Want more birds in your garden? Try these 6 simple changes

Native plants, clean water, natural food, and safe nesting spaces can turn an ordinary garden into a welcoming bird habitat. (Philippe Gerber via Getty Images)There is something absolutely special about waking up to birdsong. Usually, this is a space that may otherwise seem quiet. All of a sudden, it becomes lively as birds start hopping between branches. They might search for food, splash in water, or call to one another.

You may worry if your garden isn't attracting many feathered visitors. You really don't need to have an elaborate bird sanctuary. All you need are a few thoughtful changes.

Here are some practical ways to make your garden more welcoming to birds.

This is one of the best things you can do. Growing native plants can make your garden more useful to local wildlife.

Native plants are heavily adapted to the local climate. They often provide food and habitat for the 'food' that birds need. e.g., insects, caterpillars, and other small creatures. A lot of them also produce fruits, seeds, nectar, or berries that can benefit different bird species.

For best results, choose a mixture of trees, shrubs, flowering plants and ground cover rather than filling the entire garden with one type of plant. The garden should be diverse.

Birds need water for drinking and bathing. This is particularly true during hot or dry weather.

A simple birdbath can work well. But, this should be kept clean. Supply it with fresh water regularly. Also, place it somewhere birds can use safely. This is preferably where they have nearby vegetation or branches. From here, they can watch for predators.

Don't let the water become stagnant or contaminated with droppings and debris. Cleaning the container regularly is an important part of maintaining a healthy bird-friendly water source.

You can also add a shallow dish at ground level. This is meant for species that prefer drinking or bathing closer to the ground.

Bird feeders can attract birds, but they shouldn't be the only food source. Plants that produce seeds, fruits, berries or nectar can provide additional natural food. Flowering plants can also attract insects and provide nectar for species that feed on it.

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology recommends thinking beyond bird feeders when creating bird habitat.

These can provide a more natural and sustainable food source. You can leave some seed-producing flowers standing after they finish blooming. Well, this can also give birds something to forage.

But, insect-friendly gardening matters, too. You should avoid trying to eliminate every insect from your garden. You see, a lot of birds rely on insects and their larvae for food.

If you use a bird feeder, choose appropriate food for the species in your area and keep the feeder clean. And also, keep the feeder clean. You see, spoiled or contaminated food can create health problems.

A garden that is completely open and manicured may look beautiful to us. However, it offers relatively little protection for birds.

Dense shrubs, hedges, climbing plants and trees can give birds places to seek cover from predators and shelter from harsh weather. Different layers of vegetation can accommodate different species.

Evergreen plants can be especially valuable. This is because they provide cover even when deciduous plants have lost their leaves.

If you have enough space, allowing a small corner of the garden to grow somewhat naturally can actually create additional habitat.

Birds need safe places to raise their young. It's not simply about finding food somewhere.

Trees, shrubs, natural cavities and dense vegetation can all provide potential nesting sites. Because, they can all provide potential nesting sites. Some species may also use nest boxes.

So, what do you do here? First, research the species you're hoping to attract. Different types of birds have different requirements. This is with respect to various factors concerning entrance-hole size, height, placement, and habitat.

Don't assume that one generic birdhouse will attract every species. Proper placement can be just as important as the box itself.

It's one of the best ways to make the garden more wildlife-friendly. Simply reduce unnecessary pesticide use.

Insects are an important part of many birds' diets. This is particularly true for adults feeding chicks. Broad-spectrum pesticides can also affect beneficial insects. And also, other organisms in the garden.

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service also recommends reducing pesticide use where possible because pesticides can affect insects and other wildlife.

Instead, you should consider other approaches. For example, remove pests by hand when practical, encourage natural predators, choose pest-resistant plants and use targeted controls only when necessary.

Do these things, and birds will come running or flying to your garden. But at the same time, you need to make sure that you are offering a clean environment to them.

These details can make your garden safer and more useful for visiting birds.