If you want to bring birds to your yard, the easiest way by far is to put out feeders. You can just put out a cheap seed mix and call it a day, but you'll see much better results with a little more planning and research. Here's a few tips based on my own feeding experience.
- A lot of commercial seed mixes will include cheap filler grains that most birds aren't interested in. They may seem like a good deal, because they're generally less expensive, but you're actually getting a bit less bang for your buck. Try to avoid mixes with a lot of milo (sorghum); some birds will eat it, but it won't bring much action to your yard.
- If you want to attract finches, you cannot go wrong with nyjer seed. Most birds love sunflower seeds, finches included; but the sees of nyjer thistle- a sunflower relative - are wildly popular with finches in particular. Nyjer seed is very small and needs a specialized feeder; nylon "socks", or cylinder feeders with very small holes, are two good options for serving up nyjer. Finches can cling to these feeders easily, while larger birds will have to look elsewhere.
- Try offering a variety of different types of food. Not all birds eat seeds. Some are insectivores; others prefer fruit when they can get it. Even seed-eating birds like a variety; try peanuts and safflower alongside the more usual millet and sunflower seeds. Mealworms are pricey, but beloved of bluebirds and warblers.
- Fruit feeders might be your best bet for seeing the elusive verdin. You might also attract other sweet-lovers like Gila woodpeckers!
- The weather in Phoenix never gets too cold, but birds still appreciate more energy-dense food in the colder months. Suet cakes or peanut butter are a good way to make sure your yard is an attractive destination in the winter.