Birdfeeders

Yes, we are still in the throws of winter, but I am already thinking about spring! One of the great joys of spring is to have birds build their nests nearby and then later bring their offspring to our bird feeders and bird baths. One of the best ways to get the attention of nest builders is to supply nest building materials and now is a good time to start collecting assorted bits and pieces for this. Our suet feeders are now in demand to supply suet for winter feeding, but during the warm days of spring, these suet feeders can become containers for nest building supplies. For now, start collecting the lint removed from the dryer trap, the softener sheets used in the dryer, odd pieces of white string and yarn, pieces of soft cloth (like worn out pillow cases), dog and cat hair, feathers from an old pillow, anything that would make good nest building supplies. Just be sure that cloth is cut into narrow strips and no piece of cloth or string is longer than about 6 inches. When the spring courtship rituals begin, get out your collection of nest building supplies and loosely fill suet feeders with these items, or simply display them in a box or basket or hanging over branches - anything to get the attention of courting birds. Offering a mud puddle will also draw robins, phoebes and other birds who use it in nest construction.