Bird feeding in the winter can help you stay active

Hello Coshocton County! While winter might encourage us to stay indoors, there are still plenty of ways to remain active outside. Feeding birds during these winter months is a good way to not only get some fresh air, but also to support wildlife and enjoy nature.

Whether you are already feeding birds or wanting to get started feeding birds, here are a few helpful tips.

Check out the variety of feeder types. Bird feeders are not “one size fits all,” and different species are attracted to different designs. It is important to find the feeder that works great for your home and the species you are trying to attract. Here are a few popular options:

—Tray or platform feeders: Open, flat feeders that attract the widest variety of birds. They require a squirrel baffle and work best with a removable, screened bottom to keep seed dry. They attract towhees, juncos and sparrows.

—Hopper feeders: House‑shaped feeders that keep seed dry and hold several days’ worth. They need regular cleaning to prevent mold and also benefit from a squirrel baffle. They attract cardinals, jays and doves.

—Tube feeders: Long, cylindrical feeders that keep seed mostly clean and dry. Different perch placements attract different species. Check the bottom for moisture buildup. They attract finches, titmice and chickadees.

—Suet feeders: Wire mesh cages that hold suet cakes. They are easy to mount on poles, trees or other feeders. They attract nearly all bird species.

—Window feeders: Feeders that attach directly to windows with suction cups. They offer close‑up viewing but require daily cleaning and are safest on smaller windows. They attract finches, chickadees, titmice and some sparrows.

—Nyjer feeders: Slim feeders with tiny ports or fine mesh designed for Nyjer seed. Use small amounts to prevent spoilage, especially in wet weather. They attract American goldfinches and pine siskins.

Know what their favorite food is. Similar to people, birds have preferences when it comes to their food. Depending on what species you have or what you would like to attract, you can choose the correct feed to put out on your feeder. Species like cardinals and finches like black-oil sunflower seeds, and fruit can attract many species like bluebirds and robins. To learn more about the different types of food for birds, check out www.feederwatch.org.

Now that you have your feeder and food for the birds, feeder placement is the next step in your bird-feeding journey. Place your feeders in a quiet area where they are easy to see and convenient to refill. Finding a location that is close to natural cover such as trees or shrubs can offer a hiding spot for birds while they wait their turn to eat. Also, choosing a location that is distant from any predators can create an enjoyable experience for the birds.

Speaking of predators, it is important to know what could scare your birds from their feeders and eat all the food you have put out for the birds or even chose the bird as their meal. Some common feeder visitors are squirrels, hawks, outside cats and other mammals such as raccoons or deer.

Another tip to keep in mind is to clean your feeder once every two weeks. This can prevent the food from getting moldy and keep bird droppings from being consumed. Keeping the area below the feeder clean also can eliminate birds getting ill and other outside animals as well. It also can prevent the attraction of unwanted predators.

I hope these tips help you continue your bird feeding or start your bird-feeding journey. To learn more about bird feeding and how you can record your birds at your feeders, check out www.feederwatch.org. Have a great and safe day and stay warm!