How to Create a Peaceful Backyard Bird Sanctuary (DIY-Friendly!)

 

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How to Create a Peaceful Backyard Bird Sanctuary (DIY-Friendly!)

Intro Paragraph:

Welcome to my backyard! I’ve always dreamed of having a space where birds could feel safe, welcome, and at home—and I finally decided to build it myself. Whether you’re a fellow bird lover, a weekend DIYer, or just looking to bring a little peace and nature into your world, this guide is for you. Today, I’m sharing how I'll build my small backyard bird sanctuary, step-by-step, using simple tools, a little creativity, and a whole lotta heart. 🐦💚

🌿 Step 1: Choose Your Sanctuary Spot

Pick a quiet area of your yard with a bit of natural cover (like bushes or trees). If you don’t have much greenery, no worries—you can plant some easy-to-grow native shrubs or set up potted plants for instant shelter.  I'm clearing out a 30x30 area in my backyard and covering it in gravel to start.  This is the project I'm on right now.  

Tip: Birds love a mix of sun and shade, so aim for a balanced spot if possible.

🏠 Step 2: Add Birdhouses and Feeders

This is where your creativity shines! I making my birdhouses from [scrap wood/repurposed items—you choose], and adding a mix of feeders: seed, suet, and nectar (for hummingbirds!). A quick note for using nectar:  One part sugar, three parts water, boil and let cool before placing in your hummingbird feeders. Make sure to hang them at different heights to attract a variety of birds.

Tip: Clean feeders weekly to keep your feathered guests safe.

💧 Step 3: Provide Water

A small birdbath or shallow dish with clean water is essential.  I'll be sharing what I come up with, because I think I might go with a small pond and fountain.  The small birdbath I ordered is also linked above but I still want the pond. 

🌸 Step 4: Plant Native Flowers & Shrubs

Native plants provide natural food sources and shelter. I'm choosing the following because they are native to Alabama.  Please check what works for your state.

Flowering Natives (Pollinators + Seed for Birds)

These provide nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies, and seeds for finches and sparrows.

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – Loved by goldfinches, butterflies, and bees

Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – Bright blooms, great seed heads for birds

Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa) – Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies

Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) – Great for fall bloom and pollinators

Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) – Sunshine yellow, easy to grow

Don’t forget to mulch and water regularly while they take root.

🛋️ Step 5: Make It Yours

I'm adding a little bench nearby to sit and enjoy the birdsong every morning with my coffee. You could add fairy lights, stepping stones, or even a bird cam like I'm doing to capture the magic.

📸 Bonus: Document Your Sanctuary’s Visitors!

I purchased the Solareye Birdfeeder with camera that has a solar panel so I don't need to keep changing batteries.  I'll be putting together a review video of that here on the blog as soon as I get it set up (I just got it in today.  You can check my shop link at the top of the page to see which I chose.

Final Thoughts:
Building a backyard bird sanctuary doesn’t require a lot of space—just a bit of love, patience, and intention. I hope this inspires you to create your own little haven for the birds (and yourself!). If you do, tag me or leave a comment—I’d love to see what you create!

Thanks for joining us at Tears of Crimson. Home to Bestselling Author Michelle Hughes,and all the Friends of Crimson!