The city's gardeners now have a source to turn to in the name of making their back yards bird friendly.
Birds Canada, a charitable organization dedicated to bird science and conservation, has launched a website, BirdGardens.ca, that features 22 regionally-tailored factsheets - including one for B.C.'s Central Interior.
“What’s unique about this online tool is that anyone can develop their own customizable list of plants which are suited to their specific region in the country," said Birds Canada project lead Natasha Barlow. "It will help people all over Canada learn how they can re-create wildlife habitat, and be a part of conserving birds at home.”
Prince George is included in a zone that covers the Fraser Plateau, Skeena Mountains, and Hart Ranges. The fact sheet lists 10 types of trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants native to the area.
It also provides tips for attracting the Western Tanager - namely species that attract insects and bear small summer fruit - and the Bohemian Waxwing - native plants that provide fruit throughout the year.
The website also includes tips for planning a garden and a plant selector that holds about 500 species.