Now is the perfect time to think about attracting bird visitors to your yard. Bird watching is a great hobby that can be enjoyed by both younger and older members of the family and getting started is easy.
Bird Feeders
The type of bird feeders you select will depend on where you want to observe your feathered friends, as well as the kinds of foods you are offering and the types of birds you want to attract.
Hanging feeders, suitable for smaller birds, can be hung from a tree, pole or hook. Platform feeders can be mounted on a pole/post, deck railing or fence. There are also window feeders that can be mounted directly to a window for enjoyment close at hand plus suet feeders or cages which hold suet ‘cakes’- a must for attracting insect-eating woodpeckers and nuthatches.
Feeders should be located in a sheltered place where they are not exposed to strong winds or vulnerable to attack from predators such as hawks and cats. Try grouping several different feeders together, to include the maximum number of different birds. Remember we’ll be happy to help you select the right feeders for your location.
Bird Seeds
Just like us, birds have certain food preferences. Black Oil sunflower seed is one of the most popular seeds, attracting a large variety of different birds. Some seeds such as Niger (Thistle) are very specific – if you want to attract beautiful Goldfinches, then this one is for you. Mixes containing sunflower, thistle, cracked corn, millet and other seeds are also available, to tempt many bird visitors. We carry a wide assortment of seed, seed mixes, and suet. We are happy to help you select the right blend for your needs.
Natural Food Sources
If you are serious about attracting birds to your yard throughout the year, then think about planting trees, shrubs, perennials and even annuals that will provide natural foods at different times of the year. Birds love berry-producers such as crabapples, Hollies, Hawthorns and Viburnums. Perennial favorites for seedeaters include members of the black-eyed Susan family (Rudbeckia), Coneflower (Echinacea), Goldenrod (Solidago) and Coreopsis. Seed heads of ornamental grasses are also highly sought after. Of the annuals, sunflower (of course!), marigolds and cosmos are popular.
Don’t Forget Water!
Remember water for bathing and drinking is one of the basic requirements for all birds. If you already have a birdbath, be sure to keep it filled with clear, fresh water. A birdbath heater will keep water available even during freezing weather.
Enjoy Your Feathered Friends This Fall and Winter!
