Birds.com: Online Birds Guide with Facts, Articles, Videos, and Photos » garden

Attracting Birds: Seed Preferences

Editor — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 10:58:53 +0000

There is no better way to decorate your garden than with a collection of wild birds that bring color and song to the trees and landscaped areas. Luring a variety of birds to a garden is not always as easy as it may sound. Most birds know exactly what they like and will travel to an area where they know they can eat their preferred seed or form of food. Fortunately, if you know what birds you want to attract, you can purchase the seeds and items that draw these species into your garden.

It is important to fill a variety of bird feeders and place them in different locations throughout the garden. This way birds will not be fighting to get to the food and a greater number of birds will frequent the feeders. Putting out their favorite foods is the best way to ensure that they will continue to return, and in winter bird feeders assist a great number of birds to survive the cold weather. Wild birds will not usually eat artificial pellets or processed seeds as they are not accustomed to them, so natural seeds are the key.

Sunflower seeds are generally a safe bet, as a wide variety of birds will eat them, such as chickadees, nuthatches, finches, cardinals, grosbeaks, sparrows, blackbirds, jays, woodpeckers and titmice. All these birds, with the exception of the sparrows, blackbirds, jays and woodpeckers, will also eat Safflower seeds. When trying to lure ducks, geese, mourning doves and quails, cracked corn will do the trick; and woodpeckers, titmice and chickadees are also known to eat unsalted peanuts. Nyjer (or Thistle) will attract redpolls, doves and pine siskins; while orioles, thrushes and hummingbirds prefer nectar. Fruit is another option to use in combination with seeds as mockingbirds, bluebirds, thrushes, cedar waxwings and orioles will enjoy the treat. The preferred food for juncos and towhees is millet. Setting out a mixture of seeds, fruits and nectar will have any garden filled with birds in no time, allowing home owners to enjoy the beauty of these winged creatures and relax to the melodies of their cheerful songs.

Caring for a Lost Bird

Editor — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:00:09 +0000

The most terrifying experience for a bird owner is to have their beloved pet bird escape and fly away. Fears for their well-being and safety are overwhelming. Equally difficult to deal with is finding a lost bird in your garden and not knowing how to care for it until alternative arrangements can be made, or the original owners can be found. Not everyone has a spare bird cage lying around the house, and if the bird was able to make it to its new destination, the chances of him flying off again are pretty good.

Lost birds are often found near homes as they are scared and confused by their unfamiliar surroundings, and over and above the fear of not knowing how to return home, they are hungry and thirsty. One can almost always lure a pet bird into your home or near enough to place a towel over them for capture with food, water, calling and a lot of patience. Once captured, it is essential to remember the basic needs of a bird and to reduce stress as it can be fatal. Trying to touch the bird or befriend it can cause an aggressive reaction, which is due to the stress of a new environment and fear.

It is suggested that a lost bird be placed in a small bathroom or unused room, without a lot of noise and disturbance, where it is able to relax and feel safe. Any room should be made bird friendly, by removing any toxic bottles, closing all toilets and taking away any item that could be damaged by the bird through chewing on it. Birds are also more comfortable if they are perched and with food and water be placed near to where they perched. A backed chair can be useful in this regard. Getting down to a pet shop to get a packet of seeds is recommended, but if that is not an option, fruits, unsalted nuts, vegetables and cooked pasta (without sauce or seasoning) can also be offered. Foods to stay away from, which can cause serious harm to a bird, include onions, alcohol, avocado and chocolate. If a bird is not perching itself or it is suspected that the bird might be injured, the assistance of a veterinarian is strongly advised. The reunion between a grateful owner and lost pet is always worth the effort.

Garden Birds

Editor — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:50:35 +0000

Garden birds come in large varieties and knowing a bit more about them will make watching them that much more interesting. To identify garden birds in your area use a region specific garden bird guide. For example if you are living in Britain, use a British bird field guide.

The most common garden birds you will find are of the passerine group. Passerines are perching birds and song birds which have three toes pointing forward and one pointing back. Passerines that are commonly seen in gardens include sparrows, thrushes, mynahs, crows, wagtails, chaffinches, goldfinches, magpies, starlings, bulbuls, weavers and more. Weaver’s nests are often easily spotted hanging from the outer branches of trees. It is fascinating to watch the male hard at work building his nest. Thrushes can often be seen darting around under bushes in search of insects. Beware of magpies as they are known as the kleptomaniacs of the avian world. Details on specific garden bird species can be found in a good field guide.

The other group of garden birds are the non-passerines. These are non-perching birds. Non-passerines that may be spotted in the garden are pigeons, doves, woodpeckers, hoopoes, parrot species, swifts, owls, cuckoos, lapwings, various smaller birds of prey and so on. Obviously the size of your property will determine the types of garden birds that will be seen. Doves and pigeons will probably be the most likely species of non-passerine that you will see as they often frequent garden bird feeders.

Garden birds can be enticed to your garden by a ready supply of food, bearing in mind that different species have different preferences. Likewise, many bird feeders are available to attract various types of birds, and a bird bath is always a welcome addition to a garden. By providing such accessories you will open up a delightful opportunities to view and identify birds in your own garden.

Black-Capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapilla)

Editor — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 10:50:35 +0000

The Black-Capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapilla) is one of the most popular bird species in North America. This cute little bird with its cheerful hop can be seen frequenting bird feeders throughout the year. A marvelous little bird, the Black-Capped Chickadee has a number of fascinating behaviors and is a delight in any garden. Living throughout Canada, the range of the Black-Capped Chickadee extends from Newfoundland through to British Columbia and up to Yukon all across the North-west Territories. Be sure to look out for this lively bird when in those areas.

The Black-Capped Chickadee is a small bird species measuring about 5 inches, or 12 cm. They have a short bill and distinctive black crown and bib with bright white cheeks. The upper parts of the bird are gray whilst the wing coverts are edged in white. A rusty color marks the flanks whilst the underparts are gray-white. Black-Capped Chickadees have complex calls, forming their own language. Chickadees travel in small flocks and have a distinctive hierarchy. The more aggressive the bird, the higher the bird’s rank. High ranking birds receive privileges such as the best food, safest areas and they tend to have greater survival rates. Pairing also takes place according to rank.

Foraging begins at sunrise for Black-Capped Chickadees. Hopping along through the trees the little birds seek out tasty creatures in all the little cracks and holes. Their diet includes insect eggs, larvae, weevils, sawflies and other little creatures. During summer and fall, the Black-Capped Chickadees begin storing food, hiding it under bark, in lichen patches and so forth. These remarkable birds are able to remember thousands of hiding spots. In colder times they will dine on seeds which provide more energy.

Black-Capped Chickadee courtship begins in February and March. Slowly the flock pairs off in search of a nesting place. Males rigorously defend the area against intruders. The nest is made in a hole that the pair dig in a dead stump or rotting wood. The female chickadee will lay 5 to 10 eggs. Incubation lasts 13 to 14 days, and within 16 to 17 days, the young Black-Capped Chickadees can leave the nest, while being fed by their parents for another 2 to 3 weeks.

Black-Capped Chickadees are great garden pest controllers and friendly creatures to have around, so why not make efforts to protect this hardy bird species.

2008 Hummer/Bird Celebration

Editor — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 11:30:52 +0000

Every year hundreds of people gather together to celebrate the amazing migration of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. This year will be no different and fans are getting ready to enjoy the 20th Anniversary Hummer/Bird Celebration which will take place from September 11-14.

The annual Hummer/Bird Celebration is held in the coastal Texas towns of Rockport & Fulton every September. The celebration coincides with the fall migration of these delightful little creatures but it doesn’t focus solely on the Ruby-throated Hummingbird. There are also a number of other hummingbird species present in the area around this time and bird watchers may be fortunate enough to spot Black-chinned, Rufous, Buff-bellies and Allen’s Hummingbirds during the Hummer/Bird Celebration. The main goal of the festival is to not only celebrate the annual migration of the Ruby-throated Hummingbird but to help people expand their knowledge of all birds and associated wildlife in the area. The entire event is designed to be fun, educational and inspiring and it is tailored for members of the whole family. Birders of different skill levels are well-catered for, so you can be sure that you will enjoy the weekend regardless of how experienced or inexperienced you are.

Visitors are encouraged to make the most of the 2008 Hummer/Bird Celebration, and you will find that there will be plenty of excellent speakers to keep you informed and entertained. Thus far seventeen different speakers have been booked for the event, and they will be speaking on 21 different topics. The topics are varied and will not only cover hummingbirds and birds in general, but will feature other aspects of wildlife such as butterflies and moths, as well as developing a garden that will better attract your feathered friends. Other aspects of the festival to look forward to include a bird photography demonstration, regular bus field trips, regular boating field trips, a self-guided tour of hummer homes, hummingbird banding demonstrations, hummer/bird malls where you can purchase a variety of nature-related products, butterfly walks and a number of outdoor exhibits.

After the success of the 2007 Hummer/Bird Celebration, birding fans are looking forward to an even better 2008 Celebration. Why not take the plunge and get involved by being a part of this year’s Hummer/Bird Celebration? You are unlikely to regret it!

Squirrel-proofing Bird Feeders

Editor — Tue, 13 May 2008 05:52:29 +0000

Most bird lovers will put up a bird feeder in their garden hoping to attract a variety of wild birds to their immediate environment so that they can enjoy the curious antics of these delightful creatures from the comfort of their own home.

The plan may initially seem to be a good one and birds may soon flock to your feeder in every size, shape and color. Unfortunately this is not the only creature that may discover the new abundance of food and you may soon find yourself waging war on some pesky but cute squirrels. While these creatures are adorable, they tend to devour your bird seed, destroy your feeder and chase away all the birds you hoped to attract in the first place. Action needs to be taken from the start to ensure that your bird feeder continues to be the exclusive domain of birds instead of being overrun by squirrels.

For those who are not too fond of the DIY approach, there are a number of effective squirrel-proof bird feeders already available on the market. These include a caged feeder that allows small birds to have access to the seed but keeps squirrels out. You can also buy a squirrel baffle – a large, smooth dome that is fitted over the top of the feeder which makes it very difficult for squirrels to gain access to the feeder. If you do not want to spend too much money, there are a few home-remedies you can try. The first is mixing cayenne pepper in with the birdseed in your feeder. This does not seem to affect the birds in any way but is a major deterrent to squirrels. The same can be said of safflower seeds. If your feeder is on a stand you can cover the stand with a length of PVC pipe which seems to be slippery to squirrels and makes it difficult for them to climb. You can also coat the existing pole with something slippery, such as petroleum jelly, for the same reason.

Another, even cheaper alternative is using empty soda bottles to keep these pesky critters away. The bird feeder will need to be strung up in the air, at least five feet from the ground and twelve feet from the nearest potential launching point. A hole is made at the base of each bottle and the string is then strung through the mouth of the bottle and the hole at the bottom. There should be bottles on each side of the bird feeder. These then rotate if a squirrel is able to make his way onto the string that is holding up the feeder.

You can also try making peace with your squirrels by providing them with their own separate feeder which caters specifically to their tastes. Their favorite foods in order are: whole raw peanuts, sunflower seeds and whole or cracked corn. Limiting the quantities of these items in your bird feeder at the same time will also help. This may not keep them out of your bird feeder all together, but it might lessen their visits since they will already have everything they need in easy reach. In addition to this, squirrels are very territorial so once they have discovered their feeder they will likely mark it and keep other squirrels away for you.

Whatever method you choose, you will need to remember that squirrels can jump and climb incredibly well. They are also problem solvers and will work incessantly at figuring out the problem that you have spent hours creating for them. Because of this the best defense is often a combination of feeding them and squirrel-proofing your bird feeders.

Seward Park Environmental and Audubon Center

Editor — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 10:39:59 +0000

Set within the Seattle city limits, Seward Park consists of close to 300 acres of beautiful landscape with old growth forest, biking and walking trails, hiking trails, an indigenous garden, an art studio, abundant birdlife – including eagles – and much more. This suburban oasis is home to the Seward Park Environmental and Audubon Center – a partnership between the National Audubon Society and the City of Seattle.

The establishment of the Seward Park Environmental and Audubon Center is a significant step toward the goal of establishing neighborhood nature education centers in ethnically diverse urban areas. The center aims to use Seward Park as its primary “classroom” to promote environmental education designed to inspire people of all ages to explore, discover and accept responsibility for stewardship of the natural world. The varied terrain of Seward Park, which borders beautiful Lake Washington, has been sculpted by ancient glaciers and includes forests, grasslands and savannas, as well as a wide array of flora and fauna, with more than 100 recorded species of birds – a fascinating classroom indeed!

Programs that will be offered by the Seward Park Environmental and Audubon Center will be divided into five categories – Schools, Youth, Community, Arts and Special Events. Each of these categories will offer many events, opportunities and programs throughout the year.

Within the Schools program, 5th to 12th grade students can enjoy Eco Explorations – a field study and hands-on exploration of the chemistry, food chains, habitats, ecology and botany of Seward Park. With the use of microscopes, test kits, nets, preserved and live specimens, and games, students will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of interesting learning experiences related to environmental science. Other aspects of the School’s program include Climate Kids, an investigation into the significance of each individual’s carbon footprint.

The Youth program includes the Talking Tree – an interactive comparison of the relationship between trees and people which is aimed primarily at preschoolers and first-graders. Several one-week Summer Nature Camps will introduce youngsters to nature through activities such as hiking, climbing and swimming, as well as an in-depth study of their surroundings and the birds and animals the live there.

Community programs will take place primarily on Saturdays and will offer a range of fun and exciting activities for the entire family to enjoy together. The lecture series in the Community program will cover topics such as urban forestry, landscaping to attract birds and wildlife, and chemical free gardening. Evening “Owl Prowls” will introduce participants to the fascinating world of these enigmatic nocturnal predators, and themed walks and hikes will take place throughout the year.

Other activities that are planned include summer movies at Seward Park’s amphitheater, nature photography workshops and community art exhibits. Birding enthusiasts – both experienced and beginners – can participate in a number of bird-related activities, including the Christmas Bird Count and the February Great Backyard Bird Count. The Seward Park Environmental and Audubon Center has gone to great lengths to ensure that every member of the local community will have the opportunity to enjoy, and benefit from, the natural wonders of Seward Park.

Chickens – Unusual but Delightful Pets

Editor — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:50:54 +0000

Many different birds and animals have started to leave lasting impressions on owners and have become quite popular as pets. One such an unusual choice is chickens. Seen mostly as farm animals and livestock, people seldom realize how affectionate and loyal chickens can really be. They are definitely wonderful animals and worth exploring as pets, as they are able to give back to their owners in their own unique way.

When considering chickens as pets, it is important to remember two things. Firstly, owners will need to find out if their zoning laws will permit chickens in a residential area. One chicken is often accepted, but in certain instances when more than one chicken is kept it is seen as farming stock. Secondly, chickens need to spend time in the garden. They want to scratch around, bask in the sun, peck at fresh sprouts and house training might be somewhat difficult.

Chickens come in a magnificent range of colorings and markings. There are also many different chicken breeds to choose from such as brahmas, sultans, bantams, frizzle cochins, cochins, polish, silkies, leghorns, houdans and turkens. When raising them from chicks, a close bond of loyalty and affection can often be nurtured. Cocks might get a little difficult when reaching maturity, but hens are known to be soft hearted and loving. Some will even come when called or respond at the mere sound of a familiar voice.

To keep your pet chicken as healthy as possible, a carefully planned diet should be followed. Fresh water should be available at all times. In the mornings owners can provide their chickens with pellets and a grain mixture in the afternoon. Corn, wheat and sunflower seeds can also be scattered around the garden for the chickens to forage during the day. Green vegetables, cabbage, lettuce and spinach also make tasty treats. In return for good food, the chickens will help owners keep their gardens free of slugs, snails and other insects that might harm their plants. Owners should ensure that all their plants are safe for chickens, some might be toxic to them, and use non-toxic organic pesticides to ensure the health and safety of their chickens. Poultry grit (such as crushed oyster shells) is also a vital part of their diet, as it assists them with digestion and to form good, strong eggshells. When kept in a coup, ensure that there is a small garden like atmosphere, or chicken run, for them to move around in, and a clean coup will ensure the health of the chickens. When hand-rearing chickens, it is always recommended to do some research in regard to their dietary needs and necessary care.

Owners who keep chickens as pets soon realize the benefits of keeping these loveable and vocal birds close to home. While sitting in the afternoon sun with a chicken in their lap or watching their animated way of going about their daily routine, chickens bring joy, laughter, love and the odd egg into their owner’s life.

The RSPB’s Feed the Birds Day

Editor — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 08:25:39 +0000

Most of us take for granted the cheerful song of the many wild birds that frequent our gardens and fill the air with joy. Their presence is merely accepted as part of a daily routine. But when the afternoons become quiet and garden starts to loose its color, we wonder where our feathered friends have gone, and why. One organization that has chosen to address the issues of wild birds is the RSPB in the United Kingdom. They launched a project called Feed the Birds Day, to bring attention to the needs and difficulties that birds often face.

Feed the Birds Day brings awareness to the public and to bird watching enthusiasts about the importance of feeding wild birds and how minor adjustments in the garden can assist them throughout the year. This year, Feed the Birds Day will take place on 27 October 2007. There will also be many other events and bird related projects taking place closer to and during the weekend. Not only can homeowners create a garden paradise filled with birds of all shapes and sizes, but feeding birds is also a convenient way of exposing children to wildlife and teaching them about the importance of nature.

During this time many questions are raised in regard to bird feeders and the correct types of food. Different food and presentation can attract specific bird species to a garden and most wild birds need the additional assistance. Winter months can be dreadful for birds, especially for those who live within the city limits. Not only must they fight off the icy weather conditions, but food sources become scarce. Limited food supplies can also dramatically effect the breeding seasons of the birds. Feed the Birds Day therefore tries to encourage the public to take note of these challenges, and to help the birds.

There are many different seed mixes available in pet shops and stores that already have a balanced mix of sunflower seeds, peanut granules and maize. A concentrated mix will attract a vast variety of birds such as finches and sparrows that are attracted by small seeds, blackbirds by maize and greenfinches by peanuts. It is recommended that milk, dried dog biscuits or vegetable oils are not added to the bird feed mixes. Cooked rice (without salt), breakfast cereal and meaty dog food can also be put out. When putting up bird feeders and feeding tables, it is important to remember that a supply of water is essential.

Once the neighborhood birds start realizing that there is a tasty supply of food and water in a garden, all the homeowner or birding watching lover needs to do is sit back and enjoy the color and song. Feed the Birds Day is a wonderful initiative to support. It does not cost a fortune, but the aid provided to wild birds is priceless. To assist in conservation of wildlife from the comfort of your garden, put up a bird feeder and help these precious gems of skies live long and healthy lives.

Tips for keeping your hummingbirds happy

Editor — Tue, 06 Jun 2006 08:11:14 +0000

It’s easy to attract wild hummingbirds to your yard – use red feeders filled with sugar-water. The feeders are available at most gardening and bird seed stores.

What you may not know, however, is that your sugar-water could actually hurt your birds! Follow these two basic guidelines, to ensure the health of your colorful feathered friends:

Refresh the sugar-water every 2-4 days- Sugar water can ferment quickly. The hummingbirds will continue to drink it, but the fermented mixture enlarges their livers, causing health problems. Do your iridescent friends a favor, and keep changing the feeder’s water, especially in hot weather. Wash the feeder while you’re at it: use only hot water and a scrub-brush, no soaps.
Only use sugar! Avoid red food coloring – it may not be good for the birds. The red colors on the feeder itself should be enough to attract them. Use a simple mixture of four parts water to one part table sugar. Avoid any other sweeteners like honey, which will ferment more quickly.

Don’t have the time to keep cleaning that bird feeder? Consider hanging some flower baskets by your windows instead – fuchsias and petunias are a few hummingbird favorites.