Bird is the word! ~ Our unique bird life needs help too!

Let's see what we can do to protect our birds ~ whose lives and habitats have literally been turned upside down by storms. Lets try to help them recover: it’s the least we can do! 

Scaly Naped Pigeon ~ Image taken by Ingrid Zagers Z.ePhotography

Gray Kingbird ~ Image take by Kai Wulf

After the storm most birds are essentially homeless, likely their chances of survival are not good. The direct impact of the storm includes loss of food resources, loss of nests or roost sites and an increased risk of predation.

​What can we as humans do? 
Short Term:
One important way is by providing food.
Hang up bird feeders,  including hummingbird feeders and bird seed. This can help birds survive until their natural foods recover. 
We should not forget water either!
Set up a bird bath for them - there is usually either too much or too little water available after a storm. Birds need plenty of clean water to recondition their battered feathers and of course, to drink. Birds do get dehydrated quite quickly, especially in the hot weather. 
Longer Term:
We should also try to replant as soon as possible. 
Both slow and fast growing native plants and trees to provide shelter, food, and nesting sites.

Nesting female Antillean Crested Hummingbird ~ Image take by Kai Wulf

Feeding Banana Quits ~ Image take by Kai Wulf

As humans are rebuilding their lives, birds have to struggle on with theirs too. It will take time to restore some kind of normality. Fortunately, like humans, birds are remarkably resilient and they can (and do) bounce back! ​

DIY Bird Feeders

DIY Humming Bird Feeders

DIY Bird Bath

Hummingbird nectar recipe: 
4 cups of sugar 
1 gallon water
Boil the sugar and water till it makes a syrup

​Don't serve it hot to the birds :) 
Recipe from Binke van Es (Caribbean Birding Trail level 4 certified Guide)