Buying or making a bird feeder can be a great way to connect with nature and learn about the different species of birds living in your environment. Bird watching is enjoyable for all ages and is the perfect family hobby. Many birds can not survive through the winter months because of the scarcity of food. Humans can easily help reduce this problem by placing feeders in trees and gardens.
Bird feeders come in many creative designs to meet your personal taste. There are a variety of companies online that make eco-friendly bird feeders in various shapes and sizes. But making your own is the best option. It is easy to build a pinecone feeder by dipping the pinecone in 1/2 cup organic peanut butter and sprinkling the cone with lots of sunflower and other birdseed. Then, tie a few strings to the pinecone and hang it from a low branch.
You can also use a milk jug or juice bottle. Cut out a large opening on the side so the birds can get to the feeder. Drill a tiny hole at the bottom of the opening and put a stick into the drilled hole so the birds have a place to stand while eating. Make some tiny holes in the top of the feeder so you can thread some sting to hang it. You can also collect wood during hikes and make your own bird feeder with wood chips and nails.
Birds eat a variety of different foods. Always make sure whatever food you put in your feeder is fresh. If seed is too old it can be poisonous to our feathered friends. Birds like natural habitats, so if you have a garden in your backyard that looks natural it is more likely to attract different species. The main foods to put in bird feeders are grains, nuts (never salted), seeds, fruit and suet. Setting out different types of food to see what attracts different species of birds is fun and educational.
Be sure to clean your bird feeder on a regular basis. Birds can crowd feeders and spread sickness. Use pressure water to clean it and let it soak in warm soap for long periods of time. Make sure you wear gloves when cleaning feeders. It is also very important that if you make a commitment to start feeding birds you stick with it year-round. Birds quickly start to rely on the food source you provide them. Birdbaths can also be a lovely garden decoration and are a great water source for birds.
Many birds’ natural habitats have been destroyed by humans. Consider planting fruit trees or hollies from which birds can eat. The more you watch birds, the more you see how fragile our ecosystem is. A bird feeder is a simple way to connect with nature and teach our children the importance of providing for our planet's creatures.
