Fun with Bird Feeding

Feeding birds can be a lot of fun. Bird feeding has slowly become a rather popular past time among people both young and old. Bird feeding allows us to relax and enjoy watching the birds, and learn about the different species at the same time. It is also inexpensive as compared to other forms of recreation.

Bird feeding provides the only interaction most people will ever have with wild animals. There is a variety of bird species around, all colorful and delightfully entertaining. They add color to an otherwise bleak and monotonous landscape. The presence of decorative and unique bird feeders and bird baths can improve your backyard aesthetics as well. Watching birds feed and listening to them chirp away can also be an excellent form of therapy for people who are forced to stay indoors due to illnesses, old age or the winter weather.

Feeding birds is not limited to your living location. You could live in an apartment building in the city, or in a house with a wide backyard. It doesn't matter. Wild birds are sure to be anywhere. Another rewarding part about this is that you're not only having fun, but you are also helping the birds survive by feeding them and providing them a safe place to stay.

Enjoying the presence of these animals is easy. You don't need to have complex birdfeeder building supplies. Instead, you can start with the simplest of materials and invite the birds into your own backyard.

Here is some information for you to go through when starting your own bird feeding area:

- Bird feeders should be completely emptied and cleaned before refilling.
- Feeders should be cleaned of any bird droppings.
- Feeders should be disinfected monthly, more frequently when the weather is hot.
- Seeds should be kept dry at all times.
- Only fresh seeds should be used. Don't use seeds left over from the previous year.
- Remove any dead birds found near the feeder. Bury or burn the bodies of dead birds.
- Feeders should be kept at a safe distance from house windows to prevent birds from flying directly into the glass.
- Use nettings or screens to cover windows if birds start to fly into the windowpanes.
- Feeding birds can be done all year long.
- Petroleum jelly, grease, oil and other similar substances should not be used on poles or wires. - These are potentially harmful to the birds.
- Black-oil sunflower seeds are the most popular and will attract the most variety of birds.
- Mixed seeds spread on the ground may attract unwanted bird species.
- Mixes should not be offered in tube feeders. Feed mixes are more suitable for hopper or platform bird feeders.
- Never use pesticides, insecticides or herbicides around or anywhere near your bird feeders.
- Place your bird feeders in an area near trees or brush pile to provide some safety cover in case of the presence of predators.
- To avoid any squirrel attacks, place your bird feeders at least 5 feet off the ground and at least 10 feet from the nearest tree or jump off point.
- Don't use anything with white sugar, powdered or brown sugar and artificial sweeteners to feed birds. White flour, hot spices and herbs should also be avoided.

To fully take pleasure in watching the birds, it is suggested that you get a decent pair of binoculars. A source of fresh, clean water is also recommended. Birds are attracted to water and offering them a clean source can also attract the species who don't normally visit bird feeders.

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