Make your backyard a bird’s paradise with these bird feeder tips.
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There’s nothing quite as delightful as getting a visit from a littlebackyard bird.
Frombluebirdsto woodpeckers tohummingbirds, these avian beauties add music and movement to yards and gardens all throughout the South.
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In fact, some birds don’t eat seeds at all.
Mary Farrholds a B.S.
in Biology from Georgia College and State University with a concentration in ornithology.
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“All birds have their own preferences according to different biological factors.”
This seed is a favorite of cardinals, finches, nuthatches, and many more.
Peanuts
Peanuts are high in protein and provide birds with a great source of energy.
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“Larger birds like jays, crows, and grackles will like the shelled peanuts.”
Mealworms
Mealworms are the larvae of darkling beetles and will appeal to bluebirds all year round.
They are available to purchase live or freeze-dried from your local bird or garden supply store.
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Fruit
If you have any leftover fruits, consider leaving them outside for birds to enjoy.
“Other birds like tanagers, orioles, and grosbeaks love oranges.”
you’re free to also purchase dried fruits to put inside a feeder.
These are high-calorie, high-protein treats that many species enjoy.
“Suet attracts insect-eating birds like woodpeckers, wrens, nuthatches, and titmice,” says Farr.
It is recommend to only use suet in cooler weather so the beef fat does not go rancid.
Some tube feeders are weight-sensitive to deter larger birds and squirrels.
The tray is completely open for birds to have plenty of space to land and eat.
Look for feeders with holes or mesh on the bottom to allow for drainage.
This style of feeder has a grid-style cage with a suet cake in it for birds to grab onto.
“Most hummingbird feeders have a pop of red on them to attract them visually,” says Farr.
Finch Feeders
Finch feeders are usually a tube-shaped feeder that holds the tiny black thistle seed.
“Log feeders are a great DIY project that won’t cost any money,” says Farr.
Place all feeders accordingly to ensure the most amount of birds visiting.
Be sure to follow any instructions for how to properly clean your feeders.
