Tired of the city’s relentless pace? The Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary offers respite. This hidden gem invites us to slow down and appreciate nature’s beauty.
The Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary is easy to miss. It’s one of West Philadelphia’s best-kept secrets. There are no signs announcing its presence. It’s essentially a backyard designated as a wildlife area. The Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary is surrounded by other backyards.
In 1981, members of the Spruce Hill Community Association purchased this lot. It was once a “builder’s lot”. They transformed it into a little oasis. Imagine that the backyards all meet along a central line on a typical city block. On Melville Street, this remnant of land remained unattached.
Walk south on Melville Street from Locust Street. Pass a garage with a white door. Next to it, you’ll see 233 Melville. Take the narrow alley between the garage and the house. Don’t worry. You are in the right place.
Native plants cover the area. Benches are carved from fallen trees. Well-maintained paths wind through the sanctuary. A bird bath adds to the charm.
The Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary is home to 16 regularly observed bird species. Mourning doves and starlings are common sights. Juncos, cardinals, and goldfinches also reside here. Gray catbirds and purple finches may also make an appearance. Other bird species occasionally drop by too. Squirrels are ever-present. Butterflies flutter during warmer seasons.
Bird feeders attract our feathered friends. Volunteers restock the feeders. They also water the plants. They maintain the landscape. The sanctuary even has a spray mister. This attracts hummingbirds. Blue spruces, hawthorns, dogwoods, and hollies have been planted. These provide shelter and bear fruit.
You might encounter sparrows, robins, and pigeons. Chickadees, goldfinches, and juncos also live here. Maybe you’ll see your first chickadee.
The Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary has four posts. They hold 15 feeders. Over a dozen different kinds of birds visit here. The entrance is next to 233 S. Melville. It is open to the public.
Remember the Spruce Hill Bird Sanctuary borders private residences. Please be respectful during your visit. Give the birds space.
This sanctuary is more than just a collection of plants and animals. It is a testament to community. It is a place where urban dwellers can reconnect. It offers a chance to see the natural world. It provides a haven for birds and humans alike. It is a reminder that even in the heart of the city, beauty can thrive.