Advice for Bird Enthusiasts: Advice on Wild Bird Feeders
If you are one of the millions of bird lovers, you may wonder how to go about setting up and maintaining wild bird feeders to turn your backyard into an aviary of sorts. A simple way to start is to picture yourself engaged in birdwatching: what do you envision for your yard?
What birds do you want to attract? Which birds (or other animals) would you rather not see? If you feel like you don’t know much about the subject, inquire with friends and the people next door and they might be able to help you understand which types of birds to expect. Once you know that you want to attract male finches, for example, you’ll be able to move on and select the right wild bird feeders and food to get closer to your backyard goals.
Bird feeders are available in a number of styles. Some of these kinds include platform and ground feeders, tube, thistle, suet and wood. There are even specifically crafted feeders designed to attract a particular type of birds, such as hummingbirds. Taking the time to learn about the features of each one will increase your chance of success.
Making sure to fill the feeders with the right food the next step after choosing the right feeders. If your goal is to invite and enjoy a wide range of birds, you are likely to choose black oil sunflower seeds. Additionally, consider piling on fruits or nuts in summer to attract those less common migratory visitors. And if there’s a special bird you want to see, such as woodpeckers, be sure to read up on their food of choice: peanuts.
Keeping to a budget with regard to bird food is easier when you choose wild bird feeders that are squirrel-resistant or unlikely to attract other furry animals. Choosing a location away from easy-to-climb landscaping or shrubby hiding places can also reduce the chance that squirrels or other creatures will gorge themselves on your newly refilled seed. If squirrels do persist, you may also try switching to thistle seed as some birdwatchers have noted that squirrels don’t like the taste.
The desire to welcome myriad birds to your backyard is common, and selecting a variety of feeder types may prove the key to your success. As summer turns to winter, your backyard paradise remains a year-round feeding ground, accommodating different species amidst the changing climate.
You may notice a particular area that is popular; this is a good chance to set up an entire bird feeding station for spectacular results. If you prefer not to have birds concentrated in only one area, however, placing several wild bird feeders throughout the yard can be rewarding as you’re likely to experience wildlife when looking out many of the windows in your home.
After following these simple steps, sit down and enjoy your new backyard. And when you get that rare or surprising visitor, make sure you have a bird identification book on hand to truly enjoy your success!
To see more about Wild Bird Feeders and birdwatching, check out my website for great deals and reviews on Heritage Farms Feeders and other top feeders.
Author: Craig Shinney
This author has published 3 articles so far. More info about the author is coming soon.