Bird-Friendly Spaces FAQs

Our space-specific resources are beginner-friendly guides that can help you get started based on the type of space you have. Anyone can create a bird-friendly space, whether you have acres of land, a paved balcony, or no outdoor space at all. Some actions may be easier to start with and could substitute what you already do, like buying bird-friendly coffee instead of your normal brew or reducing your plastic use by using reusable alternatives to straws and plastic bags and using reusable alternatives instead. Check out the program overview to see what actions you can take now and what you can plan for in the future. Start small and take it one action at a time!

Direct benefits of joining the program include:

• A welcome package with discount coupons and a badge (sticker).
• Opportunity to purchase a yard sign
• Monthly newsletter subscription with advice on how to make your space bird-friendly and upcoming bird-friendly events
• Access to the Bird-Friendly Spaces Facebook group to ask questions, share resources, and connect with other members

Joining the Bird-Friendly Spaces Program provides environmental benefits like an increase in green space connecting habitat areas and creating a better future for wildlife. You will also gain personal benefits including mental and physical wellbeing and inclusion in a supportive community of other wildlife lovers. You can inspire the next generation to get involved in bird-friendly actions!

You don't need to spend tons of time creating a bird-friendly space! Many of the actions can be easily added into your life, like becoming a bird-friendly ambassador at work by educating your coworkers about birds or keeping your cats indoors.

Other actions may take time to set up, but may have long-term time-saving benefits! For example, it takes time to plant native plants, but these species will require less care and maintenance than non-native ornamentals once they have become established.

Yes! Each category contains actions that can be applied to any space, regardless of whether the space includes an outdoor area or not. We encourage everyone to apply who is working to make whatever space they have bird-friendly.

The program is FREE! Yard signs are available for purchase separately.

You do not need to renew each year.

No, signs are optional. A badge will be sent to you for free as a sticker that you can put on your sign, water bottle, laptop, or wherever makes sense for you!

You do not need to reapply! Please contact us at info@houstonaudubon.org to update your address.

This program services anyone living in the greater Houston-Galveston region.

Contact Schyler Brown, Bird-Friendly Communities Manager, at sbrown@houstonaudubon.org