People have been interested in feeding wild birds in America since the mid 1800s. From the early 1900s, the first hummingbird feeder was manufactured on a commercial basis. Now, feeding the birds is an exciting hobby which over 60 million Americans are enjoying everyday. One of the first questions that eager bird watchers ask when they receive their first feeder is,’How do I attract the most birds to my bird feeders?’
Tip #1: Be consistent.
Try to adhere to a routine by keeping feeders filled with the seed or suet that is the favorite of those birds you wish to attract. Birds will go back to the very same feeders if they are rewarded with food every time.
Tip #2: Use the appropriate bird feeder.
Since birds are attracted to different kinds of bird feeder designs, you can raise your chances by fitting the species with the bird feeder design specifically created for it. Choose from the many types of feeders provided below:
Tube Feeder: American Goldfinch, House Finch, Nuthatch, Titmouse
Tip #3: Where should I hang the bird feeder?
Place your bird feeder at a place where the birds can feel protected-somewhere in close proximity to shrubs and trees. Furthermore, they will use foliage, grasses and twigs as nesting materials. Avoid predators by placing bird feeders at least four feet off the ground and away from lower and fences, hanging branches. Some birds, like bluebirds, prefer to have an open view when feeding so that they can keep their eyes open for predators.
Tip #4: Include a water supply near the bird feeder.
Birds are attracted to water for bathing and sipping. As they are attracted to the sound of water, the light spray of a hose will bring them flitting to this water resource. Robins and hummingbirds enjoy the glow of water and love to fly through the spray. The moist ground makes it easier for robins to snag a worm or two. Shallow, birdbaths welcome various kinds of birds who should eliminate dust or mites from their feathers.
Hint #5: Include native plants in your backyard.
Native plants will attract certain birds to your backyard. Some birds like woodpeckers and bluebirds like fruits and berries along with insects, while finches prefer the seeds of indigenous coneflowers or Echinacea.
How long should you wait to see birds at the feeder once you hang it?
It will take a while for birds to find your feeder and begin using it as a source of food. Wait for up to two weeks, then add a few new thoughts.
Try sprinkling some of their favorite seed on the ground and around the feeder. This will help them find the bird feeder and recognize that there’s a food source nearby. Or, the location may not be the most appropriate for them. Most birds like to feel protected. Move the bird feeder to a new place that has shrubs or conifers for them to hide and observe from. Birds like to remain concealed from predators as they fly to and from the bird feeder.