Small garden cleaners

 

Birds are essential in the garden, especially if you have fruit trees and pest-prone plants. Birds pick these parasites since it is their primary food source, especially for sparrow-like species, which frequent our gardens during the summer. During the season, one couple of warblers and their hatched offspring can consume up to 50 kilogrammes of pests, which is an astonishing quantity if we envision it visually, thus we should be delighted about the birds' actions rather than concerned. It is preferable to let the birds deal with the insects naturally rather than spraying fruit trees with poisons. Especially if your garden is in a little backyard territory.

When designing a bird-friendly garden, keep in mind the species that may visit and their features. The great and blue tits, marsh and wood tits, field and house sparrows, woodpeckers, green finches, great-billed woodpeckers, black starlings, jays, pigeons, as well as jackdaws, crows, cormorants and occasional seagulls, are frequent visitors to the gardens. Even in the city, over 20 different bird species might visit the garden! By luring them with visible feeders in the winter and bird cages in the summer, you can make some of them permanent guests or even sub-tenants.

The produce will not be consumed.

It is also necessary to consider the layout of the garden and the positioning of plants. Birds like clusters of trees and shrubs of varying heights where they may hide from predators and rain. Planting, watch the natural environment - a forest with ancient and large trees, young trees, undergrowth with shrubs, and other forms of plants on the ground.

They like sparse tree and bushes with sparse crowns so that the surrounding environment is transparent and the sun shines in, but if the garden space allows, you should also leave a more isolated section with thick shrubs or tree foliage where birds may establish a nest.

Crow-like birds and northern starlings are the most dangerous to berries, although they only come when the cherry harvest is done.

The biological farmer has observed that crows attempt to murder the offspring of tiny birds, and that storks occasionally do the same, therefore it is critical to chase away crow-like birds not only for the benefit of the harvest, but also for the protection of the young helpers.

You must live in a friendly manner.

It just takes three times to drive away the unwelcome guests, and they'll be looking for another spot to feed.

If your garden is near a park or forest, you may try to attract an owl species by hanging cards in the garden high over the treetops with a crossbar at the end for the bird to fly to. Predators will assist your cat in dealing with the mouse population.

What Do Birds Eat at Feeders in Winter?

 As the chill of winter sets in, the natural food sources for birds become scarce. This is when bird feeders play a pivotal role in the survival of our feathered friends. But what exactly should we be offering to help them through the cold months? Let’s dive into the world of winter bird feeding.

The Winter Diet of Backyard Birds

Birds require high-energy foods during the winter to maintain their body heat and energy levelsBlack oil sunflower seeds are a top choice, as they are high in fat and easy for small birds to crack open1. Other popular options include:

Suet: This is a high-energy formulation of animal fat and is often mixed with seeds, grains, and fruits.

Peanuts: Rich in fats and proteins, peanuts are a great winter food, provided they are unsalted and not flavored.

Nyjer seeds: Also known as thistle seeds, these are especially loved by finches and other small birds.

Fruits: Offerings like apple slices or raisins can provide a sweet treat for fruit-loving birds.

Creating a Winter Bird Feeding Station

To attract a variety of birds, create a feeding station with different types of feeders:

Tube feeders for seeds

Suet cages

Platform feeders for fruits and larger seed types

Ensure that the feeders are placed in a sheltered location to protect birds from harsh weather and predators.

The Importance of Water

Water is just as crucial as food during winter. A heated birdbath can prevent water from freezing and provide birds with a much-needed resource for drinking and bathing.

Conclusion

By understanding what birds eat at feeders in winter, we can make informed choices that support their health and vitality during the toughest season. So, fill up those feeders and enjoy the beauty of winter birdwatching!