Will the Birds Come Back to my Feeder?

The birds weren’t using my feeder all winter. The seed had turned all powdery. I took it down to clean it out. Now I’m wondering if the birds will know that the feeder has been cleaned or have I lost all my birds? ~ Minneapolis, Minnesota

It may take them a couple days or it may take them a couple weeks but the birds will return if your feeder is clean and your seed is fresh. Remember it can be detrimental to the birds if you don’t clean your feeders regularly.

In order to keep healthy birds at your feeders, consider the following:

1. Feeders should be cleaned at least once a month, year round. Wild Birds Unlimited - East Lansing - will clean your feeder for $5.00. Or you can purchase professional cleaners like Scoot or Poop-Off at Wild Birds Unlimited, or use a mild one part bleach or vinegar to nine parts water solution to clean all of your feeders. Disassemble feeders and immerse them completely for three minutes. Scrub with brushes, rinse thoroughly, and let air dry.

2. Check your feeders after a rain to make sure the seed is dry. If not, replace it.

3. Store seed in a cool dry location. Wild Birds Unlimited has closed Aluminum containers that work well to protect seed from unwanted seed thieves.

4. When choosing a new feeder look for something easy to clean and fill.

If you keep these measures in mind, you can keep this hobby enjoyable for your family and safe for your birds.