How To Feed

It is not only the selection of food that is important in determining what species of bird you attract to your garden. The type of feeder you use and where your feeders are sited in your garden also play an important part in attracting birds.

Hanging seed feeders – perfect for all seeds and mixes (except niger and Ground Mix) ideal for finches, tits and sparrows. Soft-billed species such as Blackbird and Song Thrush are unable to perch on these feeders. You can choose between a number of different sizes, with a 4 port or 6 pot hole feeders generally being the most popular. There is then the choice of either metal or plastic perches. Plastic perches are a fantastic budget option. For those people with squirrels the best option is a metal perched feeder, to help decrease squirrels destroying the feeder.

Niger seed feeders – the smaller holes are suitable for feeding the tiny niger seed which is a magnet for the attractive Goldfinch. They also come in a range of sizes and in either plastic or metal lids, bases and perches.

Mesh peanut feeders – the only safe way to feed whole peanuts as birds then have to break the peanut before being able to get it out, ensuring that the pieces are small. Suet pellets can also be fed from these feeders (either on their own or mixed with peanuts). Squirrels love peanuts so if you live in an area where you get squirrels we would suggest only purchasing a metal peanut feeder.

Live food/ soft food feeders – ideal for live mealworms and VHF Ground Mix (which would block our hanging seed feeders). They are mainly used by Robins and tits. They are often in the form of covered dishes.

Ground and table feeding – foods for soft-billed species such as VHF Ground Mix and sultanas are ideal for ground and table feeding as Blackbirds and Song Thrushes are happiest feeding on the ground or bird table. We offer a range of ground feeding trays and cages to help keep the food dry and safe from predators.

Squirrel resistant feeders- For many people squirrels can be a real nuisance and eat a great deal of food and damage feeders at the same time. Squirrel resistant feeders either exclude squirrels through cages around the feeder or on a weight mechanism. Both forms seem to be effective in deterring squirrels.

General Feeding tips

Ensure food is available at all times
Site feeders away from predators such as cats
Keep feeders clean and hygienic
Store all food in a cool dry place