Bird Feeders
While it still counts as feeding wildlife, bird feeding is a practice that may have some benefit to certain species, especially during extreme weather fluctuations. When properly cared for and maintained, bird feeders can be a great way to observe and learn about the many different types of birds found in our backyard. If bird feeders or watering stations are offered it is crucial they be cleaned and disinfected at least once a week to prevent the spread of disease like conjunctivitis, trichomoniasis, aspergillosis, or avian pox.
Every Week:
Remove fecal matter and spoiled food with power hose, scraper and/or dish soap.
Use a minimum 10% bleach solution, soak or spray until saturated.
Wait at least ten minutes, then rinse.
Placement guidelines:
Bird feeders should be placed less than one meter or more than 10 meters away from buildings to minimize the risk of window collisions.
Bird feeders should not be further than 3.5 meters from cover that provides a route of escape and protection to avoid predation.
There should be an unobstructed view around bird feeders so that foraging birds can detect any predators in the area.
Cover that could conceal predators attempting to mount an attack should not be near feeders.
For more information of healthy feeder practices and ways you can report your sightings for science, visit: