How do I choose what type of feeder to use to attract birds?
The Cornell Lab All about Birds has a lot of information on attracting birds to your garden, different seed types and feeders, and more. Visit their website at: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/news/browse/topic/feeding-birds/bird-feeders-feeding-birds
How can I feed hummingbirds?
To feed hummingbirds, create a 1:4 sugar-to-water nectar, using white sugar and boiled water, and offer it in a clean hummingbird feeder. Change the nectar every 3-5 days, or daily in hot weather, to prevent spoilage.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Nectar Recipe:
Mix 1 part white sugar with 4 parts water. Bring the water to a boil, then add the sugar and stir until dissolved. Let the mixture cool before filling the feeder. - Feeder Selection:
Choose a feeder that is easy to clean and refill. Glass feeders are recommended as they are more resistant to chemical breakdown than plastic feeders. - Placement:
Place the feeder near plants that hummingbirds are already visiting, or near a location where they can easily spot the red feeder. - Maintenance:
Clean the feeder regularly to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Change the nectar every 3-5 days, or more frequently in hot weather. - Additional Tips:
- No Red Dye: Avoid using red food coloring as it can be harmful to the birds.
- No Honey or Brown Sugar: Do not use honey, molasses, or brown sugar, as these can be harmful.
- Plant Native Flowers: Planting native flowers that hummingbirds are attracted to can help support their natural food sources as well as other wildlife.
How should I clean my bird feeder?
Scrub the feeder with warm, soapy water, making sure to focus on perches and seed access holes. Next, soak the feeder in a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water for about 15 minutes before rinsing it thoroughly with water. Allow this to dry completely before refilling the feeder and putting it back up.
Where should I place my feeder?
To place your bird feeder effectively, consider a location that’s safe for birds, visible to you, and provides a sense of security from predators. Ideally, place either within 1 meter of your house (or window) or 10-15 feet away from your home, or natural cover like trees or shrubs.
Consider using baffles to deter squirrels and other pests. A location with some shade can protect birds from the harsh sun, and a sheltered area can offer protection from the wind and rain.
How can I stop squirrels from going on my feeder?
To prevent squirrels from accessing your bird feeder, consider using squirrel-proof feeders, installing baffles, and keeping feeders out of reach by hanging them high or on a wire away from trees. You can also make birdseed less appealing to squirrels by incorporating seeds they dislike.
There are different feeders on the market that help deter squirrels such as weight-activated feeders. These feeders close their feeding ports when a squirrel’s weight is detected, preventing access while allowing birds to feed.
Tube feeders can also be effective because they have perches that birds can use, but squirrels are less likely to be able to reach the seed.
Baffles are also effective ways to deter squirrels from your feeder. Smooth, plastic or metal baffles can be placed above and below the feeder to block squirrel access. Baffles also prevent squirrels from climbing up the pole.
Feeder placement can also deter squirrels. Hang feeders high. Squirrels are agile, but they are less likely to climb if the feeder is at least 4 feet above the ground.
Keep feeders away from trees. Squirrels can use trees as launching points, so position feeders at least 8-10 feet away from trees, fences, or other potential jumping surfaces.
Consider hanging feeders from a wire. This can make it difficult for squirrels to climb to the feeder.
Filling your feeder with foods that squirrels are less likely to eat is a good way to not attract them. Use a mix of cracked corn or add seeds squirrels dislike such as white millet, thistle, or safflower seeds into your bird seed mix.
Clean the feeding area regularly. Remove spilled seed and debris to make the area less attractive to squirrels.
Consider scent repellents. While not always foolproof, scents like peppermint oil, or vinegar can be used to deter squirrels.
Provide a separate feeder for squirrels. This can help redirect their attention and reduce their interest in the bird feeder.
Le Nichoir sells a variety of feeders in its Boutique, including feeders that have been designed to deter squirrels. Learn more at: https://boutique.lenichoir.org/collections/food