Some common household dangers that can kill birds instantly include window collisions, toxic plants, pesticides, open toilets or sinks, and household pets. By taking precautions such as covering windows with netting or curtains, removing toxic plants from the home, using pet-safe products, and securing household pets, we can create a safer environment for birds. By being mindful of these hazards, we can help ensure that birds continue to play an important role in our ecosystem for generations to come.

Different household dangers which can kill the birds

Different kinds of household accessories and scraps can be responsible for the instant death of the birds. Let’s discuss these household items to prevent the birds from these types of dangers.

1. Poisoning

Some household plants can be poisonous to birds, and ingesting them can cause severe illness or death. Examples of toxic plants include lilies, tulips, daffodils, oleander, and azaleas. To prevent harm to birds, homeowners can remove toxic plants from the home or yard or place them out of reach of birds. Moreover, many people use poisonous sprays to get rid of insects and pesticides from their gardens, which can be extremely toxic for birds. These toxic chemicals can be consumed by the birds through the food they eat or even the water they drink, leading to severe health issues or even death in some cases.

2. Open Deep Water

Open deep water can also be dangerous for birds. If a bird falls into deep water, it may not be able to get out, leading to exhaustion or drowning. Even a shallow bird bath or water bowl can pose a risk if it is too deep for the bird to stand in comfortably or if it lacks a sloping edge to allow the bird to climb out. Therefore, it is essential to provide shallow water sources for birds, such as a birdbath with a shallow depth or a water bowl with a sloping edge. This will allow birds to drink and bathe safely without the risk of drowning.

3. Non-Stick Coating

Non-stick coatings on kitchen products such as pans, baking sheets, and utensils can release toxic fumes when heated to high temperatures. These fumes can be harmful to birds, especially those with sensitive respiratory systems. The coating can also peel off and be ingested by birds, leading to potentially fatal blockages in their digestive tracts. It is important to use these products with caution and ensure that birds are not exposed to them or their fumes. Proper ventilation and using non-toxic alternatives can help prevent harm to birds.

4. Unhealthy Food

Unhealthy food can also be dangerous for birds. Feeding them processed and salty foods like chips, crackers, or bread can lead to obesity and malnutrition. Additionally, feeding them food with high sugar content like candy or chocolate can be toxic and cause hyperactivity, seizures, or death. It’s important to provide birds with a balanced and healthy diet that includes a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seeds. Avoiding feeding them processed or unhealthy human foods is crucial for their well-being. To make your life easy, we have created a list of the worst foods for birds.

5. Electrical Cords

Electrical cords can pose a serious danger to birds if they chew on them. Birds are naturally curious and may mistake electrical cords for something to play with or chew on. This can result in electrocution, which can be fatal. To prevent this, it’s important to keep cords out of reach or hidden from birds. Cord covers can also be used to cover exposed cords and make them less tempting for birds to chew on. Additionally, it’s important to regularly check cords for any signs of damage or fraying, and replace them if necessary.

6. Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can also pose a danger to birds. If a bird is allowed to fly around the house, it can accidentally fly into the spinning blades of the ceiling fan, causing serious injury or death. Even if a bird is in a cage, a ceiling fan should not be turned on while the bird is in the room or the cage is in the path of the fan’s blades. It is important to ensure that birds are kept away from ceiling fans and other potential hazards to prevent any accidents.

7. Bird Toys

Bird toys can be both safe and unsafe for birds, depending on the type and quality of the toy. Some bird toys may have small parts or sharp edges that can injure a bird or cause choking hazards. Toys made of toxic materials or coated with lead-based paint can also be dangerous.

On the other hand, toys that are designed for birds with safe materials, such as untreated wood, natural fibers, and non-toxic dyes, can be beneficial for a bird’s physical and mental health. Toys that provide opportunities for foraging and exploration can also improve a bird’s quality of life.

To ensure the safety of your bird, it’s important to choose toys that are appropriate for their size and species, inspect toys regularly for any signs of wear and tear, and avoid toys with small parts or toxic materials. Additionally, providing a variety of toys can keep birds mentally stimulated and reduce the risk of boredom and destructive behavior. We have also created a list of unsafe bird toys; check the list before buying any toy.

8. Mirror             

As many of the followers were asking us, “Are mirrors bad for birds?“. Mirrors can also be dangerous for birds. Birds may perceive their reflection in a mirror as a rival bird and try to attack it. This can cause stress, injury, or even death. It is important to either cover or remove the mirror in the bird’s environment to avoid this situation. If a mirror is used for enrichment, it should be placed in a way that the bird cannot see its own reflection. It is recommended to provide the bird with other forms of enrichment such as toys, swings, and perches that are safe and can keep them mentally and physically active.

9. Pets

Pets can pose a danger to birds, especially if they are not accustomed to each other or are not supervised properly. Cats and dogs are natural predators and can easily catch and harm birds. Even if a pet is well-behaved, the presence of a predator can cause stress and fear in birds, which can negatively impact their health and well-being.

It is important for pet owners to keep their birds in a safe and secure location, away from any potential threats. If pets and birds are allowed to interact, it should be under close supervision to ensure the safety of both animals. Additionally, birds should always have a safe place to retreat to if they feel threatened.

It is also important to note that some birds, such as parrots, can be aggressive towards other pets, such as dogs and cats, and may try to attack them. In such cases, it is best to keep the pets separated and to seek professional advice on how to manage their interactions.

10. Windows

Birds can fly into windows and die on impact, which is a common problem for many bird species. One reason for this is that birds may mistake the reflection in the glass for the open sky, or they may be unable to see the window due to poor visibility. To prevent bird-window collisions, homeowners can use window decals, external screens, or netting, or close the blinds when not in use. In addition, placing bird feeders and other bird-friendly items further away from windows can help.

10 Common Household Dangers deadly to Parrots

What to do if You See a Dead Bird?

If you come across a dead bird, it’s essential to handle it carefully to prevent the spread of disease. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Wear protective gloves: Use protective gloves before handling a dead bird. This will prevent the transmission of any disease.
2. Place the bird in a plastic bag: Carefully place the bird in a plastic bag, and seal it tightly. If the bird is too big for the bag, wrap it in a towel or newspaper before placing it in the bag.
3. Dispose of the bird: You should dispose of the bird in an appropriate manner. It’s best to contact your local wildlife center or animal control agency to find out about their disposal procedures. If you must dispose of the bird yourself, bury it at least three feet deep or place it in a covered trash container.
4. Clean your hands and any equipment: After handling the bird, clean your hands and any equipment used with soap and water. This will help prevent the spread of any potential disease.

It’s important to note that in some areas, it may be illegal to handle or dispose of dead birds due to conservation laws. If you’re unsure, it’s best to contact your local wildlife center or animal control agency for guidance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, birds are important members of our ecosystem and add to the beauty of our surroundings. However, they can fall victim to various household dangers that we may overlook. It is essential to be aware of these hazards and take necessary measures to protect the birds. Simple steps like covering windows with films, using safe household cleaners, and avoiding unhealthy food can go a long way in ensuring bird safety. In case you come across a dead bird, it is important to handle it with care and report it to the appropriate authorities. By taking these precautions, we can create a safe environment for birds to thrive in our communities.

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Reasons Why Birds Migrate

1. Meal 

Food scarcity is one of the main principles behind the bird’s migration. If all the birds stay in the same food-rich areas, food will become scarce, which will make the breeding less successful. Millions of birds migrate in the northern regions each spring as food sources regenerate in these areas, making the breeding more successful. In the fall, birds again return to the tropical regions, where the food sources are replenished in the meantime.

Many birds also migrate small distances to pursue seasonal food sources. Sometimes the change in the food supply is also responsible for the bird’s irruption. It mostly occurs in the years when the food supplies are lower for the northern birds. Even the bird species that don’t migrate usually find themselves traveling when hunger threatens them.

2. Family 

This is the second main cause of the bird’s migration. They have different migration patterns, timing, and destinations to disperse around the world for breeding. The different suitable conditions help them easily raise their young, increasing the chances of healthy, viable offspring. Every species has its own best breeding conditions, including specific food sources, habitat, and breeding colonies. Many birds also migrate to prepare their young for long migrations in his life.

3. Climate 

The different types of climate and the changes in the climate can also affect the bird’s migration. Many bird species leave their arctic grounds when the temperature begins to dip. They need more temperate habitat to survive the brutal cold. Similarly, the hottest environment is also very harsh for their chicks.

4. Predators 

Birds like to migrate to the areas where the food sources are available year-round. But it also attracts a greater number of predators who can destroy their nests. Birds that migrate in the different areas also want to minimize this threat. They need to give a better chance to their young to reach maturity. Many bird species prefer specialized habitats that are inaccessible to predators, which include the coastal cliffs or rocky offshore islands.

5. Disease 

The larger group of birds living in the same habitat can be susceptible to parasites and diseases, which can decimate the number of birds in no time. So usually, birds disperse to different locations to minimize the chances of spreading disease to the entire population.

Conclusion 

In the end, we can conclude that birds mostly migrate for their survival. Not only for their survival also for the survival of their chicks as well. The main goals of their migration include finding richer food sources, seeking safer habitats, and avoiding predators. A good and successful migration is responsible for the birds to enjoy another year’s migration.

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1. Wrong Nectar Ratio 

The hummingbird nectar recipe is very easy, but still, many people make mistakes in it. They use the incorrect ratio of water and sugar, which can be problematic for these small jewels. The correct ratio is very important as the overly weak nectar can discourage the hummingbirds, while the strong nectar can ferment more quickly.

The standard hummingbird nectar recipe includes four parts of water and one part of sugar. So you can mix the half cup sugar for every two cups of water. If your water source is not high in minerals, you can use it as it is. Otherwise, boil it before dissolving the sugar.

2. Not Feeding at the Right Time 

Depending on the local climates, weather conditions, and hummingbird migration, the right time is also very important. You can’t simply hang the feeder at any time as it can discourage you from feeding them. You need to ensure that the early migrants can take advantage of your feeder before the spring flowers bloom. Keep these feeders until the late fall as all the migrants need to refuel themselves before their long journey towards the south. Also, focus on the different parts of the day as the hummingbirds are more active in the morning and evening.

3. Dirty Hummingbird Feeders 

Dirty feeders containing the contaminating nectar can be toxic to hummingbirds. Please avoid the cloudy and milky nectar that shows the visible dark speckles or floating insects, as this can lead them to sudden death. Make sure the regular cleaning of your feeders with a thorough cleaning at least once a month, so they become safe for hummingbirds.

4. Offering only one Feeder 

Most of the hummingbird species are territorial, aggressive, and chase away the competitors. They don’t want to share their food. So don’t mistake putting only one feeder, especially when you notice the huge number of hummingbirds on your feeder. You can minimize the aggression and accommodate more hummers by putting more space between feeders.

5. Not Controlling Insects 

The sweet nectar is equally attractive for ants, wasps, bees, hornets, and other insects. But the feeder surrounded by the insects can become dirty and contaminated very quickly; even a large stinging of insects can be dangerous for hummingbirds. There are several techniques, which help you to control insects, such as moats, feeder placement, bee-proof feeders, and feeder color. Make sure to don’t use dangerous chemicals as these are equally toxic for hummingbirds as well.

6. Not offering the Natural Nectar 

Yes, the supplement feeders are a great way to offer the nectar, but you can’t simply ignore the natural nectar flowers. These voracious birds prefer the natural food source, which continually replenishes itself with new blooms. Try out the different flowers with the best colors and shapes to see more birds in your garden.

7. Letting the Nectar to Freeze 

Many people don’t care about the nectar freezing, which is very discouraging for the hummingbirds and can also damage the feeder. Keep in mind that the very early and very late fall feeders carry the risk of nectar freezing. Make sure the hummingbirds can actually drink the food that is offered by keeping it from freezing.

8. Only Providing Nectar 

Yes, hummingbirds are nectarivorous and mostly depend upon the nectar for the majority of their diet. But sometimes, they need more nutrition than the nectar water provides. They like to get this energy from insects, spiders, and pollen. Providing these foods in your backyard ensures healthy hummers, which is essential for their growth and energetic lives.

9. Using Red Dye 

Hummingbirds are mostly attracted to the red color; that’s why most of the hummingbirds have red parts. So it’s not necessary to add red dye in the nectar to tempt them. Yes, they have an extraordinary high metabolism, but their small size is not scientifically verified to use the dye. These dyes can be detrimental to hummingbirds, so no need to take any chance.

10. Not Using the Other Ways 

Are you only using the nectar to attract the hummingbirds? You need to focus on other ways, such as providing water, shelter, and nesting sites. Provide the water to hummingbirds by using the shallow disk, mister, or dripper. Choose the best tree to provide them shelter and places to nest. Add the perches for hummingbirds resting and take some steps to attract them to your garden.

11. Refilling Only Once a week 

Don’t restrict yourself to refilling the nectar only once a week, especially in the peak summer heat, where you need to change it daily as the birds need more hydration. Also, near the end of the summer, hummers need plenty of nectar before starting their migration. Don’t wait for your nectar to turn cloudy; replace it immediately. At least replace the nectar every three to four days.

12. Low Feeder Placement 

The bad nectar feeder placement can put all of your efforts in vain. So make sure the feeder is at last four feet from the ground and away from the tree trunk. It should be easily viewable to hummingbirds and also safe from cats and other predators.

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When we talk about window bird feeders, these feeders come in different styles, shapes, and capacities. These feeders can also vary in many advanced features depending upon their price. So, if you are also looking to use the window bird feeder to feed the birds, you need to know about the different types of window bird feeders. It’s essential to buy a perfect bird feeder according to your window.

Different types of window birdfeeders

Window birdfeeders come in different types, as discussed above as well. These types include the outside window mount, solarium feeders, and hanging feeders. Let’s know more about these types of feeders.

Outside window mount

As clear from the name, these types of window feeders are usually mounted outside the window. You can mount these types of feeders on the outer side of your window. If the window is made up of glass, you can use the suction cups to attach the feeder to the window. These are mostly found bird feeders outside the windows. Some people also use Velcro to connect these types of feeders with the window. These feeders can be the best choice to get a clear view from inside the window.

Solarium feeders

The second type is the solarium feeders, which rest on a windowsill and protrude into the house through an open window or secured outside of the closed window. In this case, you need to take in mind the windowsill size and around space to get the excellent benefits from the solarium feeder. You can also perfectly tight the solarium feeder with the windowsill to prevent any damaging risk. So, this type of feeder can be the best choice if you don’t want to attach the bird feeder directly to the window glass.

If you are using the solarium feeders, make sure that your window is not locked on closing. If you have a casement window, you don’t need to go for solarium feeders. They don’t work with the casement window.

Hanging feeders

These types of feeders are usually not characterized as the window feeder, because these can be any feeder which uses a unique hanging hook to attach with the window. A specially designed hanger is used to hang these feeders with the window. It can be the right choice if you are looking for some space between the feeder and the window. The attaching hanger will leave some space among them. In this case, there is not any specific feeder; you can attach any style of bird feeder with the hanger.

Pay attention to feeder design

We have discussed the different types of window feeders above. All these feeders are suitable according to the need of the people. The mounting system of the above types is unique, but they can vary in design. Many birders pay special attention to the design of the bird feeder to see if the feeder is attractive or not. So, you also need to pay attention to the design of the window bird feeder. The enjoyment of the birding hobby is also depending upon the design of the feeder. Let’s see four main questions which people usually ask about the window feeder, which are mostly related to different types of window feeders.

What is the feeder made of?

It is a common question which people usually ask about the window feeders. A feeder can be made up of different materials depending upon their type. When talking about the window feeder, mostly made up of transparent plastic or glass. Many feeders are also made up of wood as well. Plastic feeders are usually easy to clean as compared to glass and wooden window feeders. The disadvantages of the plastic feeders are that they will get scratches with time. The wood window feeders are usually relatively hard and durable, but you may need to drilling to hang these feeders. Moreover, they can’t provide a clear view of the birds.

Is the feeder going to fall off the window?

Whatever type of feeder you are going to choose, you need quality and strong suction cups to hang the feeder with the window. Suction cups are essential to hang your feeders with the window properly. Whenever you are going to hang the feeder, make sure to clean out the window properly to remove the dust. You can also use a hairdryer to warm up the window a little bit to get the perfect results. A small drop of cocking oil in the suction cup is also very helpful in getting the perfect results.

What style roof does a window feeder have?

A standard type roof is preferable as compared to a flat roof. But a flat roof is helpful for the birds to sit a little bit and rest. A slanted roof is perfect to see the birds sliding down. The top of the window bird feeders can also play the role of preventing the seeds from different kinds of weather. A sloppy top is perfect in rainy and snowing weather.

Conclusion

From all the above discussion, we can conclude that window bird feeders are available in different styles. These styles can be different in shape, mounting method, material, type, and capacity as well. But for a window feeder, people usually prefer a transparent feeder made up of plastic or glass. So, they can easily enjoy the birding from a minimum distance. But you need to buy a perfect type of feeder from the above types according to your window.

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Firstly, we need to understand why the birds are flying into the windows. It’s actually due to the reflection they see in the window. They think that they are passing through a clear path where a small mistake can be deadly. Almost half of the window accident survivals are dead due to injuries or other animal attacks. Let’s see how we can prevent the birds from flying into the windows.

13 Tips to stop the birds from flying into the windows

1. Add tape strips

You can add the strips to your window’s outside surface to keep the birds away from your windows. The white strap is good as it can withstand wind and rain. The strips of the chart tape are also good to attach with the window. You can cut either by ¼” vertical white strips or 1/8″ horizontal strips to place them on your window. It’s up to you what you will attach with these taps according to your backyard. You can also put the large window decals stickers, suncatchers, mylar strips, masking tape, or other objects on the outside surface. Only one or two large stickers are not enough to prevent collisions. They must cover most of the glass, with narrow spaces so the birds can’t fly through them.

2. Cover the window with tempera paint or soap

You can also apply any coating on your window, which is blocking the sunlight as it will block the birds as well. Tempera paint is good as it’s inexpensive and long-lasting. You can also put any substance to create a film, which enables the birds to see before the window crash. But whenever you are using the soap or paint on your window, make sure these are safe for birds and don’t leave any clear or transparent area on the window.

3. Install the ABC bird tape

Birds see their reflection in the windows and try to attack the window by considering it another bird. ABC tape is a good long-lasting tape, which provides you an easier way to spacing dots on your window. It will be lost for almost four years, at an affordable price. It allows the light in with a partial blur view. So, you can use this tape to get a perfect view of your outdoor from inside the home with maximum safety for the birds. You can also tint the ABC tape to match your home’s color or print the images on it to give some more style to your backyard.

4. Install Zen Curtains

Zen Curtains are also known as Acopian Bird Savers, which are the closely spaced ropes hung down over the windows. These are most like the tape or decals, but they are easier to install. You can also remove these ropes anytime to get the perfect view of your backyard. You can mount these ropes outside of the window for perfect results. Whenever birds fly towards the window, they want to prevent these ropes by changing their direction. The 4 inches spacing is perfect for preventing the birds from window accidents.

5. Try out mosquito screens

A mosquito screen helps to keep the mosquitos away from home and prevents the birds from window accidents. There are different types of screens and nets available, which are beneficial both for birds and mosquitoes. Especially, the mosquito screen made with dark mesh is easily visible to the birds, and the net, which is made with durable, lightweight, and polypropylene. Secure screens are good to use for the windows as they are easy to install and only need 2 inches of space for fixing. The built-in brush of the screen cleans the screen whenever you want.

6. Use a bird net

Bird nets are used to prevent the birds from reaching any specific area. These are more like mosquito screens, which contain durable, lightweight polypropylene material. You can use these types of nets outside of your windows by keeping enough distance that the birds will bounce back before hitting the window glass. A small-mesh netting of around 5/8 inches is best for the birds to bounce off without any harm. You can simply use net clips, hooks, or a staple gun to install the bird nets.

7. Install one-way transparent film

Birds can’t see the glass, which is transparent. So, you can install a transparent film over your window like a collide scape, which allows the people to see through the windows from inside but look opaque to everyone else. These types of films reduce the amount of light that comes into the window and good to reduce your cooling cost.

You need to properly clean, rinse, and measure the surface before installing the film. After that, damp the whole exterior surface with a hose or spray bottle for better adhesion.

8. Use external sunshade or awnings

External sun shades or awnings are good to block the reflection of the sunlight. These sun shades provide support to the two different window exterior systems. The manual crank system raises or lowers the shade depending on the crank rotation. You need to properly care for and clean your system for the perfect polar shade functioning. Make sure to remove the light dust and debris regularly.

9. Move the birdbaths and feeders

Birdbaths and the window feeder’s location also play an important role in the bird’s collisions. Make sure to place the feeder within the 3 feet of windows or more than feet away to minimize the window collisions. Birds usually don’t recognize the window from long distances. A window bird feeder is one of the best ways to protect the birds from collisions. You can attach these feeders directly with the window glass to make the environment safe for the birds.

10. Try out Feather Guard

You can also set an object as a warning to prevent the birds from colliding with your house. Feather Guard window warning is the best option for this. These are perfect for directing the birds away from an area using their natural tendencies. Feather Guard is made with the bird feather, which are strung about 8 inches on a fishing line. These lines are vertically placed on the windows, which repel the birds from flying into the windows. Birds think that there is a predator in the area, where they found any loose feathers.

11. Install motion sensor lights

Motion light sensors are especially beneficial for night migrants as the lights disorient them. The red and white lights usually disrupt the birds more as they contain visible long-wavelength than the blue and green light. You can use the lights that are shielded to control the lights spread than the globe-type models, which spread the lights everywhere. The motion sensor is the best choice for this purpose, ensuring that the lights are no longer on unnecessarily.

12. Install external shutters

Installing external shutters is a proven method to stop bird-window accidents. You can close the shutters anytime to prevent the birds from window collisions. You can also open the shutter when you are at home to enjoy the outside view. These are also good to converse the energy to keep your house warm during winter. You can simply install the shutters on the exterior wall with a drill and

13. Angled glass

Angling the window glass also helps the birds to prevent window collisions. You can simply angle the window downward at 20 degrees such that the sky and trees are not reflected in the window glass.

How to help the birds who have flown into the window

• Whenever you found a bird that collides with the window, gently catch it with a towel and place it on a paper bag or cardboard box. Securely closed the bag or cardboard.
• Take the bird away from the activity in any quiet, warm, and dark place.
• Check the bird every 30 minutes without touching it.
• If the bird is recovering, take it outside and leave it alone. See if the bird can fly; it’s ok. Otherwise, take it back.
• If the bird is not recovering within a few hours, try to contact the wildlife rehabilitator.

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There are different types of bird feeder styles and designs available. You need to choose the best one according to the bird species you want to feed in your garden. However, the bird’s safety is one of the most important factors when selecting a bird feeder. Moreover, you need to take special care when you have squirrels, cats, and other predators in your garden. Let’s see the different types of feeders that can attract the various species of birds.

Different types of bird feeders

Whatever feeder you will choose, make sure it is sturdy enough to withstand different seasons, easy to assemble, keep the seeds dry, and most importantly, easy to clean. Let’s see the different types of feeders, which can provide various food to the birds.

1. Tray or platform feeder

Tray or platform bird feeders are good to attract a variety of seed-eating birds, including pigeons, starlings, House Sparrows, Grosbeaks, and native Sparrows. You can attract a maximum number of birds with platform feeders, but they don’t have any protection against rain and snow. There is no proper drainage system in the Tray feeders, which is responsible for the fungal and bacterial growth. Moreover, the bird droppings can quickly spoil the seeds. So, make sure to buy a tray feeder, which at least has several holes for drainage.

Offer only enough seeds in the tray, which are removed in one or two days, and always shake the bottom whenever you refill the tray feeder. Tray feeders are also an easy food source for the unwanted audience like squirrels and chipmunks. Tray feeders are usually placed near the ground and used to attract the ground eaters like juncos, doves, jays, blackbirds, and sparrows.

2. Hopper or House feeders

If you are looking for a bird feeder, which can fairly protect the seeds from weather and bird droppings, a hopper bird feeder is the best choice for this purpose. But if somehow seeds in the feeder get wet, they can quickly get the bacteria and fungus. Hopper or house feeders are mostly good to attract the finches, Blue jays. Cardinals, buntings, grosbeaks, sparrows, chickadees, and titmice.

These feeders can hold a good amount of seeds, which is convenient for people but dangerous for birds as it’s allowed the seeds to wet inside. These feeders are a little harder to clean than tray feeders. You can mount the hopper feeder on a pole or suspended. A squirrel baffle is very important to use when you are going to mount it with a pole.

3. Window feeder

A window feeder is a perfect choice to increase the beauty of your backyard. It’s also very helpful to prevent the birds from colliding with the windows. Window feeders are useful to attract the finches, chickadees, titmice, and some sparrows as well. You can also enjoy a wonderful close-up view of the birds from your home.

But the risk of seed spoiling is increased in the window feeders as the birds feed by standing on the seeds. So, make sure to clean out the window feeders regularly and try to keep the feeder clean. Fortunately, the window feeder is easiest to fill and clean than the other bird feeders.

4. Hummingbird Feeder

Hummingbird feeders are used to provide fresh nectar to hummingbirds. The most important thing about these feeders is their cleaning and filling as these feeders contain liquid and can become hazardous for birds quickly. Especially during the summer season, you need to take special care to prevent the birds from any health issues. You can mount the feeder under shade to prevent it from quick spoiling. Moreover, you also need to take some special care of your hummingbird feeder as the ants, bees, and other insects are also attracted to the sweet nectar.

5. Tube Feeders

Tube feeders are one of the best feeders to deal with squirrels. These squirrel-resistant feeders can keep the seeds fairly clean and dry with a good ventilation system. You can attract small birds like sparrows, grosbeaks, chickadees, titmice, and finches, depending upon the perches’ size under the feeding ports. These feeders’ port-style is designed to attract the seed-eating birds that like to eat, hanging upside down. You can offer the tiny nyjer seeds or larger seeds, depending upon the port size.

Unfortunately, most of the seed-containing feeders are extended an inch or more below the feeding ports, becoming a breeding ground for the mold and bacteria. You can simply block the bottom to deal with this issue. Make sure to choose the tube feeder size depending upon the strength of the birds in your area.

6. Nyjer feeder

Nyjer feeders are specially designed to hold the Nyjer seeds to attract the American Goldfinches, Pine Siskins, and Common Redpolls. There are two main types of Nyjer feeders; tube feeders and thistle socks fine-mesh bags. The tube feeders have small ports to attract the smaller species. Many people don’t like the black holes below their Nyjer feeder as the small birds like to eat the tinier seed within the hole. Usually, squirrels don’t like the Nyjer seeds, making this feeder the right choice for the backyard.

7. Suet Feeders

Suet feeders are usually constructed with wire mesh or plastic-coated wire, or mesh onion bag. You can tie them with a tree trunk, suspended them, or affixed them to the side of the hopper feeder. These feeders can attract various woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees, titmice, jays, and starling. These feeders are specially designed to force the birds to feed upside down. Make sure to buy a plastic-coated suet feeder as the bird’s tongue can be stuck with the metal. Suet cages are the safest way to offer the suet as the bird’s toes can also stick into the mesh onion bags, which lead them to death.

Quick Tips to Buy a Bird Feeder

Whenever you are thinking about attracting the bird in your garden, there are three things that play an important role in birds’ attraction; freshwater, Cover for the nest, and a variety of foods. Bird feeders are the best devices to provide a variety of foods to the birds. Let’s see some quick tips about buying Birdfeeders.

• Whichever type of feeder you will buy from above, make sure it’s comfortable to fill, empty, and clean.
• If you have a plastic feeder, try to reinforce it with metal to discourage the squirrels.
• There should be perches around the feeder, depending upon the birds you want to attract. Metal perches feeders are usually good than plastic perches.
• If your feeder has some wooden parts, It should be painted to protect against moisture.
• If you have squirrels in your garden, try to buy a feeder, which has maximum protection against squirrels.

The post Bird Feeder Buyer’s Guide 2021 by Birdfeederist appeared first on BIRDFEEDERIST.

Key Points About Window Bird Feeders

Everybody should know some critical points before going to use the window bird feeders. Let’s see some key points that help you attract the maximum number of birds on the window feeders.

Type of window feeder

The window feeder type is an essential factor to keep in mind while using the window feeder for birds. A window feeder can come in different types depending upon its mounting techniques. These types mainly include the outside mount window feeders, solarium bird feeders, and hanging feeders. All these feeders are perfect, depending upon the window style and your need. You need to choose the best one which is ideal according to your window and comfortable for you.

Size of window feeder

The size of the window feeder is another critical point to take in mind. The window feeder’s size mainly depends upon the number of birds you want to attract to your window. Moreover, it also depends upon your available time because a less capacity feeder can empty quickly, and you need to refill this feeder again and again. Many of the window feeders come with only 1-2 cups of capacity to feed the small birds. The larger feeders can accommodate a greater number of birds with maximum capacity.

Feeder style

Feeders’ style is another factor that plays a role in the attraction of the birds on the window. It would be best if you chose a perfect style feeder that works with your window. You need to check the dimension of the window bird feeder before purchasing it. Moreover, it would be best if you saw the different windowsill and mounting bird feeders. If you have a casement window, you need a specially designed feeder. Make sure you can easily access the feeder for cleaning and refilling purposes.

Feeder placement

You need to choose a perfect feeder location on the window to attract the maximum number of birds. Choose a location that is easily viewed from the inside and outside as well. If you are looking to observe the birds from a standpoint, make sure to hang the feeder at a specific height according to your height. Moreover, which window is perfect for the birds? Many people always choose the window which is facing the backyard. It is the perfect window to attract birds. But you can also choose any other window, which is the less conspicuous side of the house.

Suction cups

When we talk about the window bird feeders, suctions cups are also essential. Because suction cups are the bird feeders’ component that bears the full weight of the window feeder in maximum cases, do some people ask how long a suction cup can hold the bird feeder? These people need to make sure that a properly placed suction cup can hold your feeder indefinitely. It would help if you made sure that the suction cups and windows are properly clean. Moreover, you can also use a cocking oil inside the suction cups.

Feeder placement time

You can place the window feeder at any time of the year to attract the birds. Some feeders are not suitable for use in the winter season, especially during the colder days. These types of feeders are mainly including the solarium type of feeders. So, solarium type of feeders is inconvenient for individuals living in colder areas because these types of feeders require a window to be open.

Birds type

Birds type is also a little necessary when we talk about the window feeders. Usually, you can attract all types of birds with window feeders. But the smaller birds are relatively easy to attract to the window bird feeders. You can also use a two-way mirror feeder for more skittish birds.

Squirrel proofing

Squirrels are one of the most unwanted audiences on the window bird feeders. Depending upon the feeder type and style, the squirrel may easily reach the window bird feeder or not. But usually, it’s tough for the squirrels to access the window bird feeders. In some cases, if the feeder doesn’t have much protection, squirrels can jump to the window bird feeder. Especially if your window is facing the backyard, make sure nothing is supporting around the window.

Cleaning of window feeder

Some people ask the question, should they need to clean their window feeders? People need to make sure that it’s necessary to clean the window feeders regularly. You can use the water and anti-bacterial mild detergents to clean out the window feeders. There is no proper timing for cleaning the bird feeders; whenever you see your feeder need cleaning, you need to clean to prevent the birds from any health hazards.

Conclusion

From all the above discussion, we can conclude that different key points help you attract the maximum number of birds on the window feeders. You can’t just hang the feeder anywhere on the window and wait for the bird’s arrival. Make sure to concentrate on the above points to make it easier for the birds and you.

The post What are the key points about Window feeders? BirdFeederist appeared first on BIRDFEEDERIST.

There can be different reasons that people don’t want these in their garden as they have a loud voice, push out the other smaller birds, messy eaters, clever than other birds. Moreover, Blue jays come in groups, and they are aggressive dive bombers. So, let’s see how we can get rid of the Blue jays safely.

10 Tips to get rid of Blue Jays

1. Use Fake Owl

The Blue jays are bully birds, but they go back without fighting when they found anyone bigger than themselves. Owls are the legitimate predators of aggressive songbirds. You can’t find a wild Owl and train it for yourself to get rid of the Blue Jays. So, the best option is the use of the fake Owl. A fake Owl is a perfect thing to get rid of the Blue Jays without any actual threat of Blue jays killing while using the real Owl. Yes, the Blue jays are smarter than the other birds, but it doesn’t mean that they can distinguish between fake and real owls.

2. Get a cat

Sometimes the fake predator doesn’t work depending upon your home environment and other things. In that case, you need to move to the real predator, which cannot kill the birds. The cats are good to use in that case as they don’t actually catch the Blue jays. So, you can get the same benefit as the fake Owls or Snake. Blue jays can easily see them in your garden and assume them a threat. The cat’s movement in your garden or backyard is good to repel the Blue jays than the fake Owls.

3. Wind Chimes

You might don’t like to see the cat chasing birds in your garden; in that case, you can consider the Wind Chimes that are completely nonviolent. Blue Jays don’t like the sounds produced by the wind chimes. You can use the metallic, crystalline, or liquid material wind chimes as they are the most repellent for the Blue jays. The brightness and the sound of these chines prevent the Blue jays from landing in your garden. You can easily purchase chimes online or made them at home.

4. Blast Music

Blue Jays don’t like any type of music, especially loud music. But you can’t play music loudly all the time in your garden as your neighbors are also don’t want this type of disturbance all the time. So, to handle this issue, you can buy a digital device with a timer or a security system that will only trigger with the bird’s presence.

5. Update your feeder

If the blue Jays are continuously attacking your feeder, it’s time to be creative with it. You need to update your feeder to prevent it from bullying birds like Blue Jays so that the other small birds can easily feed on it. Sit near your feeder, and observe it. Try to find out any helping element for the wild birds, which is blocking the small birds. See tubing or mesh around the feeder trays. Ensure that the mesh surrounds the feeding tube so the birds can easily pass through and enter the chamber while the other wild birds cannot cross it.

6. Clear away stray seeds

Remember that the Blue jays are messy eaters and don’t mind eating the other birds’ messes. So, if you want to get rid of them, you need to keep clean your feeder’s surroundings. You need to cut out the food source of the blue jays completely. Especially, clean out the below ground of your backyard feeder.

7. Use an alternative feeder

If you like the Blue Jays’ beauty and don’t want Blue jays to eat from the small bird feeders, you can simply use the alternative feeders for the Blue jays. Allow the other birds to feed on alternative feeders without disturbing the small birds. You can also create a longer perch with a soda bottle on the top of each end; it will be good for the smaller birds while the bottle will spin with the too heavy birds like Blue jays.

8. Change the seeds

Sometimes blue jays don’t like to eat some specific seeds, which are usually perfect for small birds. For example, the Blue jays have not enjoyed the safflower seeds, and they leave the feeder alone when they found them.

9. Weight the Perch

Weight is one of the major advantages of the Blue Jays against the small birds. But you can get advantages of the more weight of the Blue Jay by creating the perches, which can only bear the small weight. You can set these perches around your feeder with the triggering system. These perches will drop below the feeding level when the wild birds try to sit on them. Small birds can easily perch on them and eat at any time. Similarly, you can also consider a feeder without perches as the small birds can feed without perching than the larger birds.

10. A Mirror up to their Nature

Blue jays are more intelligent than the other birds, but it doesn’t mean that they can recognize their reflection in the mirror. Birds always think that there is another bird in the mirror when they see their reflection. Blue jays will be agitated by this other bird and hopefully move to any other place searching for food. Yes, the small birds can also be affected by this, but usually, it is observed that large birds are more prone to this issue.

5 Weird Facts about the Blue Jays

Many people know the Blue jays as a good-looking and aggressive bird. But the people need to know some weird facts about the Blue jays, which makes them very special among the birds. Let’s see the five weird facts about the Blue jays.

• Blue jay rubs the ants on their feathers. Yes, you have heard correctly, blue jays do that, which is also known as anting. There are different theories proposed for this behavior of the Blue jays, but recent theories explain that the birds do that to prevent parasites and bacteria.
• The pigment found in the Blue jays feather is the same as the pigment found in human hair and skin.
• Blue jays can make a variety of sounds, and it is common to hear those mimicking hawks.
• Blue jays are known to collect paint chips to stock the source of calcium for the spring. So, make sure to provide them with the alternative of paint if you found them chipping away at the paint.
• Blue jays produce more noises in the fall than in spring and summer.

You can also read about some interesting facts about the Blue Jays.

The post How to Get Rid of Blue Jays? by BirdFeederist appeared first on BIRDFEEDERIST.

What is a Joe Pye Weed?

It is a common name of the plants which are in the genus Eutrochium. These plants are natively found in the United States and Canada. This plant is mainly recognized by its large pink flower clusters; it’s a seven-foot-high plant. This plant comes back after year and year. So, you need to plant it for once, and you can enjoy the beauty every summer. The ideal places for the Joe Pye Weed are the edge of the woodlands and wet meadows. In short, to obtain the best results plant it in partial shade.

Five species of wild Eutrochium (Joe Pye Weed) in North America

• The first one is the Eutrochium Dubium, which is also known as Coastal Plain Joe Pye Weed. It is mostly found in the eastern USA and Canada. The range of this species extends from Nova Scotia to Georgia.
• The second one is the Eutrochium Fistulosum, referred to as the Hollow Joe Pye Weed, Trumpetweed, or Purple Thoroughwort. Its range is spread across southern Canada to eastern and southern USA, from Maine west to Ontario, Wisconsin, Missouri, and south as far as Texas and Florida.
• The third one is Eutrochium Maculatum, which is commonly known as Spotted Joe Pye Weed. You can find it throughout the United States and Canada. It is the only species of the Joe Pye, located west of the Great Plains.
• The next is Eutrochium Purpureum, commonly known as Purple Joe-Pye Weed, Kidney-root, Sweet-scented Joe Pye Weed, and sweet Joe-Pye weed. It’s native to eastern and central North America.
• The last is Eutrochium Steelie, which is also known as Steele’s Eupatorium. You can only find it in the Appalachian Mountains in Kentucky, Virginia, Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina.

You may don’t found any of the species listed above from the local stores. But many Nurseries have the Gateway, which is a very popular Joe Pye Weed found in local nurseries.

Why should you grow Joe Pye Weed?

Joe Pye weed has great benefits for you in your garden. It can increase the beauty of your garden in the following aspects.

Attracts birds and Butterflies

The large cluster and tubular flowers of this special plant are important natural food sources for bees, butterflies, and many other beautiful creatures. You can easily see the butterfly species like skippers, fritillaries, and swallowtails in your garden by planting the Joe Pye Weed in your garden. Especially, you can observe the hummingbirds sipping nectar from the flowers. These types of plants are also good to provide shelter, cover, and protection to the birds.

Joe Pye Weeds is native to North America  

Joe Pye Weed is a native plant of North America and a more efficient and eco-friendly choice. It can easily evolve with your local climate and conditions. All the native wildflowers are important food sources for the local birds and insects. Moreover, the native plants don’t need a lot of weeding, watering, and fertilizing like cultivated counterparts.

A beautiful addition to your flower garden

The tall plumes of the Joe Pye Weed are a good stellar backdrop for the other flowers. They bloom in late summer or early fall.  So, it is a beautiful addition to your natural garden.

Joe Pye Weed is Deer Resistant

The deer do not like the Joe Pye Weed; these are usually untouched by the mammals.

Surprising Health Benefits

It is named colonial-era Native American, which has many health benefits. The early colonists use this to treat an outbreak of typhus. If you don’t want to treat typhus, it’s a neat plant if you are a history buff.

How do you grow Joe Pye Weed?

Joye Pye weed is a hardy plant grown in USDA plant hardiness zones 2-9. Partial sun to full shade is the perfect location for the Joe Pye Weed. The most suitable areas for this native plant are moist areas, creeks, drainage ditches, and pond banks. It can also be easily grown in garden beds or along woodlands edges in moist and fertile soil. So let’s how you can easily grow the Joe Pye weed starting from seed.

1. Take the Joe Pye Weed seeds

You can easily start the Joe Pye Weed from seed, and once it’s established, it will spread easily. You need to make sure about the planting site of the seeds. Make sure to keep the soil moist until the ground freezes.

Alternatively, you can start the seeds indoors five weeks before the spring temperature consistently a 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Take a potting mix container and sow the seeds about 1/8 inches deep. Keep the container around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and transplant them when it reaches the 2 inches height with 1 foot apart alignment.

2. Watering

When you plant the Joe Pye Weed, make sure about its proper watering, which is necessary for its thriving. A dry soul for a few days can be damaging for the Joe Pye Weed.  It’s more important during the hot days and when the plants are established. You can be watering at the time of the morning and evening to prevent evaporation.

3. Fertilizing

Joe Pye Weed doesn’t need a lot of fertilizing; you can add compost to your garden before planting to help Joe Pye Weed to thrive.

4. Pruning

Pruning is also essential for any plant, but you can’t cut the plants back to 4-8 inches in the spring. This plant blooms on the new season’s growth, so it will not affect the flowering.

5. Dividing

Joe Pye Weed plants can be divided in the fall season when they go dormant. There are multiple stems on each plant; you can use a sharp shovel to cut the roots in between the stems. After separating, you can plan each piece at the same depth.

What are the common pests and diseases of Joe Pye Weed?

Pests and diseases are very devastating for any garden, but you don’t need to worry about it as the Joe Pye Weed is free of many of these types of issues. However, some fungal diseases affect Joe Pye Weed, which is known as powdery mildew. It can be recognized by the grayish-white splotches on both sides of the plant’s leaves. This disease can be responsible for the leaves drying up. Powdery mildew affects many plant species, which are spread by the spores in the wind. High heat and humidity are the main of powdery mildew thrive. Let’s see how we can deal with this issue.

1. Preventing the powdery mildew

Healthy soil is a good way to prevent powdery mildew. You can use the mulch and add good quality compost to the soil for at least one’s a year to prevent powdery mildew. Good air circulation is also a perfect way to prevent powdery mildew. You need to destroy that plant, which can spread powdery mildew.

2. Powdery mildew treatment

You can also treat your powdery mildew plant before destroying it if you really love it. There are many home remedies and fungicides available that can be used to treat powdery mildew. You can make a milk and water mixture with about 60% of the milk. Take and spray bottle and add the solution to the bottle and spray your plants with this solution once a week. It may work or not in your garden, but the milk interacts with the sun most of the time and creates an antiseptic effect. It can destroy any fungi without destroying the plant. You can use this spray preventatively to get the best results.

Where can I find the Joe Pye Weed?

Whenever you are thinking about planting the Joe Pye Weed, you can choose any place from the three different places.

• The first one is the online market, especially the online Amazon store. You have a dozen options to buy the Joe Pye Weed seed on Amazon.
• If you are looking for live plants, the best place is the local nursery or the garden center. There are many online websites are also there which offering the Joe Pye Weed plant. The Joe Pye Weed plant doesn’t bloom until the late summer, so the nurseries don’t carry it until the late summer. So, don’t panic if you don’t find any Joe Pye Weed in the spring season.
• You can also find some native verities of the Joe Pye Weed growing along the roadsides and wetland areas. So, you can also collect some seeds from wild plants near your home. Many wild species of the Joe Pye Weed can be found, like Sweet Joe Pye Weed, Hollow Joe Pye Weed, and Coastal Plain Joe Pye Weed.

Fun Facts about Joe Pye Weed

• The Joe Pye Weed flowers somehow resemble the trumpets, so sometimes it’s also referred to as the trumpetweed.
• It is a part of the genus Eupatorium named for Mithridates VI Eupator 132-63 B.C, king of Pontus.
• Joe Pye Weed also uses a different type of medical treatment. A book published in 1854 listed it to treat urinary tract pain, incontinence, reproductive issues, and stomach disorder.
• Today, many herbalists use the Joe Pye Weed to help pass kidney stones as a diuretic.
• Many varieties of the Joe Pye Weed reach up to 8 feet tall under optimal conditions.

Conclusion

From all the above information, we can conclude that Joe Pye Weed is a good and fun addition to your garden to attract the butterflies, bees, hummingbirds, and songbirds in the garden. The interesting facts of the Joe Pye Weed make it unique for your garden.

The post Joe Pye Weed 101 – How & why to grow this native plant? appeared first on BIRDFEEDERIST.

Experiement Guidelines:

1. The brand should be the same

While comparing the price, make sure the brand is the same. It’s unfair to compare the bird seeds or bird food of any company from an online store with the bird seeds or bird food of any other company from a local store. You need to know that the quality of the product differs from company to company.

2. Bag size should be the same 

You need to make sure the bag size is the same for both products. For example, you should compare a 20-pound bird seeds bag of company A from a local store with a 20 pounds seeds bag of the same company from an online store.

3. Tried to use Amazon

When you are choosing an online store for price comparison, try to choose Amazon. Many people look for Amazon when they find the lowest available prices online. Amazon also provides free shipping, which is a big edge for its comparison with a local store.

Case Study # 1: Black Oil Sunflower Seed

Black oil sunflower is the most popular and common birdseed. I have found a 10 pounds bag of Audubon park black oil sunflower at a local grocery store.

The purchase at the grocery store costs $9.99, while the same product costs $20.34 on Amazon. So, the online buying cost of the same product is almost double as compared to the local grocery store. If you are planning to use sunflower seeds, here are the feeders for sunflower seeds.

Case Study #2: Sunflower Hearts

The second product which I consider is the sunflower heart. It is also easily available at my local grocery store. I have chosen the same brand as it’s also available on Amazon. It’s a 5-pound sunflower heart bag.

The grocery store price is $11.99, and the Amazon price is $23.40. So, you can also save up to 50% by purchasing from a grocery store.

Case study #3: safflower seed

I have purchased a 5 pounds bag of safflower seeds from my local pet store.

The cost of this bag at a local grocery store is $8.98, while the cost of the same brand bag on Amazon is $13.50.m So, I have saved up to 33% money by buying from an online store.

Case Study #4: Nyjer Seed

I have bought a 10 pounds bag of Wagner’s Nyjer seed from my closest local store.

The cost of the bag is $18.98, and the same bag on Amazon is $21.98. So, I have again saved up to 14% by buying from a local store.

Case Study #5 Nyjer Seed Finch Socks

I bought Kaytee Finch Socks from the nearer pet supplies.

The cost of this product is $7.98 in the local store, and the same product price is $12.03 on Amazon. So, I have saved up to 33% by buying from a local store.

Case study #6: Peanuts

This product has just come to my mind when I am purchasing from Sam’s club.

Sam’s club price of this product is $5.68, while the same product price on Amazon is $16.98. So, a huge saving of 67% on this product.

Case Study #7: Mealworms

Mealworms are the best treat for the birds.

I have purchased the Kaytee Mealworms from a pet store for $6.98, while the Amazon price is $9.20So. I have saved 25% by purchasing from a local store.

Case Study #8: General Bird Seed Mix  

This time is the Kaytee songbird blend, which I found in a local pet store.

The price of this birdseed mix is $9.99 in local pet stores, while the price on Amazon is $17.60. So, I have saved up to 43% by purchasing from Amazon.

Takeaways and observations

The results of all the above case studies can blow anyone’s mind, as in every case, you can save a good amount by buying from grocery stores as compared to online stores. On average, you can save up to 50% by buying from local grocery stores as compared to online stores. So, buying bird food from a local store is significantly cheaper than buying online.

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