by DJ Featherton

I’ve done well with my feeders attracting a good variety of birds. But no matter where I’ve lived, it’s the berry bushes and fruit trees that steal the show. Many times, my feeders looked inactive while the mulberry tree and cedars were filled with berry picking birds. 

Birds and berries are a natural, and rightfully so. Berry bearing bushes and blossoming fruit trees are plentiful everywhere. There are many, and they all provide the most desired and highest-grade nutrition for birds as the birds migrate. High calorie berries also provide the critical nutrients so birds can withstand the cold of winter. Berry shrubs offer the birds more than feed. Their density allows excellent shelter and nesting. Even insect eating birds are attracted for the insects living within the bush. Interestingly, many birds change their diet to berries in the winter, then back to insects for the warmer months. Bluebirds are an example. Some birds, like the catbird, will fight off other birds to protect his berries from having to be shared. No doubt about it, berry bushes are excellent for the birds and the backyard birder. 

Cornell University suggests these favored berry producing bushes in different regions:

Even with this good information there are many more common berry producing trees and bushes that deserve respect. Some may already be in your yard. Some of my favorites are junipers, cedars, holly, rose hips, and who can turn down the fragrance of jasmine? 

The good news about having several kinds of berry rich shrubs around your yard and garden is they are easy to plant and grow. They are strong and hardy, and you can trim them to desired size without fear of damage. Very easy care, and the birds love them!  If you haven’t seen an entire flock of cedar waxwings land in a green holly tree filled with bright red berries, or if you haven’t seen wintering bluebirds consuming blueberries, then ready your yard and enjoy your backyard birding. Your birds will appreciate your efforts!