Birdfeeders

The best beginning bird feeders are tube feeders. They are made of heavy duty plastic or glass tubes with a closed top and bottom with openings on the sides with mounted perches. The top opens for filling with seeds. Birds can land on the perches and pick seeds from the openings. The most important function of this feeder is that it goes a great job of keeping seed dry while providing an easy perch for feeding. Tube feeders can be hung from a hook on a tree branch, a stationary hook from a fence or deck railing, or mounted on a pole. If squirrels are a problem, there are squirrel proof hoods to hang above the tube feeder or baffles to put on the pole below the feeder. A tray can be attached to the bottom of tube feeders to catch discarded shells and offer extra perching room.

Before hanging tube feeders, consider these factors. Where do you spend most of your time in the house? Hang the tube feeder outside a window of a room the family spends significant time in for the best viewing. Birds need to be near cover so they have a close place to be protected from possible danger. It is best to hang bird feeders no more than 10-12 feet from a tree, shrubs, hedge, etc. If possible, position bird feeders in areas with some protection from wind, rain and flying snow. Experienced birders always say to serve black oil sunflower seeds. They are loved by many species and don’t have the waste that occurs with commercial mixes as birds pick through and throw aside seeds they don’t like.