guide: how to support knoxville bird species

This guide will provide you with helpful resources and attainable actions to transform your outdoor space into a native oasis for local bird species. You will also learn how to support local organizations that aid in the conservation of native bird species and ecosystems on a larger scale.

Ruby-throated hummingbird

sharing your space with local birds

It’s likely that every time you step outside, you see or hear at least one bird, even if you aren’t intentionally searching for them. From the busiest cities to the most rural areas, birds are all around.

So what can we do to better share our space with local bird species? Below are a few actions and resources to get you started.

plant native plants

A great way to support local birds is to create a space full of their favorite native plants! From trees to shrubs to grasses, there is a wide variety of plants that can maximize any outdoor space, no matter the size.

National Audubon Society’s Native Plants Database is a great place to start when planning your native space. Simply enter your zip code (email is not required), hit Find Plants, and everything you need will be at your fingertips. In this database, you have the ability to filter for plant type and what bird species they may attract. Feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the results and unsure how you’ll remember what you want to plant? No worries! Just select Save and send your saved list to your inbox for future reference.

American beautyberry

Stanley’s Greenhouse in South Knoxville offers a wide variety of plants, including native options! You can visit the native plant section on their website to see the top 10 native plants for the Southeastern United States. Give them a call at 865-573-9591 to check for availability.

The University of Tennessee Institute for Agriculture’s Smart Yard program that contains a native plant database. This database has an exhaustive list of native plants for those looking to dive into the specifics. You’ll find all the essential details for how to grow each plants and what conditions they thrive in.

The Tennessee Invasive Plant Council has resources for everything from a database of, you guessed it, invasive plant species to how to landscape with native plants.

Don’t feel discouraged if you don’t have a yard, many native plants can thrive in pots on your balcony or porch. Chat with your native plant source to see if there are options that suit you.

For general steps and tips on how to create a bird-friendly home, read this article from Audubon.

support local conservation organizations and parks

Another way you can support your local birds is by joining local conservation organizations and visiting local parks. Knoxville is full of wilderness areas and organizations that use them!

Tufted titmouse

The Knoxville Chapter of the Tennessee Ornithological Society is a local bird conservation organization that focuses on protecting birds through education and conservation efforts. To support their mission, they host regular events like field trips, talks, and youth programs.

In the heart of South Knoxville sits Ijams Nature Center, an urban wilderness paradise. Ijams has over 318 acres of protected land, winding trails, a quarry for summer swimming, and resident ambassador animals. Visit their site to learn about events, educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and other ways to support their efforts.

The Museum of Infinite Outcomes is the intersection of art and conservation. Exhibits, educational programs, and workshops fuel their mission. From basket weaving with kudzu to a month-long program that celebrates the intersection of birds and humans, The Museum of Infinite Outcomes is a creative gem right here in Knoxville.

Along the French Broad River sits Seven Islands State Birding Park. Hiking trails guide you through the 416 acres of park where over 220 bird species have been sighted. You can join in on events at the park like bird walks, workdays, and workshops.

enjoy your local birds!

The best way to support your local bird species is to appreciate them through birdwatching and sharing it with others. Birding doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive; simply get outside and watch or listen, no matter where you are. Plus, the mental health benefits are totally worth it.

Every little action matters and individuals can make a difference. Support local!