I feed birds. Groups like the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Audubon sponsor citizen science activities like Feederwatch and the Great Backyard bird count that rely on birdfeeding folks like me (I participate in both) so they don't seem to feel it is bad for conservation though I too have wondered if we get the birds too used to being fed. But - your birds will not be relying just on you and we have done so much to destroy their habitat it seems we owe them something. the high tree location will be great for keeping it from deer, but squirrels and other tree climbers will be a problem. And bird feeders need to be cleaned and refilled regularly, probably daily. Is this location easily reached for maintenance?
My own preference is to have a few smaller specialty feeders - thistle, oil seed, peanuts, suet for example, rather than one big one filled with a general mix. And do provide water if you can. I don't have a heated birdbath, but a solar sipper (available at Wildbirds if there is one near you) and a dog bowl filled with warm water that lasts for several hours before it freezes draws lots of thirsty birds (and of course some squirrels).
On Monday, February 16, 2015 4:28 PM, Ryan McEwan <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
Ohio Birds Community:
I am considering getting a bird feeder. I have a tall tree in my back
yard, I thought I would put it up high so I can see it out my 2nd story
window.
I am looking for your input.
1. Is having a bird feeder a good/bad/neutral idea from a conservation
perspective?
2. What kind of feeder would you recommend? Are there some that are
clearly better than others from a conservation perspective?
3. If I am okay on 1 & 2, any opinion about bird seed?
Thank you!
Ryan
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