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Add an Inexpensive Thistle Feeder for Crowds
The American Goldfinch is adored by many backyard birders, mostly for their vibrant yellow plumage and sweet song. With a gentle disposition, they tend to shy away from a crowded thistle feeder, whereas most birds become aggressive and fight for food.You can alleviate this problem by adding extra feeders. With the use of thistle, or nyjer socks, it is very inexpensive and effective to accommodate more finches. The thistle socks are available in different sizes, and best of all, cost only a few dollars (usually under $5.00). No cleaning required, basically they are meant to be disposable after becoming worn or tattered.
They allow for cling-type, all over feeding as opposed to perches, so the whole feeder is actual feeding space. Thistle socks are available in white mesh, black, even festive holiday colors! Eliminate the competition for food and attract more Goldfinches with the use of this innovative thistle feeder.
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Use Bird Baths to Attract the Most Birds
We create wonderful habitats by feeding and housing wild birds. Backyard birders seem to have a passion for their feathered friends. Through habitat, we can entice birds into our yards for our viewing pleasure, and their general health and well-being.
Water is a super way to attract birds who may not visit feeders. Fresh water is critical for wild birds’ survival, not only to drink, but to bathe and preen feathers. This is what keeps them working properly.
There are a myriad of bird baths available, from basic to decorative, inexpensive-to higher-end. Materials vary, and again, a multitude of them are available. The best possible choice for a bird bath is one that you will maintain. By providing fresh water at all times, you can be sure to see a greater variety of wild birds visit your backyard. Water need only be 2″ to 3″ deep, as this is the optimal depth for comfortable wading and bathing. If your birdbath is deeper, try adding a large rock in the center for birds to land and perch.
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A Tube Birdfeeder: Perch or Cling?
To Perch or Cling? Tube feeders come in a multitude of styles, accommodating nyjer seed, peanuts, and most birdseed mixes. Depending on what birds you’re looking to attract, and what you’re feeding should dictate the type of tube birdfeeder you’ll use.For attracting Goldfinches with Thistle or Nyjer seed, both types of feeders work well. The advantage to a clinging-type feeder is that more feeding space is available, you’ll likely see more birds at the feeder at one time.
If you’re looking to attract multiple species with Black Oil Sunflower seed for example, a tube feeder with perches will allow each bird its own space.
Both types of work well, the important thing is to keep fresh food available, and keep feeders clean to prevent the spread of bacteria among gathering birds in your yard.
Birding Tips, Information & News