Starting a backyard feeding station is one of the easiest ways to bring nature right to your doorstep. Regardless of how much space you have, whether you’re completely new to birding or experienced, the addition of a bird feeding station means you can enjoy watching different species visit your backyard all year long.
Best of all, you don’t need an elaborate setup to get started. It all begins with the right feeder, seed, and location for your feathered friends.
Start With The Basics
When starting out, it is best to keep your setup simple. A lot of beginner bird feeders purchase too many feeders and too much food, only to realize it is better to understand which birds are visiting and what they enjoy.
A basic backyard feeding station can include:
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A reliable bird feeder, suited to the type of seed you plan to provide
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A popular seed choice that attracts a variety of backyard birds
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An appropriate location for the birds to see and easily access your feeder
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Regular maintenance to keep food fresh and feeders clean
Once you know which birds are stopping at your feeders regularly, you may wish to experiment with new types of feeders and food.
How to Choose a Bird Feeder for Beginners
There are many types of bird feeders available. Different feeders work best with specific seeds, while other feeders can accommodate a wider selection of food. Choosing a bird feeder is important for how you will be attracting birds to your yard.
Tube Feeders
They are one of the most common and versatile feeder styles. They feature a long cylindrical tube with holes where birds can access the seed.
Small-Hole Tubular Feeders:
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Ideal for smaller seeds like Nyjer or thistle
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A favourable option for attracting finches
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Used by smaller birds such as chickadees and titmice
Large-Hole Tubular Feeders:
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Feature bigger holes for larger seeds such as sunflower seeds and mixed seed blends
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Attract a variety of backyard birds to your yard
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A great choice for many common feeder visitors
When choosing a tube feeder, look for features that make them easier to use:
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Easy to fill
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Simple to clean
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Capacity to hold enough seed
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Includes enough feeding ports for multiple birds
Hopper Feeders
They are designed with a seed compartment that releases food onto a feeding platform. The landing area makes them comfortable for many birds, including species that prefer a more open feeding space.
Hopper feeders are a great option for offering:
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Seed mixes
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Sunflower seeds
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Large amounts of food for frequent visitors
Hopper feeders can attract birds such as:
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Cardinals
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Grosbeaks
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Jays
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Sparrows
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Chickadees
Suet Feeders
A suet feeder is designed specifically to hold suet cakes. They allow birds to cling to the feeder while feeding, which makes them popular for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and other backyard visitors.
Ground & Tray Feeders
If you have birds that tend to feed on the ground, you’ll want to invest in a tray feeder or ground feeder. These feeders provide an easy to access, flat surface for birds to eat from.
Ground & Tray feeders are a great option for offering:
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Fruits
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Jelly
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Mealworms
Ground & Tray feeders can attract birds such as:
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Sparrows
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Doves
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Juncos
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Cardinals
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Towhees
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Blackbirds
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Jays
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Pheasants
Where to Put Your First Bird Feeder?
Placing a bird feeder in a well-chosen location can increase the chances of birds finding it and make it an attractive spot for them to visit regularly. To help birds find your feeders quickly, place them near a natural setting such as trees, shrubs or in an open area that birds are already accustomed to visiting. Being close to cover allows birds to quickly reach a safer spot if needed.
A good feeding area should provide:
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Nearby perching spots where birds can wait before feeding
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Space around the feeder so birds can see their surroundings
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Protection where birds can quickly retreat in case they sense danger
Pro Tip: Once birds are regular visitors, you can move the feeder to a location nearer your home, your favourite window or an area where you will be able to enjoy watching them more easily.
When Is The Best Time To Start Feeding Birds?
The answer is simple: whenever you are ready.
Many people think feeding birds should be limited to the winter months, but birds can benefit from supplemental food throughout the seasons.
Common Beginner Mistakes To Avoid
Purchasing The Wrong Feeder For Your Seed
Different seeds require different feeders. For example, Nyjer seed is quite small and will easily fall through the openings of a larger-hole feeder, whereas sunflower seed and mixed seed blends will clog up small-hole feeders.
Forgetting To Clean The Feeders
Moisture, dirt, and debris on your bird feeders can make it harmful for visiting birds. Cleaning your feeders and food will ensure a safe feeding environment.
Choosing The Wrong Spot To Place Feeders
Too far from trees and other natural shelter and you may find birds not coming to your feeders as often. Areas near trees and shrubs often provide a better starting point.
Expecting Birds Right Away
Birds may need time to find and become comfortable with a new feeder. Patience is part of the bird feeding experience.