Attracting different types of birds to your feeder can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only does it provide you with the opportunity to observe and appreciate these feathered creatures up close, but it also plays a role in supporting their survival and wellbeing. Here are some tips to help you attract a variety of birds to your feeder:
Offer different types of food
Different birds have different dietary needs and preferences. Providing a variety of food options such as seeds, nuts, fruit, and nectar will attract a diverse group of birds. Black oil sunflower seeds are a great option as they are high in fat and protein and are loved by many species of birds.
Provide different types of feeders
Different types of feeders will attract different types of birds. Tube feeders are great for attracting small songbirds such as finches and chickadees, while platform feeders are better for larger birds like cardinals and doves. Suet feeders are perfect for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other birds that prefer a high-fat diet.
Offer water:
Birds need water for drinking and bathing, so providing a source of water near your feeder will attract a wider variety of birds. A birdbath or a shallow dish with fresh water changed regularly can be very attractive to birds, especially during hot weather or drought.
Provide shelter
Birds need shelter for nesting and protection from predators, so planting native trees, shrubs, and flowers can provide birds with a safe haven. Offering birdhouses or nest boxes is another way to attract birds that prefer to nest in cavities.