How to Feed Wild Birds in Australia

Feeding wild birds in Australia is somewhat of a contentious issue, as feeding wild bird species improper food or in improper settings can harm, rather than help the birds. For the most part, planting a variety of native flowering plant species, such as bottlebrushes and wattles, in your garden is recommended as the primary means of feeding wild birds. If you are still keen to feed the birds supplementary foods, then make sure you know the species of birds that are in your area, and which foods to choose for that species.

Things You'll Need

  • Stainless steel bowl
  • Wild bird seed mix
  • Parrot pellets
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the stainless steel bowl thoroughly, then dry it. Stainless steel is preferred because it is non-porous, and can be hygienically cleaned.

    • 2

      Identify the species in your area. The most common wild birds to feed in Australia include rainbow lorikeets, rosellas, galahs and sulfur-crested cockatoos. For these kinds of birds, a nutrient-enriched wild bird seed mix, or parrot pellets are suitable.

    • 3

      Place 1/3 cup of seed or pellets into the clean stainless steel bowl, and place it in an elevated position in the garden. Birds will feed on the ground, but it makes them more vulnerable to attack from predators, so either use a hanging feeder for the stainless steel bowl, or put it on an outdoor table, barbecue or another elevated object.

    • 4

      Put the bowl out at either morning or evening time, leaving it for 15 to 20 minutes.

    • 5

      Take the bowl inside after this time, clean it and let it dry.