Ultimate Guide to Bird Feeding

Feeding birds can be a rewarding hobby that helps local wildlife and provides excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Choosing the Right Food

Seeds

• Black oil sunflower seeds: Attract most songbirds
• Nyjer seeds: Perfect for finches
• Safflower seeds: Cardinals love these
• Mixed seeds: Good variety for different species

Other Foods

• Suet: High-energy food for woodpeckers
• Mealworms: Beloved by bluebirds
• Fruit: Attracts orioles and tanagers
• Nectar: For hummingbirds and orioles

Feeder Types

1. Platform Feeders

   • Good for larger birds
   • Easy to clean
   • Needs good drainage

2. Tube Feeders

   • Perfect for small birds
   • Keeps seed dry
   • Multiple feeding ports

3. Suet Cages

   • Ideal for woodpeckers
   • Simple design
   • Weather resistant

Best Practices

• Clean feeders regularly
• Position away from predator hiding spots
• Provide fresh water nearby
• Maintain year-round feeding schedule
• Monitor for sick birds

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem: Squirrels

• Use squirrel-proof feeders
• Install baffles
• Offer separate squirrel feeding station

Problem: Aggressive Birds

• Use multiple feeding stations
• Provide different types of feeders
• Space feeders apart