The BRIZA Blog

NINE SIMPLE TIPS FROM EXPERT HERMAN VAN NIEKERK At the start of #BirdFeedingMonth, we found ourselves asking, Are we actually giving the birds in our gardens what they need? You might be putting out some food, hoping to attract as much birdlife as possible – but at what cost?   We caught up with Herman van Niekerk, author of Briza’s Sappi Birds of South Africa , for some expert insights.   Figure 1 : Sappi Birds of South Africa “Most cities and towns have developed as extended bushland or forest areas because of the gardening practices of owners ,” says van Niekerk. “Of course the result is an influx of birds from their natural habitats which is wonderful news for city and town dwellers who can now enjoy birdwatching in their own gardens.” In response to our question – What do the wild birds need from our gardens? – van Niekerk asserts that there are in fact ways to optimise the environment for the birds in your garden so that just as your garden is a birdwatchin