RSPB’s Feed The Birds Day is held every year on the weekend of the last Sunday in October. This year, it falls on Oct 29. It’s a special day to celebrate our avian friends, encourage more people to feed garden birds and arouse public awareness of wildlife conservation. In this blog, we’ll unravel the importance of bird feeding and provide practical tips on how to create a bird-friendly environment. Let’s unlock the secrets of the sky and discover the joys of bird feeding!
Understanding RSPB’s Feed The Birds Day
Feed The Birds Day was first introduced as a national event in the UK in 1988 and has since gained international recognition. The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of bird feeding and its positive impact on bird populations and the overall environment. Bird feeding was not just a hobby but also a means of conservation as many bird species were being threatened with extinction due to loss of habitat and other factors. We can help them survive the harsh winter weather and ensure that they have the energy they need to migrate to their breeding grounds in the spring.
Moreover, by taking care of our feathered friends, we are not only helping to conserve bird populations but also contributing to the overall well-being of our planet. The data collected from bird feeders can contribute to scientific research on avian populations. Researchers can analyze the bird species visiting feeders and their feeding patterns, providing valuable insights into population trends and migration routes
Commemorative Events and Activities
Feed the Birds Day is marked with a wide range of events and activities. Workshops, lectures and talks by experts in bird feeding and conservation are organized to educate the public about the significance of bird feeding and how they can contribute to the well-being of birds. Birdwatching sessions and guided walks are also organized to provide an opportunity for people to engage with nature and observe various bird species. Collaborative efforts with schools, communities and local businesses are made to promote bird feeding and conservation on a wider scale. What’s more, art exhibitions are undertaken to foster appreciation for birds to inspire people to make a positive difference in bird conservation.
Practical Tips for Bird Feeding
Here we’ve summarized some useful tips about bird feeding that you can follow:
1.Choosing the right type of bird feeders and food
Different birds have different preferences so knowing their requirements will help in selecting the right feeders and food. There are several feeder designs available, such as tube feeders, platform feeders, suet feeders and hummingbird feeders. Each design caters to different types of birds. For example, tube feeders with small perches are suitable for small songbirds, while platform feeders allow larger birds to perch and feed. And you need to research the specific dietary preferences of the bird species you want to attract. Common bird food types include seeds such as sunflower, millet and nyjer, suet i.e. animal fat mixed with seeds or fruits, and nectar for hummingbirds.
2.Choose Suitable feeding locations and avoid hazards
Always keep the bird feeder out of reach from predators. You need to place it at least 10-12 feet away from trees, shrubs or other structures that could provide hiding spots for cats, squirrels, etc. Ideally, position it in an open area, making it more difficult for predators to ambush the garden birds. Moreover, birds can get injured if they collide with windows. To prevent this, place the feeder at least 3 feet away from any windows to reduce the risk of window collisions. In addition, you should keep it away from active chimneys, vents, busy roads or any hazardous areas that could harm the birds.
3.Clean and maintain the bird feeder on a regular basis
Cleaning and maintaining a bird feeder is important to ensure the health and safety of the birds. You will need a stiff-bristle brush, mild dish soap, bleach, and water. First, remove all seeds or food from the feeder and discard any debris or moldy remnants and disassemble the feeder. Mix the solution, scrub away the dirt, residue and droppings with the brush and rinse each part with clean water. Once dry, you can put the feeder back together and inspect the feeder for any signs of damage before putting it back.
4.Create a bird-friendly garden or balcony
Creating a bird-friendly environment is a great way to support local bird populations. You can include a variety of plants that bloom and fruit at different times of the year to provide a continuous food supply for birds throughout different seasons, ensuring they remain attracted to your garden year-round. Place birdhouses or natural nesting areas like dense shrubs, trees, or tall grasses to provide shelter and nesting sites for birds. Furthermore, birds also need water for drinking and bathing, so you can install a bird bath or a shallow basin with fresh water, but remember to keep the water clean and change it regularly to prevent the spread of disease.
By following these practical tips, anyone can contribute to bird conservation and make a positive impact on the well-being of birds in their local area. So, on Feed The Birds Day, let’s take a moment to appreciate the beauty and wonder of these amazing creatures and do our part to protect them for generations to come.
