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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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Keep Thistle Feeders out Year Round
If you adore the vibrant yellow plumage of Goldfinches, it’s best to keep thistle feeders out year round. Thistle seed, also called nyjer is enjoyed not only by Goldfiches, but Indigo Buntings and Pine Siskins relish this seed too. One of the benefits of thistle is that it will not germinate, so there are no worries of sprouting weeds below your feeder. Another is that Goldfinches will sit at your feeder pecking seed after seed (to feed their brood) so it’s easy to view the charming songbirds. Both their song and disposition make the American Goldfinch a favorite among many backyard birders.
A common drawback to the very long, tubular style thistle feeders is that seed gets compacted at the bottom and tends to draw moisture if always filled from the top. Some feeders can be filled from the top or bottom. Remember to dump old seed and keep feeders clean. The three-tube thistle feeders also tend to distribute the seed more evenly, thus eliminating the problem of packed seed at the bottom.
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A Squirrel Proof Bird Feeder – Beware of Imposters!
The war with squirrels! We’ve all been there and have spent so much time and effort trying to outsmart the furry critters. There’s even been books written on the subject. If you enjoy backyard birding, you’re likely all too familiar with this scenario. There are hundreds of squirrel proof feeders on the market today, and some work better than others. Many claim to be a squirrel proof bird feeder, but they just don’t stand up to the promise.
Some reputable manufacturers of these feeders include Droll Yankee and Duncraft, they have perfected the science! The Twirl-A Squirrel is also a popular item in deterring squirrels, as they can’t hang on to steal the seed, and soon give up. It’s hilarious to watch and very effective too. If you’re tired of the war with squirrels, a good squirrel proof bird feeder might be the answer,
Birding Tips, Information & News
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 
