So you think it’s easy to feed birds? Well, if you think it’s as simple as hanging something from a pole, adding a mix of birdseed and that’s it—think again. If you’re anything like me and those so-called “simple” projects around the house usually turn into something not-so-simple, then take a little advice from your fellow “blue thumb” feeder and educate yourself before your bird-feeding hobby takes flight (sorry).

As I find myself getting older, I’ve notice I’m appreciating nature like never before. In years past I probably couldn’t have differentiated one bird from the next. That being said, I discovered something last winter that has changed my view of birds forever. I learned that you can actually help birds find an easier means of food during winter months in Western Pennsylvania. It’s not only a great way to help our little feathered friends, but it’s also a great way to learn more about the different kinds of birds we have in the area.

Of course, to do it right, you must first educate yourself.

When I first decided to get into bird feeding, I had a hard time finding someone who could give me good advice. First I tried the local grocery, hardware and big retail stores that sold bird feed.

I soon discovered, however, that these stores tend to have feed that is full of filler that birds simply will not eat. If you find a feed with wheat, oats, barley, milo, flax or canola—do not buy it. These products are what will end up on the ground as your birds will push them aside to get to what they really want.

Next I tried the Internet. I searched for type of feed to purchase and basically how to properly feed the birds. What

I found was very interesting. Apparently, in the late fall, birds begin determining their winter territories. So, by building a complete bird feeding station, you can attract a wide variety of birds during this time. My online search also advised me to go to the local professionals at a specialty bird store for the most accurate information. And that’s just what I did.

Bird feeding, to my surprise, is a multi-billion a year industry. In fact, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Americans spend over $2 billion dollars annually to buy or build, stock and maintain their birdfeeders. Interest in birds is second only to gardening as a backyard hobby. Take a look around your neighborhood; chances are you’ll see a feeder off of many decks and patios.

Of course, there are many things you need to consider before you can become a successful feeder of birds. Most importantly, you must make a commitment to properly care for and maintain your birdfeeder before you begin. If you know you won’t have a few moments every few days and about a half an hour once or twice a month, maybe bird feeding isn’t for you. This is something that takes time and dedication. So make sure you can handle it before you dive in.

The main problem you must deal with is the potential spread of disease at your birdfeeder. If an infected or ill bird visits your feeder, it can spread that disease to the other healthy birds. Chances are that if a bird is sick it will look for easy food, i.e., your feeder. The question is: what can you do to prevent the spread of disease? The answer is simple: keep your birdfeeder clean. This is where the commitment comes in. If you clean your feeder on a regular basis, chances are you’ll have a very successful relationship with the birds in your area. Wash your feeders at least monthly in a light (9:1) water-to-bleach solution. Rinse your feeder thoroughly and allow it to air dry. If you do this, you shouldn’t have any problems.

Another factor to consider is whether you’ll have the time to feed the birds when needed. Keeping smaller amounts of food in the feeder is recommended. That way it will be eaten in the course of a few days and will keep the food free from mold and decay. It will also make it easier to clean.

For those of you who are still reading, congratulations—at least you understand the time involved and are willing to make the commitment. So let’s move on and talk about the type of feeder to purchase and the feed that will be best for Western Pennsylvania.

When purchasing birdseed, once again it’s best to go to a bird care professional. Start by looking in the Yellow Pages under “Birds – Feeders & Houses.” These are the professionals who can give you specific advice on what feeders to choose and what feed to buy. A lot has to do with what type of birds you’d like to attract to your feeder.

Winter is a crucial time for birds. They have to change their eating habits because the insects and berries they eat during the warmer months begin to disappear. Of course, birds have been surviving the winter long before the first birdfeeder was invented; so please don’t feel that you are on a mission to save birds. During the winter, the days are shorter and the nights are often cold and long; some birds could just simply use a little help.

Once you find a specialty bird store you are happy with, they will help you decide which feeder or feeders to choose, how to hang them, how to keep squirrels out, and what feed to use. Ask for information on suet—a high-energy, pure fat substance that is perfect for birds in the winter. Suet provides the much-needed calories that will help them stay warm and healthy. It contains nuts, fruit, corn, insects and calcium sold in variety of flavors specifically designed to attract different kinds of birds.

The wider variety of food you provide, the wider variety of birds you’ll attract. If you do not want a mess under your birdfeeder, purchase a no-mess mix or make your own mix with the help of the pros at your specialty bird store. Ask lots of questions and let them know where you live so they can make the proper suggestions for you.

Once you have chosen your birdfeeder (or feeders), your feed, suet and set-up, you’re almost ready. Just don’t forget about those little birdseed-stealing rascals—squirrels. There are many products out there designed to keep the squirrels away from your birdfeed. Squirrels are pretty intelligent, however, and they always seem to “beat the system.” Baffles and weight-calibrated perches seem to work the best, but let’s face it—a squirrel’s only job is to find food. Chances are pretty good they’ll still find a way to get at your birdfeed.

If you’d rather feed them than beat them, you can just buy a squirrel feeder. They love peanuts and corn. Once again, ask your local professionals at a specialty bird store. They will save you time, aggravation and money, and they’ll give you the best chance for success.

If you follow my advice and do your homework before starting, you’ll have a great chance of success in your first try at bird feeding. Winter is almost here, so get out there and get started! Remember, the early bird gets the worm (or, in our case, the birdseed).

Happy feeding!