Bird watching is one of the fastest-growing hobbies in the country, and it is a delightful way to connect with nature right from your backyard. Selecting the right birdfeeder and seeds can make all the difference in attracting a diverse array of birds to your outdoor space. In the video above, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook and Massachusetts Audubon Naturalist Tia Pinney share valuable insights on choosing and using birdfeeders effectively.
Selecting the Right Seeds
Choosing the appropriate seeds can help attract a wide variety of birds to your feeder. Different bird species have varying preferences, so understanding which seeds work best for the birds in your area can make a big difference.
Black-Oil Sunflower Seeds
Black-oil sunflower seeds are the top choice for attracting the widest variety of birds. These seeds are high in fat and protein, making them an excellent food source for many bird species. Some birds that enjoy black-oil sunflower seeds include:
- Chickadees
- Finches
- Titmice
- Woodpeckers
- Cardinals
When using black-oil sunflower seeds, ensure you have a feeder that accommodates their size and minimizes waste.
Nyjer Seeds
Nyjer seeds, also known as thistle seeds, are tiny black seeds that are particularly attractive to small finches. These seeds are rich in oil and are a favorite of:
- American Goldfinches
- Common Redpolls
- Pine Siskins
Nyjer seeds require a specialized feeder with small holes to keep the seeds from spilling out.
Safflower Seeds
Safflower seeds are less popular than black-oil sunflower seeds but are beneficial for deterring unwanted birds and squirrels. These seeds can attract:
- Cardinals
- House Finches
- Chickadees
Avoid Mixed Seed Blends
While mixed seed blends may seem like a good option, they often lead to waste. Most birds prefer black-oil sunflower seeds and will toss aside the other seeds in the mix. Offering specific seed types separately is more effective and economical.
Types of Birdfeeders
Choosing the right birdfeeder will bring in different bird species and ensure their comfortable when they’re feeding. Here are some popular types of birdfeeders to consider:
Tube Feeders
Tube feeders are versatile and suitable for beginners. These cylindrical feeders have multiple feeding ports and perches, allowing several birds to feed simultaneously. When selecting a tube feeder, look for ones with metal guards around the feeding ports to prevent damage from squirrels.
How To Use Tube Feeders Effectively
- Fill the feeder with seeds that match the birds you want to attract.
- Hang the feeder from a tree branch or a dedicated feeder pole.
- Ensure the feeder is visible and accessible to the birds.
Platform Feeders
Platform feeders are ideal for larger birds and ground-feeding species. These open trays provide a stable surface for birds to land and feed. Some birds that prefer platform feeders include:
- Blue Jays
- Cardinals
- Mourning Doves
Advantages of Platform Feeders
Platform feeders are designed to accommodate larger birds that cannot perch on smaller feeders, making them an ideal choice for bird enthusiasts who want to attract a variety of species. They are also easy to clean and refill, making them lower maintenance than some other types of feeders. Additionally, their visibility allows you to enjoy watching birds as they feed.
Suet Feeders
Suet feeders are designed to hold high-energy suet cakes, which are particularly attractive to woodpeckers and other insect-eating birds. These feeders often come in the form of wire cages that hold the suet cake securely.
Benefits of Suet Feeders
- Provide a high-energy food source, especially in winter
- Attract insect-eating birds that may not visit seed feeders
- Easy to hang and maintain
Hummingbird Feeders
Hummingbird feeders are specialized feeders designed to hold sugar water that mimics natural nectar. These feeders attract hummingbirds and are typically brightly colored to catch their attention.
Tips for Hummingbird Feeders
- Use a mixture of four parts water to one part white granulated sugar.
- Avoid using honey or artificial sweeteners.
- Clean the feeder regularly to prevent mold and fermentation.
Squirrel-Proofing Your Feeders
Squirrels can be persistent visitors to birdfeeders, often outcompeting birds for food. Implementing squirrel-proofing measures can help ensure that your feathered friends get their fair share.
Squirrel Baffles
Squirrel baffles are physical barriers that prevent squirrels from accessing your feeders. There are two main types:
- Hanging baffles: These are placed above hanging feeders to prevent squirrels from dropping down onto the feeder.
- Pole-mounted baffles: These dome-shaped devices are installed below hanging feeders or on poles to prevent squirrels from climbing up.
Caged Feeders
Caged feeders feature a wire cage surrounding a standard tube feeder. The openings in the cage are large enough for small birds to enter but too small for squirrels and larger birds like starlings.
Weight-Activated Feeders
Some innovative feeders use a weight-activated mechanism to close access to the seed ports when a heavier animal, like a squirrel, lands on them. This allows smaller birds to feed while deterring squirrels.
Additional Tips for Squirrel-Proofing
- Place feeders away from trees and structures that squirrels can use to jump onto them.
- Use a combination of different squirrel-proofing methods for best results.
- Consider offering squirrels their food in a separate feeder to distract them from birdfeeders.
How Can You Provide Water for Birds?
Water is an important element in attracting birds to your yard, often more important than food. Birds need water for drinking and bathing, especially during hot summer months and freezing winters.
Birdbaths
A simple birdbath can be an excellent addition to your bird-friendly yard. When selecting a birdbath, consider the following:
- Depth: Keep the water shallow, no more than 1-2 inches deep, to accommodate various bird sizes.
- Location: Place the bath in a spot that’s visible to birds but also offers nearby cover for quick escapes.
- Texture: Choose a bath with a rough texture to provide good footing for birds.
Winter Water Solutions
In colder climates, providing unfrozen water can be a challenge. Consider these options:
- Birdbath heaters: These are separate devices that can be added to existing birdbaths to keep water from freezing.
- Heated birdbaths: These come with built-in heating elements to prevent freezing.
- Moving water: Adding a small fountain or dripper can help prevent freezing and attract more birds with the sound of moving water.
Cleaning and Maintaining Birdbaths
If you have a birdbath in your yard, you’ll need to regularly clean and maintain it to prevent the spread of diseases among birds. Follow these tips:
- Clean the birdbath at least once a week.
- Use a solution of one part vinegar to nine parts water for cleaning.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove any cleaning solution before refilling with fresh water.
- Remove any accumulated debris, such as leaves or feathers.
Feeder Placement and Maintenance
Proper placement and regular maintenance of your birdfeeders will attract more birds and ensure their health and safety.
Optimal Feeder Placement
When deciding where to place your feeders, consider the following factors:
- Safety: Place feeders near natural cover like trees or shrubs, allowing birds to quickly retreat if threatened.
- Spacing: If using multiple feeders, space them out to reduce competition and accommodate different species’ preferences.
- Visibility: Position feeders where you can easily observe them from inside your home.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your feeders clean will help prevent the spread of diseases among birds. Follow these maintenance tips:
- Allow feeders to dry completely before refilling with fresh seed.
- Clean feeders at least once every two weeks, more often during wet weather.
- Rake the area under feeders to prevent seed accumulation and potential disease spread.
- Regularly remove old, wet seed and droppings from platform feeders.
- Use a solution of one part bleach to nine parts hot water for thorough cleaning.
General Maintenance Tips
- Inspect feeders regularly for damage and wear.
- Replace any broken parts promptly to ensure the feeder remains functional and safe for birds.
- Rotate feeders to different locations in your yard to prevent uneaten seed buildup.
Additional Bird-Attracting Tips
Enhancing your yard to attract more birds involves more than just feeders and birdbaths. Consider these additional tips:
Plant Native Vegetation
Choose native plants that provide natural food sources, such as berries and seeds. Native plants also offer habitat and nesting sites for local bird species.
Create Shelter
Provide birdhouses and nesting boxes suitable for the species in your area. It’s also a good idea to maintain natural cover, such as shrubs and trees, to offer protection from predators.
Avoid Chemicals
Minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides, which can harm birds and reduce their food sources. You can also opt for organic gardening methods to create a bird-friendly environment.