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Birds In The Backyard Setting up bird feeders around your house is a great way to start learning about birds and help keep your local bird population healthy and well-fed, too!
Male Cardinal
American Goldfinch Birds are by nature cautious animals, so don't expect them to come to your feeders as soon as you set them up. Be patient. Within two or three days, you'll start to see visitors. Be sure to clean your feeders regularly and fill them with fresh seed. You can increase the number of birds you attract by creating a bird-friendly yard. Here's how. |
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Most
birds will regularly visit a tray feeder filled with a good quality feed.
To attract the greatest variety of birds, you can make your own mix containing sunflower
seeds, nuts, peanuts, safflower seeds and other grains - all favorites
of cardinals, titmice, nuthatches and sparrows. Set your tray feeder in
an open area, away from trees or overhanging eaves that
marauding squirrels can use as launchings pads for raids on your feeder.
Perch
feeders are ideal for smaller birds like finches, and are especially
designed for their smaller beaks and feet. Finches are especially fond
of thistle seed and will regularly visit a reliable source of their
favorite food, especially during the spring and fall migration. You'll
be especially charmed by the bright yellow plumage of goldfinches that
will flock to your perch feeder.