Perennials that attract birds
Annuals and perennials can be beneficial to birds by providing a source of seeds during the summer and into winter. If you have an area greater than 2 acres, then consider establishing a grassland that will support rapidly declining populations of Eastern Meadowlarks. Only 3% of native grassland in Ontario currently remains. Most owners have only a fraction of that so planting the following perennials will help native songbirds (Usually, you will see goldfinches). If attracting seed eating birds remains your top priority, then you would probably be better off buying feeders.
