11 Proven Ways To Attract Birds To Your Feeder

Hey bird lovers! Want to transform your backyard into a bird paradise? Attracting more birds to your feeder is not just about putting out seed; it's about creating an environment that makes them feel welcome and safe. So, let's dive into these simple, yet effective, ways to bring more feathered friends to your backyard. Get ready to enjoy the cheerful chirps and vibrant colors of a variety of birds right outside your window!

1. Offer a Variety of Food

Attracting a diverse range of birds starts with the menu! Think of your bird feeder as a restaurant; you need to offer different cuisines to satisfy all your customers. Different bird species have different dietary preferences, so providing a variety of seeds, nuts, and even fruits will significantly increase your chances of attracting more birds. For example, black oil sunflower seeds are a favorite among many birds due to their high oil content and relatively thin shells, making them easy to crack open. White-striped sunflower seeds are a larger alternative, providing a more substantial meal for bigger birds like cardinals and grosbeaks.

Nyjer seeds, also known as thistle seeds, are a magnet for finches, especially goldfinches and house finches. These tiny, oil-rich seeds require a special feeder with small feeding ports to prevent them from spilling. Another excellent option is safflower seeds, which are loved by cardinals and doves but are less appealing to squirrels, making them a great choice if you're battling these furry visitors. In addition to seeds, consider offering peanuts, either shelled or in the shell. Peanuts are a high-energy food source that attracts jays, woodpeckers, and even chickadees. You can also provide suet cakes, which are a mixture of animal fat and seeds, nuts, or dried fruits. Suet is particularly beneficial during the colder months when birds need extra calories to stay warm.

To further diversify your offerings, think about adding fresh fruits like berries, sliced apples, or oranges. These can attract fruit-loving birds such as robins, mockingbirds, and orioles. Mealworms are another excellent addition, especially for insect-eating birds like bluebirds and wrens. You can offer live or dried mealworms in a dish or a special mealworm feeder. Remember, the key is to experiment and see what works best in your area. Pay attention to which foods are most popular and adjust your offerings accordingly. By providing a variety of food, you'll not only attract more birds but also enjoy a greater diversity of species visiting your feeder.

2. Choose the Right Type of Feeder

The type of feeder you use plays a crucial role in attracting specific birds and deterring unwanted guests. Different feeders cater to different species, and selecting the right ones can make a big difference in the variety of birds that visit your yard. A tube feeder, for instance, is a versatile option that can hold a variety of seeds and is particularly attractive to smaller birds like finches, chickadees, and nuthatches. Tube feeders often have multiple perches, allowing several birds to feed at the same time, and their design helps to protect the seeds from rain and snow.

Platform feeders, also known as tray feeders, are simple, open platforms that can accommodate a wide range of birds, from small songbirds to larger species like cardinals and doves. These feeders are easy to fill and clean, but they do leave the seeds exposed to the elements and may attract squirrels. To combat this, consider using a feeder with a built-in baffle or placing it in an area that is difficult for squirrels to access. Hopper feeders, or house feeders, are another popular choice. They feature a covered container that slowly dispenses seeds into a feeding tray below. Hopper feeders protect the seeds from the weather and can hold a large quantity of food, making them ideal for attracting a steady stream of birds.

For specific types of food, specialized feeders are often the best option. Nyjer feeders, designed with small ports, are perfect for dispensing tiny nyjer seeds to finches. Suet feeders, typically made of wire mesh, hold suet cakes and attract woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees. If you're offering nectar for hummingbirds, you'll need a hummingbird feeder, which features small feeding ports and a reservoir for the nectar. The color red is particularly attractive to hummingbirds, so choose a feeder with red accents. Remember to clean your feeders regularly, regardless of the type. Dirty feeders can harbor bacteria and mold, which can be harmful to birds. Aim to clean your feeders at least once every two weeks, or more often during wet or humid weather.

3. Provide Fresh Water

Water is just as essential as food for birds, especially during hot summer months and freezing winter conditions. Providing a reliable source of fresh water can significantly increase the number of birds visiting your yard. A birdbath is a classic option, offering a shallow basin where birds can drink and bathe. Look for a birdbath with a textured surface to provide a better grip for birds, and ensure the water depth is no more than two inches to prevent accidental drowning. Place your birdbath in a location that is easily accessible to birds but also provides some cover from predators, such as a nearby shrub or tree.

To keep the water clean and fresh, change it regularly, ideally every day or two. Algae and bacteria can quickly build up in birdbaths, so scrubbing them with a brush and mild soap solution every week or two is also a good idea. During the winter, keeping the water from freezing can be a challenge. A heated birdbath is an excellent solution, providing a constant source of unfrozen water even in the coldest temperatures. Alternatively, you can use a birdbath heater, which is a small, submersible device that prevents the water from freezing. If you don't have a birdbath, a shallow dish or saucer filled with water can also work well.

Another option is to add a dripping water source, such as a dripper or a small fountain. The sound of moving water is particularly attractive to birds, and they will often investigate the source. Drippers can be attached to a hose and adjusted to release a slow, steady stream of water into a birdbath or other container. Fountains not only provide water but also add an aesthetic element to your yard. Regardless of the type of water source you choose, consistency is key. Birds will quickly learn where to find water in your yard and will rely on it as a regular resource. By providing fresh water, you'll not only attract more birds but also help them stay healthy and hydrated.

4. Offer Shelter and Nesting Sites

Birds need more than just food and water; they also need safe places to shelter from the elements and build their nests. Providing adequate shelter and nesting sites can make your yard a haven for birds, encouraging them to visit more often and even raise their young. Trees and shrubs are natural sources of shelter, offering protection from wind, rain, and predators. Planting a variety of native trees and shrubs in your yard can create a layered habitat that appeals to different bird species. Evergreen trees, such as pines and spruces, provide excellent year-round shelter, while deciduous trees offer shade in the summer and nesting sites in the spring.

Shrubs, such as viburnums and hollies, provide dense cover and can also offer berries as a food source. Consider planting trees and shrubs of different heights and densities to create a diverse habitat that attracts a variety of birds. In addition to natural shelter, you can also provide nesting boxes, also known as birdhouses. Nesting boxes offer birds a safe and secure place to build their nests and raise their young. Different bird species prefer different sizes and styles of nesting boxes, so do some research to determine which types are most suitable for the birds in your area. For example, bluebirds prefer nesting boxes with a small entrance hole, while wrens may use a variety of nesting boxes with smaller entrances.

Place your nesting boxes in a location that is protected from the elements and predators, such as on a pole or attached to a tree. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or in areas that are easily accessible to cats or other predators. Clean out your nesting boxes once a year, after the nesting season is over, to remove old nests and parasites. This will make the boxes more attractive to birds in the following year. Another way to provide nesting material is to leave out natural materials such as twigs, leaves, and dried grass. Birds will use these materials to build their nests, and providing them can make your yard even more appealing.

5. Keep Feeders Clean

A clean feeder is a healthy feeder! Maintaining clean bird feeders is crucial for preventing the spread of disease among birds. Dirty feeders can harbor bacteria, mold, and other pathogens that can make birds sick. Regular cleaning helps to keep your feeders hygienic and ensures that the birds visiting your yard stay healthy. Aim to clean your feeders at least once every two weeks, or more often during wet or humid weather. To clean your feeder, start by emptying it completely, discarding any old or moldy seeds. Use a brush or scrub to remove any caked-on debris from the inside and outside of the feeder. A long-handled brush can be helpful for reaching into the nooks and crannies of tube feeders and hopper feeders.

Next, wash the feeder with warm, soapy water. Use a mild dish soap and thoroughly scrub all parts of the feeder. Rinse the feeder thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Soap residue can be harmful to birds, so make sure to rinse the feeder completely. After rinsing, disinfect the feeder with a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water. This solution will kill any remaining bacteria or mold. Let the disinfectant solution sit in the feeder for about 10 minutes, then rinse the feeder thoroughly with clean water. It's important to remove all traces of bleach before refilling the feeder.

Allow the feeder to dry completely before refilling it with fresh seeds. Moisture can promote the growth of mold and bacteria, so ensuring the feeder is dry is essential. You can let the feeder air dry in the sun or use a clean towel to dry it. In addition to cleaning your feeders regularly, it's also a good idea to clean the area around the feeder. Remove any spilled seeds or bird droppings, as these can also attract pests and spread disease. By keeping your feeders clean, you'll not only attract more birds but also contribute to their overall health and well-being.

6. Protect Birds from Predators

Creating a safe environment for birds in your yard involves protecting them from predators. Cats are a significant threat to birds, so taking steps to minimize their access to your feeders and birdbaths is essential. If you have cats, keep them indoors, especially during peak bird-feeding times in the morning and evening. If you allow your cats outdoors, consider using a collar with a bell to alert birds to their presence. You can also create barriers to prevent cats from accessing your feeding areas.

Place your feeders and birdbaths in locations that are not easily accessible to cats, such as away from low-lying shrubs or fences that cats can use for cover. A clear, open area around your feeders can make it more difficult for cats to stalk birds. You can also use baffles, which are cone-shaped barriers that attach to feeder poles, to prevent cats from climbing up to the feeders. In addition to cats, other predators, such as hawks, can pose a threat to birds visiting your yard. Providing shelter, such as dense shrubs and trees, can give birds a place to escape from predators. Place your feeders near these shelters so that birds have a safe place to retreat if they feel threatened.

Avoid placing your feeders too close to windows, as birds may accidentally fly into the glass. Window collisions are a significant cause of bird mortality, so taking steps to prevent them is important. You can use window decals, stickers, or films to make the glass more visible to birds. You can also hang objects, such as wind chimes or streamers, in front of the windows to deter birds from flying into them. By taking these precautions, you can create a safer environment for birds in your yard and encourage them to visit more often. Remember, a safe yard is a welcoming yard for birds.

7. Add Native Plants

One of the best ways to attract birds to your yard is to create a natural habitat that meets their needs. Adding native plants is a fantastic way to do this, as native plants provide food, shelter, and nesting sites that birds have evolved to rely on. Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them easier to grow and maintain than non-native species. They also attract native insects, which are an essential food source for many birds, especially during the breeding season. Consider planting a variety of native trees, shrubs, and flowers to create a diverse habitat that appeals to different bird species.

Native trees, such as oaks, maples, and birches, provide shelter, nesting sites, and food in the form of seeds and insects. Native shrubs, such as dogwoods, viburnums, and hollies, offer dense cover and berries, which are a valuable food source for birds. Native flowers, such as coneflowers, sunflowers, and asters, attract pollinators, which in turn provide food for insect-eating birds. When selecting native plants for your yard, consider the specific needs of the birds in your area. Different birds have different preferences for food, shelter, and nesting sites, so choosing plants that meet these needs will maximize your chances of attracting a variety of species.

For example, hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored, tubular flowers, such as bee balm and trumpet vine. Goldfinches are fond of thistle seeds, so planting thistles or other seed-bearing plants can attract them to your yard. Bluebirds prefer open areas with perches, so planting shrubs and small trees that provide perches can make your yard more appealing to them. In addition to providing food and shelter, native plants also support a healthy ecosystem. They provide habitat for beneficial insects, which help to control pests and pollinate plants. They also help to conserve water and reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides. By adding native plants to your yard, you'll not only attract more birds but also create a beautiful and sustainable environment.

8. Minimize Pesticide Use

Pesticides can be harmful to birds, both directly and indirectly. Direct exposure to pesticides can poison birds, while indirect exposure can reduce their food supply and overall health. Many birds rely on insects as a primary food source, especially during the breeding season when they need to feed their young. Pesticides can kill these insects, depriving birds of a vital food source. In addition, pesticides can contaminate the environment, affecting the water, soil, and plants that birds depend on. To protect birds in your yard, it's essential to minimize your use of pesticides.

Consider using natural and organic methods of pest control instead of chemical pesticides. There are many effective alternatives to pesticides, such as introducing beneficial insects, using traps, and employing cultural practices like crop rotation and companion planting. Beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can help to control pests without harming birds or other wildlife. Traps can be used to catch specific pests, such as Japanese beetles or slugs, without the need for broad-spectrum pesticides. Cultural practices, such as crop rotation and companion planting, can help to prevent pest infestations by creating a less favorable environment for pests.

If you must use pesticides, choose the least toxic option and apply it carefully, following the instructions on the label. Avoid spraying pesticides on plants that are in bloom, as this can harm pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. Also, avoid spraying pesticides near bird feeders or birdbaths, as this can contaminate these resources. Consider using targeted treatments instead of broad-spectrum pesticides. Targeted treatments focus on specific pests, minimizing the impact on beneficial insects and other wildlife. By minimizing your use of pesticides, you'll create a safer and healthier environment for birds in your yard.

9. Create a Brush Pile

A brush pile may not be the most aesthetically pleasing addition to your yard, but it can be a haven for birds and other wildlife. Brush piles provide shelter from predators and the elements, as well as nesting sites and foraging opportunities. They create a microhabitat that attracts insects, which in turn provide food for birds. A brush pile can be made from tree branches, fallen leaves, and other natural debris. To create a brush pile, start by placing larger branches at the bottom to create a stable base. Then, add smaller branches, twigs, and leaves on top, creating a dense, tangled structure.

The size of your brush pile can vary depending on the space you have available. A brush pile that is at least 4 feet wide and 4 feet high is ideal, but even a smaller brush pile can provide valuable habitat for birds. Place your brush pile in a location that is sheltered from the wind and provides some shade. A corner of your yard or a spot near a fence or hedge is a good choice. Over time, your brush pile will decompose, providing nutrients to the soil and creating a rich habitat for insects and other invertebrates. You can add to your brush pile periodically, as needed, to maintain its size and structure.

Birds that may use your brush pile for shelter and nesting include wrens, thrashers, and towhees. The brush pile will also attract insects, which will provide food for these and other birds. In addition to birds, brush piles can also provide habitat for other wildlife, such as chipmunks, rabbits, and snakes. By creating a brush pile in your yard, you'll not only attract more birds but also contribute to the overall biodiversity of your local ecosystem. A brush pile is a simple and effective way to provide valuable habitat for wildlife in your yard.

10. Control Squirrels

Squirrels can be a nuisance at bird feeders, often monopolizing the food and preventing birds from accessing it. While squirrels are entertaining to watch, their presence can deter birds and make it difficult to attract a variety of species to your yard. There are several ways to control squirrels at your bird feeders without harming them. One of the most effective methods is to use squirrel-resistant feeders. These feeders are designed to make it difficult for squirrels to access the food while still allowing birds to feed.

Some squirrel-resistant feeders have cages or barriers that prevent squirrels from reaching the feeding ports, while others have weight-activated mechanisms that close the ports when a squirrel climbs onto the feeder. Another strategy is to use a baffle, which is a barrier that prevents squirrels from climbing up to the feeder. Baffles can be dome-shaped or cylindrical and can be attached to the feeder pole or hung above the feeder. Place your feeders in locations that are difficult for squirrels to access. Avoid placing feeders near trees, fences, or other structures that squirrels can use to jump onto the feeder.

You can also try offering foods that squirrels don't like. Safflower seeds are a good option, as they are attractive to many birds but less appealing to squirrels. You can also try mixing cayenne pepper into your birdseed. Birds are not sensitive to capsaicin, the compound that makes peppers spicy, but squirrels are. Another strategy is to provide a separate feeding area for squirrels. By offering them their own food source, such as corn or peanuts, you may be able to distract them from the bird feeders. However, this approach can also attract more squirrels to your yard, so it's essential to balance the benefits and drawbacks.

11. Be Patient and Consistent

Attracting birds to your feeder takes time and patience. Birds need to discover your feeder and learn that it is a reliable source of food and water. It may take several weeks or even months for birds to start visiting your feeder regularly. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Consistency is key. Keep your feeders filled with fresh food and water, and clean them regularly. Birds will be more likely to visit your feeder if they know that it is a consistent and reliable source of food.

Be consistent with the type of food you offer. Once birds have learned that your feeder offers a particular type of seed or food, they will be more likely to return. If you change the food frequently, it may take birds longer to adjust and start visiting your feeder again. Be patient and observe the birds in your yard. Pay attention to which species are visiting your feeder and which foods they prefer. This will help you to tailor your offerings to the birds in your area and attract a greater variety of species.

Consider the season. Different birds may visit your feeder at different times of the year. During the winter, birds need high-energy foods to stay warm, so offering suet or sunflower seeds can be particularly effective. During the breeding season, birds need protein-rich foods to feed their young, so offering mealworms or other insects can be a good option. Attracting birds to your feeder is a rewarding experience. By providing food, water, shelter, and nesting sites, you can create a haven for birds in your yard and enjoy the beauty and joy they bring. Be patient, be consistent, and enjoy the process!

By following these 11 simple ways, you'll be well on your way to attracting a vibrant array of birds to your feeder. Remember, it's about creating a welcoming environment, offering a variety of food and water sources, and ensuring their safety. Happy birding, guys!