Source: All Seasons Wild Bird Store
Spring has sprung and it seems like I am seeing and hearing birds everywhere. In fact, I have a bit of a bird surprise for my powder room but will not be able to share for a bit because the wallpaper is on 6-week backorder. So, in the meantime, I decided to look for some birdhouses and bird feeders to help bring more of the living nature to my yard.
Of course, I cannot be a normal person and just run down to Target to grab one. I have to go on a quest for “the one” which is such a common theme for me when it comes to things for the home. Of course, choosing a birdhouse is a matter of personal taste and they come in all shapes and sizes to match any outdoor décor. Of course, my selection tends to lean toward the modern but I tried to throw a few more rustic options in there for variety.
Source: Dress The Yard
To complement the birdhouse, and further attract and care for the birds, I am also adding a bird feeder. According to the Audobon Society, nearly 40% of Americans make it a regular habit to feed birds.
Where I use to live in the Pacific NW you had to be very careful with placement as bird feeders attract black bears (as well as trash put out the night before pickup) and there were several occasions where I woke to mangled birdfeeders in the morning. Of course, I did not begrudge the bear his meal, but I also did not want to draw them into the more populated area which puts them at risk.
Now, in California, the bigger problem is pesky squirrels. I do not begrudge them a meal either but do have a MAJOR issue with them chewing open my Sunbrella cushions for nesting materials – UGH!
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when adding a bird feeder:
- Squirrels – see above. Squirrels will eat the food before birds have a chance so the recommendation is to place them away from the trees, sturdy scrubs, fences, roofs and other structures. Not sure what that leaves. I want to hang mine in a tree so am going to rely on the dog and good fortune to keep them away. If not, there are squirrel noise deterrents that I may need to deploy.
- Visability. Birds need to see a feeder before they will visit it. Place feeders in an open sunny area.
- Maintenance. Place a feeder in an area where it will be easy to refill to keep it in good shape and keep it cleaned and filled.
- Mess. Feeders are naturally messy with discarded hulls, molted feathers, and feces. Regular cleaning is essential to avoid spreading disease. Placing the feeder in a natural, brushy area instead of near a heavily manicured flowerbed or patio to avoid too much visible mess.
Feeling inspired? Here are some fun options to consider!