How to help migrating birds

Blue jay

Many birds are becoming extinct or are declining in numbers due to global warming and through habitat destruction directly related to human activities.

http://planetgreen.discovery.com/travel-outdoors/human-activities-threaten-birds.html

owl

However, bird lovers and nature lovers everywhere can help birds to survive, not only in winter but also during migration in spring and fall.  Here is only one good reason why you should:  "All species—flora or fauna—live in a delicate balance within our eco-system."  We are part of that eco-system.

Bird feeders are always a good idea, provided the bird feeder is placed in such a location as to limit the local cat population's access to the bird feeder.   Plant trees on your property if you have one, not only is this good for the environment, but it provides shelter and a resting place for birds.  If the tree also bears fruit this  will be of even more benefit for the bird.
http://hubpages.com/hub/Trees-For-the-World
http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/SafeFeeding.html

Stop the use of pesticide and herbicides in your gardening and go organic.  Many birds are poisoned through their use, or otherwise negatively affected.  For tips on organic gardening follow this link:
http://www.organicgardening.com/

Keep your pets inside during  the migration  seasons, as both dogs and cats will chase and/or hunt birds. Its their instinct to do so. If you find stray animals that were once someone's pet,  it is best to have them picked up by the local animal control department, rather than to feed them even once, because unless you plan to take them into your home, they will have a constant need to hunt birds in order to stay alive.
http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/SafeCats.html

More tips on how to help birds and other wildlife are on the following links:
http://www.stateofthebirds.org/home-page-documents/what-you-can-do-to-help-birds
http://hubpages.com/hub/helpingwildlife
http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/KeepWildlifeSafe.html
http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/SafeWindows.html

For ways to turn your garden into a mini wildlife sanctuary/refuge follow these links:
http://www.nwf.org/gardenforwildlife/
http://www.plantnative.org/
http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/
http://www.thedailygreen.com/environmental-news/latest/bird-gardens-47022602

Helping birds in specific neighborhood types:
http://audubonathome.org/birdstohelp/

Stop the killing of gophers and rabbits in nearby, unused tracks of land and along fee-ways, as they are a food source for both local and migrating hawks, as well as owls.  Some hawks are dependent exclusively on rodents, for example, for their survival while others have a diet that depends on a broader variety of food sources.  Get involved in your community to help implement more environmentally friendly practices such as the development of wildlife friendly parks with ponds, lots of trees and native plant life, where ducks and geese might land for brief a rest stop during migration.

Buy organically grown seed products for your bird-feeders,  as many seed products are contaminated with pesticides, herbicides or are genetically modified.  These types of seeds are likely to be harmful to birds.  There are other things that you can do, as you will learn when you visit the links above.  I am certain you will enjoy the result of your efforts a great deal, as will your children and neighbors no doubt.

Susan