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Exploring God's Creation in Nature and Science
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Subject Topic: First Time Birdfeeders Post ReplyPost New Topic
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anniemm
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Posted: Oct 24 2007 at 5:32pm | IP Logged Quote anniemm
We have put out a bird feeder for the first time, since I have noticed that my girls really like to watch the neighborhood animals out the back door. Our backyard is about 1/3 of an acre, but there are no trees near the house, all of them are at the back of the yard. I've noticed that there are lots of birds back there, how do we lure them to feeders closer to the house?

I've googled this and found no real answer, and I was hoping that those of you who are more experienced bird feeders than I may have a suggestion! I would love to become an "advanced" birdfeeder, offering many different types at some point! The feeders are sort of expensive though! For now I have a window feeder with black sunflower seeds.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!   

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MacBeth
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Posted: Oct 24 2007 at 5:53pm | IP Logged Quote MacBeth
Most birds like shelter, and are reluctant to feed out in the open (there are a few exceptions, as always).

Providing cover for the birds is your best bet. I might buy a few large potted shrubs, or maybe add a trellis with artificial foliage. Leave a large brush pile near you feeder. Longterm, choose some fast-growing trees like apple or ginkgo.

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Stephanie_Q
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Posted: Oct 25 2007 at 10:16am | IP Logged Quote Stephanie_Q
I second the need for the birds to have cover close by. Besides trees, you can plant some bushes that provide cover and berries that for the birds to eat closer to the house. We put our feeders on shepherds hooks about 4 feet off the ground and 20 feet away from the windows near trees and bushes. Maintaining a birdbath with fresh water nearby will also help. I think as winter approaches and food and water are more scarce you'll have some braver birds coming closer. Good luck!

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guitarnan
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Posted: Oct 25 2007 at 2:12pm | IP Logged Quote guitarnan
Also, you need to give birds time to discover your feeder. It can take several weeks (this happened to us in WV). Stephanie is right, the birdbath will draw visitors!

Hang in there. They'll come. And, while you're waiting, find out about the Backyard Bird Count for 2008. Plan to spend some time counting; it's totally fun!

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eileenonhim
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Posted: Oct 28 2007 at 10:42pm | IP Logged Quote eileenonhim
You know, I once put a suction cup bird feeder on my kitchen window, when I lived in the city. I did have a hedge nearby, and a tree at the back of the yard, but that window was above a plain concrete pad.

The birds still came! (And the squirrels didn't!)

(Just in case you're like me and you worry about doing it all wrong.)

(Which, of course, I often do!!!)

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