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If you are one of the millions of bird lovers, you may wonder how to go about setting up and maintaining wild bird feeders to turn your backyard into an aviary of sorts. A simple way to start is to picture yourself engaged in birdwatching: what do you envision for your yard?

Start by considering the types of birds that you wish to attract, and the ones you do not want to see. If you’re a beginner, asking neighbors or co-workers which types of birds frequent their backyards might prove useful. Understanding that your target is to attract finches or cardinals, for example, will assist you in selecting the optimal wild bird feeders and creating the right birdwatching environment.

Bird feeders are available in a number of styles. Some of these kinds include platform and ground feeders, tube, thistle, suet and wood. There are even specifically crafted feeders designed to attract a particular type of birds, such as hummingbirds. Taking the time to learn about the features of each one will increase your chance of success.

Once you have chosen the right feeders, make sure to fill them with your desired birds’ food preferences. To attract the most varieties of birds, black oil sunflower seeds are a great choice. Seasonal fruits or nuts may attract less common types of birds, especially in summer. Specific types of birds, like woodpeckers, enjoy peanuts.

Unless your intention is to spend a fortune on bird food, make sure your wild bird feeders are squirrel (and other animal) proof. Purchasing a squirrel-resistant one or placing your feeders away from landscaping that makes it easy for squirrels to climb or jump up are two ways to keep the fuzzy creatures away from the seed. And as far as food is concerned, thistle seed is recommended by some: apparently squirrels don’t like it very much.

If you’re like most birdwatchers, your desire is to attract a variety of species. Offering an array of feeders rather than one type is a way to enjoy regular backyard visits from a number of birds even throughout the seasonal changes.

When you find a spot that birds seem to frequent, setting up a bird feeding station with many feeders concentrated in one area can be exciting. Alternatively, you can position your wild bird feeders at various locations around your house and take delight in viewing the wildlife through many different windows.

After following these simple steps, sit down and enjoy your new backyard. And when you get that rare or surprising visitor, make sure you have a bird identification book on hand to truly enjoy your success!

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