitat. Food matters, but so do shelter, water, nesting opportunities and safe places to move through the garden.
1. Grow locally native plants
BirdLife Australia recommends locally native plants where possible because they are adapted to local conditions and provide appropriate food and shelter for native birds. Use a mix of trees, shrubs, grasses and groundcovers rather than relying on one large flowering plant.
2. Create different habitat layers
Small birds often need dense shrubs to hide and nest in, while parrots and honeyeaters use flowering trees and larger shrubs. Groundcovers, leaf litter and mulch can support insects that become food for insect-eating birds. A layered garden is usually more useful than open lawn with a few isolated trees.
3. Plant for different seasons
Choose plants that flower, fruit or seed at different times of year so the garden provides resources across more seasons. Nectar-producing plants such as banksias, grevilleas, hakeas and melaleucas can attract honeyeaters and parrots, while native grasses and seed-producing plants can help finches and doves.
4. Provide clean water
A bird bath can be one of the quickest improvements. Use shallow water, keep it clean, and place it where birds can see approaching danger but still have nearby vegetation for cover. Refresh the water frequently, especially in hot weather.
5. Keep cats and other predators away
Position water and feeding habitat away from places where cats can easily hide and pounce. Keeping pet cats contained protects birds and other native wildlife.
6. Use chemicals sparingly
Insecticides can remove the insects many birds rely on and may affect other wildlife. Where possible, use lower-impact gardening methods and allow natural insect predators, including birds, to do some of the work.
Should you feed wild birds?
BirdLife Australia does not encourage routine wild-bird feeding. Poor diet, dirty feeders and unnaturally concentrated bird numbers can contribute to malnutrition, disease and population imbalance. Habitat gardening is the better long-term approach.
If you do feed birds, check your state and local rules first, keep feeding occasional rather than constant, use appropriate foods, clean feeding areas thoroughly and stop if sick birds appear.
Birds you may attract
Depending on your region and garden, suitable habitat may encourage Rainbow Lorikeets, New Holland Honeyeaters, Willie Wagtails, Crested Pigeons, Superb Fairywrens and many other species.
Further reading
See BirdLife Australia’s bird-friendly garden guide and wild bird feeding guide.