The Birds, the Bees and the Beetles

Jul 11, 2024

Written by Elaine Sawyer

Need help with predatory beetles on your plants? Besides beneficial insects, don't forget about our feathered friends, the birds! One study found that insectivorous birds worldwide consume 400 - 500 million pounds of insects, millipedes and spiders every year. Someone is hungry for these pests, so why not welcome them into your garden?

Birds have an insatiable appetite and consume a wide range of insects. These include aphids, grasshoppers, beetles, grubs, earwigs, gnats and even mosquitoes. Among the insectivorous birds are swallows, nighthawks, flycatchers, warblers, bluebirds, robins, cardinals, thrushes, thrashers, jays and martins. What could be better than partnering with nature's pest control air force? There are many ways to create a refuge to which wild birds will flock.

Provide Habitat

Plant a diverse landscape with various layers. Include annuals, perennials, herbs, veggies and grasses. Trees and shrubs provide structure and shelter throughout the year and also offer nesting sites. Conifers can offer winter cover. Providing birdhouses and keeping them repaired and clean can attract specific types of birds. Find nesting box plans for insect-eating birds here.

Provide Water

Birds need fresh clean water for drinking and bathing. Keep wetlands intact with a vegetation border and provide water for birds in the form of birdbaths, misters and fountains.

Provide Food Resources

Native plants are important as they provide seeds, berries, nuts and nectar. When adding plants, always consider if they could provide nutrients to the bird populations. Adding supplemental feeders can help. More food sources equals more birds!

Drop the Harmful Chemicals

Since Rachel Carson's book Silent Spring, we have known how insecticides can move through the food chain, killing not only bugs, but also birds. From agriculture to lawn care, the chemicals are out there. Choose less toxic options like mycoinsecticides, soaps and oils when dealing with pest problems.

Keep Cats Inside

There's always a bigger fish. Birds eat bugs, and unfortunately cats eat birds. Domestic cats are estimated to kill 1 to 4 billion birds annually in the United States. It's now recommended to keep your cat indoors. Our feline friends could be adding to our pest problems.

Take a holistic approach when planning a garden, crop or flower farm. From the birds to the bees to the beetles, everything is connected.

Find us at Sound Horticulture with specific regional recommendations.