About Bird Feeders

How to Choose a Backyard Bird Feeder

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:27:59 GMT

How to Choose a Backyard Bird Feeder

If you're like me and enjoy watching the birds in your own backyard, you'll find that the easiest way to bring a variety of birds into your yard is to place and fill one or more bird feeders. However, if you're new to this hobby, you may wonder which of the many different types of bird feeders is best.

Well, it truly depends on what you are trying to accomplish. For example, what types of birds do you want to attract to your backyard? What type of seed do you plan to feed and how often do you want to refill the feeders? Last, how much money do you want to spend? These are all questions you should think about before purchasing your feeders.

In a previous article (An Introduction to Bird Feeders), I wrote about some of the different types of feeders that are available and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Another great source of information is a local wild bird specialty store if you are lucky enough to have one in your area. The staff at our Wild Birds Unlimited store has been extremely helpful to us in the past. The staff at your local store will be familiar with the common and not-so-common birds in your area and their feeding preferences. They are also great problem-solvers when it comes to setting feeders up and keeping the squirrels out.

With that said, I have come to prefer the tube bird feeders myself. I've noticed that our backyard birds go to them first before our other types of feeders. Also, due to how the perches are placed around the feeder, more birds are willing to perch and eat at the feeder at the same time which I think is a huge plus. The smaller size means that they have to be filled more often, but the size also makes the feeder easier to handle and clean.

Because there are some birds that won't feed from our tube feeders, we have a hopper feeder set out in addition to our tube feeders. The cardinals and nuthatches prefer this feeder, in our backyard anyway. The finches, chickadees and woodpeckers eat from it also, but usually only if there are already a number of birds on the tube feeder. We've noticed that only 1-2 birds use the hopper at a time while 4-6 birds are often seen on each of our tube feeders. The hopper holds much more food, but we don't make use of the full capacity simply because the food doesn't get eaten as fast as in the tube feeders. Again, this is our personal experience and your backyard birds may feel differently about it than ours do.

The last advice I'd like to share is a suggestion not to purchase the cheapest backyard bird feeders that you can find. Spend a little more and get feeders that are either metal or made with high quality plastic with feeding ports that are reinforced with metal. In the past, I have purchased less expensive feeders with plastic feeding ports and found them to only last a few weeks because the squirrels chew right through them. So do yourself a favor and purchase high quality, durable feeders from the start. It will actually be less expensive in the long run.

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AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:56 GMT

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Bird Feeder Articles

• An Introduction to Bird Feeders

• Blue Bird Feeder Choices

• Cardinal Bird Feeder Selection

• Droll Yankee Bird Feeders Review

• Glass Bird Feeder: Beauty And Simplicity

• How to Choose a Backyard Bird Feeder

• Squirrel Bird Feeder? I Don't Think So.

• How to Squirrel Proof Your Bird Feeders

• Tips For Keeping Bird Feeders Clean

• Wood Bird Feeder Selection

• Yankee Flipper Bird Feeder - Does It Hurt The Squirrels?

Birding and Bird Watching Articles

• Attracting Birds To Your Backyard

• Avian Flu and Bird Feeding

• Bird Watching Binoculars: Do's and Don'ts

• Bird Watching for Beginners

• Birding by Ear to Identify Birds

• How to Choose Binoculars for Bird Watching

• The Joy of Bird Watching

• Squirrels Will Be Squirrels

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An Introduction to Bird Feeders

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

An Introduction to Bird Feeders

Bird watching is one of the most popular pastimes in the US and one that continues to grow in popularity. Like so many others, I have long been intrigued by birds. They are flying feathered gems that come in a variety of colors and sizes, each with its own song or call. I discovered a long time ago how enjoyable and relaxing it is to observe birds up close and personal. The best way I've found to attract a variety of birds into my own back yard so that they are close enough to watch is to set up bird feeders.

There are many different bird feeders on the market to choose from today. With such a huge array of choices, picking one or two feeders may seem confusing at first. It helps to understand that each birdfeeder can be categorized into one of approximately ten different types of feeders with each type being made for a specific purpose or type of bird. This article will concentrate on the four most popular types of bird feeders: the platform feeder, the hopper feeder, the tube feeder and the hummingbird feeder.

The Platform Feeder

The platform feeder is the simplest type of feeder that you can get and in its most basic form consists of a single platform or tray upon which you can place the bird food. Of course, this initial design may vary, and there are other feeders available which have taken this original design and changed it slightly to add to the basic idea. Examples of this include hopper and gazebo feeders and especially ground feeders which are very similar to platform feeders.

However if we go back to the original platform design, you will find that there are many benefits to this type of feeder. The platform feeder is the easiest to set up and maintain, is generally inexpensive and is a great feeder for someone just starting out with this hobby. Simply place the platform feeder on a post, pole or patio table, and you have your first bird feeder.

The downside of a platform feeder is that the bird food is exposed to the weather. Also, oftentimes smaller birds are crowded out by the larger birds on this type of feeder. Still, there are many positives to this type of feeder which, depending on your requirements, may outweigh the disadvantages.

The Hopper Feeder

The hopper feeder, sometimes referred to as a Gazebo feeder, is another very popular type of feeder. At its most basic level, it is simply a platform feeder with a roof. At the fanciest level, these feeders can resemble upscale feeding mansions. Accordingly, the price for this type of feeder can range from under $10 to something quite expensive for the fancier models. Whether basic or lavish, most hopper feeders feature a roof and walls so that they resemble a small house or gazebo.

Although not completely weather proof, hopper feeders do a fairly good job of protecting your bird seed from the elements. Different sizes are available which hold varying amounts of food. For people who don't have time to refill a bird feeder every day, one of the larger hopper feeders may be a good choice. Hoppers may be placed on a pole or post or hung from a hook or tree branch, and baffles may be added to deter neighborhood squirrels. Keep in mind that a larger hopper filled to capacity can be quite heavy, so be sure choose the type of mount accordingly.

The Tube Feeder

There are two types of tube feeders which are available, and each serves a unique purpose. The first is designed to hold common bird seed and the second is designed to hold niger or thistle seed. The niger tube feeder, commonly called a finch feeder, is designed with special feeding ports for dispensing the tiny niger seeds. In all other aspects, these two types of tube feeders are the same.

As the name of the feeder implies, it is tubular in design. The tubes are made from plastic for the most part, although other materials are sometimes used. The base, top and feeding ports may be plastic or metal. Metal is preferred since squirrels can quickly destroy a feeder with plastic feeding ports. The tube feeder comes in various lengths. Depending on the design, the length of the feeder often determines how many feeding ports or perches are available.

Like the platform feeder, the tube feeder does a pretty good job of protecting the bird seed from the environment. An overhead "weather baffle" may be purchased to further protect the feeder from bad weather. Tube feeders are great for attracting the smaller birds as the short perches discourage larger birds from attempting to feed. Most tube feeders can be post or pole mounted or hung from a hook or branch.

The Platform Feeder

The Hopper Feeder

The Tube Feeder

The Hummingbird Feeder

The hummingbird feeder is a nectar feeder designed specifically to attract hummingbirds. They come in a huge variety of shapes, sizes and designs. In fact, if you've never shopped for a hummingbird feeder before, you will be amazed at the choices that are available. The prices run from inexpensive to moderately expensive, with the more expensive models resembling beautiful works of art for your yard and garden.

You'll find feeders that will feed one or two birds at a time on up to a much larger number of hummers at a time. Some feeders will be made with plastic. Others will have fancy glass etchings or copper decorations. Some will have tube feeders and others will have other types of feeding ports. Some hold the nectar in a clear container in order for you to gauge the level of the liquid inside. You'll find that most hummingbird feeders are red or have red adornments as this is a color that attracts hummers. Whether the feeder you choose is red or not, placing some red flowers near the feeder will do an even better job of attracting hummers into your yard.

One thing to be aware of when purchasing hummingbird feeders is that hummers are extremely territorial birds. They will fiercely protect what they feel to be "their" feeder. Consider purchasing multiple feeders and place them far apart from each other, or place many feeders together in such a way that there are too many for one hummer to protect.

As you can see, there is literally a plethora of choices when it comes to bird feeders. I hope this article helps to clarify some of the choices that are available. If you are fortunate enough to have a wild bird specialty store in your area, you can often obtain expert advice to help get you started. Whatever type of feeders you decide upon, I hope they bring you many years of enjoyment in this wonderful hobby of backyard bird feeding.

Avian Flu and Bird Feeding

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Avian Flu and Bird Feeding

Many backyard bird feeding enthusiasts are concerned about Avian flu. Is it dangerous to feed the birds? Is it safe to attract birds into my yard?

According to several reputable sources including the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology and the National Audubon Society, backyard bird feeding and bird watching is safe. So go ahead - feed the birds!

Avian Flu is caused by the H5N1 virus. To date, this virus has not been found in people or the types of birds that frequent backyard bird feeders in North America (chickadees, cardinals, finches etc.)

Most cases of Avian flu have been contracted through close contact with infected poultry or poultry by-products. If you're not processing poultry, you're probably not at great risk for contracting Avian flu.

Despite the low risk of bird flu, it is still very important to keep your feeders and feeding stations clean. At least once a month, clean your bird feeders in a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water. Soak them for three minutes, rinse and allow to air dry. Wash your hands with soap and water after handling bird feeders, nest boxes, houses or baths that may be contaminated by bird droppings.

If you find a dead bird, use disposable gloves to pick it up. Double plastic bags will work also. Avoid touching bird droppings with unprotected hands.

Avian flu is a serious illness but it shouldn't stop bird lovers from feeding their backyard birds. Common sense precautions and a sensible cleaning program will keep your birds (and you) healthy and happy. So keep on feeding!

Blue Bird Feeder Choices

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Blue Bird Feeder Choices

Unlike many birds who will feed under a wide variety of circumstances, the bluebird is shy - so your blue bird feeder needs to be carefully selected for best results.

Because the bluebird is shy, it does not normally visit feeders. If you'd like to attract bluebirds to your feeder, it is best to begin training them to your feeder in the early spring, as they are returning to their nesting areas.

Bluebirds prefer to eat insects and fruit, and one of the more readily available foods is raisins - which should be soaked in water to plump and soften them before adding them to your feeder.

Another common "feeder food" for bluebirds is freeze dried mealworms, which are highly nutritious, and live mealworms are another option. Indeed, the movement of live mealworms is an excellent way to attract bluebirds to your feeder when first training them.

There are special foods for bluebirds which contain the proper balance of nutrition, and you may prefer to purchase such a ready-made feed. Other bluebird enthusiasts make their own feed from peanut butter or suet and bits of soft fruit.

When considering the food options for bluebirds, it becomes clear that the best variety of feeder has a large tray to hold the fruit and mealworms. While bluebirds will certainly eat some seeds, so will many other birds, and because bluebirds are shy, the other birds will often frighten them away.

If you intend to feed your bluebirds live mealworms, another problem is that mealworms - like most worms - have a certain tendency to crawl up the sides of the tray and get out of the feeder altogether. Your feeder should have a rolled edge to trap the mealworms, and prevent their escape.

To handle the shyness of bluebirds, it's common to obtain a feeder which allows the bluebirds to feed entirely inside it - flying in to actually sit in the food tray, and remain comfortably safe from other birds. A dome feeder can work, but is not ideal, and many of them lack the rolled edge necessary to retain live mealworms.

These feeders should have small entry holes, to keep out larger and more aggressive birds. If you'd like to watch the birds feed, you'll want to get a feeder with transparent acrylic or glass sides. Some bluebird feeders mount directly onto windows, and boast an open back to provide the closest and clearest view of your feeding bluebirds.

When using an enclosed feeder with transparent sides, it is advisable to put small horizontal strips of tape on the glass, so they do not become confused and unable to leave. Keeping it clean and well-stocked should be all you need to do, once the birds have gotten accustomed to it.

Once you've selected a proper blue bird feeder and stocked it with appropriate feed, placing it within easy view of your local bluebirds' favorite perch - especially with a few live mealworms in the mix - can draw them to it within days.

Tips For Keeping Bird Feeders Clean

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Tips For Keeping Bird Feeders Clean

Bird feeding is one of the most popular hobbies in the United States. Many people fail to properly maintain and clean their bird feeders, though, which can lead to illness or even death of birds. Properly cleaning feeders on a regular basis is important to kill bacteria and maintain seed quality. Birds will also flock to a clean feeder much more often than a dirty one.

A good, stiff brush is the best tool to have for the cleaning job. A simple bottle brush will do, but there are special ones available made just for bird feeders. Rubber gloves should be worn while cleaning with a mild dish detergent. Scrub the feeders well to remove all debris, using a mixture of warm water with 10% bleach added to kill germs. Immerse them in water if it is possible to get the interior dry when finished. Make sure to take apart plastic feeders and clean each piece separately. Wooden feeders are harder to keep clean, as they absorb moisture and the dirt and grime can soak in. Do not soak these in water, but briefly immerse to loosen surface debris, then scrub thoroughly. Rinse well with a garden hose if possible. Allow to dry completely in a sunny area before rehanging them. Hummingbird feeders should be cleaned every time that they are refilled. Since these tiny birds can take a long time to empty a feeder, it is a good idea to only partially fill them. This helps to keep the nectar fresh.

For those who prefer not to clean with bleach, a good alternative is vinegar. Adding a few cups of white distilled vinegar to warm, soapy water will clean effectively, though it is not as good at killing the bacteria. Simple Green is also a good, effective bleach alternative.

It is important to not only clean bird feeders, but also the area beneath them. If the feeders are hung on a deck or porch, sweeping up regularly may be all that is needed. If bird food is scattered on the ground, it will be necessary to rake or shovel up left over seed hulls and shells. When these are allowed to remain on the ground, they will rot and mold and can also make birds sick. In between cleanings, scrape debris out of feeder trays with a knife, and keep landings and perches wiped clean. Also try to let the birds completely empty the feeders before refilling. This will also help to ensure that the seed is fresh.

Bird feeders work best when they are hung in an area with a roof overhead. This will keep the rain and snow out and will help to prevent rotting. When the seeds inside the feeder get wet, they can be difficult for the birds to remove. In warm weather the seeds will often sprout, and those little seedlings can be a real challenge to remove. The roots will reach into cracks and crevices and take hold. This regular maintenance is not a pleasant job, but will keep our feathered friends happy and healthy, and will keep them coming to the feeders.

Cardinal Bird Feeder Selection

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Cardinal Bird Feeder Selection

When you're interested in watching the beautiful crimson plumage of the cardinal, bird feeder options may seem confusing. There are any number of feeders available, but when you've got a specific type of bird in mind, it's important to know that the bird you want to attract - the cardinal, in this case - will come to your feeder.

Cardinals, unlike many other birds, like to cluster when feeding. Where many birds will prefer to space themselves out, the cardinal will actively prefer to be closer to its brethren, so you can get a feeder with more feed holes - six or eight is good, but the ideal option is a continuous ring so the birds can perch and feed at any point along the circumference.

While many birds have preferred feeding schedules, and will only arrive at your feeder during certain times of the day, the cardinal will begin visiting in the early morning and continue visiting into the late evening.

A little-known issue with cardinals is that their heads do not turn as far as other birds, so a perch that allows them to face the food source directly is best. Avoid feeders which provide perches that jut out at right angles to the food source; these are more appropriate for other types of birds.

Cardinals are non-migratory. So long as there is sufficient food and shelter in the area, cardinals will remain year-round... so cardinal feeders are a great way to keep these beautiful birds visiting your yard even in the dead of winter.

As with any bird, the cardinal has preferred types of seed. Chief among these is the sunflower; cardinals will pick through seed and eat sunflower seeds first, before any other kind of seed. Other seeds enjoyed by the cardinal include white millet and safflower seeds, but sunflower seeds are always the preferred choice.

Hanging bird feeders, while they will attract cardinals (especially if stocked with sunflower seeds), are less attractive than a pole-mounted feeder which doesn't sway or tilt with wind or the arrival of other birds. Optimal height from the ground is five to six feet.

Finally, when selecting your feeder, keep in mind that the cardinal will prefer a thicker perch that is easier to grasp. Thin perches geared more toward the smaller songbirds will not be comfortable for the cardinal, and they will be unlikely to remain for long - so a substantial perch is a must, if you want these lovely birds to find your feeder comfortable and inviting.

Both male and female cardinals are vocal about singing their beautiful song, and will do so all year round. This alone makes the cardinal a great bird to attract into your yard and can provide endless hours of enjoyment.

Indeed, the cardinal is the ideal backyard visitor, perfectly willing to visit in groups throughout the year, and happy to provide you with lovely singing at any time. To attract the cardinal, bird feeder selection and placement are simple and effective.

Squirrel Bird Feeder? I Don't Think So.

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Squirrel Bird Feeder? I Don't Think So.

If you've tried to feed birds in your back yard, you may have encountered that strangest of creatures, the squirrel bird. Feeder hanging nicely in your yard, you've probably seen these wingless and featherless creatures perching on your feeder, happily eating from it while scaring all the other birds away.

While researching the feeding habits of the squirrel bird, I discovered something absolutely shocking: the squirrel, while it certainly enjoys the bird feeder, is not a bird at all! It's just a small annoying animal that steals the food out of your bird feeder!

You can imagine just how offended I was that my bird feeder wasn't feeding birds. I certainly didn't hang it out there for anything that wasn't a bird, and for the squirrels to come down and eat from it anyway... well, frankly, it was just presumptuous and rude.

I tried hanging signs on the feeder, but it seems that squirrels don't bother reading - because "no squirrels allowed" didn't work, and neither did "for actual birds only."

I thought maybe they just didn't speak English, so I got a friend to write one in Spanish, and when that didn't work I got another friend to write one in French. It still didn't work, and then someone told me squirrels can't read. So I tried a picture of a squirrel that had a red circle with a line through it, but that didn't work either.

It wouldn't really bother me so much if the squirrels and the birds would both use the feeder, but the squirrels also frighten the birds away. They won't eat there with a squirrel. Bird feeder etiquette is simply not a squirrel's strong suit.

Imagine how happy I was to find that there was, in fact, a solution to my problem! The Yankee Flipper bird feeder was built by some very smart people who already knew a squirrel was not a bird, and because it's not a bird it doesn't have to fly. Things that don't fly are heavier than things that do, so the perch on the Yankee Flipper is spring-loaded.

When something that doesn't fly tries to climb on the Yankee Flipper bird feeder, it activates the spring-loaded switch, which turns on a little motor and spins the perch.

And those squirrels learn how to fly real quick! They get hurled off the feeder and drop right down into the yard. It's great fun to watch, and it doesn't take the squirrels long to figure out that it's a waste of time to climb on the feeder.

Once the squirrels learn to leave the feeder alone, you can relax in your yard and just watch the birds as they come and eat happily from their squirrel-proof feeder. The squirrels go on about their business finding food elsewhere, and the birds are left alone.

So if you've found yourself watching a squirrel bird feeder in your backyard, where no other birds come to feed at all, take a look at the Yankee Flipper - because there's no such thing as a squirrel bird!

Bird Watching Binoculars: Do's and Don'ts

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Bird Watching Binoculars: Do's and Don'ts

Expanding the eyes of a birder, binoculars are quite helpful, as they possess the power to greatly enhance the overall results of a bird outing. Decent binoculars make for decent birding, while poor binoculars can create missed opportunities with birds, as well as intense headaches that come from double vision, blurry images, and straining of the eye. There is no denying the difference felt between a pair of binoculars that cost about $60 and a pair that goes for $900.

There are various shapes and sizes that binoculars come in and additional features noted as "close focus," "roof prism," and "armor coated." Usually, it isn’t necessary to waste too much time trying to figure out what all of this means, as if you are really into bird watching, you can gain a better understanding at another time. Perhaps, you will later trade for a better pair. Depending on your location, an appropriate pair of binoculars will cost about $60.

As you begin to buy your first pair of binoculars, keep the following "do's" in mind:

1. The power (or magnification) of binoculars should be at least 7-power. To identify the power, look at the first number arranged in the numerical notation regarding a pair of binoculars. For instance, a "7 X 35" pair of "glasses" allows items to appear as if they are seven times closer than they really are. Seven-power binoculars are considered the lowest requirement in order to catch a good view of birds. Keep in mind that binoculars with 10-power or stronger are sometimes hard for many birders to keep stable.

2. The second number ("35" for a "7 X 35" pair of glasses) is at least five times as large as the power. Examples of this include "7 X 35" or "8 X 40." It is the second number that characterizes the diameter (set in millimeters) of the large lens that will face the objects you wish to look at. This is also called the "objective" lens. When this lens is larger in number, you will notice that more light shows through in the binoculars. This makes it much easier to view the details of a bird with dull colors or specimens while in a low level of light.

3. Binoculars should not be so heavy that you are unable to carry them around or become difficult to maintain for hours at a time. The weight matters, as some people can experience a hunchback because their binoculars are yanking at their neck and back.

4. Try flexing the barrels of the binoculars to see how easy this task is accomplished. In order to test out the flexibility, you should spread the barrels as far as they can go and then hold onto just one of the barrels. The free barrel should not slip or fall out of the spread position.

5. Color coating is another aspect of binocular. To find out if your lenses are color-coated, hold your binoculars a foot away and note if the large objective lenses show a reflection that is bluish or purplish in color. If so, they are color-coated, which actually lessens internal glare and elevates the amount of light that will come in contact with your eyes. It is important to also inspect the lenses to make sure coatings are blotch- and scrape- free.

6. See if you can bring the barrels of the binoculars close together where the image you detect merges into a solitary, lucid image captured within one perfect circle. If the image is not one or lacks clarity, then the binoculars could have slipped alignment or the eyepieces are not coming together enough to accommodate your eyes. Unfortunately, these two instances can cause strain of the eye, as well as penetrating headaches.

7. If you wear prescription eyeglasses, your binoculars should offer rubber eyecups that fold back. This permits the wearing of eyeglasses that allow you to come closer to the eyepieces of your binoculars. This will produce a much better field of view.

8. If your binoculars cannot generate a clear image of an objective positioned only 20 feet away, take notice that some models of binoculars are not able to focus on objects situated so close. This means that you may miss out on that warbler or sparrow that hides in the bush close by.

9. Position your binoculars on a sign with large lettering. Ask yourself if the letters close to the edge of the field of view are precise and clear as the letters located in the center of the field of view. In poor binoculars, the distortion of an image positioned towards the edge of the binoculars is not uncommon. It is comparable to looking through a fish-eye lens. Looking for binoculars with minimal distortion is highly recommended.

10. Before selecting a pair of binoculars, make sure you can zero in on a license plate or small sign found about two blocks away. The numbers and letters should be clear and if not, try a different pair.

When purchasing binoculars, consider the following list of "don’ts:"

• Do not purchase binoculars that are compact or pocket-sized as your main choice for birding. These binoculars usually measure 8 x 21 or 10 x 21. While the size and weight are appealing, and the optics probably decent, it is a known fact that compacts possess a lower quality image when compared to mid- or full-size binoculars. Another disadvantage is that most compacts produce a narrow field of view, which makes it harder to find and keep track of birds.

• Do not purchase zoom binoculars, as they are often of less quality.

• Do not search for guidance regarding the purchase of optics from someone who doesn’t bird. This includes hunters, hikers, and boaters, who buy binoculars for different reasons. Looking at a bird is not the same as searching for a deer in the brush. Additionally, pocket binoculars are reasonable for those scanning the savannah for wildlife, but are not appropriate for a birder. Marine binoculars may offer sharpness and brightness in their images, but are way too heavy and bulky for a birder to tote all day long.

• Do not purchase binoculars until you have tested them out. It is important to make sure that they actually deliver comfort when held. You must look through them in order to deduce whether or not you will receive a clear view without interruption. You will find that various models accommodate different people, and that each and every instrument carries its own variations. When ordering binoculars in the mail or over the Internet, the company should allow exchanges.

Another thing pertaining to binoculars – you don’t always have to own the best specs for bird watching. Any pair of binoculars will suit you much better rather than having none at all. The main objective is to own something that allows magnification of the birds you intend on enjoying. If you follow the above tips, you should be able to locate the best pair of binoculars for watching birds that your money can buy.

The Joy of Bird Watching

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

The Joy of Bird Watching

Ah, the joy of bird watching. If you're like me, you receive special satisfaction from attracting birds to your backyard or garden. No doubt you have worked hard to transform your yard or garden into a space that attracts many different types of birds, and you enjoy just sitting and watching your new feathered friends for long periods of time.

In fact, this brings so much enjoyment that you decide to expand your hobby from the birds that you can study in your own yard. Yes, it's time to take the next step in bird watching, where you'll leave your home and visit other locations in order to experience an even larger variety of wild birds.

One suggestion for finding a wide diversity of bird species is to go to your local park, nature reserve or even a bird sanctuary. There are about 500 National Wildlife Sanctuaries to be found in America itself. To find one that’s near you, try the internet first. A quick search should help you locate parks near you.

Another way to enjoy bird watching is to plan bird watching activities around a trip or vacation. It's a good idea to do a little research in advance to learn what particular birds live in the area that you'll be visiting. As there are more than 900 species of American birds to be found, it pays to be able to say that you recognize the birds that come your way. The most efficient way to achieve this is to educate yourself prior to going on your bird watching excursion. Keeping listed notes will let you keep track of the birds that you’ve seen.

Binoculars are an essential piece of bird watching equipment. While you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars on an expensive model it does pay to have a pair of binoculars that can stand up to the terrain that you’ll be going through, and the weather that you’ll have to endure. Your binoculars must be able to keep the images stabilized as this is necessary for long distance bird watching. Also your binoculars must be able to work in dim lighting and not fog up. As birds are not stationary creatures you should be able to focus on them very quickly.

To be able to track birds in flight with ease demands skill in bringing your binoculars or camera up and panning along with their motion quickly and accurately. The only way to master this technique is to practice raising your arm quickly and following a fast moving object like a plane or your dog. Once you’re proficient at this, you'll be able to focus on anything that moves out in the field.

A final suggestion is to take along someone who shares your interest in birds on your next bird watching trip. Not only will they be able to share and discuss all that they know about bird watching with you, they can help to spot any birds that are hidden from your sight. They may even know some tricks that'll let you see and photograph some species you wouldn't have seen otherwise.

In summary, there are many reasons to participate in the bird watching hobby, but the main reason is that you’ll gain a better understanding of these feathered creatures that inhabit the world alongside us. This will make your enjoyment of the birds in your garden and home even more satisfying. After all, as every birding fanatic knows there's nothing quite as wonderful or relaxing as bird watching. Add a good cup of steaming coffee into the mix, and you're all set.

Squirrels Will Be Squirrels

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Squirrels Will Be Squirrels

Squirrels Will Be Squirrels
Submitted by a reader

I know what it's like having to constantly fill your bird feeder. In today's economy doing such a thing can cost you an arm and a leg. It isn't cheap to have bird feeders any more. I am a leisurely photographer, so this is a great time to be able to take pictures of wild birds or while bird watching. I was intrigued by this article of protecting bird feeders from squirrels because I myself have found this to be a problem. I once had a feeder which hung from a tree that sat beside a clothes line. This was the worst place anyone could possible place it. I wish that I would have had these tips at my disposal months ago.

I found one of the best ways to squirrel proof your feeders is buy buying one with the weighted trap. If an object is too heavy is sitting on the feeder, the door automatically close. This is the best and only way to keep squirrels from getting your food. Also, be sure not to hang your bird feeders too close to branches as they can just bend over and grab food that way also. They are pesky little critters, and while I did get some good shots of them playing, they don’t come anywhere close to the beauty of wild birds.

How to Choose Binoculars for Bird Watching

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

How to Choose Binoculars for Bird Watching

Bird watching is a wonderful hobby that can last a lifetime. While many of us receive great enjoyment just from watching the birds that visit our back yards, other people are interested in learning much more about these fascinating creatures by observing them more closely. One of the best ways to accomplish this is with a good pair of bird watching binoculars.

For those who are more serious about bird watching, having a decent pair of binoculars can make our hobby more satisfying and enjoyable. If you have decided that the time has come for you to begin your search for your first binoculars, here are a few things you should consider before making your purchase.

One of the compact models can be a great choice if your bird watching includes hiking or walking a bit of a distance where the amount of weight that you carry is a serious consideration. If, on the other hand, the amount of weight you might have to carry isn't something you need to be concerned with then a standard-sized model may be a better choice for you.

Whether you decide to go with standard or compact binoculars, here are a few additional things to look for. First, try to buy the best pair of binoculars you can afford so that your investment will last a lifetime. Next, try different pairs of binoculars to find one that feels good in your hands. In addition, you'll want to hold the binoculars up to your eyes. Do they feel comfortable to use? Do the diopter and focusing controls feel natural and easy to use when making adjustments?

Another thing to consider when purchasing binoculars for bird watching is that they need to be both lightweight and sturdy. They should be built to withstand any terrain or environment that you will encounter while bird watching. You should be able to hold them steady without too much effort. The optics should have the capability to resolve delicate details and subtle colors with great accuracy.

In addition, your binoculars should be able to focus very quickly. If you can, try them in different lighting conditions to make sure they work well under low light conditions as well as regular and bright lighting. How close do they allow you to focus? If you wear glasses, is the eye relief long enough to enable you to see the whole picture? Are you able to see fine details at both the center and at the edge of the image?

Some binoculars include a digital camera that allows the user to take photographs of birds up close in their natural setting. This is yet another option for you to consider but can be well worth the extra cost for those who have an interest in photography as well.

As you can see, there are many things to consider when purchasing a good pair of binoculars for bird watching. Many of the choices you will have to make will be personal ones, such as how much weight you want to carry or which pair feels best in your hands. The best advice is simply to take your time, investigate the many options available, and then choose the pair of binoculars that you feel will work the best for you.

Glass Bird Feeder: Beauty And Simplicity

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Glass Bird Feeder: Beauty And Simplicity

When selecting a bird feeder, a vast array of options are available for the discerning consumer. There are rustic wooden feeders, rugged plastic ones, and wire or metal options available in any number of sizes and shapes... but for sheer versatility, it's hard to beat the glass bird feeder.

Easily worked, easily shaped, and easily colored, glass can be arranged in myriad ways, from simple panes arranged in a basic square, all the way up to amazing works of the glassblower's art. The range of colors is almost limitless, and stained glass feeders are simply stunning in the afternoon sun.

Most glass bird feeders are designed to be hung, providing a beautiful scintillating display as they twist and turn slightly in the breeze. The most common variety of glass bird feeder is the metal-frame variety with panes of beveled glass, which provide a subtle prismatic effect, but many other varieties are available.

Because glass is easily sculpted, there are a number of feeders constructed exclusively of glass, and formed into shapes that range from pear-shaped globes to elegant swans and abstract sculptures that are simply wonderful to behold.

The ease of coloring glass also lends itself to lovely patterned displays, and some glass bird feeders rival the most beautiful of stained glass windows in churches and cathedrals; some of the more famous designs have been reproduced or imitated in feeders, and provide a lovely work of art even without the presence of birds.

It also cannot be overlooked that glass is easy to clean. A glass bird feeder can be easily scrubbed into brilliance with no solvents or chemicals, which might otherwise sicken or even poison the birds feeding from it.

Another benefit of the glass bird feeder is that glass doesn't absorb or retain odors and stains; other materials often soak up the smell of chemicals, which can drive many birds away altogether, or become stained and cannot be cleaned at all.

Glass is also very strong and resilient; while it is frequently viewed as fragile or breakable, this is largely a misunderstanding, as glass withstands temperature changes quite well - and can even withstand substantial impacts without breaking.

From a purely practical standpoint, a glass bird feeder provides easy visibility of exactly how much seed is left in the feeder, and provides ample warning of when it is time to refill it.

And it simply cannot be stressed enough how beautiful a glass bird feeder is. As it hangs in the breeze, swaying gently in the eddying currents of air, the sunlight plays beautifully across its translucent surface... providing a gorgeous work of art at any time, accented by the lovely birds feeding there.

Many glass bird feeder enthusiasts simply refuse to use any other kind of feeder. Once you've seen them shine in the sun, and experienced the ease of care and cleaning that come with them, you may feel exactly the same - that there is just no other kind of feeder quite like it.

Attracting Birds To Your Backyard

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Attracting Birds To Your Backyard

What a delightful way to spend an afternoon -- watching colorful feathered creatures flit about the yard. Hummingbirds that hover, jays that scrap over scraps, robins tugging earthworms!

Just as you don't visit places that aren't welcoming, birds don't visit every back yard. To watch them play, you need to make them welcome. Food, water, and shelter are good places to start.

Like people, birds have preferences in foods. Blue jays, crows and ravens will eat nearly anything. Some are collectors and their nests may contain anything attractive enough to catch their eyes. Bread, coarse grains, fruit peels, and seeds will keep them around-and chase off smaller, more desirable birds.

To attract hummingbirds, serve their favorite foods. Hummingbird nectar is commercially available, or you can make your own by heating a four-to-one sugar-water solution (four parts sugar, one part water). Humming birds love color and food coloring isn't really good for them. Why not provide nature's food for these lovely creatures instead? Plant colorful summer annuals in hanging baskets and watch them eat plant nectar.

To keep robins on your guest list, be sure your garden has earthworms. They're good for the soil anyway, so they'll do double duty. Worms come out morning and evening, the best time to watch this handsome bird. Robins don't digest grains well.

Grains do attract a wide variety of birds, but mix your own for the best quality. Suet (hard beef fat) attracts woodpeckers and chickadees, among others. Hang suet feeders upside down to discourage starlings. They cannot feed upside down.

For shelter, learn which homes each bird prefers-some like cute little houses and some don't. Most prefer natural wood over painted houses. Scores of birds will nest in houses, and houses are designed for particular birds. Martins like multiple openings in a single structure. Kestrels are miniature hawks and will nest high off the ground, even in 60-foot trees.

Small owl species will eat rodents and other live creatures, but they'll eat small birds, too. Attract owls if you have a five-acre back yard-- they are beautiful. Otherwise, visit them at one of the nation's 27 estuaries, where food is plentiful.

Water may be provided in cups or bird baths, but that brings up another requirement for attracting birds: safety. If the family cat can reach your birds' favorite water source, it will. Place houses, feeders, and waterers out of reach.

Droll Yankee Bird Feeders Review

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Droll Yankee Bird Feeders Review

In my last article, An Introduction to Bird Feeders, I talked about some of the more popular types of bird feeders. In this article, I'd like to discuss one of the more popular bird feeder manufacturers. It's a company with a rather unusual name -- Droll Yankees.

The Droll Yankee company has been around for a long time and is well known to most bird feeding enthusiasts. What many people may not know is that Peter Kilham of Droll Yankees actually invented the tube feeder in 1969. That original model is still a best seller for the company today.

Droll Yankees manufactures many different types and models of bird feeders. One of the best features of these feeders is that most feeder models come with a Lifetime Warranty. According to their web site, the warranty even applies to squirrel damage which is surely a testament to the quality of these feeders.

I should mention that the lifetime warranty applies to all of the Droll Yankees feeders except for the Bird Lovers line. This line of all-plastic feeders is more economy priced and comes with a limited warranty only.

As you would expect from the company that invented the tube feeder, there are many different models of tube feeders to choose from. These feeders can be either hung or mounted on a pole. They feature metal tops, bases and feeding ports to extend the life of the feeder and protect against squirrel damage.

Droll Yankees also makes some nice Hummingbird Feeders. These feeders feature a leak-proof design with brass hanging rods, and they are very easy to clean and refill. All hummingbird feeders feature the trademarked Nectar Guard tip which prevents bees and other flying insects from stealing the nectar. For convenience, a nectar recipe is even engraved on the top section of the feeder.

The Droll Yankees hummingbird feeders feature from 2 to 8 feeding ports. The base is clear in order to easily view the level of nectar in the feeder and features red tops and feeding ports in order to attract hummers to the feeder. In addition, the feeders feature a perching rim to provide hummers with a resting place while they feed.

The plastic used in all of the Droll Yankees bird feeders is a UV-stabilized, clear polycarbonate. It is durable, helps protect the food from the sun's rays and won't yellow with age.

Droll Yankees also has a nice pole system which they appropriately refer to as an "erector set for the backyard." With all of the options that are available, you are sure to find just what you need to set up your own backyard bird feeding stations.

Droll Yankees also makes suet, peanut, sunflower, finch (thistle) and window bird feeders. Although they manufacture a full line of feeders, they are probably best known for their innovative line of squirrel-proof feeders called the Yankee Family line. These include the Yankee Dipper, Yankee Whipper, Yankee Tipper and the famous Yankee Flipper.

I will be devoting an entire article to the Yankee Flipper very soon. Until then, I'll let your imagination take flight with your own ideas of how a bird feeder called the Yankee Flipper keeps squirrels out of the bird food!

Bird Watching for Beginners

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Bird Watching for Beginners

Imagine yourself first waking up in the morning. The rays of the sun are just beginning to come through your window. Along with the sun, you start to hear the first melodious chirps of birds greeting the beginning of a new day.

Have you ever wondered why they sing like that? What they look like? Or why they sound so close to your bedroom window?

Bird Watching - Beginners Welcome!

Bird watching is a hobby that has been around pretty much as long as people have. It is currently the second fastest growing hobby in the US, second only to gardening. You may hear some people refer to the hobby as "birding" and accordingly the people who participate are called "birders." But whatever you call it, this hobby is all about a love and appreciation for the beautiful and fascinating creatures that we call birds.

People of all ages can enjoy bird watching. We can learn a lot from birds, where they roost and the songs that they sing. We can even learn more about nature and ourselves by studying the lives of birds.

Best of all, birding can be done anywhere at any time. Just look around you. There are very few outdoor locations where birds cannot be observed going about their daily activities.

So are you considering getting started with bird watching? Even if you are a bird watching beginner, don't allow that to hold you back. Why not visit a local park or your own backyard and get started today!

The Sights and Sounds

I don't imagine that anyone is familiar with the sights and sounds of nature quite like an avid bird watcher is. An experienced bird watcher is able to take a quick glance at a small, darting creature of black, yellow and white feathers or take in a few moments of chirping musical notes and instantly know exactly what bird has just come into view or hearing range. To the beginning bird watcher, this may seem an amazing feat.

Developing Bird Watching Skills

With over 900 bird species within the U.S., birders must learn to quickly process what they see and hear - color patterns, call notes, body shape, bill shape and more. If the bird is not immediately identified, the birder must know what attributes to key in on so that he or she can find and identify the bird from a field guide. The birds rarely wait around long enough for us to search through our guides to be able to compare pictures to living birds!

If you are a beginner to bird watching, you may feel that it is impossible to reach this level. If you're like me when I first started out, attempting to identify even common birds can be frustrating at times. The key is to not give up. Understand that this all takes practice, and you will get to this point over time.

Imagine the skills you will be developing if you stick with it. You will be honing your senses and becoming a more observant person - not just as it relates to birds but with all of nature. Everyone starts bird watching as a beginner, but bird watching is so much fun that learning these new skills won't seem like work at all.

One day soon, you'll see that creature with black, yellow and white feathers dart by. Your mind will do the calculations without you even having to think about it. With no hesitation at all, you will automatically think, "American Goldfinch!"

Birding by Ear to Identify Birds

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Birding by Ear to Identify Birds

The soothing sounds of a bird's song are sometimes a shrieking irritation to some people. However, the truth is that you can use specific tunes to recognize the kind of feathered friend emitting the sounds you hear, which allows you to look up the species in a field book. This is accomplished by "tuning" into bird songs. It is important to know that each and every species of bird delivers distinctive sounds, and that birding by ear allows you to identify a particular bird just as well as if you noticed their color and shape.

Without a doubt, there are many benefits when birding by ear. You don’t need any light, which comes in handy when identifying the owl hooting during a camping trip. For instance, the barred owl is quite different from any other sound you encounter during the night.

To all who have their ears perked up, a bird concealed in the thickness of summer greenery will often sing out its identity. While many rely on what they see with their own eyes, you can also hear in every direction at the same time, meaning you can recognize a bird and its song even when it is situated in back of you.

When compared to other creatures on earth, humans are categorized at a different level of sensory. For example, your dog comes in contact with the world mainly with the use of his or her nose, while our sense of smell is quite weak in comparison. The sensory experiences of beetle, bats, frogs, and even fish are quite difficult to grasp.

Alternatively, the strongest senses of a bird are actually their hearing and sight, which have transformed into their mode of communicating and identifying their own species. Through these two senses, they use signals to achieve this. Since we too use sight and sound, we are able to appreciate all of the mesmerizing variation in shape and color that birds possess just as we are in tuned to respecting the importance of sound in their lives.

As you start to identify the songs of birds, you will enter a whole new world of bird watching. Many people find themselves enchanted by the singing-like sound of the bird that greets them in the morning and find delight in coming in contact with birds they never knew existed.

In order to get started with birding by ear, the best thing to do is to purchase a field guide pertaining to bird songs. Just as a book with photos helps you identify the appearance of birds, you also need recordings to become familiar with how birds sing. Luckily, there are many different suitable cassette tapes and CDs regarding bird songs on the market. There are also impressive resources on bird songs found on the Internet. When familiarizing yourself with these songs, you will become open to an entire new realm of bird watching.

As you listen to the song of a bird, try to describe the experience in your own words. You may find that the white-breasted nuthatch delivers a more nasal tone with a "Yenk, yenk, yenk" song. The northern cardinal's song emits notes that are slippery-sounding with a downward slurp. The blue jay's call is known for sometimes sounding loud and harsh, as if the bird were screaming. When you create mental notes of these sorts of details, it will aid you in recognizing the same birds when you hear them once more.

Some people connect an English phrase with songs, as seen in "Peter, Peter, Peter" and the tufted titmouse. The use of such words helps you remember speed, rhythm, or pitch of certain songs.

It is also better when you can use your own words to describe a bird's song, but it is OK to rely on unforgettable phrases that others create. A few examples include the song of the ovenbird, which sounds a lot like "teacher, Teacher, TEACHER." It is also hard to top the "Quick, three beers!" phrase associated with the call of the olive-sided flycatcher.

After assigning words to the song of a bird, you will never forget the melody. Therefore, New Orleans may no longer mean a city in Louisiana to you, but could now stand for the song of an intriguing bird you discovered the other day.

Once knowledgeable on a couple of songs, you should make it a habit to listen in the early hours of the morning. Numerous birds begin singing about an hour just before sunrise. In general, the chorus they create is quite satisfying, but it is also fun to pinpoint and identify the separate voices that make up the group singing. Some birds will sing throughout an entire day, but the best time to enjoy bird songs is in the morning, as it is 100 times more powerful than in the middle of the day.

It doesn’t matter what season it is, as you can view more birds with your ears than your eyes. Therefore, why not give birding by ear a try tomorrow morning? Crack open the window before you go to bed and first thing in the morning, the singing of birds becomes clear. If the sounds are unknown to you, attempt to single out one song from the group. Even if the owner of this song is unexplainable at first, it will give you the encouragement you need to learn how to use your ears to see.

How to Squirrel Proof Your Bird Feeders

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

How to Squirrel Proof Your Bird Feeders

I like squirrels, I really do. I think they are cute and fun to watch. I love their playfulness, and I can even admire their intelligence and tenacity. What I tend to find annoying is the critters' apparent belief that they are entitled to a large portion of the somewhat costly bird food that I keep our bird feeders stocked with. This is the primary issue that I have with those cute and furry squirrels.

My husband and I have been feeding wild birds for almost 20 years. This being the case, we have tried most if not all of the options available for making a bird feeder squirrel proof. The following is a list of the squirrel-proofing ideas that we have made use of over the years.

Placement of feeders - We try to place our feeders in such a way that it is difficult for the squirrels to get to them. Squirrels can jump pretty far, but why make it too easy for them? When possible, place feeders high off the ground and away from buildings, trees or anything else they can climb in order to gain access to your bird feeders.

Squirrel Baffles - Squirrels can easily climb the poles that most bird feeders are mounted on. Adding a squirrel baffle is an inexpensive way to help prevent squirrels from climbing up a mounting pole. For feeders that are hung from a hook, a squirrel baffle can be placed above the feeder so that squirrels are unable to climb down to it.

Wire Cages - Another option to squirrel proof a feeder is a wire cage that is used to enclose a tube feeder. The spacing of the wires is such that it allows birds access to the feeder but not squirrels. A caged bird feeder can be an effective deterrent but can also prevent medium and large sized birds from getting to the feeder as well. Depending on the types of birds you want to attract to your feeders, this can be either an advantage or a disadvantage.

Squirrel Proof Bird Feeders - A few bird feeder manufacturers have designed some very clever feeders that use the squirrel's weight to either tip the squirrel off the feeder or close the feeding ports so that it can't get to the food. We have tried a couple of these feeders, and they do work very well. It is without a doubt the most expensive of the options listed here, so that's something to take into consideration.

There is one final option that while not 100% effective does greatly cut down on the amount of food that squirrels take from your feeders, and that is to simply feed the squirrels their own food. Wildlife food can be purchased from most bird stores or online, and it is generally less expensive than bird food.

This works best if you can set up a separate feeding station for the squirrels away from the general area of your bird feeders. As long as you continue to feed the squirrels in this way, they will have less interest in stealing bird food out of your feeders. This is what we do. We enjoy watching the squirrels' antics just as much as the birds, so we figure they deserve to have their lives be made a little easier, too.

Wood Bird Feeder Selection

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Wood Bird Feeder Selection

When considering a bird feeder for your yard, one of the more important considerations is how it fits in with the look of your home. There are certainly a lot of different looks out there; sleek and modern metal feeders, beautiful and complex glass feeders, even the stark efficiency of plastic - but for many homes, nothing looks quite right except the wood bird feeder.

Many of us recall our childhoods, the days spent lovingly constructing birdhouses from scraps of old wood. Others simply love the natural appearance, the way it blends into the trees in a wooded setting. A wooden bird feeder, while it may seem boring to some, is frequently the most attractive option.

When looking at a wood bird feeder, there are many different styles people prefer. One of the more popular is the type that appears to be a birdhouse, but actually contains seed dispensed from small troughs on the sides.

Another type appears to be a small gazebo, and simply contains the seed on the floor - making it easy for birds such as cardinals to reach the seed directly.

For woodpeckers, chickadees, and titmice, you may prefer a simple textured hanging plank spread with peanut butter. Another design some people enjoy is two such planks, with the peanut butter between them.

When the planks retain their bark backing on the outside, this appears to be almost part of the scenery - instead of a contrived feeding station. There are other "natural look" feeders made from hollowed-out logs, which provide the same blended-in effect in a wooded yard.

Since we've been working wood for several centuries, there are many ornate and majestic feeders made from wood - from delicate gazebos, to replicas of farmhouses and silos. You may even find a feeder that looks a great deal like your own house, hanging in miniature from a backyard tree while the birds merrily visit. (Some may find this scary; small children, seeing these feeders, occasionally worry that a great bird will show up one night and try to eat things out of the real house.)

If you're open to the idea of multiple material feeders, and most are, there are various designs using screen or acrylic to retain seed while leaving the amount of seed visible at a glance - so you can easily see when it needs refilling.

And of course, wood is easily painted and stained to match any decor or theme. When the natural look is not to your taste, it is a simple matter to paint or stain an unfinished wood bird feeder to your specifications... and there are few things quite as cherished as a feeder hand-decorated by one's children or grandchildren.

So when decorating your yard, don't overlook wood - bird feeder options are available in any number of styles and materials, but the all-time classics are frequently the best choice. After all, there is usually a reason they've become classics.

Yankee Flipper Bird Feeder - Does It Hurt The Squirrels?

AboutBirdFeeders.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:14:39 GMT

Yankee Flipper Bird Feeder - Does It Hurt The Squirrels?

When you first encounter the Yankee Flipper bird feeder, you may be somewhat shocked at the idea of hurling squirrels forcibly off of the feeder. Many onlookers fear that the innocent creatures may be hurt; that the three or four foot drop from the feeder is potentially harmful.

After some observation, however, you'll notice that squirrels are resilient creatures who tend to land on their feet. There are no reported incidents of squirrels being damaged by their fall from the Yankee Flipper, and they rapidly learn to avoid it in any case - so an individual squirrel will not keep trying to jump onto the feeder.

Once you've satisfied yourself that the Yankee Flipper doesn't hurt the squirrels, your next concern is almost certain to be how effective the feeder really is. Aren't there other ways to get at the seed? Can the squirrels dislodge the top cap, or hang down from the top to reach the feeding holes?

But the Yankee Flipper bird feeder has been designed by serious and thoughtful people, who have considered all the possible avenues a squirrel might use to approach the feeder. The top cap is snug and tight-fitting, so no squirrel can dislodge it; the diameter of the feeder is much too large for the squirrel to grasp; the height is too far for a dangling squirrel to reach. No possibility has been overlooked.

The Yankee Flipper is, however, designed to prevent problems with the gray squirrel... and other animals represent different problems. You'll find that chipmunks and red squirrels are not heavy enough to activate the spinning perch, and if you have difficulty with raccoons, they'll quickly run down the batteries. The raccoon is, after all, far more tenacious than the gray squirrel.

But the real issue for most feeder owners has always been the gray squirrel. The only avenue for a squirrel to reach the feeder is by standing on a nearby object and leaning forward to the Yankee Flipper; by resting only its front paws on the perch, it may be able to avoid activating the pressure mechanism. To avoid this, make sure to hang the feeder at least eighteen inches away from nearby branches or other perches a squirrel might use.

A hidden benefit of the Yankee Flipper bird feeder is the way it responds to snow; once snow builds up on the perch, the weight of the snow will also activate the perch, spinning the snow off and allowing the birds an easy perch. (Ice still poses a difficulty; in the event of ice storms or freezing rain, you may want to bring the feeder into the house until the weather passes.)

Once you've examined the care and planning that have gone into the Yankee Flipper bird feeder, you'll almost certainly want to have one in your own yard; after all, once you know the squirrels aren't being hurt, it's terribly amusing to watch them fly from the spinning perch.