Bird Feeding

 
Why Feed Birds
Feeders and water sources provide a way for us to view migrating birds up close. We can see different birds as they migrate through the area. We provide them nutrients for their journey while they share with us the drama of their lives.

  • The World Bird Feeding Institute writes “Bird feeding can help provide a safe environment for birds to easily access a food source, water, and habitat.”
  • The Humane Society of the US writes “Bird feeding is most helpful when birds need the most energy, such as during temperature extremes, migration and in late winter or early spring, when natural seed sources are depleted.”
  • The US FWS writes “For birds, feeders can aid survival during migration and harsh winters, some studies show. And some bird lovers reason that feeding birds may help offset the harm we’ve done them by turning woods and meadows into lawns and shopping malls.”
  • Paul Baicich, co-author of “Feeding Wild Birds in America: Culture, Commerce and Conservation,” writes “The birds don’t need the feeders. We do.”

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Choose the Food to Attract the Bird

Science Fair: Why do birds eat certain kinds of seeds?

Science Fair: Why do birds eat certain kinds of seeds?
Courtesy & Copyright Holly Strand

  • Black-Oil Sunflower Seeds (Feed the widest number of birds including Chickadees, Finches, Pine Siskins…)
  • Striped Sunflower Seeds (harder, more restrictive for birds)
  • Sunflower Seeds (shelled) – Reduce sunflower shell residue.)
  • White Millet (Lazuli Buntings, Juncos and Sparrows)
  • Milo (Pigeons, Jays & Doves)
  • Nyjer Thistle (Am. Goldfinches, Pine Siskins, and Redpolls)
  • Cracked Corn (Doves, Pheasants, Quail, Turkeys, ground-feeding birds)
  • Suet (Purchase premixed with seeds, nuts, raisins… or make your own.)
  • Whole Peanuts (Jays)
  • Oranges cut in half (Orioles, Tanagers)
  • Sugar Water (1 part sugar to 4 parts water, Hummingbirds)

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Additional Reading:

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