-
When Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders Quit
Around my yard there are enough squirrels for a football game. Although I do feed them, every single bird feeder and birdhouse is protected by a baffle. Whether hanging, or pole mounted, the baffles pretty much ensure these are squirrel proof bird feeders.The feeder set up shown at left has run into a small problem this season. There is a butterfly bush behind it that has grown twice it’s size from last year. Now my little crafty squirrels have figured out how to shimmey on out to the end of the thicker branches and leap to the feeders.
It’s pretty funny watching them, but not so funny having to fill the feeders every single day. So in this case, the squirrel proof bird feeders have quit being squirrel-proof due to landscaping growth.
The best plan? Relocate this pole to a spot where squirrels can not launch from any landscaping!
-
A New Generation of Birdhouse Kits
Innovative designs seem to bring about a new twist on old things. Totally fun and functional, these birdhouse kits are fun for children and adults to assemble. No tools required either! They’re made from recycled plastics, and come in some vibrant colors and designs.They’re meant for feathered friends, to provide real nesting sites in spring. Bird will also use these fun birdhouses to roost on cold winter nights, for protection from predators, and the elements as well. By adding some dried grasses or clean straw, you’ll provide some extra insulation from the cold.
Birdhouse kits make wonderful projects for school or church groups, Brownies, Boy Scouts or any activities group. They’ll help teach a valuable lesson on stewardship for the environment and creating a wildlife friendly habitat with three main elements. Food, Water and Shelter. Help kids learn about native plantings that will provide food and shelter for birds. Water can be as simple as a plant saucer on the ground filled with fresh water.
You can help local bird populations thrive and flourish by teaching the next generation about wildlife friendly habitat.
These birdhouse kits just may grab their attention and make the project fun! -
Don’t Touch That Window Hummingbird Feeder!
Wild bird migrations are one of those pretty amazing feats of nature. Instinct is so keen, it’s what keeps birds alive. Hummingbirds don’t begin their long journey just because the temperatures start to drop. It is the dwindling hours of daylight that signals them it’s time to go.Many Ruby Throats are mobbing feeders right now, furiously drinking as much as they can in preparation for the long trip to South and Central America. How these tiny birds manage to fly so far is beyond me? The other pretty amazing thing is that hummingbirds practice site fidelity. Which means if they find a friendly yard with food, shelter and moving water, you can bet they’ll be back next season.
The show at our window hummingbird feeder right now is spectacular! There’s hardly a moment throughout the day where it’s not occupied. Constant feeding (and fighting) has been going on for a about two weeks. If you have nectar feeders, especially a window hummingbird feeder, be sure to keep it filled with fresh nectar for the next few weeks. Even if you think your hummers have left for the season, many that are traveling from further north of you are likely to stop by and fuel up! Be on the lookout for the occasional flying jewel, your efforts will be well rewarded.
Birding Tips, Information & News
