Don't Forget to Feed The Birds, But Do it Right

When it snows it can be difficult for outdoor birds to find enough food. Feeding wild birds can be an enjoyable experience. If you're new to this activity you want to do it right. Below are helpful links to get you started. It is important to know that while you are tending to wild birds there is some upkeep involved and necessary so that they do not become ill. If you're going to start bird feeding take it seriously so that you do no harm.

Besides helping the birds get through winter it also provides you with an opportunity to learn more about various species and if you have a professional digital camera to take pictures of your new friends.

My Tips:

I do not recommend bird baths unless you have a lot of time on your hands to tend to them. Birds use baths to lounge, drink, and bathe in which means dirty water. E.Coli can be spread easily via a bird bath.

If you got the time and eyes to watch it then it will be worth the effort. Just know that I usually have to change my water several times a day and once a week scrubbing it down with a sink brush. My baths attract a large number of birds. So be prepared. They invite their friends to the pool.

You've probably seen those netted bags with seed in them. I also discourage from using those. Birds can easily get their nails caught in them.

My last tip is to not let your bird feeder become empty. I once found a bird that managed to get inside my feeder by liftng the plastic portion. This is what I mean by watching your feeders closely.


Learn more about bird feeding and getting started here

http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/wildlife/420-006/420-006.html
http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/attracting/feeding/