- Bird Accessories, Bird Feeders, Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder, Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders, Uncategorized
Squirrel Proof Your Wild Bird Feeders
Feeding birds-not squirrels…easier said than done. Most folks who feed wild birds would agree, their gravity defying acrobatics can be infuriating. A squirrel can eat their weight in seed in one week, they can jump up to six feet high and 8 feet across, and they can run 20 mph. A pesky backyard enemy who can destroy the pleasures of wild bird feeding.
How can you protect existing bird feeders from squirrels? Baffles and capsaicin are two effective accessories.
With hanging squirrel baffles, make sure the baffle is one-third larger in circumference than the feeder. Be sure the bottom of the feeder is at least four and one half feet off the ground, and the feeder is at least eight feet away from trees, shepherds hooks, or any possible launching spots for squirrels. If using a pole mounted, or 4×4 post mount squirrel baffle, make sure the bottom of this baffle is at least four and one half feet off the ground. Make sure the post or pole is at least eight feet away from any sideways launching spot. Also, be sure this feeder is at least ten feet away from taller launching spots, like trees or houses. Capsaicin is effective in deterring squirrels, as they despise the hot sensation that comes from the peppers, but birds do not taste it. Available in commercial mixes, you can easily make your own with cayenne pepper. A few teaspoons mixed lightly with any bird seed …but be careful! It’s painful to breathe the fumes, it burns your eyes, and if it gets on your skin, wash hands immediately. Capsaicin has been scientifically proven safe for wild birds.
If your backyard landscaping will not accommodate this type of set up, you may wish to buy a new squirrel proof bird feeder that will win the war for you! There are many models available that work well; Droll Yankee, Duncraft, and Heritage Farms are well known for their high quality squirrel proof products, and even guarantee them. Hanging caged feeders are effective, but you may not really care for a metal or galvanized design in your garden. The new Mandarin squirrel proof bird feeders are attractive in any landscape with their sleek design and large clear view baffle. Made from 100% recycled plexiglass, they protect feeders and houses, and also have a lifetime warranty. This model can hang or be pole mounted, and protects seed from rain, snow and squirrels beautifully!
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Bluebird Houses for Safe Nesting
Female Eastern Bluebird with Nestlings Bluebirds are a wonderful species indeed! It’s hard to resist their beauty, gentle disposition and sweet song. Their nesting needs are specific, and differ from other cavity dwelling birds. Placement of proper bluebird houses, or nest boxes, and suitable habitat are two important factors for attracting them.
The best habitats are open, short-grassy areas where they can find food. Bluebirds feed on insects and search low to the ground to find their prey. They also enjoy berries and fruit, and will perch atop these kinds of trees to eat.
There are tons of bluebird house designs being used today by backyard birders with much success–from basic nest boxes to elaborate, decorative houses. The most important thing is to provide bluebirds with a nesting site that is safe and secure to raise their brood. You can always be sure about a nest box if it has been “NABS approved” by the North American Bluebird Society.
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Walk-In Birdbaths Suit Wild Birds
Walk-In BirdBath With spring fever upon us, many folks who enjoy wild birds might be thinking of new bird bath for the season. There are so many beautiful styles from which to choose, it can get confusing. Consider first if a hanging, pedestal, or deck-mount model is what you’re after as far as yard decor. Then don’t forget about cleaning and maintaining the birdbath, choose something that is easy to clean, fresh water is a must for wild birds in summer time.
The most important factor is depth. Many birdbaths are really too deep for wild birds to drink and bathe comfortably. No more than two inches of water is necessary. If your existing birdbath is too deep, consider placing a large rock in the center for birds to perch. Also, the Birdbath Raft will turn any container of water into a functional bird bath.
The newer birdbaths feature an uneven, or graduated bottom, the same concept as an inground swimming pool, where you walk in. This is a great idea and very accommodating for songbirds too.
Birding Tips, Information & News
