Bird Feeding Info
Feeding birds is enjoyable and interesting. Many different birds are attracted to gardens and courtyards throughout the year. However, the crucial time to feed birds is in the winter. The cold weather and snow limits available food, and birds can find it hard to keep warm.
Birds feed on insects and grubs during spring and summertime, but these food sources are scarce during the winter. It is important to provide bird food in a wild bird feeding station and not just scattered on the ground. However, they become dependent on a food source and may not locate an alternative one if you stop. There is a variety of wild bird food available from our e-Bay shop to attract birds to your garden.
Specialty Bird Seeds
The addition of specialty foods will attract an even wider variety of birds. Bird feeding has become revolutionized by black sunflower seeds. Being one of the most nutritious foods available for birds, it is also the single favourite. Thistle seed in the spring and autumn will also attract many birds to your garden, and a mixture of black sunflower seed and thistle seed attracts a varied selection of birds all year round. Woodpeckers like to regularly eat suet.
Feeder Placement
Obviously it is important to locate your feeder where you can see it from your window. Make sure it is easily accessible for refilling, and preferably out of the wind. Aiming to keep away unwanted predators is also important. Cats should be prevented from climbing near feeders, as well as rats and squirrels. To achieve this, locate your feeder at least 2-3 metres away from overhanging trees, fencing or other structures. If this doesn't stop predators, then a guard can be used to prevent unwanted visitors.
Deterring Unwelcome Visitors
Bird feeders often attract unwelcome visitors such as cats, rats and squirrels. All come because there is food on offer, or some try to catch the birds you want to attract. To deter rats, make sure there is no spilt seed or ground feeders left out overnight. Attach a seed tray underneath your feeder to catch any feed which is dropped. Squirrels often find a solution to get to bird feeders. We sell metal bird feeders specifically designed to deter squirrels. To deter cats, position your bird table away from ledges or walls where cats can jump from.
