There are a few common reasons why birds may be attracted to and feeding on your lawn:
Searching for food
Birds are constantly on the hunt for sources of food to fuel up. Your lawn likely has an abundance of insects and bugs that birds like to snack on. Earthworms, grubs, caterpillars, beetles, ants, and spiders are just some of the nutritious morsels birds can find crawling around grass and soil. Birds will scratch and peck at the ground to uncover these tasty treats.
Looking for seeds
Many birds enjoy eating the small seeds that grow in lawns as weeds or are spread by nearby trees/plants. Sparrows, juncos, finches and doves are some common seed eating birds that may forage on grass for seeds. They will walk along the ground searching for seed heads or pick up fallen seeds from the soil surface.
Access to grit
Birds like chickens, quail and doves ingest small pebbles and grit which accumulate in their gizzard, helping grind up food for digestion. Easy access to small rocks, gravel, sand or grit on the ground assists this digestive process. Lawns sometimes provide an abundant source of natural grit that birds will purposefully eat.
Mating/nesting behavior
Some birds including quail, killdeer, meadowlarks and grouse perform mating rituals and displays on open grassy areas. Additionally, certain birds may nest on the ground hidden in vegetation, making lawns with longer grass attractive nesting spots.
Open visibility
Lawns provide open visibility allowing birds to readily spot potential food and also watch for predators. Short grass gives an unobstructed view versus woody, brushy or overgrown areas. Birds feel more secure against threats when they can clearly see in all directions as they feed.
Lush green space
Healthy, green, well maintained lawns signal prime bird habitat. Lush grass demonstrates adequate moisture and food availability. Bright green turf stands out versus drab or dry vegetation and attracts foraging birds.
Access to water
Birds need to drink water daily, just like all animals. Lawns may have sprinklers, irrigation, drainage areas or puddles that provide accessible water sources birds will take advantage of while in your yard.
Fertilizer application
Fertilizing your lawn can cause an explosion of worms and insects. This buffet of protein-rich food draws in flocks of hungry birds. Avoid over-fertilizing which can lead to excessive bird damage as they dig for grubs and bugs feasting on the nutrients.
Few obstructions
Open lawns free of trees, fences or walls allow birds to easily walk, land and take off again. No obstacles means better ability to escape from predators. Mobility is key for bird survival.
Secluded refuge
Quiet lawns away from human activity and pets can serve as safe havens for more timid bird species to stop and refuel. They may linger longer dining on your lawn if not pressured to keep moving.
Proximity to feeders/houses
Lawns near existing bird feeders and nesting boxes will naturally attract more birds. They become accustomed to finding food in that location and feel secure, continuing to return.
Exposed soil
Bare patches of dirt caused by animal digging, vehicle turning or weed removal provide direct ground access. Birds will take advantage of any soft, exposed soil to search for worms or other bugs near the surface.
Competition avoidance
Areas with an overpopulation of birds force less dominant species to find food elsewhere to avoid competition. Your lawn may offer a more peaceful bird feeding ground.
How to discourage birds from feeding on your lawn
While most lawn damage from birds is minimal, some tactics can help dissuade over-zealous bird feeding if it becomes a nuisance:
- Use bird frightening devices like predator decoys, flashing lights or sound deterrents
- String shiny tin pie pans that will move in the breeze and startle birds
- Apply bird repellent gel or granules
- Allow your grass to grow longer which reduces exposed soil and camouflages potential food sources
- Scatter branches, rocks or obstructions to impede landing and scratching spots
- Reduce fertilizer use which will minimize the soil insects birds are feeding on
- Plant thick hedges or erect privacy fencing to block bird access and visibility
- Use pesticides appropriately to control lawn insects
- Keep bird feeders full and away from your lawn to help draw birds away
- Remove favored food sources like fallen seeds or fruits
- Use wildlife habitat modification to make your yard less attractive to problem bird species
- As a last resort, contact wildlife professionals to relocate habitual bird pests humanely
A few bird-damaged spots here and there on your lawn are nothing to stress over. Consider taking pride in maintaining a healthy, vibrant lawn that provides nourishment and sanctuary for our feathered friends!
Conclusion
Birds are naturally drawn to lawns because they provide plenty of food sources, open visibility, access to water and grit, safe nesting sites, and refuge from predators and competition. Typical lawn-loving bird species include robins, sparrows, crows, doves, quail, finches and more. While minor bird damage may occur, a few strategies can help redirect birds away from your grass if needed. Understanding what attracts birds to lawns allows you to thoughtfully modify the habitat or deterrents used as needed.