Want to See More Visits to Your Bird Feeder? Try These Expert-Approved Tips
Studies show that spending time around birds and hearing birdsong can lower stress, ease anxiety and even help with depression symptoms. But if your feeder isn't seeing much traffic, the issue might not be the food, but the placement.
After finally getting her dream backyard setup, a wellness writer and longtime birder reached out to Tru Hubbard, urban wildlife education coordinator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife. The goal? Maximize bird visits, safely and sustainably.
From picking the right feeder and seed to choosing the safest, most visible place to hang it, Hubbard offers expert tips that'll help you turn your yard or balcony into a birdwatcher's paradise. Whether you're a beginner or a full-on bird nerd, this advice will help you create a safe, active haven for local wildlife and give you a peaceful new daily routine to enjoy.
Where is the best place to put your bird feeder?
Location, location, location -- it's not just a term for real estate agents. Where and how you set up your bird feeder can affect the birds and other wildlife. The main points to consider when picking the best spot for your bird feeder are proper coverage and proximity to trees, distance from windows and height off the ground.
Coverage and proximity to trees
Birds prefer to feed in areas with some coverage, allowing them to quickly escape to nearby trees or bushes if needed. Placing your feeder near trees or shrubbery increases their protection from predators and offers shelter from inclement weather like rain or wind -- but they shouldn't be too close. The standard guideline is to put your feeder between 10 and 15 feet from bushes and trees.
Hanging your feeder in a tree with easily accessible branches isn't advised. "We also want to reduce the ability of other animals to access the food, which is why sometimes hanging them in trees can be an invitation to our smaller mammals. Placing it about 10 feet away from any tree or structure squirrels or raccoons could use to jump off will help stop them from stealing food," said Hubbard.
A bird feeder hung close to branches or structures can be an easy target for squirrels, raccoons and other animals.Proper placement can also reduce the likelihood of birds being stalked by neighborhood cats from the bushes. This is important to consider because feral and domestic cat predation is the primary driver of bird mortality in the US.
Distance from windows
"There are multiple factors to consider that can vary for each person and yard. Prioritizing the bird's safety should be number one; thus, avoiding spots that could increase the chance of bird strikes on windows should be at the top of the list," said Hubbard.
There is a sweet spot regarding how far away your feeder should be from windows. One way to remember this is the Rule of 3 or 30, which suggests placing your bird feeder within 3 feet of a window or at least 30 feet away. If your feeder is less than 3 feet from a window, the chances of a bird getting injured are reduced since it won't be flying at high speed if it hits the window.
The safest option is to position your feeder well away from windows to eliminate the risk of collisions entirely. "Ideally, a bird feeder should be placed more than 30 feet away from any windows, allowing plenty of time for them to navigate around potential hazards, or within a few feet of a home, which doesn't allow birds to gain enough speed to injure themselves if they do contact a window," explained Hubbard.
The US Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that over 1 billion birds collide with glass and windows in the United States annually. If birds are colliding with your windows at home, check out these tips for keeping them safe.
Shade versus sun
"Hanging feeders in shaded areas is generally preferred because it will prevent food spoilage, provide some cover from the elements and keep birds out of the hot sun for a more comfortable feeding environment," explained Hubbard.
In addition to keeping them cooler during the warmer summer months, a shaded location can help reduce sun glare and prevent confusion for the birds flying in your yard.
The height of your bird feeder will also play a role in the type of bird you attract.Height off the ground
The height of your feeder will also impact the species of birds that will hang out there. Ground-feeding birds, such as sparrows and towhees, naturally prefer to eat lower, while others, like woodpeckers, feed higher in trees.
"About 5 to 6 feet minimum is recommended due to other animals that will be trying to access the feed, including squirrels, raccoons and deer," said Hubbard.
You can certainly install a bird feeder above that 5-to-6-foot sweet spot, just keep in mind that positioning it too high can make it less convenient for cleaning and refilling.
What type of bird feeder should you use?
Bird feeders come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from trays and platforms to hoppers and tubes. Browsing the many options at my local plant nursery was a little overwhelming. I spoke with a knowledgeable employee who explained that when it comes to deciding on the type of feeder, it ultimately boils down to the bird you hope to attract.
Hubbard echoed this sentiment. "Your bird feeder selection depends primarily on the species of bird you would like to feed. For instance, platform feeders tend to be better suited for larger songbirds like cardinals, while feeders with lots of little perches are better for small songbirds and can reduce competition for food. Things you can also consider are durability, how easy they are to clean and squirrel-proof features if you expect this to be an issue," Hubbard explained.
Unless you're trying to attract one specific type of bird, providing a combination of different feeder styles and foods in your yard will attract the greatest variety. For more, here's a breakdown of the types of bird feeders and the birds they're best for.
It was three days before I saw the first visitor to my platform feeder.
Aly Lopez/CNET
After installing my hanging tray feeder, the first visitor was a California scrub jay. This species can be rather competitive and aggressive with other birds, and is sometimes called a "bully bird," so I hoped it wouldn't hog the feeder. However, I'm pleased to report that many other birds have since been regularly stopping by the feeder, including chickadees, house finches, mourning doves and American robins.
What should you feed the birds?
Similar to the type of feeder, the food you put out will determine which birds (and other animals) will visit. "The type of birdseed used varies depending on what species you're hoping to attract to your backyard," Hubbard said, sharing research published by the National Audubon Society. Project Wildbird was an impressive study involving the observation of 1.2 million bird feeder visits to determine the top seed preferences of birds.
The No. 1 choice? Black oil sunflower seeds. They're easy to crack open and provide a nutritious, high-oil snack, meaning less work and a greater reward. It's preferred by birds such as the black-capped chickadee, Cassin's finch, northern cardinal, house finch, tufted titmouse, red-breasted nuthatch and many more.
The birding section at my local plant nursery displays signs showing which seed is best for attracting certain species of birds.
Aly Lopez/CNET
High-quality birdseed will increase the likelihood of birds flocking to your feeder. Cheap store-bought mixed bags often include fillers such as cracked corn and red milo. These low-quality alternatives to sunflower and other protein-rich seeds lack nutritional value, and birds often won't eat them. Smaller birds have a harder time eating these with their tiny beaks. An accumulation of leftovers can grow mold and attract unwanted wildlife or pests to your feeder, so it's best to avoid the cheap stuff at all costs.
Mealworms and suet cakes are other great options for providing the birds with nutritious and energy-rich food.
I chose a variety of birdseed mixes from Wild Birds Unlimited.
Aly Lopez/CNET
I opted for various birdseed mixes from the reputable brand Wild Birds Unlimited. The company offers an assortment of bird food ranging from suet cakes to high-quality seed blends. Large bulk bags of birdseed are available for purchase, but I chose to go with a few smaller bags first to see which is the most popular among the birds in my yard.
Do not give them human food
Avoid setting out human food or snacks to protect your wild bird visitors and their digestive health. Certain foods, including avocado, fruit seeds and pits, bread, milk, chocolate and foods high in sugar or salt, are toxic to birds.
"We do not recommend feeding any wild bird human food. An unnatural diet doesn't provide the required nutrients that wild birds need to be healthy, and it can also result in behavioral changes, increases in illnesses and disease spread," explains Hubbard.
Is it OK to have a bird feeder in your yard?
Generally, having a bird feeder in your yard is fine, but it depends on your situation. While bird feeders attract various birds, they may also draw in other animals, such as mice, squirrels, raccoons, deer and bears. The presence of rodents near your bird feeder can attract predators like snakes, coyotes, hawks and owls to your space.
"Some instances where it may be a good idea to remove your feeder, at least for the time being, are when you're made aware of high wildlife activity in your area, including animals such as bears or coyotes. These animals are attracted to almost any food source they can find, especially when they are easily accessible. Securing food sources can be an easy adjustment to help keep wildlife from developing a habit of visiting your yard," said Hubbard.
If you live in bear country, it's important to secure any attractants when there are sightings in your area."If you don't want to remove the bird feeder completely, try removing it overnight when a lot of wildlife is most active, then place it back out in the morning. You can also try scattering some small amounts of birdseed in your yard during the day, which will be easy for birds to pick through but not worth it for our larger animals. Keep in mind that this may also attract smaller rodents to your yard, which could, in turn, attract predators. It is good practice to keep up with sightings in your area, and you can start by removing and securing the feeders at night," Hubbard emphasized.
How often should you clean your bird feeder?
"Generally, it is recommended that bird feeders be cleaned every other week or twice a month, but this frequency should be increased if sick birds or disease is suspected. Another option is to clean the feeder every time it is emptied," said Hubbard.
The frequency also depends on the type of feeder and food involved, as well as the climate. For example, hummingbird feeders require more frequent cleanings (around every three to five days), as do feeders located in especially hot or humid weather.
Most bird feeders can be cleaned by removing the old seed, taking them apart and placing them in a dishwasher on a hot setting or handwashing with soap or a diluted bleach solution. Properly rinse and thoroughly dry the bird feeder before refilling it with new seed. Cleaning the ground beneath your feeder is recommended to prevent the buildup of uneaten seed and bird waste.
How long will it take for birds to find the feeder?
I have two different types of feeders: a hanging tray and the Bird Buddy Smart Feeder. The latter has a classic hopper or house shape with a solar-powered roof for coverage and a camera for capturing photos and videos as they munch.
I had to fend off disappointment when my little bird buddies didn't immediately swarm around the new feeders, but I learned it can take up to a few weeks before they'll interact with a new one. Birds are creatures of habit, and testing a new food source and landing pattern takes time.
The first bird to visit my platform feeder took about three days. It took 12 days for a bird to land on the Bird Buddy feeder. I was jumping for joy when I received the notification from the Bird Buddy app that I had a visitor -- a cute mountain chickadee coming to check things out for the first time.
This little mountain chickadee was the first to check out the Bird Buddy feeder 12 days after installing it.
Bird Buddy/Aly Lopez/CNET
Too long; didn't read?
The most important thing to consider is the health and safety of the wild birds in your area. In addition to the placement of your bird feeder, the type of feeder and seed you use influence the species of birds that will visit -- as well as the presence of other animals and potential predators.
I enjoy the gentle coo of the mourning doves that have been visiting my hanging tray, but they sure do leave a mess.
Aly Lopez/CNET
Ideally, you should position your bird feeder around 10 feet away from trees or shrubs to prevent squirrels from jumping onto it. It's best to keep your feeder at least 30 feet away from windows or glass to reduce the risk of collision, a leading cause of injury and death for birds.
Use high-quality feed and avoid offering human food or snacks, as many are toxic to birds. If you live in an area where bears, coyotes or foxes are frequently spotted, securing your bird feeder and any other attractants is crucial to keep these animals safe and out of your yard. Additionally, cats pose another huge threat to bird populations. If you have a cat that roams outside, it's best not to use bird feeders in your yard to ensure the birds' safety and protection.
Regular cleaning of your bird feeder is essential to prevent mold and bacteria growth, which can lead to the transmission of bird disease.
As fun as it is to bring all the birds to your yard, being a responsible birder is key to ensuring the birds (and you) stay safe, healthy and happy. If you have questions regarding your birding journey, the National Audubon Society is an excellent resource for bird feeding and care. Your state's wildlife department is another fantastic source for inquiring about local guidelines and assistance.
It's pretty simple -- the bird feeder and type of seed you set out will influence the birds that come to your yard. Ensuring their safety is the top priority.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Yahoo
Experts warn against planting this type of tree in your yard — and I found out the hard way
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. I was excited when I first planted this tree in my garden. It's a real stunner, and I love the silvery beauty of its leaves. But despite my initial joy at seeing one of my favorite trees growing in my own backyard, it was a big mistake. However, to stop you finding out the hard way like me, I'm sharing why I won't be planting this tree again and the reasons why experts think it's a bad idea too. The tree in question? Eucalyptus. Where I went wrong When I first moved into my current house over 20 years ago, I was keen to add height and structure to my long back yard, which had only enjoyed the very barest of planting. And it seemed a good idea to plant one of my favorite trees at the far end. I'd planted a eucalyptus tree, and this evergreen beauty looked perfectly innocent to start with, but it just kept growing and growing. In fact, The University of Arizona says that most species can grow at least 30-60 feet tall, with some, like the Red Gum, reaching 130-180 feet. 'Eucalyptus trees are stunning, yes, but they're not the friendliest choice for a suburban backyard because their growth rate is wild!' says Floss Kelly, interior designer and co-founder at Yabby. 'For most homeowners it's difficult to manage a towering giant that dominates not just the sky, but widely stretches their root systems aggressively into foundation, plumbing and surrounding plants.' So, to save you from hiring an arborist to remove your eucalyptus, be careful to check which specimen you plant. What I love about eucalyptus As a teenager, I had a weekend job in a florist store (my interest in homes and gardens started young), and I often saw how eucalyptus was used in floral bouquets. I admired the fine, elegant shape of the leaves and the silvery grey color. It was this that sparked my interest in eucalyptus. Apart from its leaves, I also admired the tree's trunk, particularly how the silvery-white bark shreds to reveal colors beneath. Eucalyptus leaves also have an aromatic scent, and when rubbed, release refreshing-smelling oils. You may have experienced eucalyptus oils being used in decongestants and cleaning products. Fiskars power-lever extendable pole saw and pruner makes it possible to cut high branches. With two cutting options, it extends up to 14 feet, while its lightweight to Deal Why I won't be planting a eucalyptus tree again Although not all eucalyptus trees are invasive, you do need to be careful to check what you buy before you plant. 'There are a surprising number of eucalyptus varieties, each with its own unique characteristics — from short to tall, from heat-loving to cold-tolerant and from rainforest species to very drought-tolerant ones,' says Edwin Dysinger, co-founder of Seedtime. However, he adds that there are several points you need to consider before you plant many of the common varieties. It limits surrounding plant growth 'The leaves and roots of eucalyptus have an allelopathic effect on their surroundings — this means that the growth of other plants and trees is inhibited by chemicals released by eucalyptus leaves and roots,' Dysinger explains. This is why you do not usually find anything growing under an eucalyptus. He also mentions that black walnut, maple, and pine trees are allelopathic. Eucalyptus is thirsty You can expect eucalyptus to be a big drinker, despite it being a drought-tolerant plant. Dysinger adds that plantings of eucalyptus have even been used to dry up swamps and wetlands. 'They are known for depleting ground water resources and potentially affecting nearby water availability.' Dyser adds, 'The roots of eucalyptus will aggressively seek out water and are known for cracking and penetrating water lines and sewage systems.' The shallow roots sprawl and can cause damage 'While eucalyptus has a deep tap root, the lateral roots are shallow and spreading,' explains Dysinger. 'They have been known to lift foundations if planted too close to buildings. This usually happens when roots are seeking out a water source under a building, such as a leaky pipe or drain.' For this reason, he suggests you shouldn't plant a eucalyptus tree closer than 100-120 feet from your buildings. The tall trees are prone to toppling over 'Eucalyptus trees are known to topple easier than other trees due to their shallow roots and huge canopies,' says Kelly, 'All it takes is loose soil and a strong storm to put your home at risk of damage, since their foliage acts like sails in the wind.' And Dsyinger adds that some varieties are prone to dropping limbs without warning, especially in high heat. Eucalyptus is highly flammable It might sound a bit dramatic, but Dysinger says that eucalyptus trees are highly flammable due to their high content of aromatic resins and oils. 'The fumes from eucalyptus oil can be ignited by lightning or sparks," he says. "During brush or forest fires, the trees will emit large quantities of these fumes, causing the tree to explode into flames and sometimes even causing fireballs that explode in front of the line of fire.' And for this reason, Kelly adds, that you're best to avoid planting a eucalyptus if you live in an area susceptible to bush fires. Avoid if you've got pets The leaves and bark of eucalyptus are toxic to humans and animals, and will cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea when consumed in excess. Therefore, be careful when planting eucalyptus is you have pets in your household. Alternative trees for small gardens If you're looking to add height and structure to your garden, but want to find a tree suitable for a compact yard, you could try planting a Japanese Maple, otherwise known as an Acer. I have a dark red Japanese Maple in my garden, and it adds a splash of intense color with an interesting leaf shape. Fruit trees are also good to grow, and apple, pear, plum, or cherry trees will reward you with blossom as well as a good harvest. There's also plenty to choose from if you have a small patio garden and are looking for the best trees to grow in containers. You could try growing a citrus or olive tree, or try growing a Red Robin Photinia — it's an evergreen shrub, but works well as a compact specimen tree. More from Tom's Guide 7 best trees and shrubs to soundproof your yard This bathroom ingredient is the easiest way to remove a tree stump in your yard — you'll be surprised Are you allowed to prune your neighbor's tree? I asked the experts
Yahoo
17 hours ago
- Yahoo
I moved from the suburbs to New York City. The culture shock was intense, but my daughter and social life thrived.
I grew up in the suburbs, so it was a culture shock when I moved to Brooklyn as a single mom. My daughter thrived, becoming a resilient, independent city girl, but the culture shock shook me. I lost my creative spark to write, but I made many friends. Ultimately, NYC wasn't for me, though. After my divorce, I left the quiet suburbs for a small apartment in Brooklyn, where I would spend the next six years of my life in a turmoil of emotions, both good and bad. I moved to Brooklyn to be closer to family, thinking it would make solo parenting more manageable, and it did. My young daughter began thriving, and although it wasn't easy for her to move away from her best friend, she said that seeing her cousins in school made her feel like part of a community. "My people are here," she told me excitedly one day, and I couldn't have been happier for her. She became a city kid in the best sense: observant, resilient, and social. She took the city bus to school with friends on most days, and enjoyed spotting murals, food trucks, and street performers. However, while she was flourishing, I was quietly unraveling under the culture shock of it all. Living in the big city was a culture shock I grew up in a small New York town and spent most of my life in the suburbs. I used to visit the city to feel alive and draw inspiration for my writing. I'd get off the train with a notebook in my bag and an idea forming in my head. A walk through SoHo or a window seat at a café would do the trick. Living there full-time, though, was different. The same sensory overload that once sparked my creativity ended up extinguishing it. For example, we heard the train on the tracks at all hours behind our Brooklyn apartment. It made me miss my quiet suburb and sipping coffee under the maple tree in my backyard. In Brooklyn, my desk was wedged between the radiator and the refrigerator and did not inspire me much at all. I tried libraries, but they were usually jam-packed with every table taken, so I'd sit in a corner near the restrooms and try to write while people argued loudly on cellphones nearby. I eventually found a job as an office manager and hardly wrote anymore. I also discovered that once simple pleasures, like stopping for a bagel and coffee or picking up some fresh flowers, now had to be planned around rush hour or had to wait until early Sunday morning, when there was less traffic and lots of parking. No longer having a dedicated parking spot at home was also a hassle and resulted in a lot of time spent just driving around. At night, after bedtime routines and dishes, I'd sit on the edge of my bed scrolling through Zillow. I looked at apartments in other parts of the world, imagining a yard and picturing mornings with a cup of coffee and birdsong instead of sirens. One silver lining: my new Brooklyn social life was great Despite the many downsides, my social life took off quickly. After years of hiding out in the suburbs, I found myself surrounded by endless options: restaurants, music venues, parks, and museums, all just a train ride away. I spent Saturday nights out and Sunday mornings at brunch with new friends, knowing my family was nearby to watch my daughter. The city made it easy to meet people and feel connected. And it made me realize I'd been taking things too seriously for years. In the city, I noticed that people spoke their minds and didn't take things so personally. They were authentic, which wasn't rude or tactless; they just moved with the city's fast pace, leaving no room for people-pleasing or overexplaining. I began to adopt that same direct and honest style of communicating in both my business and personal relationships, and stopped second-guessing how others might perceive me. As a result, I felt freer, less controlling, and established a new level of maturity in my relationships. Like my daughter, I truly transformed from a country bumpkin to a city girl. I left New York City after 6 years and found the perfect fit I had no concrete plans to leave New York City until one day my car got towed for a parking violation I didn't notice, and I had to walk five blocks through snow and ice to see a doctor while sick. My daughter was about to graduate from elementary school, and with junior high ahead, it felt like the right moment to make a change. With the hope of finding a quieter place to live, I began reaching out to companies for copywriting work, and received an offer from a business in Florida, a state that had never been on my radar. I found a good school and neighborhood in Palm Beach, and said goodbye to Brooklyn. Arriving at the beach for the first time in a long time, I discovered a renewed inspiration to write and publish a poetry book, something I had never done before. Brooklyn grit followed by Florida calm was the perfect fit. Read the original article on Business Insider Solve the daily Crossword
CNET
a day ago
- CNET
Want to See More Visits to Your Bird Feeder? Try These Expert-Approved Tips
If you're looking for an easy way to slow down and enjoy the outdoors, adding a bird feeder to your outdoor space is an excellent choice. Whether you have your own trees out in the suburbs or you have a small backyard patio in the city, adding a bird feeder to your space can invite feathered friends to visit for a few minutes each day. Along with the joys of birdsong, taking a few minutes to hang out with birds can deliver benefits to your mental health. Studies show that spending time around birds and hearing birdsong can lower stress, ease anxiety and even help with depression symptoms. But if your feeder isn't seeing much traffic, the issue might not be the food, but the placement. After finally getting her dream backyard setup, a wellness writer and longtime birder reached out to Tru Hubbard, urban wildlife education coordinator for the Nevada Department of Wildlife. The goal? Maximize bird visits, safely and sustainably. From picking the right feeder and seed to choosing the safest, most visible place to hang it, Hubbard offers expert tips that'll help you turn your yard or balcony into a birdwatcher's paradise. Whether you're a beginner or a full-on bird nerd, this advice will help you create a safe, active haven for local wildlife and give you a peaceful new daily routine to enjoy. Where is the best place to put your bird feeder? Location, location, location -- it's not just a term for real estate agents. Where and how you set up your bird feeder can affect the birds and other wildlife. The main points to consider when picking the best spot for your bird feeder are proper coverage and proximity to trees, distance from windows and height off the ground. Coverage and proximity to trees Birds prefer to feed in areas with some coverage, allowing them to quickly escape to nearby trees or bushes if needed. Placing your feeder near trees or shrubbery increases their protection from predators and offers shelter from inclement weather like rain or wind -- but they shouldn't be too close. The standard guideline is to put your feeder between 10 and 15 feet from bushes and trees. Hanging your feeder in a tree with easily accessible branches isn't advised. "We also want to reduce the ability of other animals to access the food, which is why sometimes hanging them in trees can be an invitation to our smaller mammals. Placing it about 10 feet away from any tree or structure squirrels or raccoons could use to jump off will help stop them from stealing food," said Hubbard. A bird feeder hung close to branches or structures can be an easy target for squirrels, raccoons and other placement can also reduce the likelihood of birds being stalked by neighborhood cats from the bushes. This is important to consider because feral and domestic cat predation is the primary driver of bird mortality in the US. Distance from windows "There are multiple factors to consider that can vary for each person and yard. Prioritizing the bird's safety should be number one; thus, avoiding spots that could increase the chance of bird strikes on windows should be at the top of the list," said Hubbard. There is a sweet spot regarding how far away your feeder should be from windows. One way to remember this is the Rule of 3 or 30, which suggests placing your bird feeder within 3 feet of a window or at least 30 feet away. If your feeder is less than 3 feet from a window, the chances of a bird getting injured are reduced since it won't be flying at high speed if it hits the window. The safest option is to position your feeder well away from windows to eliminate the risk of collisions entirely. "Ideally, a bird feeder should be placed more than 30 feet away from any windows, allowing plenty of time for them to navigate around potential hazards, or within a few feet of a home, which doesn't allow birds to gain enough speed to injure themselves if they do contact a window," explained Hubbard. The US Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that over 1 billion birds collide with glass and windows in the United States annually. If birds are colliding with your windows at home, check out these tips for keeping them safe. Shade versus sun "Hanging feeders in shaded areas is generally preferred because it will prevent food spoilage, provide some cover from the elements and keep birds out of the hot sun for a more comfortable feeding environment," explained Hubbard. In addition to keeping them cooler during the warmer summer months, a shaded location can help reduce sun glare and prevent confusion for the birds flying in your yard. The height of your bird feeder will also play a role in the type of bird you off the ground The height of your feeder will also impact the species of birds that will hang out there. Ground-feeding birds, such as sparrows and towhees, naturally prefer to eat lower, while others, like woodpeckers, feed higher in trees. "About 5 to 6 feet minimum is recommended due to other animals that will be trying to access the feed, including squirrels, raccoons and deer," said Hubbard. You can certainly install a bird feeder above that 5-to-6-foot sweet spot, just keep in mind that positioning it too high can make it less convenient for cleaning and refilling. What type of bird feeder should you use? Bird feeders come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from trays and platforms to hoppers and tubes. Browsing the many options at my local plant nursery was a little overwhelming. I spoke with a knowledgeable employee who explained that when it comes to deciding on the type of feeder, it ultimately boils down to the bird you hope to attract. Hubbard echoed this sentiment. "Your bird feeder selection depends primarily on the species of bird you would like to feed. For instance, platform feeders tend to be better suited for larger songbirds like cardinals, while feeders with lots of little perches are better for small songbirds and can reduce competition for food. Things you can also consider are durability, how easy they are to clean and squirrel-proof features if you expect this to be an issue," Hubbard explained. Unless you're trying to attract one specific type of bird, providing a combination of different feeder styles and foods in your yard will attract the greatest variety. For more, here's a breakdown of the types of bird feeders and the birds they're best for. It was three days before I saw the first visitor to my platform feeder. Aly Lopez/CNET After installing my hanging tray feeder, the first visitor was a California scrub jay. This species can be rather competitive and aggressive with other birds, and is sometimes called a "bully bird," so I hoped it wouldn't hog the feeder. However, I'm pleased to report that many other birds have since been regularly stopping by the feeder, including chickadees, house finches, mourning doves and American robins. What should you feed the birds? Similar to the type of feeder, the food you put out will determine which birds (and other animals) will visit. "The type of birdseed used varies depending on what species you're hoping to attract to your backyard," Hubbard said, sharing research published by the National Audubon Society. Project Wildbird was an impressive study involving the observation of 1.2 million bird feeder visits to determine the top seed preferences of birds. The No. 1 choice? Black oil sunflower seeds. They're easy to crack open and provide a nutritious, high-oil snack, meaning less work and a greater reward. It's preferred by birds such as the black-capped chickadee, Cassin's finch, northern cardinal, house finch, tufted titmouse, red-breasted nuthatch and many more. The birding section at my local plant nursery displays signs showing which seed is best for attracting certain species of birds. Aly Lopez/CNET High-quality birdseed will increase the likelihood of birds flocking to your feeder. Cheap store-bought mixed bags often include fillers such as cracked corn and red milo. These low-quality alternatives to sunflower and other protein-rich seeds lack nutritional value, and birds often won't eat them. Smaller birds have a harder time eating these with their tiny beaks. An accumulation of leftovers can grow mold and attract unwanted wildlife or pests to your feeder, so it's best to avoid the cheap stuff at all costs. Mealworms and suet cakes are other great options for providing the birds with nutritious and energy-rich food. I chose a variety of birdseed mixes from Wild Birds Unlimited. Aly Lopez/CNET I opted for various birdseed mixes from the reputable brand Wild Birds Unlimited. The company offers an assortment of bird food ranging from suet cakes to high-quality seed blends. Large bulk bags of birdseed are available for purchase, but I chose to go with a few smaller bags first to see which is the most popular among the birds in my yard. Do not give them human food Avoid setting out human food or snacks to protect your wild bird visitors and their digestive health. Certain foods, including avocado, fruit seeds and pits, bread, milk, chocolate and foods high in sugar or salt, are toxic to birds. "We do not recommend feeding any wild bird human food. An unnatural diet doesn't provide the required nutrients that wild birds need to be healthy, and it can also result in behavioral changes, increases in illnesses and disease spread," explains Hubbard. Is it OK to have a bird feeder in your yard? Generally, having a bird feeder in your yard is fine, but it depends on your situation. While bird feeders attract various birds, they may also draw in other animals, such as mice, squirrels, raccoons, deer and bears. The presence of rodents near your bird feeder can attract predators like snakes, coyotes, hawks and owls to your space. "Some instances where it may be a good idea to remove your feeder, at least for the time being, are when you're made aware of high wildlife activity in your area, including animals such as bears or coyotes. These animals are attracted to almost any food source they can find, especially when they are easily accessible. Securing food sources can be an easy adjustment to help keep wildlife from developing a habit of visiting your yard," said Hubbard. If you live in bear country, it's important to secure any attractants when there are sightings in your area."If you don't want to remove the bird feeder completely, try removing it overnight when a lot of wildlife is most active, then place it back out in the morning. You can also try scattering some small amounts of birdseed in your yard during the day, which will be easy for birds to pick through but not worth it for our larger animals. Keep in mind that this may also attract smaller rodents to your yard, which could, in turn, attract predators. It is good practice to keep up with sightings in your area, and you can start by removing and securing the feeders at night," Hubbard emphasized. How often should you clean your bird feeder? "Generally, it is recommended that bird feeders be cleaned every other week or twice a month, but this frequency should be increased if sick birds or disease is suspected. Another option is to clean the feeder every time it is emptied," said Hubbard. The frequency also depends on the type of feeder and food involved, as well as the climate. For example, hummingbird feeders require more frequent cleanings (around every three to five days), as do feeders located in especially hot or humid weather. Most bird feeders can be cleaned by removing the old seed, taking them apart and placing them in a dishwasher on a hot setting or handwashing with soap or a diluted bleach solution. Properly rinse and thoroughly dry the bird feeder before refilling it with new seed. Cleaning the ground beneath your feeder is recommended to prevent the buildup of uneaten seed and bird waste. How long will it take for birds to find the feeder? I have two different types of feeders: a hanging tray and the Bird Buddy Smart Feeder. The latter has a classic hopper or house shape with a solar-powered roof for coverage and a camera for capturing photos and videos as they munch. I had to fend off disappointment when my little bird buddies didn't immediately swarm around the new feeders, but I learned it can take up to a few weeks before they'll interact with a new one. Birds are creatures of habit, and testing a new food source and landing pattern takes time. The first bird to visit my platform feeder took about three days. It took 12 days for a bird to land on the Bird Buddy feeder. I was jumping for joy when I received the notification from the Bird Buddy app that I had a visitor -- a cute mountain chickadee coming to check things out for the first time. This little mountain chickadee was the first to check out the Bird Buddy feeder 12 days after installing it. Bird Buddy/Aly Lopez/CNET Too long; didn't read? The most important thing to consider is the health and safety of the wild birds in your area. In addition to the placement of your bird feeder, the type of feeder and seed you use influence the species of birds that will visit -- as well as the presence of other animals and potential predators. I enjoy the gentle coo of the mourning doves that have been visiting my hanging tray, but they sure do leave a mess. Aly Lopez/CNET Ideally, you should position your bird feeder around 10 feet away from trees or shrubs to prevent squirrels from jumping onto it. It's best to keep your feeder at least 30 feet away from windows or glass to reduce the risk of collision, a leading cause of injury and death for birds. Use high-quality feed and avoid offering human food or snacks, as many are toxic to birds. If you live in an area where bears, coyotes or foxes are frequently spotted, securing your bird feeder and any other attractants is crucial to keep these animals safe and out of your yard. Additionally, cats pose another huge threat to bird populations. If you have a cat that roams outside, it's best not to use bird feeders in your yard to ensure the birds' safety and protection. Regular cleaning of your bird feeder is essential to prevent mold and bacteria growth, which can lead to the transmission of bird disease. As fun as it is to bring all the birds to your yard, being a responsible birder is key to ensuring the birds (and you) stay safe, healthy and happy. If you have questions regarding your birding journey, the National Audubon Society is an excellent resource for bird feeding and care. Your state's wildlife department is another fantastic source for inquiring about local guidelines and assistance. It's pretty simple -- the bird feeder and type of seed you set out will influence the birds that come to your yard. Ensuring their safety is the top priority.
