And this winter it is especially important to maintain a clean feeding station. Canada’s natural seed crops were horrible this year and lots of birds that usually like to winter further north are going to have venture south to Michigan to find food.These flocks of birds are going to be stressed and susceptible to disease.
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 at Wild Birds Unlimited, or use a mild one part vinegar to nine parts water solution to clean all of your feeders. Disassemble feeders and immerse them completely for three minutes. Scrub with brushes (we have these too), rinse thoroughly, and let air dry.
2. Check your feeders after a rain and snow to make sure the seed is dry. If not, replace it.3. Store seed in a cool dry location. Wild Birds Unlimited has closed steel containers that work well to protect seed from unwanted seed thieves or bad weather.
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. Bon appetite!
Related Articles:
- Good News on the upcoming bird watching season http://goo.gl/6RilF
- Birdwatching: Look for the Out-of-Towners http://bit.ly/q6Pkco
- What to do if you have soggy seed in your bird feeder http://goo.gl/kfTpi
- Book Recommendations for Michigan Birdwatchers http://bit.ly/x5t2gv
- Most common winter birds in Michigan http://bit.ly/ywWdfL
- How to Prepare Your Yard for Winter Birdwatching http://goo.gl/Niyvi
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