A bird lovers' guide to decorating the garden

Welcome the sing-song sounds of all the creatures of the sky by turning your garden into a homely oasis - by Better Homes and Gardens

A springtime garden is made in winter (have you seen this season's BHG reader bulb offer yet?!) and if having more than flowers and plants call your backyard 'home' is high on the priority, then investing wisely in a few functional and pretty garden accessories to welcome-in the birds, too, is a good way to go.

1. Nothing says 'welcome' quite like a bowl of feed

They say the way to a man's heart is, too and we all know that's true so there must be some merit in it. Good thing, too, because when you take a look at some of the stunning suspended bird feeders that are out there, you can't help but want them all!

Try going for something that has a big enough access hole down one end of the feeder, so it doesn't limit too many breeds of bird from accessing the goodies you pop inside.

You can purchase these lovely modern types right here.

2. Home is where the heart bird is

Even birds like somewhere homely to call their own from time-to-time, so by providing that for them means they'll come back time and time again. Customise these how you fancy, hang it in a tree and watch them move right in.

Here's a favourite of ours, which you can get right here.

3. Make your own bird feeder

Look, there's no proof birds appreciate a hand-made dinner table, but it will at least give you a bit of satisfaction knowing you made something that's giving beautiful creatures something to enjoy - and you get to watch them fill your garden!

Here's the project sheet to make your own version of the below bird feeder.

4. Pique their curiosity

There's certainly nothing bird-like about a metal Kookaburra garden sculpture, but it looks good and is curious enough to even get the attention of any friendly neighbourhood birds! Tuck this fun little option into some foliage or in with your favourite potplant to add affect as well as a bit of decorative flair.

You can pick this one up, or many like it, here!