Understanding the Benefits of Bird Feeding...
Bird feeding is one of the most rewarding activities that you can do for your local wildlife and even for yourself. It is a well-known fact that bird feeding is widely popular around the world as it brings nature and beauty into your outdoor space, as well as having educational benefits to identify with our surrounding wildlife! With the modern world everchanging and climate crisis talks becoming more frequent, it is important that we do everything we can to ensure our wildlife and environment is protected and nurtured through a few simple acts. So, this post will talk you through the ins and outs of how bird feeding is one of these key changes that we can do to make a difference!
Why do people enjoy feeding birds?
Just like many things in life, there will be certain people who might think that bird feeding is not as satisfying as others may say. However, it has been recorded in various studies that we as human beings earn great pleasure to look after our wildlife. With that said, the actual process of bird feeding and finding that desirable instinct to help our wildlife is what makes this activity so attractive to many people across the world. What you may not know however is how bird feeding can act as an organic way to control the pests and insects in your garden! This is a great way to keep any harsh chemicals out of your garden and will also attract more birds and wildlife to your outdoor space.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Bird Feeding
Fundamentally, there are many advantages to feeding birds which contribute to the important changes needed to protect and support our wildlife. One of the main benefits is that it provides birds with a vital source of energy, especially during the winter months. With the correct foods and nutrients, this will give your visiting birds an assured certainty that they will be able to have access to foods that they usually might be deprived of!
However, it is not so much just the visiting birds that are benefiting from the food you put out for them, but also their young. During the winter months, this is especially important as it will allow birds and their young to thrive and have a better chance of making it through to the next winter. Typically, the correct food will provide insulation and warmth during the winter, which will increase the possibilities for birds to reproduce and ultimately have a higher survival rate!
Although bird feeding seems to be highly positive, there are a few consequences that can occur if it is not done properly. Primarily, it is important that large or indigestible foods are avoided as this can cause birds to choke or develop long-term health problems. Birds are notorious at eating anything that appears edible, so it is imperative that you make sure the food you are leaving in the bird feeder is not harmful to their digestive system.
Additionally, food that is left out in the bird feeder can begin to rot or even spoil which can attract rodents and other pests if the feeder is not properly maintained. This can cause detrimental effects to the birds who may eat the rotted food as the dangerous bacteria will poison them, ultimately resulting in fatal sicknesses. Consequently, bacteria can spread to other wildlife, and as a result will cause illnesses amongst other species in your surrounding area. To avoid this, it is recommended to make sure food is changed every few days, as well as regularly cleaning the bird feeder to ensure there is no threat to the visiting birds or local wildlife.
What are the best foods to feed birds?
A lot of research has gone into finding which particular foods are the most beneficial for birds in order for them to live a healthy and fulfilled life. However, when deciding which foods will be the most advantageous for birds to thrive, it is important to consider the seasonal effects upon their bodies. For example, during the winter months, it is recommended that you should put out foods which are high in fats as they can store and conserve this for energy to survive the colder temperatures. This can be found in Black Sunflower Seeds, Nyjer Seeds, breadcrumbs, cereal, and rice.
Alternatively, the summer months require birds to conserve more protein due to it being their moulting season. With the sun being more prominent, it is vital that the hygiene of the bird feeder is maintained as the hot temperatures will perish the food quicker than in the winter. Foods such as mealworms, waxworms, sultanas, bananas, grapes, soaked raisins, and currants are a great source of protein for birds and will help them prepare for the winter months ahead!
Where to buy bird feeders?
At the Garden Furniture Centre, we have a wonderful selection of bird feeders that will be an innovative addition to your garden and to feed your local wildlife! Our Think Outside range of bird feeders are a unique creation manufactured from upcycled metal and are designed by artist Aaron Jackson! Not only do they look fun and stylish, but they provide so much support to your surrounding environment. These small steps are fundamental for our wildlife to survive and to become the healthiest they can be!
So why not have a go at bird feeding for yourself! You might be surprised at how beneficial bird feeding can be and how many extraordinary species of birds there are just outside your door! Be sure to tag us or share on our socials with your best bird snaps!
