Bird FeedingBird feeding is one of the most popular hobbies in the United States. Its popularity probably stems from these three elements. - Birds are colorful and fun to watch.
- Feeding birds is low-tech. Anyone can do it.
- Feeding birds is low cost.
The Frugal FeederAnyone can enjoy feeding and watching birds. Here are a few tips from the Frugal Feeder to get you started. Window ledge
Brick homes often have a narrow window ledge extending out from the edge of the home. This ledge serves nicely as a platform feeder. Sprinkle once a day with sunflower chips to attract juncos, cardinals and mockingbirds. Feel free to add a few breadcrumbs from time to time. You may need to start by spreading a few chips on the ground, near the window. After the birds find the food on the window ledge you can stop feeding on the ground. This approach has the advantage of bringing the birds up close, so they can be studied and enjoyed. The use of sunflower chips keeps the cost down and eliminates most clean up requirements. You may need to rinse the window ledge on occasion. Peanut butter
Many bird species love peanut butter. Here are some tips on using it. - Purchase the largest, cheapest jar of peanut butter you can find.
- Mix in a little corn meal to thicken up the peanut butter.
- Spread on a tree trunk or limb.
- Enjoy the birds.
This will attract woodpeckers, some sparrows, nuthatches, wrens, and some warbler species, as well as cardinals and mockingbirds. A feeder can be made by drilling holes in a board or dead limb. Hang the board or limb and fill with the peanut butter mix. Check the Attracting Birds section for low-cost suet recipes that are even more popular with the birds.
Bird IdentificationBeing able to recognize the birds you see is a key step in learning to attract more birds, as well as a greater diversity of species. Different species prefer different kinds of food. With a little knowledge, you will be able to customize your feeding program to make it even more successful. You will need a good pair of binoculars and a field guide to help you with this process. It may take a little time to develop your identification skills so patience is a virtue. As you learn to identify birds, and become familiar with their habits, you will be able to expand your feeding program in the most effective manner. To learn more You can learn more about attracting birds by visiting these two sections of the web site.
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