Design Details: Outdoor Decor for the Birds
Feeders, Houses and Baths for Our Feathered Friends
Lily Gahagan
May 10, 2011
We had a small hummingbird feeder outside our dining room window when I was growing up, and once the weather warmed, it never failed to attract many welcome guests. Our quick-fleeted friends would arrive every day, zipping here and there to get a taste of the feeder's nectar (just sugar water, actually). It brought a smile to everyone's face to see them, and provided entertainment with our meal that didn't require any type of remote control device.
If you're looking to install a little entertainment system in your yard, forget the outdoor movie theater. Rig up a feeder or small birdhouse and you might be surprised at how much time can be whiled away watching what happens. Here are a few of our faves from the Houzz product section:
If you're looking to install a little entertainment system in your yard, forget the outdoor movie theater. Rig up a feeder or small birdhouse and you might be surprised at how much time can be whiled away watching what happens. Here are a few of our faves from the Houzz product section:
The shape of this birdbath takes its inspiration from a falling drop of water. Each ring provides a different depth, so our little winged friends don't get drenched when dipping in for a sip.
The attention to detail in this feeder might make my house look all the shabbier by comparison. That said, I'd still have to hang it as it's too lovely to hide.
This bird feeder is simple and sweet, and can be filled with ease. Hang away from trees to deter squirrels from snatching all the seeds!
This little birch birdhouse could almost go incognito if placed amidst a group of trees. I say almost, because it's really too adorable for one not to take note.
If squirrels are still an issue, this clever feeder could have you covered. The thin opening is designed to be easy for smaller birds to feed from, but a hassle for larger critters to get their hands on. And it comes in a nice powder blue or lime green if you'd like a little color.
This is kind of like the hummingbird feeder we had growing up, but far more fun. The Ferris wheel-like shape could also keep any fights from breaking out from too many beaks and not enough feeding spots.
Mouth-blown glass makes for an elegantly shaped feeding orb. And it's easy to see when it's time for a refill.
You can start your own bird village with a grouping of charming houses. This set of three is only $28 — that's the same price or less than what we've seen single birdhouses going for.
For those of us with little to no lawn space, a bird bath is still an option! Just clip this one to your balcony rail and you've got a sweet birdie show right outside your window.
This spiraling birdbath can be hung from above, yet another option for outdoor spaces without much actual "space" to speak of.
This design kind of reminds me of Disney's Epcot Center. It's the perfect house for the ultra-modern bird.
Not getting enough birds? This hilarious little feeder is just as fun to look at when nobody's around to grab a snack.
Got any photos to share of your birdhouses or baths? Please share below!
More outdoor decorating ideas:
Charm Your House with Windowboxes
Explore more home and garden products
More outdoor decorating ideas:
Charm Your House with Windowboxes
Explore more home and garden products
Related Stories
Most Popular
What to Know About Adding a Deck
Want to increase your living space outside? Learn the requirements, costs and other considerations for building a deck
Full Story
Landscape Design
Natural Swimming Pools: More Beauty, No Chemicals
Keep your skin and the environment healthy with a pool that cleans itself, naturally
Full Story
Edible Gardens
How to Grow Your Own Sweet Summer Crops
This guide will help any gardener get started on growing the freshest warm-season veggies and berries for summer
Full Story
Most Popular
How to Start a Cool-Season Vegetable Garden
Late summer and late winter are good times to plan and plant cool-season crops like salad greens, spinach, beets, carrots and peas
Full Story
Simple Pleasures
Simple Pleasures: Savor a Starry Evening
See how magical moonlight can be by relaxing outdoors after the sun goes down
Full Story
Standard Measurements
The Right Dimensions for Your Porch
Depth, width, proportion and detailing all contribute to the comfort and functionality of this transitional space
Full Story
Feel-Good Home
The Contemplative Garden: A Place for Quiet Reflection
These 10 elements can bring a meditative quality to your garden
Full Story
Landscape Design
5 Ways to Make Your Concrete Patio More Attractive
These design ideas can liven up your paved outdoor space
Full Story
Porches
10 Ideas for Decorating Your Summer Porch
Watch the world go by from a porch decked out with comfy furniture and inspiring accessories
Full Story
Front Yard Ideas
10 Ideas for a Front-Yard Edible Garden Your Neighbors Will Love
Choosing attractive, well-mannered plants and sharing the bounty will go a long way toward keeping the peace
Full Story
This I did for my garden...