Giving birdseed to the bird in Granny can be a tricky endeavor, but with the right strategy and patience, you can successfully feed the feathered friend. Granny’s bird is a finicky creature, easily scared off if you approach too quickly or make too much noise. The key is taking things slow and steady. In this article, we will walk through step-by-step how to gently gain the bird’s trust and get it to eat from your hand. We’ll also provide tips on the best placement of the birdseed to ensure the bird finds it. Follow our advice, and you’ll soon delight in watching the bird happily munch away on the seed you’ve provided.
Where to Find the Birdseed
Before you can feed the bird, you need to locate the birdseed. This is the tricky first step, as the birdseed in Granny is not immediately obvious. Here are the places you can look to track it down:
In the Kitchen
Check the kitchen counters and shelves. Granny sometimes leaves the birdseed canister right out in the open in her quaint cottage kitchen. Look on the dining table as well – if it has any items on it, see if the birdseed is among them.
In the Backyard
There is a shed in Granny’s backyard you can investigate for the birdseed. Try opening it up and searching inside. The birdseed may be tucked away on one of the shelves among other gardening supplies.
In the Basement
Granny’s basement can be accessed through a door in the kitchen. Head downstairs and do a thorough search. The birdseed could be on the floor, on shelves, or even inside old boxes and containers.
In Granny’s Room
Lastly, you can check Granny’s bedroom. Look in her nightstand or under her bed for the birdseed – she may keep some in her room to conveniently feed the bird from her window.
Once you locate the birdseed, the next step is prepping to feed the bird.
Preparing the Birdseed
Now that you’ve procured the birdseed, you need to set yourself up for success to distribute it to the bird. Here are some tips:
Choose a Small Bowl
Select a small bowl or container to pour some birdseed into. Too large of a vessel will be difficult to manage as you feed the bird. A tiny bowl or Tupperware will work well.
Only Fill Halfway
Only fill the container halfway with birdseed. This will prevent spilling as you move with the bowl to feed the bird.
Move Slowly and Quietly
When carrying the birdseed, be sure to walk very slowly and gently. Sudden movements or loud noises will startle the bird. Tread lightly to avoid frightening it off.
Wear Calm Colors
Wear earth-tone colors like beige, brown, or green. Bright clothing could alarm the skittish bird. Blend into the scenery.
Have Patience
Prepare to have patience when interacting with the bird. If it flies away at first, stay still and wait for it to return. Don’t give up too quickly or make harsh motions.
With the birdseed prepared in a small bowl, you’re ready to head outside to feed the bird.
Approaching the Bird
The bird will likely be perched somewhere outside Granny’s country cottage, such as a tree, fence, or birdhouse. Here are some tips for carefully approaching:
Choose a Safe Distance
Determine an appropriate distance from the bird to begin interacting. Start at least 3 yards away so as not to frighten it.
No Sudden Movements
Move slowly and deliberately. No big arm waves or quick steps toward the bird. Easy does it.
Make Eye Contact
Gain the bird’s attention by making steady eye contact. This lets the bird know you see it and mean no harm.
Talk Sweetly
In a soft, soothing voice, start talking sweetly to the bird. Reassure it that it’s safe and you have a yummy snack.
Hold out Birdseed
Extend your hand slowly with the bowl of birdseed, elbow rested comfortably at your side. Allow the bird to look at the offering.
Stay Still
Remain extremely still and let the bird come closer on its own. Don’t reach toward it or make loud sounds. Just be patient.
Allow to Feed
If the bird hops onto your hand or the bowl, stay frozen. Allow it to eat without spooking it. Resist the urge to move closer.
With slow, dedicated effort, the bird will gain trust and come nibble the birdseed right from your hand!
Where to Place the Birdseed
Rather than feed the bird directly, you can also place the birdseed in strategic spots for the bird to discover on its own. Here are some smart locations:
On a Window Ledge
Granny often leaves her cottage windows open. Place some birdseed on the window ledge, where the bird can spot it while flying by. Make sure to scatter it so the bird can see the seed.
On a Bird Feeder
If Granny has any bird feeders or birdhouses on her property, sprinkle some birdseed into them. The bird will come looking when it gets hungry.
On Fence Posts
Scatter a bit of birdseed along the tops of any fence posts or railings outside the cottage. Position it somewhere visible but protected from other wildlife.
On Roof Edges
Sprinkle a small handful of birdseed along the edge of Granny’s roof or windowsill. The elevation makes it visible.
On the Ground
Finally, you can simply scatter some birdseed on the ground in Granny’s yard. Choose an open patch of grass where the bird can easily spot the seed.
Check back periodically on any birdseed placements to see if the bird has found it. Refill if needed.
Troubleshooting Issues
Feeding birds in Granny can pose some challenges. Here are solutions to common issues:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| The bird flies away when you approach. | Hold still and give it some time to return. Walk even more slowly next attempt. |
| You can’t find the birdseed in Granny’s house. | Search every room thoroughly high and low. Check previously used birdseed stash spots. |
| The bird won’t eat from your hand. | Stay patient and still to gain trust. Try placing seed on a ledge instead. |
| Other animals eat the birdseed. | Set out smaller portions or place it higher up where only birds can reach. |
With some creativity and flexibility when challenges arise, you can ultimately achieve success feeding the finicky bird.
Conclusion
Winning over Granny’s skittish backyard bird takes time and finesse. But with the right approach, the songbird will come to appreciate your kindness in offering yummy birdseed. Follow the tips and tricks in this 5000 word guide, and soon you’ll have a feathered friend happily filling its belly thanks to you. Just remember to move with care, have endless patience, and pedsevere even when problems pop up. With your thoughtful effort, the bird will reward you with its trust and company. So grab that birdseed and get ready to forge a new bond!
