Tips on Feeding Wild Birds

Birds are our feathery friends that need nutritious foods to thrive in the environment since they are known to control weeds and insects. Not only are they beneficial to the environment but feeding them is a fun activity and hobby. It can be relaxing and fascinating to watch birds fly onto the bird feeder. Certain foods can attract them to the feeder, which gives you a chance to observe their behavior. Another benefit is that birds can receive food that may be otherwise destroyed or lost when homes and other shelters are built in their habitats. To help you get started, Daily Family Farms offers insight on feeding wild birds!

Do Research on Different Birds

Before you start feeding birds, you need to become knowledgeable about the types of bird that are commonly found in your area to make accommodations. Different birds may fly at different heights, so you may have to adjust the bird feeder at various levels. At the same time, if different birds are attracted to the bird feeder, it may create competition. Therefore, it may be a good idea to place the feeder on different sections of the tree so that every bird can have its share of food. Make sure to set the feeders away from windows since birds may crash into the clear screens.

Choose the Right Bird Feeder

Once you know which types of birds are going to flock around the feeder, you can select a bird feeder to suit your specific preferences. Each bird feeder has its benefits. For instance, bird feeders that are made of steel, plastic, and glass are easier to clean than feeders made from clay and wood. Large bird feeders can hold more seeds, so you do not have to refill the seeds as frequently. Also, bird feeders with drainage spots can keep out sand and keep seeds dry.  

Establish a Cleaning and Storage Routine

It is a good idea to disinfect the bird feeder before you set it up. If you have any seeds leftover,  store them in a cold, dry place to prevent mold or pests from raiding through the food supply. Then regularly check the expiration dates of the seeds and if there are any clumped or old seeds. Make sure to periodically clean the feeders, as well, to prevent the spread of diseases to other wild birds.

Change Food to Suit the Weather

Wild birds may be absent during migration seasons and usually appear from late winter to early spring.  However, this may be different depending on the region and the geographic location. Therefore, it may be a good idea to add fatty foods (such as suet) that can provide nutrients and energy during winter. Suet is not suitable for summer because it can melt and become rancid, but is ideal during spring and fall. Peanuts and corn may be suitable substitutes in summer. Here at Daily Family Farms, we have a wide selection of corn feed packages that can provide birds with adequate vitamins. Visit our website where you can learn more about our market and the benefits of feeding wild birds.

Protect Bird Feeder from Other Animals

Other animals like raccoons, squirrels, rats, and deer may raid the bird feeder. They can consume most of the food supply and not leave any behind for birds. On a similar note, it may be a good idea to set cautionary protections, since other birds may be targeted by other predators because their senses are dulled while they are eating. There are many options available to protect the bird feeder. For instance, you can install a baffle on the feeder and place the feeder on a pole that makes it difficult for other animals climb or reach the feeder.

Bird watching can be peaceful since you can observe these feathery creatures harmoniously in their natural habitats. It is delightful to notice how they flock around the bird feeder that you placed outside. It is even more rewarding to know how a simple bird feeder and food supplies can attract birds into your yard! Our team at Daily Family Farms hope you have fun feeding wild birds!