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December 31st, 2008 by PetGuru

Getting the attention of birds of varied species is actually a fun and a relaxing way to spend time with your whole family right in your own backyard. Everything basically starts by providing the right bird feeding environment. And the only way to do that is by having plenty of wild bird food in an appropriate feeder. Choosing the right bird feeder for your yard starts by understanding the species that are indigenous to your area, as well as those that you wish to attract. So how do you choose the most ideal bird feeder?

The first thing to do is to learn more about the varied types of feeders. In general, the various species of birds can use any one of the four varieties of feeders, which are the hopper bird feeders, tube feeders, tray feeders, and the suet bird feeders. The most common of them are the hopper feeders and typically they look like a gazebo or a barn. On the other hand, a tube feeder is cylindrical in shape and is designed with a number of perches, with tiny holes in the tube for feeding. Tray feeders, also called platform feeders or ground feeders, can provide you with an unobstructed view of birds since you can place these feeders close to the ground. These types of feeders generally have an open design. Suet feeders are made from wires and hold suet cakes. Aside from these four common types, there is also the Hummingbird feeder, which will attract this incredibly unique bird for your viewing pleasure.

Once you understand the four major bird feeders, the next step is to find out the types of birds you wish to attract. In bird viewing, you can quite possibly attract many birds of different varieties, yet some of them may need different types of birdseed. However, hopper feeders can work well with almost all types of bird seed. If you wish to attract smaller and more interesting bird types, then tube feeders are the answer. These are generally ideal for watching Nuthatches or Chickadees. On the other hand, larger bird species are great viewed when feeding on platform or ground feeders. Aside from providing bird seeds, find time also to observe your yard for any predators. To avoid squirrels, you can opt for the suet or tube feeders since these are excellent squirrel proof bird feeder options. But then again, any type of feeder is suitable as long as you place them in spots and areas where squirrels do not have easy access.

Birds of various species will eat almost any types of seed, in general, yet if you can, provide them with seeds of top quality. Also, keep the feeders clean and full to the top. Migratory birds will visit as they fly from north to south and back again, and your family will be richer for the experience.