Seed provide nutritious meals for birds and help provide fats for the birds’ bodies. Fat is used by the bird’s body to provide energy for activities. Proteins in seed help strengthen muscles. There is a variety of bird seeds and mixtures available to choose from on the market. Inexpensive seed mixtures are available but contain lots of filler seed that is not appealing to most wild birds.
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One of the easiest ways to draw birds to your backyard is to add bird feeders. The ideal bird feeder is built well enough to hold up under severe weather and keep the seeds protected and dry. Though preferred by many for their looks, wooden bird feeders usually are not good at protecting the seed. Plastic and metal feeders can be built more tightly ensuring the seed is better protected. The seed area should have a large enough capacity so that refilling it does not become a daily chore. Though depending on the quality of seed you use this may be an unattainable goal. Most feeders fall into one of three categories: tray feeders, hopper feeders, and tube feeders. Certain birds prefer particular types of feeders.
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Size: 4(3/4) – 5(3/4)”
Range: Southern half of Canada and Northern half of the lower 48 states.
Nest: Cavity of tree
Eggs per clutch: 5 to 10
Food: seeds, insects and berries
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Size: 4(1/2)-5(1/2)”
Range: Canada south to Arizona, Northern Texas, Tennessee and North Georgia
Nest: Cavity of tree
Eggs per clutch: 5 to 8
Food: insects and invertebrates
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A water source is an effective way to attract birds to your backyard. Birds need water for drinking and to maintain their feathers. A water source should be clean and reliable. A birdbath can be as simple as a flower pot or dish to as elaborate as a wildlife pond.
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