February
5, 2019 by Dean Fosdick
Feeding
birds in winter is one of the nation's most popular wildlife-watching
activities, yet many ornithologists say it's often more rewarding for people
than for birds. And it might even put wild birds at risk.
"Feeding birds is not necessary for their
survival except in extreme weather conditions," said Stephen Kress, vice
president for bird
conservation at the National Audubon Society. "Feeders can
definitely help them get through that kind of weather."
Most
birds are insect eaters and aren't attracted to backyard feeders. "For
those birds, I recommend planting natural habitat and native plants,"
Kress said.
Besides,
birds who do eat seed "will be more likely to come to feeders if there is
some cover nearby. They'll be able to feed and dodge back into the safety of
shrubbery."
The most
common error people make when managing bird feeders is incorrect
placement—putting them in locations where birds are frightened by foot traffic,
vulnerable to predation by cats, or at risk of flying into windows.
"If
a feeder is within 3 feet of a window, it's better," Kress said. "If
a bird is spooked, it won't be killed when it strikes the glass. And keep your
cats indoors so they can't stalk vulnerable birds and animals."
Learn
which bird species frequent
your area so you can avoid feeder wars and understand the pecking order.
"Some
birds are more aggressive at feeders," Kress said. "Their eating
habits are such that they can consume a lot and not leave much for the
others."
One
answer to that is to feed at multiple locations using different kinds of seeds
and feeders. Nyjer seeds, for instance, attract goldfinches, while tube feeders
with wire covers prevent large birds from entering.
Pay
attention to seed quality and freshness. Unprotected seed left too long in
feeders will turn moldy, and mold can kill foraging wildlife. Refresh your
feeders every few days and clean them frequently by soaking in a solution of 10
percent bleach.
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