A Backyard Bird Watcher’s Guide to Bird Feeders
More than 800 species of birds have been seen in the United States and Canada. When the weather turns cold in winter, they all go south.
A few birds hanging out in the backyard is cute, but what if your yard becomes home to dozens–even hundreds–of birds of all colors and sizes?
Sounds like you’re ready to become a backyard birdwatcher! Part of birdwatching is having a suitable bird feeder.
But with such wide varieties and brands, choosing which feeders suit your feathered friends best can be challenging. Keep reading to learn more about helpful bird feeders that you can keep in your backyard.
When to Fill Your Bird Feeder
A backyard bird watcher’s guide to bird feeders would include when to fill your bird feeder depending on the time of year and the local bird population.
When bird populations are higher in the spring and summer, you should fill bird feeders more often. When bird populations are lower in the fall and winter, you can fill bird feeders less often.
Knowing when to fill your bird feeder will help ensure that birds have enough to eat. It makes your backyard look like a welcoming place for them.
The Different Types of Bird Feeders
One of the most rewarding pastimes is backyard bird watching. This is made even better by providing bird feeders for the birds in your yard.
The most common type of bird feeder is the hopper feeder. These feeders are typically made of metal or plastic.
They have a tray or platform at the bottom where the bird seed is placed. Hopper feeders can attract a wide variety of birds, including finches, jays, cardinals, and sparrows.
Another type of bird feeder is the tube feeder. These feeders are long and thin, and the seed is dispensed through small holes in the tube.
Tube feeders are best for small birds like finches and chickadees. They’re classic feeders that can be hung from a tree or posts.
The third type of bird feeder is the window feeder. These feeders attach to your window and allow you to watch the birds up close as they feed.
Window feeders are suitable for small birds like finches and hummingbirds. Check for more bird feeder options or bird accessories in this review guide.
How to Keep Your Birdwideder Clean
To clean your feeder, use a mild soap and water solution. Rinse the feeder well and let it air dry.
If you need to scrub the feeder, use a soft brush. Do not use harsh chemicals or detergents, as these can harm birds.
You should also take down your feeder and clean it if there is bad weather, such as a storm, in the forecast. It is also essential to keep the area around your feeder clean.
How to Attract Different Types of Birds to Your Bird Feeder
You know that the key to inviting feathered friends to your yard is having the correct type of bird feeder. But if you are a beginning backyard bird watcher, start by putting out a couple of different types of bird feeders.
Be sure to offer a variety of foods. Different birds have different preferences.
Keep your feeders clean and well-stocked. Soon you’ll be enjoying your very own avian visitors!
Keep reading our blog for more ideas for a green, clean, and fun home!
