Different Feeder Styles
You don’t need a huge backyard to enjoy the beauty of feeding local birds. Whether you’ve got a cozy porch, a small balcony, or just a little corner in your yard, you can create a space that draws in the local wildlife.
When it comes to picking out a bird feeder, there’s a ton of options, and it can be a bit overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. So, what’s going to work best for your space? Should you try a classic seed feeder? Do suet feeders attract all types of birds?
To help you get started, here’s a quick guide to some of the most popular bird feeders that could be the perfect fit for your home and your feathered friends.
Tube-Style Bird Feeders Tube feeders are a tried-and-true favorite for a reason. They’re super easy to fill—just pour seed in from the top—and they can be hung just about anywhere, whether it’s on your porch, a tree branch, or even a fence post. What’s great about these feeders is that they’re perfect for all sorts of birds, from smaller sparrows and finches to bigger ones like blue jays. Most tube feeders also come with a perch or two, so your feathered visitors can take a break and enjoy their meal in peace.
Hanging Birdhouse Feeders These little birdhouse feeders are as charming as they sound! Shaped like tiny houses, they hold seeds and can be hung from your porch, a tree, or even a post in your yard. Birds can perch on them and enjoy a snack in comfort. Some birdhouse feeders even come mounted on poles, keeping them safe from those pesky squirrels or chipmunks that love to help themselves to the goodies!
Tray Feeders Tray or platform feeders are a fantastic choice if you want to attract a variety of birds. Think of them like big, open plates where birds can gather and feast. You can hang them from a pole, or even set them on the ground for those birds that prefer feeding at ground level. These feeders are perfect if you’re looking to bring in a wide range of local birds to your yard.
Suet Feeders Suet feeders are a great way to attract songbirds, especially when the weather turns colder. These feeders hold suet blocks, packed with healthy fats, seeds, and proteins that birds love. You can hang them on trees, porches, or anywhere you want to create a welcoming spot for birds to stop and snack. Many suet feeders come with little perches, making it easy for your feathered friends to enjoy their meal in comfort.
Window Suction Feeders If you’re in an apartment or just want to enjoy birdwatching from the comfort of your window, a suction feeder is a perfect option. These feeders stick to your window with suction cups, giving you a close-up view of your feathered visitors. You’ll find both suet and seed-feeding options, just be sure to place them where birds won’t accidentally fly into the glass. It’s a great way to enjoy nature, even in a smaller space!
Nectar Feeders If you’re hoping to attract hummingbirds, nectar feeders are the perfect choice. These feeders hold a sugary solution that mimics the nectar found in flowers, and hummingbirds can feed by hovering near the flower-shaped openings. If you want to make it even easier, you can buy pre-made nectar concentrate, so you’ll be all set to welcome these beautiful little birds right to your yard.
What Bird Food Do You Need for Your Feeder?
With all the bird food options out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming trying to figure out what to pick. Don’t stress, though! Here’s a quick guide to help you find the best food for your feathered friends:
Seed Mix A basic seed mix is a great starting point, especially if you're new to feeding birds. These mixes attract a wide variety of birds, so you'll quickly see which ones your local visitors prefer—and which seeds they tend to ignore. If you’re looking to bring in different types of birds to your yard, a seed mix is always a safe bet.
Suet Suet is a wintertime favorite for many birds. These blocks are packed with seeds and fats, giving birds a much-needed energy boost when the weather gets cold. They’re perfect for attracting a variety of songbirds and woodpeckers, making your yard a lively spot even in the chillier months.
Sunflower Seeds Sunflower seeds, especially the black oil variety, are a go-to choice for attracting all sorts of backyard birds like cardinals, chickadees, and sparrows. They're especially great during the winter months, giving birds the energy they need to stay warm. Plus, migratory birds love them too, so you'll be helping those feathered travelers fuel up for their journey.
Nyjer Seed If you’re hoping to attract some colorful visitors, nyjer seed is a great pick. Finches, buntings, and goldfinches can’t resist this tiny seed, making it a perfect choice for bringing these bright, cheerful birds to your yard.
Hummingbird Nectar If you love those tiny, energetic hummingbirds, nectar is the way to go. These little guys rely on nectar for their energy, especially during the summer when they're buzzing around all day. While they do migrate during the colder months, you’ll see them in full force when the weather warms up, bringing some extra beauty to your backyard.
Attracting Birds to Your Feeder
Offer them food, and they’ll find their way to your backyard. Even in the busiest of urban areas, you’ll find plenty of feathered friends—sometimes they just need a little extra help finding food, especially in the city.
It might take some time before birds start visiting your feeder regularly. If you’ve got pets, like an indoor-outdoor cat or dogs running around, birds might be a little hesitant at first. They might also need a bit of time to get used to feeders near the house or places where the kids play.
Be patient! Start with a good bird-friendly seed like a songbird mix, suet cake, Nyjer, or black oil sunflower seeds. Place your feeder in a quiet spot away from foot traffic, pets, and loud noise. Keep an eye on the seed levels, and refill when it’s getting low—fresh food will keep your feathered friends coming back.
Stick with it, and soon enough, you’ll start seeing more and more birds. As the weather gets colder and food becomes harder to find, your backyard will become a welcoming haven for local birds—and you might even end up attracting a whole flock!
Choosing the Best Spot for Your Bird Feeder
Believe it or not, birds have an amazing sense of sight. They can spot food from the sky, just like they would in the wild, so they’ll quickly recognize your feeder and the tasty treats inside. It’s like their own GPS for snacks!
To create a bird-friendly hangout in your yard, consider adding a bird bath during the warmer months. Just make sure to clean it regularly to keep the water fresh and free of any germs. Birds love hanging out near trees or bushes, so placing your feeder near these natural spots will help attract them. You can also surround the area with native plants—birds are drawn to these for both seeds and shelter.
The key is to keep your feeder in a safe spot. Avoid placing it near the street or areas where predators might be lurking. While squirrels and chipmunks aren’t a direct threat to birds, they’ll happily help themselves to the seeds, leaving nothing for the birds! So, choose a spot that’s accessible to your feathered friends but harder for the furry critters to reach.
A good rule of thumb is to place your feeders about five feet off the ground, in a quiet, protected spot. Don’t be afraid to try a few different locations around your yard to see which one gets the most bird action—and then adjust from there!
Keeping Your Bird Feeders Clean and Fresh
Bird feeders can get pretty dirty over time, and unfortunately, they can also spread germs and illnesses among our feathered friends. To help keep them healthy, it’s a good idea to clean your feeders a few times throughout the season.
You can toss your feeder in the dishwasher or wash it by hand with mild soap and hot water. For a deeper clean, mix one part bleach with 9-10 parts water. Scrub the feeder well, rinse it thoroughly, and let it dry completely before putting it back up.
Another important part of feeder care is keeping the birdseed fresh and protected. Seed can spoil, get moldy, or even attract rodents, which can introduce bacteria. Store your birdseed in a dry, pest-free place and make sure the container is tightly sealed.
Once you start feeding the birds, they’ll begin to rely on your yard as a regular food source. That’s why it’s especially important to keep the feeder stocked through the winter months when food can be harder to find. Your backyard will become a safe, reliable haven for them when they need it most.
Feeding Birds with Help from Carr Hardware
Feeding birds in your backyard can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family—it’s like having your own live nature show right outside your window! Plus, it’s a great way to get to know the local birds that visit your area and become familiar with your feathered neighbors.
There’s a wide variety of bird feeders and bird food to choose from, so you can easily find what works best for you. Start with a simple hanging feeder, a suet feeder, or a tray feeder. To attract the widest variety of birds, try a wild bird seed mix or specific blends designed for songbirds and migratory species. If you're hoping to see some hummingbirds, a nectar feeder is your best bet to bring these little beauties to your yard.
While feeding birds can be done all year long, the colder winter months are especially important. Birds have a harder time finding food during the winter, so feeding them during this time can provide vital support to help them get through the cold.
When it comes to placement, make sure to set up your bird feeders at different heights to keep them safe from predators. Birds prefer feeders in quiet, secluded spots away from heavy foot traffic, loud noises, and curious pets. It’s also a good idea to place them near native plants and water sources to create a welcoming, natural environment.
And don’t forget about maintenance! Clean your feeders regularly with hot, soapy water to remove bird droppings and leftover seed debris. Store your birdseed in a sealed container in a dry, cool spot (like a corner of your garage) to keep it fresh and free of pests.
Visit your local Carr Hardware for all the bird feeding supplies you need! We carry a full selection of bird feeders, seed, and accessories—perfect for both beginners and seasoned birdwatchers alike.
