While most people think PVC or wooden poles are safe to use for feeders, these structures are not. Wooden poles are easily climbed by raccoons. For bird feeders, 3/4-inch conduit pipe or other rust-free heavy metal pipe works well. Place an eight-foot metal pipe two feet in the ground and oil it from the base to six inches up. Oil the pipe with carnuba wax or non-drying automotive grease.
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Ring-pull feeder
Ring-pull feeders for small birds are made to hold up to 800g of seeds. These feeders also allow multiple birds to perch at the same time. The base of the feeder is removable for easy cleaning. You can even remove the individual components of the feeder, such as seeds, with the included pin. Another popular feeder is the Wildlife World Ceramic Robin Small Bird Feeder, which comes with a cute ceramic robin design. This feeder is great for seeds, nuts and mealworms. It’s made from durable steel wire, which prevents damage from frost.
If you’re concerned about cleanliness, you can try the Droll Yankees Classic Ring Pull bird feeder. This feeder has a rustproof coating that keeps it from rusting. The large opening tube also makes it easy to fill. All you need to do is pull the ring on the feeder’s lid to release the seeds. The Droll Yankees Classic Ring Pull Bird Feeder also features an easy-to-clean perch.
Clear tube feeder
The best clear tube bird feeders for small birds have a cone-shaped bottom to help prevent squirrels from stealing food. This design also helps to direct last-to-eat seeds to the lowest feeding ports, where they won’t damage the feeder. Clear tube feeders can be easily crafted at home from clear plastic, PVC pipes, and soda bottles. This design is especially beneficial for smaller birds, as it allows them to clean it easily themselves.
When choosing a clear tube bird feeder, make sure the hole is deep enough to accommodate the squirrel’s weight. This will prevent seed from accumulating below the feeding ports, which can harbor bacteria and mold. A small tube feeder can accommodate a few small birds while a large one can be used by a dozen birds. Make sure to empty the seed from the feeder before you add more. Ensure that the feeding ports are clean before removing a bird from a tube feeder to avoid bacteria growth.
Thistle feeder
Thistle seed feeders are designed to attract a variety of species. They feature two layers of thistle seeds and a plastic block in the middle that separates them. A good quality feeder can be used year after year. Thistle feeders can be bought at affordable prices from online retailers like Amazon. The seed capacity is 1/2 pounds. Finches like to eat black oil sunflower, but other species will also enjoy the seeds.
The smallest finch feeder is made of metal mesh and features a large ring for hanging. Thistle seed feeders are not a good choice for finches because they are fussy eaters. The small holes do not retain the seed well, and the feeder does not have a baffle. Finches will prefer the open seed tray. These feeders are also easy to clean. They can withstand light rainfall.
Squirrel-proof feeder
The first thing to consider when purchasing a squirrel-proof feeder is where to put it. In the yard, the feeder must be at least sixteen inches away from a fence or house. You may be surprised to know that a squirrel can reach the seed even if it is enclosed inside a cage. Squirrels are known to climb and can get into other parts of the feeder if there is not a cage in place.
You can use PVC pipe, thin string, or fishing line to hang your feeder. You can even use a squirrel-proof pole or baffle to deter them. But this may only work temporarily. It won’t deter squirrels for very long. Squirrels can also chew on plastic tubing and plastic pipes, so it’s best to use something that is made for this purpose.
Fruit feeder
The best fruit for small birds is not the sweetest, but it is certainly healthier than junk food. Moreover, birds can eat the fruit pulp and juice without any problem. But when it comes to attracting a variety of small birds, one of the best options is to offer only fresh, ripe fruits. However, when choosing fruit for small birds, one should be careful not to overfill the fruit feeders. Birds may raid them if other wildlife is also attracted to the food. To prevent this, make sure to use baffles on the feeders.
Fruit is an ideal food for different types of birds. Fruit is a rich source of sugar and provides them with essential energy throughout the year, especially during the warm season. Fruit is also a good food source for tropical birds like parrots. But if you do not want them to eat the fruits you offer, consider planting fruit trees instead. They will thrive in your climate and not ruin the beauty of your landscape. This way, you can attract a diverse variety of birds and their food habits.
