Feeders and Baths

When and How Should I Feed

1. When to Feed Birds:

   • Provide bird food throughout the year, but it's especially beneficial during colder months.
   • Continue feeding in spring and summer to support breeding and nesting birds.

2. Choosing the Right Bird Food:

   • Offer a variety of bird foods to attract different species- include seeds, nuts, suet, mealworms, and fruit.
   • Use high-quality bird seed mixes.
   • Avoid salty, processed, or seasoned foods- they could kill birds.

3. Selecting Bird Feeders:

   • Start with a simple, easy-to-clean feeder like a tube feeder or a platform feeder.
   • Ensure the feeder is sturdy and protected from harsh weather conditions.
   • Once you get the hang of feeding, introduce different types of feeders to attract more bird species.

4. Feeder Placement:

   • Position feeders near trees or shrubs to provide shelter and perching spots.
   • Keep feeders at least 10 feet away from windows to prevent collisions.
   • Clean the feeding area regularly- you could spread diseases that will kill birds.

5. Water Source:

   • Offer fresh water in a birdbath or shallow dish for birds to drink and bathe.
   • Keep the water clean and replace it regularly to prevent contamination.

6. Be Patient and Observant:

   • It may take time for birds to discover your feeding station, so be patient and consistent.

Feeding birds is a rewarding and enjoyable activity that brings nature closer to your home. By providing nutritious and suitable bird food, you can attract a diverse range of feathered visitors and contribute to the well-being of our avian friends. Remember to keep feeding areas clean, be mindful of local wildlife regulations, and enjoy the wonders of birdwatching right in your own backyard.

Note: Although it is tempting to feed birds all-year round, we suggest having regular breaks from feeding to make sure our avian residents don't rely too much on your food. What if you have to stop feeding one day? We suggest feeding consistently in winter and introducing week-long breaks every four weeks during the summer months when natural food is abundant and better for chicks, to make sure your bird buddies stay happy, healthy, and able to take care of themselves .

Beginner's Guide to Bird Baths:

1. Choose the Right Bird Bath:

   • Opt for a shallow, sturdy bird bath with a textured bottom for grip.
   • Ensure the bath has a gentle slope or varying depths to accommodate different bird sizes.

2. Select a Suitable Location:

   • Place the bird bath near cover like shrubs or trees to provide birds with quick escape options.
   • Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating.

3. Keep it Safe:

   • Ensure the bird bath is stable and won't tip over easily, even during windy conditions.
   • Place the bath away from windows to prevent bird collisions.

4. Maintain Hygiene:

   • Regularly clean the bird bath to prevent algae buildup and disease transmission.
   • Scrub with a brush, rinse, and refill with fresh water every few days.

5. Provide Fresh Water:

   • Keep the water level shallow (about 2-3 inches deep) to accommodate birds comfortably.
   • Refill the bath with clean water daily, especially during hot weather.

6. Winter Care:

   • In colder months, ensure the bird bath remains ice-free by using a heater or by refilling it with lukewarm water.

7. Enjoy the Show:

   • Be patient. Birds might take some time to discover the new water source.
   • Keep a distance to avoid startling them as they approach.

8. Bird Bath Accessories:

   • Add a few smooth stones to the bath to provide perching spots and prevent drowning.
   • Consider adding small, shallow dishes nearby with pebbles for butterflies and insects.

9. Learn and Observe:

   • Take note of the bird species that visit the bath and observe their behaviors.
   • Keep a field guide or birding app handy to identify unfamiliar visitors.

Bird baths offer vital water sources for birds, especially during hot or freezing weather. By providing clean water and maintaining the bath's hygiene, you'll attract a variety of feathered friends to your garden, enhancing your connection with nature while contributing to the well-being of the avian community.