Bird-lovers around the world have been feeding their feathered friends for ages. Leaving out tasty treats is the perfect way to attract new (and sometimes exotic) species to your backyard, making bird watching fun and easy from the comfort of your own home (no binoculars needed). And while this hobby is often associated with grandparents and retirees, kids (and even pets!) love to watch, too.
With the wide variety of products available, there is something for everyone – and a steady supply of food guarantees visitors all year round. Just be sure to do your research - different types of seeds and feeders are appropriate for different kinds of birds, and it often depends on the region in which you live.
Here are some basic products you can purchase to help get started:
A Good All-Around Seed Mix
Providing several different types of seeds will help attract the greatest variety of birds, but if you’re not sure what birds live in your area (or you're not picky about which ones you attract), you can get an all-around seed mix that is suitable for a wide variety. The Kaytee Birders’ Blend is the perfect example: its special blend appeals to many different birds, including grosbeaks, cardinals, juncos, and more, and it’s guaranteed to bring a variety of songbirds to your perch.
A Variety of Bird Feeders
Different birds like different feeders – sparrows and juncos, for example, usually feed on the ground, while woodpeckers and chickadees like to feed up in the trees. If you want to attract a variety of avian friends, you’ll need to offer several options. Look for types that are easy to install and clean, and not too heavy. Two we like are:
- Nature's Hangout Window Bird Feeder with High Pitched Roof. This window-mountable feeder allows you to get REALLY up close and personal with nature, and with a tray that holds two different types of seeds, you can attract a variety of birds. When it comes time for maintenance, the sliding tray and drain holes make for easy clean-up.
- Squirrel Buster Standard Wild Bird Feeder. Hopefully, you won't have any squirrel problems – but most birders do. This feeder helps keep the troublesome critters at bay. When an adult squirrel (or any other large pest) tries to mount the feeder, the pressure of its weight automatically closes the seed ports, denying access to the seed but not harming the animal in any way. As one of the only "guaranteed squirrel proof" feeders on the market, it's a solid investment.
Proper Seed Storage
When not stored appropriately, seed can fall prey to squirrels, mice, or other rodents, as well as be vulnerable to mold contamination. In addition, when it becomes too hot, seed can become rancid, making it unappealing to most birds. To avoid any issues, store your seed in airtight metal containers, and keep it in a cool, dry place.
A Hiding Place
Chances are, when a bird comes to eat at your feeder, her nest isn't in the immediate vicinity. Make the feeding area more attractive to your feathered friends by placing a few little shelters around the yard. This grass bird hut is the perfect example – it provides a secure little space to hide from predators, seek shelter from the sun, or get in out of the rain.
Bird-Safe Cleaning Materials
All bird feeders should be cleaned several times a year – or more if you live in an especially humid environment. Hot, damp weather can cause seeds to become soggy and grow mold (which is potentially harmful to the birds). Using a long-handled brush, scrub out feeders using non-toxic dish detergent, then allow them to thoroughly dry in the sun before refilling. Also, make sure to routinely rake up any uneaten seeds left on the ground, as they also have the potential to become toxic.
Feeding birds allows you to take a little break from the stresses of everyday life. For many urban dwellers, the birds at their feeder are the only wildlife they’ll see all year – and even for those in the country, bird feeding offers the opportunity to see exciting new species. For very little time and investment, this is a hobby that can bring you infinitely closer to nature.