10 Tips to Attract Birds to Your Feeder

June 27, 2024

Attracting birds to your feeder is a rewarding experience that brings nature's beauty to your doorstep. Birdwatching not only offers relaxation but also contributes to the well-being of local wildlife. In this blog, we will delve into 10 tips that will help you create a bird-friendly environment and attract birds to your yard.

Choose the Right Feeder

Types of Feeders

Tube Feeders

Install a tube feeder to attract small birds like finches and chickadees.
Consider placing the tube feeder in a sheltered area to protect birds from harsh weather conditions.
Opt for a tube feeder with multiple perches to accommodate several birds simultaneously.

Hopper Feeders

Choose a hopper feeder to attract larger bird species such as cardinals and jays.
Ensure the hopper feeder has a roof to shield the seeds from rain and snow.
Position the hopper feeder in an open space for easy bird access and visibility.

Platform Feeders

Utilize a platform feeder for ground-feeding birds like sparrows and doves.
Place the platform feeder on a sturdy pole or stand to prevent it from tipping over.
Scatter some seeds around the platform feeder to encourage ground-feeding behavior.

Select the Best Bird Food

Seed Types

Black Oil Sunflower Seeds

Attract a variety of birds like cardinals and finches with black oil sunflower seeds.
Provide a rich source of energy and essential nutrients for the birds.
Scatter some seeds on the ground to entice ground-feeding species to your feeder.

Nyjer Seeds

Entice colorful songbirds such as goldfinches and siskins with nyjer seeds.
Offer a high-fat content that is beneficial, especially during colder seasons.
Ensure to keep the seeds fresh by replacing them regularly to maintain bird interest.

Mixed Seeds

Create a diverse feeding environment by offering mixed seeds in your feeders.
Attract a wide range of bird species by providing various seed options.
Keep the feeder filled with fresh mixed seeds to encourage frequent visits from different birds.

Suet and Other Foods

Suet Cakes

Suet cakes are excellent for attracting woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees.
Hang suet feeders in shaded areas during warmer months to prevent melting.
Opt for suet cakes with added fruits or insects for extra nutrition and appeal.

Mealworms

Mealworms are a protein-rich treat that can attract bluebirds, robins, and warblers.
Offer mealworms in specialized feeders or dishes to prevent them from crawling away.
Ensure mealworms are fresh and moist to increase their attractiveness to insect-eating birds.

Location of the Feeder

Safe and Accessible

Away from Predators

Placing your feeder away from predators ensures a safe dining environment for attracting birds. Birds can feed without fear, increasing their comfort and visit frequency.

Near Shelter

Positioning the feeder near sheltered areas like trees or bushes provides a sense of security for birds. This proximity offers them protection from harsh weather conditions and potential threats.

Visibility

Open Spaces

Selecting open spaces for your feeder enhances its visibility to attract birds effectively. Birds can easily spot the feeder from a distance, drawing them towards the feeding area.

Near Windows for Viewing

Locating the feeder close to windows allows you to observe bird activity conveniently. Enjoy watching various bird species up close while they feed and interact in your yard.

Keep the Feeder Clean

Regular Cleaning Schedule

Weekly Cleaning

Remove any leftover seeds or food scraps from the feeder.
Scrub the feeder with a mild soap solution and rinse thoroughly.
Check for any signs of mold or dirt buildup and clean accordingly.

Deep Cleaning Monthly

Disassemble the feeder completely for a thorough cleaning.
Soak all parts in a diluted bleach solution to sanitize them.
Allow the feeder to air dry before refilling it with fresh bird food.

Preventing Mold and Disease

Proper Drainage

Ensure that your feeder has adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Regularly check and clear any clogged drainage openings to maintain proper airflow.

Discarding Old Food

Monitor the feeder regularly for spoiled or wet bird food.
Dispose of any old or contaminated food promptly to avoid attracting pests or spreading diseases.

Provide Water Sources

Bird Baths

Types of Bird Baths

Ceramic bird baths offer a decorative and durable option for attracting birds.
Concrete bird baths provide stability and are easy to clean, making them a long-lasting choice.
Solar-powered bird baths with fountains or bubblers create movement that attracts birds with the sound of flowing water.

Maintenance Tips

Regular Cleaning: Scrub the bird bath with a mild bleach solution to prevent algae growth.
Water Level: Maintain the water level to ensure birds can easily access it for drinking and bathing.
Seasonal Changes: Adjust the depth of the water in colder seasons to prevent freezing.

Plant Native Vegetation

Benefits of Native Plants

Food Sources

Berry-producing Shrubs: Provide a natural food source for birds, attracting them to your yard with delicious berries they love.
Flowering Plants: Offer nectar and pollen, attracting a variety of bird species with their vibrant blooms.

Shelter and Nesting

Native Vegetation: Creates a safe environment for birds to seek shelter from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Nesting Sites: Provide suitable locations for birds to build nests and raise their young, fostering a thriving bird population in your area.

Types of Plants

Berry-producing Shrubs

Blueberry Bushes: Attract birds like thrushes and waxwings with their sweet and nutritious berries.
Elderberry Trees: Entice robins and cedar waxwings with clusters of dark berries rich in vitamins.

Flowering Plants

Sunflowers: Draw in finches and sparrows with their large, vibrant blooms full of seeds for food.
Coneflowers: Invite hummingbirds and goldfinches with their colorful petals and abundant nectar.

Create a Safe Environment

Protect from Predators

Use of Baffles

Install baffles on feeder poles to prevent squirrels and other climbers from accessing the bird feed.
Ensure the baffles are positioned at a sufficient height to deter predators effectively.
Regularly check the baffles for any damage or signs of wear and tear to maintain their protective function.

Placement Strategies

Place your feeder in an open area with clear visibility, making it challenging for predators to approach undetected.
Position the feeder at a safe distance from trees or structures that could serve as launching points for predators.
Adjust the feeder location periodically to avoid creating predictable patterns that may attract unwanted attention.

Offer Nesting Materials

Types of Materials

Natural Fibers

Twigs: Provide small twigs and branches for birds to build sturdy nests.
Grasses: Offer a selection of dry grasses that birds can weave into their nests.
Leaves: Scatter fallen leaves around your yard as nesting materials for birds.

Synthetic Options

Yarn Scraps: Place colorful yarn scraps in a designated area for birds to use in nest-building.
String Pieces: Cut short pieces of string or thread and place them near the feeder for nesting material.
Fabric Strips: Offer small strips of fabric that birds can incorporate into their nests.

How to Provide Them

Mesh Bags

Hang mesh bags filled with natural fibers from tree branches within reach of birds.
Ensure the mesh holes are small enough to prevent entanglement but large enough for easy access.
Refill the bags regularly with fresh nesting materials to attract more birds.

Nesting Boxes

Install nesting boxes in your yard with a variety of nesting materials inside.
Place the boxes at different heights and orientations to accommodate various bird species.
Monitor the boxes regularly to ensure they remain clean and inviting for nesting birds.

Be Consistent

Regular Feeding Schedule

Daily Refills

To maintain a healthy bird population in your yard, ensure that you attract birds by providing daily refills of fresh food. This consistent feeding schedule encourages frequent visits from various bird species, creating an inviting environment for them to thrive.

Seasonal Adjustments

Adapt to the changing seasons by making necessary adjustments to your feeding routine. As temperatures fluctuate, consider altering the types of food you offer to cater to the specific dietary needs of birds during different times of the year.

Monitoring and Adjusting

Observing Bird Activity

Stay vigilant and observe the behavior of the birds visiting your feeder regularly. By monitoring their activity, you can gain insights into their preferences and habits, allowing you to make informed decisions on how to enhance their feeding experience.

Changing Food Types

Keep things interesting for your feathered visitors by periodically changing the types of food you provide. Experiment with different seed mixes or suet flavors to attract birds with diverse tastes, ensuring a varied and nutritious diet for your avian guests.

Engage with the Birding Community

Join Local Groups

Birdwatching Clubs

Participate in local birdwatching clubs to connect with fellow enthusiasts.
Share birdwatching experiences and learn from others' knowledge.
Attend club meetings and join group outings to observe birds in different habitats.

Online Forums

Engage in online forums dedicated to birdwatching to expand your community.
Share photos, stories, and tips with like-minded individuals.
Seek advice on bird identification, feeding practices, and conservation efforts.

Share Your Experiences

Social Media

Utilize social media platforms to showcase your bird feeder setup and visitors.
Connect with a broader audience by sharing captivating bird photos and videos.
Join birdwatching groups on social media to exchange insights and discoveries.

Community Events

Participate in local community events focused on wildlife conservation and bird awareness.
Volunteer for bird-related projects or initiatives in your area.
Collaborate with neighbors to create bird-friendly spaces within the community.

Back to blog