Reduce the size of your lawn.
Do not use any poisons or pesticides in the habitat. Remember that butterflies are insects too. The birds that are attracted to your habitat will eat insects - you don't want to introduce poisons into the food chain.
Build a compost pile.
Use compost and other natural fertilizers.
Collect rainwater for use on plants.
Provide nesting materials for birds. Use a wire or plastic box - a suet holder or strawberry basket works well; or a grapevine wreath can be used to hold the material. Leave bits of yarn, cloth, dog hair (make sure there are no pesticides on the hair), small twigs and grass. You can also buy commericially prepared nesting materials at stores that carry bird supplies. Squirrels may get into these items if it is within their reach (and what isn't). I have had rugs, wind socks, tablecloths, and upholstered cushions destroyed by squirrels looking for a bit of something soft to add to their nest (or maybe they were just feeling destructive - it's sometimes hard to tell with squirrels).
Provide a grit tray for birds. I use a pottery plant saucer. Fill with clean sand, bird gravel, and/or crushed eggshells.
Provide a dusting area. Leave a section of soil free of plants and mulch. Many birds enjoy a dust bath.
Make rock or brush piles.
Leave some leaf litter on the ground; birds like to scratch around in the leafes and look for small insects or seeds.
Keep feeders clean. Clean up hulls and droppings around feeders. Clean feeders with a water and vinegar solution, rinse well and let dry. Refill with fresh dry seed.
Make sure hummingbird feeders are cleaned often (every 3-4 days, more often in hot weather). Clean with water/vinegar solution; let dry. To refill, use only sugar and water; do not use honey or red food coloring. [Mix 1 part sugar to 4 parts water, bring to a boil, then store in refrigerator.
Clean your birdbaths often; use vinegar and water solution and scrub with a stiff brush.
Keep cats indoors!
