Attract Birds: 11 Simple Ways To Bird Feeder

So, you've got your bird feeder all set up, stocked with the tastiest seeds, and ready for action, but where are all the birds? Don't worry, you're not alone! Attracting birds to your feeder can sometimes feel like a waiting game, but with a few simple tweaks, you can transform your backyard into a bustling bird haven. Let's dive into 11 easy ways to get those feathered friends flocking to your feeder.

1. Choose the Right Bird Feeder

Hey guys, first things first: the type of feeder you use matters a lot. Different birds have different preferences, so offering a variety can really boost your chances of attracting more species. Here’s a breakdown:

• Tube Feeders: These are great for small birds like finches, chickadees, and sparrows. They usually have multiple perches and feeding ports, allowing several birds to dine at once. Look for feeders with metal ports to prevent squirrels from chewing them up!
• Hopper Feeders: Also known as house feeders, these protect the seeds from the weather and can hold a lot of food. They’re perfect for attracting a mix of birds, including cardinals, jays, and grosbeaks. Plus, they look super cute in your yard.
• Platform Feeders: These are simple, open trays that can accommodate a wide range of birds. You can offer various foods, like seeds, nuts, and fruits. Just be mindful of rain and snow, as the food can get soggy.
• Suet Feeders: These are designed specifically for suet cakes, which are high-fat treats that birds love, especially in the winter. Suet feeders are a magnet for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees. Trust me, watching a woodpecker cling to a suet feeder is endlessly entertaining.

Choosing the right feeder is like setting the table for a perfect dinner party. You want to make sure your guests (the birds) feel comfortable and have access to their favorite foods. By offering a variety of feeders, you’ll increase your chances of attracting a diverse array of birds to your yard. So, take a look at your current setup and see if there’s room for improvement. A well-chosen feeder can make all the difference in turning your backyard into a lively bird sanctuary.

2. Offer a Variety of Seeds

To really attract a crowd, think about offering a buffet of birdseed options. Just like us, birds have their favorite snacks! Here’s what tends to work well:

• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds: These are like the universal favorite. Most birds love them because they’re high in fat and easy to crack open. Seriously, if you only offer one type of seed, make it black oil sunflower.
• Nyjer Seeds: These tiny black seeds are a hit with finches, especially goldfinches and house finches. You’ll need a special feeder with small feeding ports to prevent the seeds from spilling out.
• White Striped Sunflower Seeds: A larger seed that is favored by larger birds.
• Safflower Seeds: Cardinals, doves, and sparrows love safflower seeds. Squirrels usually avoid them, which is a nice bonus.
• Peanuts: Woodpeckers, jays, and nuthatches go nuts for peanuts. You can offer them shelled, unshelled, or in peanut butter feeders.
• Mixed Seeds: Be careful with mixed seed blends, as they often contain fillers like red millet and cracked corn that many birds ignore. Look for mixes with a high percentage of sunflower seeds and other desirable ingredients.

Offering a variety of seeds is like catering to different tastes at a party. The more options you provide, the more likely you are to attract a diverse group of birds. Experiment with different seeds and see what your local birds prefer. You might be surprised at what becomes a hit in your backyard! Plus, watching different birds enjoy their favorite seeds is a reward in itself. So, go ahead and create a birdseed buffet – your feathered friends will thank you for it!

3. Keep Your Feeders Clean

Nobody likes a dirty restaurant, and birds are no different! Cleaning your feeders regularly is super important for preventing the spread of disease. Here’s the lowdown:

• Frequency: Aim to clean your feeders at least once every two weeks. During wet or humid weather, clean them more often, as mold and bacteria can grow quickly.
• Cleaning Solution: Use a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water. Remove all the old seed and scrub the feeder thoroughly with a brush. Rinse it well with clean water and let it dry completely before refilling.
• Location: Clean your feeders away from your house to avoid bringing any potential contaminants inside. A utility sink or outdoor faucet works great.
• Extra Tips: Consider using feeders that are easy to disassemble and clean. Some feeders even have antimicrobial coatings to help prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

Keeping your feeders clean is like providing a safe and healthy dining environment for your birds. It not only prevents the spread of disease but also makes your backyard a more attractive place for them to visit. So, take a few minutes every couple of weeks to give your feeders a good scrub – your feathered friends will appreciate it, and you’ll have the peace of mind knowing you’re helping them stay healthy. Plus, a clean feeder just looks nicer in your yard! It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.

4. Provide Fresh Water

Birds need water for drinking and bathing, so offering a reliable water source can be a major draw. A birdbath is a great option, but even a shallow dish of water will do the trick.

• Placement: Place your birdbath near your feeders or in a spot where birds feel safe from predators. A location with some nearby shrubs or trees provides cover.
• Maintenance: Change the water regularly to keep it fresh and clean. You can also add a small pump or dripper to create movement, which attracts birds and prevents mosquito breeding.
• Winter Care: In the winter, use a birdbath heater to keep the water from freezing. Birds need water year-round, and providing it during the colder months can be a lifesaver.

5. Offer Natural Shelter

Birds feel safer when they have places to hide from predators and escape the elements. Plant native trees, shrubs, and bushes to provide natural shelter in your yard.

• Evergreens: These provide year-round cover and are especially valuable during the winter. Pine, spruce, and fir trees are great choices.
• Deciduous Trees: These offer shade in the summer and can provide nesting sites for birds. Oak, maple, and birch trees are good options.
• Shrubs and Bushes: These provide low-level cover and can attract birds that prefer to forage on the ground. Berry-producing shrubs like serviceberry and elderberry are particularly attractive.

6. Protect Birds from Predators

Cats are a major threat to birds, so take steps to keep them away from your feeders. Keep your cats indoors, or create barriers around your feeders to prevent them from getting too close.

7. Avoid Pesticides

Pesticides can harm birds directly or indirectly by poisoning their food supply. Avoid using pesticides in your yard, or choose natural, bird-friendly alternatives.

8. Add a Birdhouse

Providing a birdhouse can attract nesting birds to your yard. Choose a birdhouse that is appropriate for the types of birds you want to attract, and place it in a safe, sheltered location.

9. Create a Dust Bathing Area

Birds use dust baths to remove parasites from their feathers. Create a dust bathing area by clearing a patch of dry, dusty soil in your yard.

10. Be Patient

It can take time for birds to discover your feeders, so be patient and don't give up. Keep your feeders clean and well-stocked, and eventually, the birds will come.

11. Know local Ordinances

Before embarking on your journey to attract birds, take a moment to review local laws. Many municipalities have specific guidelines and regulations to protect wildlife. These laws may include restrictions on feeding certain types of birds or animals, limitations on the types of feeders allowed, and rules about maintaining cleanliness to prevent attracting unwanted pests. Check with your city hall or local government to understand any restrictions that may be in place. By being aware of these ordinances, you can ensure that your bird-feeding practices align with local regulations, helping you to support wildlife while being a responsible and informed member of your community.

So there you have it! With a little effort and these 11 simple tips, you can transform your backyard into a bird-friendly paradise. Get ready to enjoy the sights and sounds of happy, well-fed birds right outside your window!