bird watching | Attract Hummingbirds | Hummingbird Feeders

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Attract And Keep Hummingbirds In Your Yard With Hummingbird Feeders

Throughout time, people have enjoyed watching birds. So much so that many have even made a hobby out of bird watching. Many avid bird lovers travel all over the world to see birds that are on their life lists. However, you don't have to travel the globe to enjoy watching birds. You can get hours of enjoyment from your local varieties of birds in your own back yard by keeping songbird and hummingbird feeders stocked with specific delectable treats to attract them. Besides installing and stocking feeders, you can plant certain plants, trees, and shrubs to attract birds and house birds. And some people even install birdhouses on posts and in trees.

Watching birds at bird feeders placed near your windows can be extremely entertaining. If you have a sunroom or breakfast nook with lots of windows, you can place songbird feeders on one side and a hummingbird feeder on the other side so you always have something to watch. People say hummingbirds aren't songbirds, but I doubt they have spent much time in close company with many, as the little jewel-throated birds seem to sing all the time!

Hummingbird feeders can be purchased in many shapes, sizes, and materials. A glass hummingbird feeder can double as a piece of art and can refract light and bring sparkle into your home on bright, sunny days. A beautiful glass hummingbird feeder can make a wonderful gift for many occasions such as a wedding gift, a housewarming gift or a birthday gift. There are also Hummingbird feeders that look like hurricane lanterns, a cast reel or a slip float for your fishermen friends, a duck call, or a gondola

for your hunter and outdoorsmen friends.

Shades of reds, pinks, purples and yellows are the main colors that attract birds, so many hummingbird feeders are adorned with flowers or designs in these colors. That's because hummingbirds are attracted to the colors of flowers that produce the sweet nectar that sustains their life. Hummingbird nectar is simple to make and can be made at home. All you need to do is boil water and add cane sugar. Boil the water for two minutes, and add one part sugar to four parts water. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then fill your feeders. Any leftover nectar may be stored in the refrigerator.

You can even get hummingbird feeder mobiles with tempered glass nectar containers that are easy to fill and clean. Less expensive options can be found as well. Those are usually made of clear and red plastic. Quite often three or four plastic honeysuckle or hibiscus blooms lead the way to the feeding stations. A hummingbird oasis is round and flat with a circular perch and six feeders. These are handy if you have a lot of hummingbirds.

Attracting hummingbirds to your hummingbird feeders may take a couple of weeks, so be patient. They become accustomed to feeding from one type of feeder, so if your neighbors use something else it may take them a few days to adjust. If you plant petunias, lilacs, honeysuckle, and geraniums, your chances of the birds staying in your yard are increased. Hummingbirds need plants, ants and spiders in the area before they will call it home. They use spider webs to make their nests, and geraniums make great homes for spiders!

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suet bird feeders

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Suet Bird Feeders

Suet bird feeders are a great way to feed birds all year long. Despite what some may think that suet bird feeders are only suitable in the winter months suet bird feeders are a valuable source of food for wild birds all year long. Suet bird feeders allow for wild birds to have suet, a very nutritious form of bird seed, in the fall and winter when it is cold and wild birds need more fat and protein to keep warm as well as in the spring and summer when birds are nesting and raising their young. Suet is one of the best forms of bird food for young birds.

Suet bird feeders are wire bird feeders. Suet bird feeders are also a form of hanging bird feeders and can be hung from trees or a bird feeder pole. You can also buy suet bird feeders that are window bird feeders that easily mount to your window so you can watch birds from

inside your home easily.

Suet bird feeders are designed for suet cakes. Some suet bird feeders are designed for suet ball, and you can even get these suet ball feeders that can hold more than one suet ball. This leaves for little worry to refill your suet bird feeder. Suet cakes are the bird seed with animal fat that has been process so that it will not spoil or get soft and melt when it is warm. Suet bird feeders attract many different types of birds, some of the most common birds attracted to a suet bird feeder are: woodpeckers, nuthatches and chickadees. You may also see cardinals and blue jays at your suet bird feeder!

Suet bird feeders are a great way to help nourish the wild birds in your area during all the months. And suet bird feeders can be hung in a variety of locations to suit your bird watching needs.

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Feeding Birds All Year Round Is A Joy
By Mumby
Feeding birds year round is not only enjoyable but also helpful to some feathered friends who may need a little help during certain times of the year. Hard-pressed parents busy with nesting benefit from feeding, as do their young who often come to the feeders too. Feeding birds can attract some of the more aggressive birds to your yard as well, which may mean that your poor cat is besieged by mocking birds. Remember thought that with a large group of birds comes a large group of bird-droppings. Feeding birds is both entertaining and rewarding. Whether seedeaters, hummingbirds or fruit eaters are in your yard, you can offer each a little something special.


Feeding birds is an enjoyable and rewarding pastime during West Virginia's cold and often snow-filled months. The movement, color and life of the birds outside the window help remind us that spring really isn't too many months away.

Feeders made of plastic and ceramic will be the easiest to maintain this way; wooden feeders should be disinfected with something other than bleach so the wood won't fade. Feeder placement can also play a role in window strikes. In some instances,

hawks will drive birds into a window to stun them and make them easier to catch.

Feeding birds is a commitment and just like cleaning up after a human meals, you must be willing to clean up the area where you feed the birds. Feeding birds is a popular backyard activity in Florida--a 1985 survey revealed that 66 percent of all respondents had fed birds or other wildlife around their homes in the past year. There's certainly no easier place to introduce children and adults alike to the joys of bird-watching than at a backyard feeder. Feeding birds can be very enjoyable and lots of fun. There are many types of feeders and each will attract different birds.

Feeding birds is the quickest way to attract birds to your yard.
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Platform Bird Feeders - They Get The Birds Coming In

A number of people have mentioned to us that they have had a bird feeder up for awhile and have had no birds at it. Our first question to them is "Do the birds know the food is there?" We generally recommend that new birders use a platform type bird feeder to begin with. A platform feeder is simply a flat feeder on which bird seed is spread.

So, What kinds of birds come to a platform feeder? Almost any seed eating bird that sees it will come in. In addition, there are birds which I call scratchers. Scratchers are birds like juncos, towhees, quails, thrashers, White-crowned Sparrows and others who normally feed by scratching in the leaves or on the ground to find their seeds. These species are the easiest to attract with type of bird feeder because these feeders accommodate the scratching instinct of these birds and gives them a much more comfortable feeding environment.

There are several types of platform bird feeders including pole mounted platform feeders which can usually also be mounted on deck railings or flat tree stumps, hanging tray platform bird feeders and window mounted platform feeders. Our favorite is a pole mounted platform feeder made out of recycled poly lumber. When it comes time to clean this feeder, I simply brush off the loose seed, spray it with a 10% bleach solution, spray it down with the hose to rinse it off and when it dries I refill it with seed. These recycled material feeders are available in pole mounted, hanging tray or window mounted platform feeders.

The advantages of platform type bird feeders are many.

1. They easily show any bird flying over that seed is available to them.

2. Many birds may be too timid or cautious to venture under the roof of some bird feeders in the beginning.

3. They accommodate the feeding instincts of the scratchers.

4. By raising the feed up off the ground you will not attract rodents which come into seed spread on the ground.

5. Platform feeders may be used under hopper or tube feeders to catch seeds that may be spilled by the birds or to catch seed hulls, providing for a cleaner bird feeding area.

6. Most platform bird feeders fit in well with our easy to clean and easy to fill philosophy.

There are several important considerations to think about when purchasing one of these feeders. These include:

1. The feeder should have short sides to keep the bird seed or hulls from blowing out in the wind.

2. Your feeder should be able to drain in the rain. Bird seed can get moldy quickly when wet and moldy seed is not healthy for birds.

3. The bottom of the feeder should be removable for easy cleaning.

4. It is important to know that the feeder may be mounted where you will be able to see it and enjoy the birds it draws in. With the selection listed previously, there should be a platform bird feeder appropriate for any yard.

Platform bird feeders make a nice starter bird feeder or wonderful addition to an established bird feeding station. They can help you develop a backyard bird habitat that you can be proud of and that will attract many different species of birds.

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oriole bird feeders

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Bird Feeders And Bird Houses - How To Properly Care And Maintain Them For Backyard Birding Fun

Outdoor bird feeders and bird houses are extremely popular with bird watchers and bird enthusiasts. For many there is nothing more exciting than getting up in the morning and watching birds nesting and feeding in the backyard. Children and adults alike are able to learn a great deal about birds by watching them each day. What many bird enthusiasts do not realize is the fact that owning a bird feeder and bird house requires more effort than just stocking it with seed. In order to keep the birds safe and healthy, homeowners must do what they can to properly set up and maintain these items.

The first step in protecting birds is placing bird feeders and bird houses in a safe location. Place bird feeders in a very open location that gives birds a chance to see, and react to, any predators like house cats. They can also be hung from poles making them virtually inaccessible. When hanging a bird house always place them in a high location away from any potential perch that can be used by predators like cats. Even if you do not own house cats it is important that you follow this advice since neighboring cats can easily get into your back yard and attempt to attack what they consider to be easy prey.

In some situations hawks will be attracted to your bird house or, more than likely, your bird feeder. If you notice a hawk coming near your bird feeder several times a week take it down for a few days and keep a look out for the hawk. Once

the hawk has come, not seen a buffet, and left, put it back out. The hawk will leave your yard alone once it believes its free meal ticket has been called in.

The second step you can take to ensure the safety and health of the birds your feeders and houses attract is to keep everything clean. This is one thing that many people forget and overlook. While most people are used to cleaning indoor bird cages they do not think to clean outdoor bird houses. A bird house, after time, can attract and develop parasites which could cause sickness and disease to spread among the birds nesting in it. You should clean your bird house at least once a year or twice a year to be perfectly safe.

Bird feeders need to be cleaned much more often because of the number of birds coming and going on a daily basis. Remove any seeds from the ground around your bird feeders and bird houses to discourage birds from attempting to eat it. Also empty and clean the bird feeders once or twice each month while constantly replacing the seed with fresh, dry, bird seed to keep the birds from eating moldy seed which can make them sick.

Outdoor bird feeders and bird houses can be fun for the entire family. They give you a chance to observe many different types of birds without having to leave your yard. In order to enjoy this special treat for a long time it is important that you and your family work hard to maintain a clean, safe, environment for your birds.

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Garnish Your Yard With Unique Bird Houses And Wild Bird Feeders

If you want to jazz up your yard decor while contributing to the environment, try adding several unique bird houses and wild bird feeders. These can beautify your home while simultaneously attracting lovely birds to your yard.

Bird houses and feeders hang as picture perfect ornaments from trees, fence posts, windows or even your patio deck, but they offer so much more than decoration if you're a nature lover. Bird watching is a fairly simplistic and inexpensive hobby. You'll find bird watching to be very relaxing as you sit outdoors on a swing or lie on a hammock and watch various types of birds visit the wild bird feeders in your yard. You can even keep some binoculars and a camera on hand for whenever you see a unique bird.

You can create a marvelous bird haven in your yard with various bird houses and wild bird feeders, giving your feathered friends food, water and shelter. Your yard can provide a safe place for birds to mate, eat, drink, and raise their young. You'll also be providing protection from many of birds' natural predators as well as inclement weather. And just for your efforts, numerous birds will sing enchanting lullabies to you each morning!

Types of Bird Houses and Bird Feeders

Bird houses and feeders come in a variety of colors, materials, shapes and sizes. Some of the most beautiful bird products are hand made, created from wood, stoneware, ceramic, or hand blown glass. Some bird houses are shaped like animals - even birds - such as the cardinal wood bird house, bluebird houses, and cat-shaped houses. There are also many bird houses shaped like little cottages, cupcakes, log cabins, trailers, canisters, vegetables, and other creative designs.

Wild bird feeders can cater to certain types of birds. For example, if you wish to attract hummingbirds to your yard, opt for special hummingbird feeders. These small feeders

come in various styles and colors, decorated with flowers and other designs. Hummingbirds will love them, and you'll be able to sit and watch them play in your yard for hours of enjoyment. To attract finches, add a three-tube finch feeder to your yard. This type of wild bird feeder can feed up to 24 finches all at once, keeping each one in perfect view!

There are also squirrel proof bird feeders if your yard usually attracts lots of squirrels. These are designed to allow birds to feed while preventing squirrels from stealing their food. Squirrel proof bird feeders come in styles such as platform bird feeders and caged tubular feeders.

The designs of wild bird feeders available today are virtually endless, with basic styles such as window bird feeders, platform and fly thru feeders, tubular and hopper bird feeders. The materials used range from weatherproof stoneware and ceramics, stained glass and copper, recycled plastics and glass, and - of course - wood. Everything from covered wagons and lighthouse bird feeders, to stoneware cats, cupcakes, and laughing green men bird feeders are available. Whatever you may fancy or collect, there is a bird feeder that will strike a chord and brighten up your yard!

Once you find suitable unique bird houses and wild bird feeders for your yard, be sure to add other bird accessories to complement your decorations. Try ceramic bird baths or hanging bird baths, drippers, nesting balls, solar stepping stones, garden flags, stoneware toad houses, garden statues, fountains, and other garden decor products to dress up your yard.

You can find many unique bird houses and wild bird feeders online at affordable prices. So visit a bird accessory retailer on the Web today to check out all the adorable styles available. You'll see some amazing birds gather soon to add vibrant color and sweet songs to your yard!

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Finch bird feeders

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Garden Bird Feeders
By Tony Harries
Let's Begin With Some "Feeder Facts"


When bird feeders are first offered in your yard, it may take the birds a few weeks to discover and recognize them as a source of food. Bird feeders are containers resembling lanterns into which solicitous humans place seeds or other types of bird feed, to attract and feed the birds in the surrounding area.

Bird feeders are the the surest and fastest way to attract birds to your yard .Bird feeders are a must for home birdwatching, and many people have webcams trained on their feeders, where birds often congregate.

Bird feeders are an attractive inclusion to the gardens, courtyards and terraces and are easy to put up and easy to take care of.

Hanging bird feeders are usually hung in trees or below the eaves of a porch or patio.

Stationary bird feeders are available in two types: those that can be attached to a tree, and those that are perched on top of a pole.

Squirrels may visit the bird feeder and hoard all the seeds, not to mention, scare away all the birds, but very few bird feeders are truly squirrel proof. Platform bird feeders are for the birds that like to eat off the ground.

Window bird feeders are a great way to bring birds close to your house. Squirrel proof bird feeders are also a great way to protect your bird seed from being eaten by other animals, but if you like squirrels

too, then this feeder is not a consideration for you.

Many times, bird feeders are only used during the winter since thats when their food source is the lowest. Although there are all styles and types of bird feeders, the most successful bird feeders are dependent upon the placement of the feeder and the type of food source on the wild bird feeder.

Pole Bird Feeders are great for encouraging lots of bird types to your garden, but having a Pole Bird Feeder is also a great way to discourage bird-eating cats from pouncing on your feathered guests.

Three basic types of bird feeders are available: hopper, tube and platform. While bird feeders are thought of as winter projects, urban and suburban areas can benefit from bird feeders year-round.

Stone bird feeders are generally available in marble, granite, sandstone and soapstone.

Technical structures of bird feeders are so important to consider because these things will determine the quality and the kind of seeds needed to supply the birds' daily meal.

With a natural gift for life, bird feeders are uplifting, relaxing and entertaining. After your bird feeders are up, make a covered notebook and keep track of all the birds you see.

You've heard the saying about a gift that keeps on giving, well, bird feeders are truly the gift that "keeps on giving" enjoyment all year long.

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Window bird feeders

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Wild Bird Feeders - Quality Check
By Michael Rasco

Wild bird feeders can be found in countless styles and designs. There are tube feeders, platform feeders, hopper feeders, squirrel-resistant bird feeders, feeders for particular species of birds, and many more. Though the forms and functions of wild bird feeders are multitudinous, one thing should remain consistent - a high standard of quality. Poor bird feeder construction is not only potentially dangerous for birds, it will ultimately lead to frustration and more money spent on the part of the aspiring bird watcher. The good news is that a well-constructed wild bird feeder usually only costs a few dollars more than a shabby one. If you are in the market for a wild bird feeder (and you should be - bird watching is a very fulfilling hobby), make sure you purchase a well-made product. Following are a few things you should look for.
General sturdiness is imperative. A good, sturdy wild bird feeder will last for many years. Immediately inspect your new bird feeder both visually and with your hands. Look for cracks, rust, loose parts, or anything that seems awry to you. If the bird feeder is broken, or if there is anything about the bird feeder that you have questions about, bring it to the seller's attention. Most people in the birding business are after more than just profits; they want to share their love of bird watching, and are therefore very eager to help. If you want to purchase a wild bird feeder online, the same applies. Look into the return policy of online retailers before you buy, so you know what your options are. In most cases, it is very hassle free; they want your business and your referrals, so they need you to be satisfied.
Most tube style wild bird feeders are made of plastic and metal. The plastic should be strong and, again, free of cracks. The metal parts will likely be made of rustproof material, but check it all the same. The feeder ports, or the holes through which birds can access the seed, will be fitted with a grommet, usually

made of metal. Ensure that the grommet is not loose or easily removed. It is there to reinforce the hole in the plastic and prevent cracking. It will often have a little perch attached at the bottom, also. The fact that your beloved backyard birds will alight on that perch is all the more reason to be sure that the grommet is stable.
Look at the method of construction. Screws and welds are strong and long lasting. Few, if any, nails should be used in its construction. Nails will come loose easily if the feeder is dropped, or even just through temperature changes, during which wood, plastic, and metal will expand or contract. The same is true of glue. Nails and glue should only be used on nonessential parts, such as decorative aspects.
These days, many wild bird feeders have moving, even motorized parts. This is particularly true of squirrel-resistant bird feeders. Check to make sure that the parts move easily, without grinding or catching. Motorized parts should not be moved by hand, as it could jam up the machinery. Motorized parts of wild bird feeders are usually weight-activated; to check them, simply apply a little pressure with your finger, if you can do so without hurting yourself or the feeder. If not, use a stick or a pencil, or wait until a squirrel tries to get at the seed. The only sound should be the whir of the tiny motor and possibly the angry chattering of the retreating squirrel. You should not hear squeaking (except from squirrels) or grating. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance.
Once you deploy the wild bird feeder, watch it for any issues that may not have been apparent in the initial inspection. Contact the seller as soon as possible if you see any problems. Most wild bird feeder stores will be very understanding as long as the problem did not arise through misuse or abuse.
Now that you are confident in the quality of your wild bird feeder, it is time to fill it with nutritious seed, and enjoy the birds!
Michael Rasco is the owner of UtopiaBirdHouses.com, a website committed to providing high quality birding products and wild bird information.

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