Most gardeners love the sights and sounds of beautiful birds fluttering about their yard. Many go to considerable length to attract these feathered friends and do so by carefully placing different types of bird feeders throughout the garden. This allows for a variety of bird species to visit year after year. You don't have to be an expert gardener or birdwatcher to attract birds to your yard, however, you do need to have some knowledge on the various types of bird feeders that are available. Following is a list of the most types of bird feeders.
Platform Feeders
Platform feeders are often overlooked by the average gardener, however, they can serve as great feeders for a variety of wild birds. The platform feeder is a table like open concept feeder with raised edges. Although these can be suspended anywhere in your garden it's best to hang them about 1 foot off the ground. Platform feeders are ideal for cardinals and doves.
Tube Feeders
Tube feeders are long, hollow cylinders that are usually hung on a tree or mounted on a decorative pole. These are ideal for attracting multiple birds at once because they have several feeding ports. They are easy to maintain and cheap to buy. Chickadees and finches especially like this type of bird feeder because they can perch.
Hopper Feeders
Hopper feeders are ideal for those who prefer to refill every other week rather than everyday. This type of bird feeder resembles a house and can hold lots of seeds, dispensing only what is needed. This feeder will attract bigger birds such as grosbeaks, blue jays, cardinals and doves, however, they are notorious for attracting squirrels as well, so make sure to squirrel-proof your hopper.
Window Feeders
Window feeders are great for birdwatchers who want to get up close and personal. You can hang these on your window sill or attach them directly on the window with suction cups. These feeders usually have a one way mirror to allow the birds to feed without being scared, however, this feature makes them much pricier, but well worth it if you plan on taking photos or if you live in high rise building.
Satellite Feeders
These feeders are perfect for small birds who tend to get pushed around by their bigger counterparts. They are shaped like a dome with small ports that only small birds can easily access. Bigger birds can't keep the dome steady while trying to feed and often fall off or give up completely. This is also ideal if you have squirrels that like to snatch up your bird food.
I hope that I've inspired you to take your garden to a whole new level by adding the fascinating hobby of birdwatching. There's nothing quite like nature at your door step.
