For the Birds

The birds have been making their way back to New York City! We've had a couple of nice days in a row where I've been able to throw open the windows to let the warm air and chirping waft in. It's always been the best and happiest indicator that spring really is just around the corner!

Here are a few things that will give them a warm welcome after a long trip home...

Glass Donut Bird Feeder from Uncommon Goods

Pretty, modern and easy to see when it needs a refill!

Copper Birdbath from Plow & Hearth

This birdbath is great for a couple of reasons: First off, it's solar-powered, so you can put it anywhere in the yard and you don't have to worrying about wiring. Secondly, the moving water discourages mosquitoes, which keeps down the bug bites.

Gourd Birdhouse by Amish Gourds

My mom has always grown birdhouse gourds. As kids, it was a fun project to make them into Spring birdhouses. After waiting all winter for the center to dry out, my sister and I would have a fierce maraca session before we finally cut open the "little birdie front door." All that was left was to hang them up and wait for the birds to move in. Fun, biodegradable, renewable. About as eco-friendly as you can get!

Recycled Glass Hummingbird Feeder at TurningLife

Several different hummingbird species are endangered, mostly because they are incredibly sensitive to changes in their environment. Give them somewhere both pretty and safe to eat, and you'll get to watch these amazing birds up close! (If you have cats, make sure the feeder is hung well outside the reach of hungry paws.)

Audubon CopperTop Cedar Bluebird House

from Bird & Home

Am I the only one that built these in elementary school? Well, mine certainly didn't look this good, and definitely didn't have a copper roof. Anyone can put one up - even if you aren't handy with a saw and hammer. (The ideal location for these is on a five foot pole at the edge of an open area.)

Buri Collection at Smith & Hawken

Beautiful colors and shapes that look more like pieces of art hanging from the branches....

Springtime Nest Bell Jar at William-Sonoma

If you don't have a yard or balcony, this pretty little nest in a cloche is a lovely substitute for the real thing!