More than 50 million Americans feed birds, putting out an estimated billion pounds of bird food each year, based on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service data summarized by bird-feeding researchers.
Backyard bird feeding is popular across Florida, and experts at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) stress that how you feed birds matters because it is all about the setup.
Choosing the right bird feeder can attract more birds to your environment and can improve bird health while increasing species diversity and reducing risks from predators and disease. Authors Mark E. Hostetler, Martin B. Main, Emma Wilcox and Maena Voigt dive into these and more details in the Ask IFAS Extension publication Attracting Backyard Birds: Bird Feeder Selection, also available in Spanish,
Knowing which feeder to choose and how to use it properly can turn a well-intentioned activity into one that truly benefits birds and the surrounding environment.
Here’s what readers can expect from this month’s featured Ask IFAS resource:
Which bird feeder types attract which birds? Authors break down common feeder styles including tube, hopper, platform, suet, nectar and nyjer feeders. You can learn about the bird species each feeder is designed to attract.
Does bird food choice really matter? Birds are fussy eaters, according to the authors. Learn how different foods influence which birds visit, why providing a single-seed option to the menu is often more effective than mixed blends and which foods should be avoided altogether.
Where should you locate bird feeders for the best results?
Location is not just practical but a key attraction for our winged friends. Authors provide practical guidance on feeder placement to reduce window strikes, discourage predators and increase the diversity of birds by varying feeder height and location.
How often should you clean bird feeders and why is it important?
Authors provide recommendations for routine cleaning and maintenance to prevent disease, especially critical in Florida’s warm and humid climate.
Got squirrels, cats and other unwelcome visitors looking to invade your bird space?
Unfortunately, squirrels are a nuisance to bird feeders, and birds fall prey to house cats and other predators resulting in common backyard challenges that can be managed safely. Authors provide tips for dealing with squirrels, cats and unwanted bird species while keeping backyard birds healthier and less stressed.
Birds still not visiting your bird space?
Authors suggest having patience. It may take up to two weeks before birds circle your feeders. Tips include sprinkling seeds on the ground as another invitation. Also, check the surroundings of the feeder; birds have preferences too. Sometimes birds will prefer an area with bird-friendly native plants.
Para accesar a este contenido en español, por favor utilice este enlace.
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By Lourdes Mederos, rodriguezl@ufl.edu
ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.
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