For the Birds
Decorative and elaborate or simple and functional, birdfeeders
and birdhouses are lovingly coveted by many people (and birds)!
The collector seeking a new piece for the den or study need only
consider personal taste and aesthetics- many who enjoy the
careful art and craftsmanship of a beautiful birdhouse or feeder
would never think of placing their precious gift outside in the
rain and other elements.
The serious or novice birder, on the other hand, has just a bit
more to consider. With a minimal amount of work and some
forethought, anyone interested can enjoy observing and
identifying birds from their own urban or rural yards or decks
throughout the entire year. It is possible to attract up to one
hundred different species of birds to a yard with the careful
placing of just a few feeders and houses!
While any type of birdfeeder or house will prove itself a
delightful addition to your landscape, you should ask yourself
just a few questions to guarantee that your bird-attracting
efforts are successful for both you and the birds. When choosing
the type of feeder or house you need or want, you should
consider the following:
Are you trying to attract a wide variety of birds or a specific
type of bird? How often do you want to clean and refill the
feeder? Do you want to see the bird close-up from a window or
would you rather lessen the possibilities of window strikes? Are
you ok with starlings and jays that like to perch and can
dominate a feeder, or are you trying to attract strictly smaller
clinging birds like chickadees and nuthatches? Further
considerations include pests (squirrels…) and predators
(housecats…).
This may all seem like a lot, but really, there are many
resources at your local library, bookstore or on the internet
that are not only interesting, inspiring and fun to read but
will help you answer these questions in hardly any time at all.
How easy it is to become excited about the prospects of birdsong
in the spring and a little life and movement in the middle of a
dreary winter. Don’t let the common misconception that birds
become dependant on supplemental food from feeders and fail to
thrive, or even die, if that food source is taken away hinder
you from welcoming these highly interesting and lovely creatures
to your home. This is not true! Conclusive studies from the
University of Wisconsin and Penn State attest to this.
Regardless of feeders, birds will continue to forage for the
majority of their food. In reality, you are providing just a
little luxury and ease in the relatively short and difficult
life span of most birds. Now isn’t that a nice thing to do?
If you’re looking to spark a new hobby, searching for a unique
gift, providing an educational opportunity for your children or
just want to do something nice for birds, think about birdhouses
or feeders. They are just plain charming and fun! Children
especially enjoy the feathered visitors that birdhouses and
feeders bring about. Creating a bird habitat and feeding ground
is easy. Rather than sitting in front of your TV, computer or
X-box, try enjoying the abundant life and nature that can be
found as close as your own backyard.
We could all use a little innocence and simple pleasure in our
lives these days. Bird watching is an inexpensive, relaxing and
enlightening activity for all. Well made and beautiful feeders
and houses abound and they make wonderful gifts for any age.
Don’t forget to do something nice for yourself either! Feed the
birds and they will come!
Note - Make sure cats in your immediate area have bells tied
around their necks to warn of their presence. (You might also
try this technique on annoying neighbors and unwanted salesmen!)
Happy birding!