Friends of Brookline Raptors

Photo Credit: Amelia Szymkomicz, Friend’s of Halls Pond

There are numerous ways you can protect raptors in Boston, and it’s easier than you think! Folks behind Friends of Brookline Raptors put together 5 methods they use to support raptors that you can adopt.

1. Create Bird Friendly Spaces

Spruce up your yard by planting native tree species that can provide nesting sites and cover for raptors. Plants in your yard make a major difference for birds, as native species provide them with natural food. To attract and protect birds, plant trees such as the Eastern Red Cedar, Black Cherry, or White Oak. For more information, check out Audubon’s Native Plants Database.

2. Provide Clean Water

Surprise, even raptors like to use bird baths! You can maintain or create a small water source in your yard for them to stop by for a drinking source or a bath. It is best practice to keep clean water in a shallow bowl you already own, or buy a small bird bath.

3. Support Conservation Efforts

We’re all in this together as we all share one ecosystem. You’re already doing a great job of exploring how you can support raptors, and you can take it a step further by volunteering or stopping by local conservation efforts. Take a look at Mass Audubon for more resources or join our mailing list.

4. Educate Yourself on Raptors

To appreciate raptors and their role in our ecosystem, take just 10 minutes of your day to learn more about them. Sovereign Science focuses on Indigenous perspectives of hawk research and protection. Check out their Instagram profile to learn more

5. Use Alternative Rodent Control Methods

Avoid the use of rat poisons (SGARs) as raptors that feed on dead rodents become sick and often die due to secondary poisoning. You can ask your pest control company to not use SGARs, contact your Public Works Department, use alternatives to poison, or critter-proof your home. Here is a guide to rodent prevention on your proporty