Frequently Asked Questions

1.  How do I select the appropriate bird feeder?

Different birds exhibit different feeding habits. Some birds like finches like to cling upside down while feeding while others require a flat perch.  Humming birds are unique in that they can feed while hovering.  Aside from feeding habits, birds also have preferred foods that they seek.  Some birds like orioles enjoy fruits, nuthatches like hard seeds.  Pigeons like large seeds like millet and milo.  In most cases, the type of bird food will to a large extent determine the type of feeder to use and vice versa.  Please refer to the Products and Preferred Feeds page to select the right kind of feeder for the birds in your neighborhood.

2.  How do I find out what kind of birds frequent my neighborhood?

This you can do by observation or by reference.  Unless you are well versed in bird identification you should get a book on birds or refer to your local ornithology clubs for information.  You may find publications such City Bird Guides to be useful.  These guides are published for specific cities and counties and are thus more appropriate than those for states which cover too wide an area.

3.  What kind of food should I provide in my bird feeder?

Bird diets vary by type of birds and by season.  The Preferred Feeds page provides general information on the food preferences of birds.  Be aware that as the season progresses, the birds may change their diets.  You will often find that finches that will quickly consume your supply of nyjer seeds may not do so in the fall when the temperature drops.  They may now prefer suet and sunflower seeds. Generally speaking, birds will look for higher energy foods when the temperature drops.

4.  I fill my feeders with the appropriate feed but birds do not show up.  What is wrong?

Sometimes it takes a little while for birds to discover the new source of food.  If birds do not show up within a week, you may try relocating the feeder to an area with plenty of plant cover.  Birds tend to be nervous about feeding in open spaces without cover from predators.  Try several feeders of different types as well with different foods to cover your bases.

5.  What do I need to do to maintain my bird feeder?

Bird feeders should not only be filled but should also be kept clean to avoid diseases. Rain can cause seeds to spoil and mold may form when humidity is high.  When this happens, discard the spoiled feed and clean the feeder.  Refill with just enough feed as would be consumed within one or two days to avoid further spoilage.  This is especially true with hummingbird feeders.  Discard the contents that are not consumed within 3 to 4 days, scrub the inside of the container and refill only to the level that has been consumed during the last 3 or 4 days.  If insects and ants are a problem, you may have to relocate the feeder or ensure that the ant or insect traps are adequately filled.

6.  What should I do when large birds like pigeons dominate my bird feeder?

The kind of birds that a feeder attracts is mostly determined by the type of food presented.  Pigeons and other large birds tend to prefer larger seeds.  Usually, when large birds dominate a feeder, the smaller birds stay away.  You may have to stop feeding for a week or two to discourage the undesired bird species and then change the feed to further discourage their return.  Alternatively provide another feeder in a different location for the larger birds.

7.  What else can I provide to attract more birds to my feeders?

Birds need water as well as food.  Quite often a clean source of water will attract birds even when there is no food.  Water and food should be a sure winner.  All you need is a shallow dish of water.