A feeder may bring birds to your yard, but a successful bird sanctuary gives them much more. Learn how food, clean water, protective shelter and safe places to raise young work together—and how to provide all four in a yard, patio or balcony.

Before buying plants or moving feeders, put your backyard bird sanctuary ideas on graph paper. This practical guide will help you map existing features, create habitat layers, add food and water, improve safety and turn the project into manageable phases.