There are hundreds of different varieties of feeders available. Each feeder type has it’s own purpose and choosing the right type of feeder for birds can be a mind boggling adventure.

Here are a few quick things to keep in mind when deciding on a feeder.

>The species you attract are determined primarily by the types of seeds you offer. There are generally feeders for Mixed Seed, Thistle, Sunflower, Peanuts, Suet, and Nectar.

>Platform Feeder - An elevated, open tray upon which the feed is placed. This type of feeder allows for most types of feed and birds of all sizes to enjoy your seed. Cardinals like this type of feeder as well as doves, sparrows, ducks, geese and quail.

>Tube Feeder - A hollow cylinder or tube (often plastic), with multiple feeding ports and perches. This type of feeder typically comes in seed or thistle types.

>Sunflower Seed Feeders – are commonly a wire mesh or something similar. The openings allow the seeds to be pulled out by the bird, and not just pour out. This type of feeder allows for many birds at once, as there are no perches to be occupied. They birds will just cling on the side. Some of these do have a platform or ring around the bottom to allow for the larger birds.

>Window Feeder – A feeder designed usually of clear plastic so that you can enjoy the view, while the birds eat. It comes with suction cups to mount to the window. There are many styles, and they do come in hummingbird feeders as well.

>Suet Feeders – a wire cage or a mesh bag would be the most common types. There are MANY types of suet available, and they attract a wide variety of birds. (Squirrels too)

>Hummingbird or Oriole Feeders – These are made specifically for each of these 2 types of birds. The nectar comes ready-to-use or powdered. Be sure to protect it from the weather and keep it clean, and free of ants. There are ant deterrents available, and some feeders even have a built in ant moat. It is recommended that you clean your feeder weekly because moldy feeders can be wasteful or even lethal because artificial nectar (sugar water) can ferment in the hot summer sun.

Have fun finding the right feeder(s) for you and your backyard birds.