Putting out bird feeders is a rewarding hobby that allows people to observe and connect with nature right in their own backyards. However, there are some risks associated with feeding birds that must be considered before setting up feeders. This article will examine the potential hazards of bird feeding and provide tips on how to do it safely.
Risks of Bird Feeding
There are a few main concerns when it comes to feeding wild birds:
| Risk | Description |
|---|---|
| Spread of disease | Bird feeders can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases among birds by congregating them unnaturally. Diseases like salmonellosis, avian pox, trichomonosis, and aspergillosis can spread at feeders. |
| Rodents and predators | Feeders can attract unwanted pests like rats, mice, raccoons, bears, and opossums that may prey on birds or spread disease. |
| Choking hazards | Improperly sized seed and feed can cause birds to choke. Wet seed can also mold and grow deadly mycotoxins. |
| Dependency | Artificial feeding can cause some birds to lose their natural ability to forage and become dependent on feeders. |
| Window collisions | Feeders placed too close to windows can cause fatal bird strikes as they fly toward the food. |
These risks are manageable with proper precaution and feeder placement. Let’s go over some best practices.
Tips for Safe Bird Feeding
If you want to put out bird feeders, here are some tips to do it safely:
| Tip | Reason |
|---|---|
| Place feeders away from windows | Prevents window collisions |
| Clean feeders regularly | Prevents spread of disease |
| Use quality bird seed | Avoids mold and choking hazards |
| Use fly-through feeders | Reduces crowding of birds |
| Avoid platform feeders | Platforms facilitate disease transmission |
| Deter squirrels and raccoons | Protects birds from predators |
| Scatter seed on ground | Mimics natural foraging |
| Supplement feeders with native plants | Encourages food diversity |
Following these precautions can help mitigate the risks of bird feeding. But what about the specific question – is it safe to put out feeders right now? Let’s explore that next.
Is it Safe to Put Out Feeders This Season?
Whether it’s safe to set up bird feeders depends on a few factors:
Disease outbreaks
Certain bird diseases are more prevalent at different times of the year. For example:
- Salmonellosis peaks in late spring and summer
- Trichomonosis is most common in summer and fall
- Aspergillosis outbreaks occur in winter
Check with local wildlife agencies to see if any bird diseases are currently a high risk in your area. Avoid feeding birds when a major outbreak is occurring.
Natural food availability
Feeders are safest to use in winter when natural food sources are scarce. This limits large congregations at feeders. Avoid feeders in summer when natural foods abound, except for hummingbird nectar which is needed year-round.
Migratory patterns
Feeders should not be necessary in spring and fall when plenty of insects and seed exist during migration. Exceptions are during storms that temporarily limit natural food.
Rodent activity
Rodents are most active in spring through fall. Avoid feeders that could attract mice, rats, and squirrels during high rodent seasons. Prioritize rodent-proof feeders.
Fledglings and breeding
Feeders may interfere with natural fledgling behavior in spring and summer. However, suet can provide an important protein source for breeding birds prior to migration.
After analyzing these seasonal factors, let’s make a recommendation for the current situation.
Conclusion
Given that the current date is Friday, October 20, 2023, which is mid-autumn, setting up bird feeders is likely low risk and advisable at this time. Here’s a summary:
- Natural food is declining as vegetation dies off and insects become scarce.
- Most summer disease outbreaks have subsided.
- Rodent pressure is decreasing after summer highs.
- No major migration events are occurring currently.
- Supplemental food will help prepare birds for winter.
Follow the feeder tips listed above to minimize risks. Concentrate offerings on high-fat suet and nutritious seeds as birds build energy reserves for winter. Avoid platform feeders and focus on fly-through and tube feeders to prevent crowding.
Be sure to routinely clean feeders with a 10% bleach solution throughout fall and winter. Monitor for signs of sick birds, and take down feeders temporarily if disease is observed.
With proper precautions, bird feeding is an enjoyable and rewarding hobby that can safely continue into the fall and winter. Just be sure to follow smart feeding practices and keep tabs on any developing bird health issues in your region.
