Food
Planting specimens that produce fruit, berries, and nuts is
a perfect way to entice birds to visit your yard. However for
best viewing, situating the right feeder in the right place can
provide unlimited entertainment.
Start with some basic principles in mind. Squirrels are the
bane of every bird lover and are smart enough to find a way
to get into many types of feeders. Select a “squirrel proof ”
(there is no such thing!) variety that has a cage surrounding
the seeds or a mechanism for shutting down the feeding
holes when a squirrel attempts to get in. Select seeds that
include a variety of types to entice a variety of birds—nuts for
the woodpeckers, safflower for cardinals, and sunflower for
almost every type.
We are especially lucky to have a great number of painted
buntings on Kiawah during the spring and summer months.
They are devoted to white millet so if you want to see them,
a feeder full of it is a good start. We also have a healthy
population of hummingbirds and they are easy to attract.
Red flowers like penta or colorful lantana will bring
them buzzing, and an inexpensive hummingbird feeder
full of homemade nectar (1/4 cup sugar to 1 cup water,
no red coloring, please) ensures frequent visits.
Like nesting boxes, feeders should be carefully maintained.
Clean seed feeders thoroughly with hot soapy water and rinse
thoroughly especially during wet times of the year when
mold develops quickly. Empty, clean, and refill hummingbird
nectar holders every three to five days to prevent mold and
fermentation from forming.
Finally, be careful about placing feeders too far from
picture windows. Millions of birds die every year as a result
of flying into windows. Placing a feeder too far (more than
three feet) from a large window means they will be flying at
top speed when they reach the window and can easily crash
into it.
Water
Including a water feature in your yard will provide an
additional attraction for birds and an important source of
hydration for them. A simple birdbath, set near the ground
where birds can hop in and out is ideal. The depth should be
no more than two inches and dripping water from a fountain
is a special treat for any bird. Again, water sources have to be
maintained and kept clean at all times. NK
Above and left: Painted buntings
SUMMER/FALL 2015 • VOLUME 34
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