how often to feed birds

One of the best ways to enjoy wildlife in the comfort of your home is by watching the birds who visit your backyard. Youll be amazed at the variety of birds youll see throughout the yearespecially if you offer native plants that feed not only the birds, but also the insects that make up a crucial part of their diets.

Plenty of people choose to augment plants with birdseed, too. Yet experts disagree about whether this kind of backyard bird feeding will significantly help bird populations, and research indicates that it can even disrupt migration patterns or unbalance population sizes. On the other hand, supplemental feeding can help individual birds in your neighborhood, especially if plentiful native plants arent available.

The general rule for feeding any wild animal is not to offer food when it might cause harm (such as when theres a local outbreak of avian disease that could spread through feeders). If you do choose to use a bird feeder, these answers to common questions will help you get started.

Come to Old Ben’s free class, “Making bird feeding simple,” on March 24 at 9 a.m. to learn more about feeding wild birds. Like nature does!.

“How often should I refill my bird feeders?” is a question I’ve been asked a lot over the years. The answer may seem straightforward. Below are some answers that might surprise you.

If the feeder is smaller and filled just before a storm or during the busy breeding season, it will attract more birds and be accessible to a wider variety of birds. One example of a popular food to fill a smaller feeder would be hulled sunflower chips.

It’s likely that you have heard others advise against ever leaving feeders empty. This not only drives birds away, but it also eliminates a vital food source that the birds in your backyard rely on. First of all, birds won’t go hungry if feeders are left empty for a few days before being refilled. Birds usually use feeders to supplement their diet, unless it’s the dead of winter and food becomes scarce. Some people who are unable to consistently afford to feed birds find this method appealing. Although it can be very expensive, feeding birds is enjoyable and rewarding. There is no shame in not refilling feeders constantly. Because there are no seeds inside, cleaning is also made easier.

If you’re having trouble determining how frequently to refill your feeders, take a look at these three feeding schedules and see which one best suits your needs.

Where should I put bird feeders?

Wherever they feel safe from predatorsincluding roaming catsbirds are most likely to feed. Set feeders 12 feet away from bushes, trees, or brush piles. Predators are unable to conceal themselves within striking distance of the feeder, but birds can swiftly fly the distance of 12 feet to reach safe cover. Place thorny branches or chicken wire around ground-level feeders for additional protection.

What if I have to leave town?

Dont worry if you must stop feeding briefly. When you’re not around, wild birds will find other food sources in all but the worst weather, especially in suburban areas where there are other bird feeders nearby. However, if you reside in a remote or rural area, make arrangements for a neighbor to watch over the feeders while you are away for the winter.

FAQ

How often do birds need to be fed?

Chicks that have not yet opened their eyes may take 56 feedings per day (every 3-4 hours). Once birds’ eyes open, they can have 35 feedings (one every 5 hours). As their feathers start to grow in, they may only need to be fed 23 times per day (every 612 hours). Their crops should appear full when they are done.

Can you overfeed birds?

Although there are certainly some birds that are a little more greedy than others – birds are clever when it comes to their eating habits and will tend to not overeat. They are in tune with how much food is required to see them through the day and will quickly learn what their bodies need to sustain their activities.

Should I feed wild birds every day?

Most birds don’t need your help in the summer. When they are nesting and rearing their young, many birds focus on eating insects, so feeding is less necessary. It is also important for young birds to learn how to find naturally occurring foods, so take a break from filling feeders in summer.

How often should you fill a bird feeder?

Try and fill your bird feeders once a day We recommend you put fresh food out at least once a day.