Have you been looking for a new hobby as of late? Have you ever thought of making your own homemade birdfeeder?
As winter approaches this year, think about a new form of family entertainment. Why not swap the television for a bird feeder? Feeding birds can be entertaining as well as a boost for our feathered friends.
To attract a variety of birds, set up several kinds of feeders to suit the feeding needs of different birds. Low platforms or ground feeding will bring in juncos, doves and sparrows. Higher platform feeders with sunflower seeds will attract cardinals, finches and chickadees. Hanging feeders will keep you entertained with the antics of woodpeckers and nuthatches.
By putting out a particular type of feed, you can choose the birds you want to attract. Black oil sunflower seeds are a good all-around choice, preferred by the goldfinch, cardinal, chickadee, purple finch, tufted titmouse and others. To attract a clientele that’s a little different, hang some beef tallow in a suet feeder or mesh bag. Soon, you’ll see woodpeckers as well as nuthatches and chickadees.
If you don’t want to build or buy a feeder, simply spread your seed on the ground or on a deck. You can also hang suet from the mesh onion bags you get at the grocery store. Also, keep a supply of water available. Birds need water for drinking and bathing.
Eating Habits of Missouri’s Birds
- The conical bill typical of purple finches is adapted for cracking the seeds of sunflowers, grasses, and more.
- In addition to seeds, insects are an important part of a junco’s diet during breeding season when the juncos need extra protein for their growing young.
- Goldfinches feed their young thistle seeds and other midsummer flower seeds, which they regurgitate into the mouths of the young.
- Animals that eat fruits, including seeds, are called “frugivores.”
Check out MDC’s website for step-by-step instructions on building a birdfeeder.
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