(ARA) - February is Wild Bird Feeding Month. This observance was established in 1994 by the National Bird Feeding Society because winter is one of the most difficult periods in much of North America for birds to survive in the wild.
In fact, feeding wild birds is becoming more and more popular each year in the United States. About a third of Americans feed wild birds, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Each year, more people are inspired to put up feeders, buy outdoor pet food and turn wild birds into beautiful outdoor pets.
On the other hand, some people are hesitant to dive into the hobby of feeding wild birds because they are discouraged by the shells (and subsequent weeds) that can accumulate around a feeding station. According to research done by the Wild Bird Feeding Industry (WBFI), the number two reason why people don’t feed birds is because of the mess left under their feeders. Innovative wild bird food manufacturers have taken notice of this concern, which has resulted in the creation of “waste-free” and “less mess” mixes. These formulations allow bird lovers to enjoy the best of both worlds: a yard full of colorful outdoor pets and a lawn that is neat and tidy.
Less mess products are designed to keep outdoor living areas clean because they are made without the shells of seeds. Without the shells, there is less leftover debris scattered around the feeding station. Better yet, premium mixes like Wild Delight’s Less Mess line of products are specially formulated to help prevent the germination of seeds into weeds under feeders.
When trying to keep a clean yard, it’s important to consider the type of seed being put out. “Basic mixes” or “economy mixes” contain many extra ingredients that birds simply sift through and push to the ground. These mixes can also attract less desirable birds, such as starlings and sparrows that typically gather in large numbers and can make quite a mess.
For those who want to avoid a messy yard (and nuisance birds), look for products that are made with premium ingredients like fruits and nuts that more sought-after birds such as cardinals and finches love. Products like Wild Delight’s new Less Mess Fruit & Berry blend, for example, is formulated with real cherries, juniper berries, peanuts and hulled pumpkin seeds – ingredients desirable birds will gobble up without excessive sifting and leftover mess.
Another option for those who want to keep a clean yard is to place a tray under a feeder. Trays will help catch any spilled seeds and make cleanup much easier. Plus, they act as another level to the feeding station. What some birds pass up and toss onto the tray, others might feast on happily, creating a wide variety of feathered friends at one feeding station.
Feeding nectar and suet is another way to keep a tidy lawn. These types of food help attract many different types of sought-after birds like woodpeckers, orioles and hummingbirds, creating a beautiful spectacle of unique wildlife. There are even suet products that you can place close to your home. No-waste products like Deck, Porch N’ Patio Party Suet from Wild Delight don’t contain filler ingredients like corn and milo that birds either toss aside or ignore completely. Plus, premium suet products are formulated so they will not melt even in temperatures of 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
It is also important to put out multiple feeders to prevent overcrowding. When too many birds gather at one feeder, things tend to get a little hectic and messy. If birds have the option to dine at more than one feeder, there is less pushing and shoving, which may mean that more seeds are eaten instead of thrown to the ground.
Finally, spreading mulch under feeders is another easy way to keep a yard looking cleaner. Mulch will hide the seeds that may fall, and it can even dress up a feeding station. By adding a border with stones or other decorative items around the mulch, a feeding station can become a nice addition to a landscaper’s design.
With the proper food and a little bit of planning, bird lovers and new bird enthusiasts alike can enjoy both the wonderful hobby of bird feeding and a well-groomed lawn at the same time. Best of all, they can feel good about helping out the wonderful outdoor pets that we all enjoy.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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