Must-Know Facts About Bird Feeding

Encouraging bird feeding in your yard requires more than just providing seed. You must create an environment that is not only nourishing, but one that will attract and retain bird activity without being destroyed by other creatures. Below are a few tips to help you to keep your birds coming back each year.

Squirrel Proof

Squirrels are quite a nuisance around bird feeders and can make it difficult for your birds to feed properly. The easiest way to keep them from wreaking havoc is to eliminate their access to the feeder, which is done through placement. Set your feeder at least a good 10 feet away from trees, fences or anything that a squirrel can jump from. Also keep the feeder 5 feet off the ground.

Another strategy is to purchase a squirrel baffle for your bird feeder. This cone-shaped cover attaches above or below the feeder causing squirrels and cats to slip away when they approach the feeder. Different models are available to work with different feeder types.

Color

The question of color is debated in regard to bird food. It is still not widely known if the color influences the birds’ food selections. Studies have shown that birds have a much bigger perception of color than humans. Birds tend to filter out anything that is green when they select food. But as far as other colors are concerned, studies remain inconclusive. Some scientists that think that the color of the bird feeder itself could have a lot to do with whether or not it attracts birds.

Keep in mind that natural is always the best away to go when it comes to choosing both feeders and seeds. Going with the colors that Mother Nature provides will be just as effective until further studies have proved otherwise. But feel free to experiment and do a little research of your own.

Bird Feeder Options

When it comes to choosing a bird feeder the options are countless. Before purchasing a feeder, consider what kinds of birds you want to attract. Also consider the layout of your yard. Wild bird feeding involves a lot of trial and error. You will need to see which feeders work best in your location and what kind of seed your birds prefer.

Keep in mind that the type of seed you choose has a lot to do with the type of feeder you will need to get. For sunflower seeds you should get a hopper feeder, a tube feeder also works well as well as a satellite feeder. If the food you provide is Niger, you should offer to your birds a tube feeder that has multiple perches as well as feeding holes. These should be just small enough so the food does not spill out. Wild birdseed mix will be the most effective with a hopper feeder.