Rules for Bird Feeders

Bird feeding comes in second to gardening on the list of most popular hobbies in North America. It is simple to do and not too hard on your wallet. Basic bird feeders are inexpensive, available everywhere and come in a variety of colors to attract various types of birds which provides for a potentially educational experience, To increase the amount of birds that visit your yard, the few things to consider are seeds, location, water and squirrels.

  1. Seeds

    • Birds like to pick out their favorite bits in seed mixes which can cause a big mess of dropped, unwanted seeds around the feeder. Hang several feeders that offer only one kind of seed to solve this problem and attract the greatest variety of birds. If you can only offer one kind of seed it should be sunflower seeds because many birds like it. Store the seed in a clean, dry place to prevent mold.

    Location

    • Hang feeders in a spot that is easily seen and away from windows. Placing them in trees or within five to 12 feet of a tree or shrub will attract the most birds to your feeder because they will feel protected against predators and it gives them a place to perch.

    Water

    • Water is a necessity for the health of birds and they need it everyday like any other animal. You could put in just about any container and just need to refill it daily. When it is extremely cold outside, you can alternate containers of water, keeping one thawing indoors and the other outside until it freezes.

    Squirrels

    • Squirrels can ruin your birds' day by eating up all the seeds. If you have squirrels in your yard, consider buying squirrel-proof feeders or placing a baffle below the feeder. Another option that is squirrel-friendly is to provide the squirrels their own feeder. Incorporate dried corn on the cob and isolate the feeder in a location away from the bird feeders.